New Zooks.... GSX-R 600/750, SV-Strom, Ressurected GS500

http://www.suzukicycles.com/

has the new 2004 suzukis.

Beyond the obligatory updated GSX-R 600 and GSX-R 750 (Suzuki staggers
their updates off-phase from the other big three), now with even MORE
Suicide Squid potential... You know the drill, ObUpsideDownForks,
ObRadialCalibers, ObGsxr1K looks (which are an improvement).

but two big suprises...

http://www.suzukicycles.com/Products/DL650K4/

is the new SV-Strom. Yes, a 650 version of the V-strom. Ajustable
windscreen (also on the V-strom 1k now, 3 position), rear
preload/rebound, front prelode, 415 lbs dry weight, and a pricetag of
$6.6k.

It's only about 50 lbs lighter than the V-Strom 1000, and probably
about 65 horsepower ("tuned for low/midrange" SV-650 engine, which is
usually a code-word for 5-10% off the top end), but a good $2.4k
lighter in the pocketbook department. Otherwise, it looks very
similar, even with a 5.8 gallon gas-tank, a new instrument cluster,
and a nice leg-streaching 32 inch seat-height.

This is probably the last nail in the coffin of the 599. Anyone who
would consider a 599 now has a plethora of superior choices: SV-650 in
Naked, Sport, or SV-Strom form, and the FZ-6, ALL of which list for
$400-1000 less, all of which are fuel injected, etc etc etc.


http://www.suzukicycles.com/Products/GS500FK4/

is the other big suprise. The venerable GS500 is back. Same old
engine, same old frame. A little pricier ($5k asking), and NICE new
bodywork. It looks like a GSX-R with real handlebars!

Now the engine and frame are more than a little dated, but its still a
good beginner bike, and its the first recent beginner-friendly bike in
the US to actually LOOK REALLY NICE!


An obligatory 1600cc monter-cruires as well, yawn.

The Bandit 600 seems finally dead, its not in the lineup.

 

Neither is the SV650 from what I can see....something must be wrong.