Suzuki SV 1000s or Yamaha FZ1?

Question

I'm deciding between these two bikes. (For when I'm 17.). Which one's more reliable, faster, more mpg, better. I've seen both features ad specs on both but can't decide. I've also seen a couple of youtube videos where they race each other in a drag race. Help me out.

Answer 1

Go with the FZ1...better performance better look.  SV is more of a cafe cruiser on steroids.

Answer 2

Awww. such a good question.. I have a SV1000 and SV650, but I love the FZ1 too. The SV1000 is all about the low end torque. The bike will take off from almost any rpm, but the FZ1 wont. The past few years the FZ1 has had problems with its fuel injection making it very jerky and un-smooth. It really depends on the riding you do. The SV1000 is great for getting off the line and out of corners. The FZ is more upright and will be more comforable on the longer rides. The FZ's power is a little more delayed too, you need to get up to 5,6,7 k RPM before it will pull like the SV. The problems is the SV wont have the top speed, but you are a moron if you are doing 160 on public roads anyway. I plan on taking my SV and adding some riser handlebars and a bigger windscreen. With that I think I will have the perfect bike. I think the SV is more fun street riding than the FZ since I have ridden both quite a bit. I believe you will be able to get a SV cheaper as well. A very good question though since I am still a huge fan of the FZ.

Reliability and mpg, i dont think you will see a difference. Drag racing I think the SV has it until about 60-80 mph then the FZ will catch up and pass after that.

Bottom line. I love the engine of the SV1000, but the ergonomics of the FZ better. You can change the ergos of the SV with handlebars and windsreen, but the FZ doesnt have the sweet V-twin the SV does and never will.

You may indeed want to look at the SV650 or FZ6 as a first bike. Cheaper, easier to insure, and safer in the hands of a punk kid.  Like i said i have a 650 too and it is every bit as fun if not more fun than the 1000. That bike is incredible for the money.

Answer 3

you're talking about two totally different bikes

the Yamaha FZ1 is a serious racing bike with a state of the art 4 cyl crotch rocket engine, same engine as the R1

the Suzuki SV1000 is a cheap made 2 cyl 90 degree twin, that's more suited for low and normal highway speeds and torque

speed and acceleration the FZ1 will pass the SV1000 like its standing still, and all Suzuki bikes are plagued with fuel and electrical problems, the FZ1 is rock solid reliable

Answer 4

sv650, thats more your experience level

Answer 5

Yeah.......  17 year old ..  on a bike like that...

make the insurance payable to me...

would make more sense if you learnt to ride first...

look at the big bikes when you have an idea...