Engine Performance

Powerful yet Manageable The Suzuki SV650 and Kawasaki Ninja 650 are both known for their impressive acceleration capabilities, but how do they stack up against each other? The SV650 boasts a 645cc parallel-twin engine producing 69 horsepower at 8,500 rpm and 44 lb-ft of torque at 3,200 rpm. This results in a 0-60 mph time of around 4.5 seconds.

In contrast, the Ninja 650’s 649cc parallel-twin engine churns out 67 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 48 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm, achieving a 0-60 mph time of approximately 4.2 seconds. While the Ninja 650 edges out its competitor in terms of raw power, the SV650’s more manageable low-end torque makes it feel more accessible to new riders.

Smooth and Responsive Both motorcycles feature smooth and responsive throttle inputs, making them enjoyable to ride on a variety of terrain. However, the SV650’s slightly heavier engine feels more refined at low speeds, while the Ninja 650’s engine can get a bit snatchy when cold-starting. As engines warm up, both bikes settle into a comfortable pace, with the Ninja 650 exhibiting slightly more aggressive acceleration.

A Match for the Road Ultimately, the Suzuki SV650 and Kawasaki Ninja 650 are designed to deliver engaging riding experiences on various road types. While the Ninja 650’s extra horsepower might make it more appealing to sportier riders, the SV650’s balanced performance and manageable power delivery make it an excellent choice for everyday commuting or touring.

Handling and Suspension

The ride quality and overall stability of each motorcycle are significantly influenced by their handling and suspension systems. The Suzuki SV650’s upright riding position, combined with its 6.1-inch ground clearance, makes it an excellent choice for city commuting and casual touring. The bike’s 41mm telescopic forks provide a smooth ride over rough pavement, while the rear monoshock absorber helps to maintain stability at high speeds.

In contrast, the Kawasaki Ninja 650 has a sportier riding position, with a lower seat height and a more aggressive stance. Its 5.7-inch ground clearance is slightly lower than the SV650’s, but its Showa front fork provides excellent handling and feedback on twisty roads. The bike’s Uni-Trak rear suspension system helps to maintain traction and stability during hard cornering.

Both bikes have anti-lock braking systems (ABS) as standard equipment, which provide added safety and confidence in emergency situations. However, the Ninja 650’s ABS system is more advanced, with a higher level of intervention and control. The bike’s larger 220mm front brake disc also provides better stopping power than the SV650’s 210mm disc.

Overall, both motorcycles offer excellent handling and suspension systems that cater to their respective riding styles. While the Suzuki SV650 prioritizes comfort and stability, the Kawasaki Ninja 650 is geared towards sporty riders who demand more agility and responsiveness from their bike.

Braking System

When it comes to stopping power, both the Suzuki SV650 and Kawasaki Ninja 650 rely on their braking systems to bring them to a halt. The Suzuki SV650 features a dual-disc setup at the front, with a 298mm rotor paired with a 4-piston caliper. This combination provides ample stopping power for the bike’s 184-pound curb weight.

In contrast, the Kawasaki Ninja 650 sports a single 300mm disc brake up front, supported by a 2-piston Nissin caliper. While this setup may seem less impressive on paper, it still manages to provide plenty of braking force, thanks to the Ninja’s lighter curb weight of just 165 pounds.

Both bikes feature anti-lock braking systems (ABS) as standard equipment. The Suzuki SV650’s ABS is courtesy of Bosch, while the Kawasaki Ninja 650 relies on its own proprietary system. While both systems are designed to prevent wheel lock-up and maintain traction during hard braking, they function slightly differently. The Suzuki’s system tends to be more aggressive in its intervention, while the Ninja’s system is more subtle.

In terms of feel, the SV650’s brakes tend to be more progressive, with a more linear progression from gentle to firm pressure. The Ninja 650’s brakes, on the other hand, are more grabby and require a bit more finesse to modulate. Overall, both bikes’ braking systems are capable and effective, but they do have distinct personalities.

Features and Technology

The Suzuki SV650 and Kawasaki Ninja 650 both feature advanced technology to enhance their performance and rider experience. The Suzuki SV650 boasts a digital instrument cluster, which provides essential information such as speed, rpm, and gear position. Additionally, it features a low fuel warning light, helping riders monitor their fuel levels.

The Kawasaki Ninja 650, on the other hand, features a full-color TFT display, providing clear and concise information to the rider. It also comes equipped with a smartphone app connectivity system, allowing riders to customize their motorcycle’s settings and access various functions such as GPS navigation and ride data analysis.

Both motorcycles feature fuel injection systems, which provide better fuel efficiency and more precise engine control. The Suzuki SV650 features a 37mm throttle body, while the Kawasaki Ninja 650 boasts a 39mm throttle body. This results in improved acceleration and throttle response from the Ninja.

Another key difference is the ride-by-wire throttle system found on the Kawasaki Ninja 650. This system provides more precise throttle control, allowing for smoother and more responsive acceleration. The Suzuki SV650, however, features a traditional cable-actuated throttle system.

  • Fuel injection systems:
    • Suzuki SV650: 37mm throttle body
    • Kawasaki Ninja 650: 39mm throttle body
  • Ride-by-wire throttle system: only available on the Kawasaki Ninja 650

Price and Value

The final factor to consider when choosing between the Suzuki SV650 and Kawasaki Ninja 650 is their price and value for money.

Price The Suzuki SV650 has a base price of around $7,000, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. The Kawasaki Ninja 650, on the other hand, starts at around $8,000, which may be a bit steeper for some riders.

Value for Money But is the Ninja 650’s higher price justified? In terms of performance, the answer is yes. The Ninja 650’s more powerful engine and sportier handling make it a thrill to ride on twisty roads or when carving up through canyons. However, the SV650’s simplicity and ease of use may appeal to riders who prioritize comfort and practicality.

Features While both bikes offer impressive features like traction control and ABS, the Ninja 650’s more advanced technology package, including ride-by-wire throttle and a more sophisticated fuel injection system, makes it a better value for those willing to pay a premium. The SV650’s more basic electronics, while still effective, can’t match the sophistication of its Kawasaki rival.

In conclusion, riders seeking a sporty, high-performance bike will find the Ninja 650 offers the best value for money. However, those prioritizing simplicity, comfort, and practicality may find the SV650’s lower price and easier handling make it a more attractive option.

In conclusion, both the Suzuki SV650 and the Kawasaki Ninja 650 are excellent options in the mid-range motorcycle segment. While the SV650 excels in terms of its smooth ride and fuel efficiency, the Ninja 650 offers better performance and handling. Ultimately, the choice between these two bikes will depend on individual preferences and riding styles.