Quote:
Originally Posted by Megadan
The big difference with the Cagiva Raptor back in the early 2000's was much much more relaxed emissions and safety standards on bikes coupled with sourcing that lovely V-twin from the SV650 - a lower cost mass produced engine.
The funny thing is, since you bring up the Raptor, is that if I wanted the raptor now, I would simply get a 2017-2018 SV650. Which is close in specs to the Raptor of old, and more powerful thanks to several changes to the engine for 2017.
In fact, the first bike that came to mind when thinking about the silly price of the Vitpilen 701 was indeed the SV650. The Vitpilen is about 100lbs lighter than the SV, but you can buy a brand new SV for more than $4000 less. That is more than enough money to do a GSXR fork swap, rear shock, brake upgrades, and exhaust. It may not be as nimble because of the weight difference, but at speed the SV would easily keep up with the 701.
I have considered a 2017 SV650 as well. More than a few floor models and barely ridden trade ins out there for $5000-5500, which is a $2k savings over new,
|
Speaking of bargain SV650s, I see that you guys still have Hyosung in the US of A, and their GT650 seems a little cheaper and little lighter than the SV650. At least on paper:
http://www.hyosungmotorsusa.com/new_...17&model=GT650
http://www.hyosungmotorsusa.com/new_...T650&year=2017
And moreover back in the day I almost got me one of those, and to be honest, the quality seemed OK visually. No idea how's it actually running the thing on the road.