Suzuki Moves SV Engine to New Class

The legendary Suzuki SV650 naked bike may leave the British market as early as 2026, but its iconic 645cc V-twin engine will not disappear. The engine will continue in a new middle class - the Suzuki SV-7GX sport-touring motorcycle. Thus, the well-known power plant will be adapted to modern requirements and a new format of operation.

The official price of the model has not yet been announced. It is known that the updated engine meets the Euro 5+ standard and develops 72.4 hp at 8500 rpm, and the maximum torque is 47.2 N⋅m at 6800 rpm. These characteristics also leave room for the possible return of the SV650 in the future - already in a modified and ecologically updated form.

Market Positioning and Technical Philosophy

The Suzuki SV-7GX is aimed at the mid-size sport-tourer segment and directly competes with the Yamaha Tracer 7 and Kawasaki Versys 650. Unlike many competitors, the model retains the V-shaped engine configuration, which is rare today in this class, where parallel twins dominate.

The motorcycle is equipped with 17-inch road wheels front and rear, an updated engine according to Euro 5+ standards, several operating modes, and an electronic traction control system. The standard equipment also includes the Low RPM Assist system, which automatically raises the revs when starting and moving at low speeds, reducing the risk of stalling - especially in urban mode.

Legacy of the Suzuki V-Twin Engine

The history of this engine began in 1999. Since then, Suzuki has released more than 500,000 motorcycles equipped with various versions of this V-twin. You can still find original SVs with high mileage on the roads, which clearly confirms the durability and reliability of the design.

645cm³ V-Twin engine
Image source Suzuki

Against the background of modern requirements for ecology and versatility, it is this engine that has become a logical basis for a new sport-touring project, combining proven mechanics and current technologies.

Design: Evolution Without Breaking with the Past

The SV-7GX design is still based on a trellis frame, and the exhaust system visually echoes previous models in the family. However, the front of the motorcycle has changed noticeably: instead of the "naked" look of a naked bike, a fairing with hand protection has appeared, stylistically referring to the larger four-cylinder GSX-S1000GX.

All lighting is made with LEDs. The instrument panel has also stepped forward: instead of an outdated LCD screen, a 4.2-inch color TFT display is installed. It supports several display modes and displays navigation prompts while driving.

Connectivity, Electronics, and Convenience

When a smartphone is connected, the system displays notifications about calls and messages, allows you to save the location of the parked motorcycle, build routes, and use other functions. To the left of the screen is a USB-C port for charging mobile devices, which emphasizes the touring focus of the model.

Comfort on Long Distances

For long trips, the SV-7GX has received a number of improvements. The windshield has a three-position adjustment, and a new 17.4-liter fuel tank is located between the rider's legs. The seat height is 795 mm, and the narrow V-shaped engine configuration makes the fit accessible to a wide range of motorcyclists. The dry weight of the bike is 211 kg.

Аэродинамические показатели
Image source Suzuki

The driver and passenger seats are equipped with a thicker layer of padding, designed for long routes. The 740 mm wide handlebar is moved 24 mm closer to the rider and raised 17 mm compared to the SV naked bike, forming a more relaxed fit. The footrests are lowered by 10 mm. For travel, the installation of top and side cases is provided, and the model itself is offered in three colors.

Suspension, Brakes, and Tires

The chassis is made without radical experiments. At the front, there is a non-adjustable 41 mm fork, at the rear - a monoshock with a seven-stage preload adjustment. The braking system includes four-piston calipers with floating front discs with a diameter of 290 mm and a rear rotor of 240 mm.

The motorcycle is equipped with Pirelli Angel GT II sport-touring tires in sizes 120 mm front and 160 mm rear. This is a significant step forward against the background of criticism that some Suzuki models have received in recent years for mediocre factory tires.