Comments on: 2008 Suzuki GSX650F – Finally!

By: David Stanford

David Stanford — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 16:07:13 +0000

Mike,
I stumbled upon your blog while looking up info on the GSX650F. Since the last entry is several months old, and you’ve had more time with the 650, are you still as satisfied with it as before? How many miles have you logged to date? I am in my mid-50s, and have been riding cruisers for years. For the past two-three years, I’ve been seriously looking at moving into the sport-touring world. I know there are great bikes, which are already set up for this genre, but I like the idea of going with a standard bike, and making it into a sport-tourer, much like you’ve done. The Bandit has been on my short list for some time, but I really like everything I read/hear about the 650. My biggest issue and question is the power. My wife rides with me a lot, and I don’t enjoy a bike that feels like its straining. Neither of us are large people, so that’s not an issue but I like knowing I’ve got throttle left to play with. Since you’ve been riding this bike, have you felt the need for more grunt than it offers? Also, I’m on a low budget, so the lower cost of the 650, plus the better fuel efficiency would give it an edge over the Bandit, in my mind, if I can feel comfortable with the power output. Thanks in advance for your comments. By the way, I’m in the Savannah, GA area, so if you take a ride up this way, give me a holler.

David Stanford

By: bostondann

bostondann — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 23:25:08 +0000

Hullo there —

I just blundered upon our site while researching accessories for my ‘08 GSX650F. Last year I got back into motorcycling after nearly 20 year hiatus and picked up an ‘85 GS700 that was almost exactly like the last bike I owned in the early 1990’s. This was the perfect way to not only get back into the saddle but also to introduce myself to the fabled GS engine and gearbox. After a year of very hard riding (I commute daily) the old GS just couldn’t be maintained anymore. With my wife’s blessing and encouragement I started shopping around for a daily driver replacement that could also keep up with the young ones on their racers.

It did not take me long to discover the GSX650F and only one test drive to seal the deal. Talk about the perfect commuter/light tourer/sportbike. I picked up an ‘08 model at one heckava price and couldn’t be happier. I am using a set of old Fieldsheer saddlebags and added a few items on the cheap
+ MRA Touring Windshield
+ Suzuki Tank Bra
+ Set of gel grips
+ and had the seat redone by Spencer – http://greatdaytoride.com/Home_Page.php

If you are ever in the Tampa, FL area give me a shout through the GSX650F forum.

By: Luke Eberbach

Luke Eberbach — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 02:33:56 +0000

Hey,

I’m from Melbourne, Australia.

I just picked up my new GSX650F a week or so ago, and I agree… in 15 years of riding and a bunch of bikes this is the one I’ve been waiting for!

It’s all kinds of perfect!

I’m just investigating what type of luggage system to put on it now.

We also picked up my wife a GS500F, which is a lovely little bike, and will set that up with some luggage too.

Cheers,

Luke.

By: Chris Shockley

Chris Shockley — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 18:45:50 +0000

Hey, I just noticed that seat on the “F”. Did you ride the factory one and then replace it or just straight to it?

I am curious of your thoughts of a comparison.

I start to get a sore butt at about 3 hours. It doesn’t get much worse than that, but if I could postpone it to 4 or 5 that would improve things a lot!

Anyway, I appreciate your thoughts

By: Joao

Joao — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 21:32:37 +0000

Hi There Mike!!

I’m from Portugal… a little country near Spain in Europe.
I’ve bought my GSX 650 F 2 weeks ago. I’m still in the break in period… but i already love this bike! I trade her for my FZ6 S2 from 2007.
I agree with you with the notes about this bike, and about riding alone… it’s safer!

Best regards,
João