Even though I risk stepping on some toes here it needs to be written: owning two of these bikes for about a year and having just completed the Scandinavia loop I must say that I can't recommend this bike. Here is why:
Steering bearings gone at 45000, both bikes. The replacements didn't last 5000 km, but not a Suzi part.
The engine refuses to run below about 3000 rpm. That means we are forever changing gears and 5th can't be used below 80 km/h.
The worst: the chain thrashes like mad at constant speed between about 100 and 125 km/h, meaning we have to vary the throttle all the time when riding long straights like motorways. This is worse the heavier the bike is loaded.
Cam shaft and follower going through the hardening at 42000 km. Comment from shop: "Normal for Suzuki."
Chain roller broken off (by thrashing chain?), taking a piece of frame with it. There is now a jagged hole in the frame...
Seat uncomfortable as hell.
On the positive side:
Fuel economy 4 - 4.5 l/100km with Supertrapp exhaust.
Low and light. Handles well and tight turning circle.
There you have it. Can I have my shaft drive back now?
[This message has been edited by beddhist (edited 01 September 2005).]