Suzuki unveiled the SV650X cafe racer concept a couple of weeks ago with plans to gauge interest, but already they have unveiled the production model.
Suzuki Australia says it will arrive in mid-2018 in full-powered and learner-approved versions. Final specifications and pricing will be confirmed closer to launch.
Obviously Suzuki knew all along that it was a production model.
They were just trying to get two spins out of the unveiling of the concept at the Tokyo Motor Show a couple of weeks ago and the production model at the EICMA show in Milan yesterday.
Suzuki SV650X cafe racer concept unveiled in TokyoGood on them! The modern/retro bike is certainly worth it.
Production cafe racer
If you want to know the differences between the concept and the production model, we can’t tell you. We can’t see any, except for paint and logos!
2018 Suzuki SV650X cafe racer production bikeThe SV650X is based on the SV650, but with retro cafe racer accents.
They include clip-on bars, round headlight and tuck and roll seat. Even the modern signature “S” mark on the tank has been replaced by a traditional “SUZUKI” logo.
However, analogue or at least round instrument pods would have been nice.
The tank has also been increased from 13.8L to 14.5L.
It is powered the 645cc 90° DOHC liquid-cooled V-twin engine with 56kW of power at 8500rpm and 64Nm of torque at 8100rpm.
Maximum output of the Learner-Approved version will be restricted to 35kW at 8500rpm and 56.5Nm of torque at 4000rpm.
It has a trellis frame and large 290mm dual front disc brakes with Nissin ABS and 240mm rear brake disc.
Novices will appreciate the Low RPM Assist function. It raises engine revs in launching or low-rpm riding conditions via the engine control module.
It’s basically foolproof tech to prevent stalling. It should be handy for take-offs and city crawling.
The cafe racer also features Suzuki Easy Start System. It engages the starter motor at a precisely timed preset interval to start with just a push of a button.
The ECM checks the status and disengages the starter motor immediately after starting.