Is a 650 REALLY A Beginner Bike? (As Told By A New Rider)

[@catalyst6245]

Great perspective! Thanks for bringing us along on your journey!

[@IceTheCloser]

Thank you for coming along! Got some big ideas ahead

[@claytondillon1409]

It seems to me like rider size certainly plays a role in the ability to ride a 650 as a first bike, but it really puts emphasis on maturity. I love that AFTER the class, you still ride a mile going very slow, learning the throttle, and taking your time getting comfortable. An 18 year old with a death wish isn't going to take the precautions. I loved this video, I wish there was more like it! Great work!

[@IceTheCloser]

Thank you so much!!

[@brettbarnes9406]

Your honesty is refreshing.

[@mcbalagtas]

Nice! I’m a new rider(10mo) with exact same bike. The first 3wks I was terrified when I rode but now I’ve put 7k mi on it. Glad I went with the SV650 I don’t think I’ll ever sell it

[@keltecdan]

Same here I started two years ago on a sfv650 gladius. The first week I was scared and even took the bike on 50mph roads with heavy traffic. Probably wasn’t the smartest thing but I rode for 6 hours straight. I ended up laying the bike down the first week because some lady turned into my lane at a stop sign. Now I daily commute and ride 4-6 hours a day. I’m already wanting to get another bike. I’m definitely going to keep the gladius.

[@peacebewu]

is this the actual first bike you've ridden?

[@JohnnieV]

@@peacebewudidn’t he say his first bike was a 250 nighthawk?

[@ihatetechnomusic5232]

Very well thought out and put together video. Most videos on YT are more focused on "what the experianced rider think about the subject", but this felt really fresh and informative, showing how to slowly grow and learn. We need more content like this on YT.

[@LiveFreeMoto]

all about how hard you twist the throttle in my opinion. all road bikes are fast enough to be dangerous

[@solarguy6043]

A 250 will kill you just fine if you let it. Same for a 650. It's all about respecting your own limits and improving your skills and experience in a thoughtful way.

[@LiveFreeMoto]

@@solarguy6043 exactly!

[@markpuguon249]

but a 250 bike would be far more manageable than a 650 when it comes to weight and whisky throttles. so, a lower cc would still be preferred.

[@Jiigeri]

Being on 2 wheels in general is dangerous, a guy I knew (not really a friend, but I did know him by name) died at the age of 15 shortly after getting his licence to ride a 50cc bike, after colliding with a truck in an intersection and another had a serious, but not lethal accident on a 125cc bike the next year. Truckdriver was at fault, but that doesn't mean he could've survived or avoided the crash if he was more aware and careful when riding. I've always been quite careful when it comes to traffic, with cars too, and haven't had a single accident in my almost 20 years of driving on the public roads. Obviously a more powerful bike requires more finesse and control, so the power has a huge impact, but I would argue it's still slightly less important than the attitude towards safe driving. edit: Oh yeah, and EU has staged licences when it comes to motorcycles, so most people go through low cc bikes anyway. Modern bikes having ride by wire throttles and rider modes will make bigger bikes easier to get used to, since throttle response, traction control etc can greatly cut the risks of beginner rider errors.

[@LiveFreeMoto]

@@Jiigeri you can get hit crossing the street walking. no point in living a bubble boy life just to die old and have done nothing exciting.

[@Jastzu]

Perhaps the most honest and refreshing video I’ve seen on the subject. Much appreciated.

[@SetajLadd]

Welcome to the S650 club!!! I'm a new rider (well 3 years in). I chose this bike to be my first. I'm happy about my decision and I continue to learn and grow on this bike.

[@IceTheCloser]

I appreciate it! The more Iearn the more I appreciate the bike to be honest

[@Fee.1]

Took me a minute I was like wtf bmw releases a 650?

[@stephenjones8643]

I got my first bike 3 weeks ago and it’s in the 650 class. I basically did the same as you, 50 mph on the 3rd day felt insane but got used to the power and feel of it quickly. Definitely happy I started with this size bike

[@IceTheCloser]

It definitely helps! It's crazy seeing how getting comfortable with a 650 opens a lot up for you and the bike is still useful because it has enough power

[@Dunwelll]

Great job getting the new rider perspective out there!

[@c.r.chandler5905]

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I am a brand new rider (have not even taken MSF yet) however this is the first video that really lets me see what I will experience.

[@nakea2177]

I appreciate the raw experience video. As an aspiring new rider I want a mid size bike cause I don't want to trade up later but am skeptical about taking on more than I can handle. Hearing your experience is definitely a breath of fresh air. My main thing is not getting a bike with too much Torque that wants to stand up in 3rd. I noticed there is alot of pride amongst riders in the bike community where being an amateur is almost silly but we all gotta start somewhere and there's not alot of amateur ride vids that I've came across. Thank you

[@dcfmkyn]

I am 53 years old and have motorcycle ridden for about 15 years. Although I have owned liter bikes (bikes 1000cc's and over), a 650cc motorcycle is versatile enough to be controllable for beginners and powerful enough for experiences riders to not get bored. it's an excellent commuter bike as well, because it can reach over 130 mph at a "mature" pace.

[@clacks78]

Hey mate really appreciate you taking the time to not just post your early rides but explain your thoughts throughout your first weeks of owning the bike. So many things you mention resonate with my thoughts so far and although I've yet to even sit on a bike, the SV650 has gone to the top of my list after a few hours research. I'm also 6'2" so great to get that feedback as well. Cheers!

[@clacks78]

Just want to update that I ended up purchasing a Honda 2014 CB500X, had it about 6 weeks, absolutely love it and lucky enough to have a mate that has been supervising me (6 month minimum supervised learner requirements in Australia even though had my car license 25 years). Met some fantastic people (I'm not Filipino but the Filipino Riders group were so welcoming) and have had a blast every Sunday. My experience has mirrored yours and just when I thought I was comfortable taking a corner, my mate said "now do that but indicate first!". A lot to take in and like you experienced, only after 20-30 hours on the bike can I really start to look around as we cruise south of Perth, Western Australia and really absorb that kinship and freedom. If anyone watching this is on the fence, I say go for it! Cheers!

[@KairyuRider]

I’m 12 years in to riding and after a handful of liter bike, I stick to the 650ish range, all the power you need on the road to pass some super cars.

[@IceTheCloser]

The more I have ridden the more I have been able to appreciate the 650 ironically, you are definitely right

[@jacobh771]

Getting my 1st tomorrow glad to hear it from another 1st timer thanks a lot!

[@IceTheCloser]

So excited for you! Feel free to post progress updates, would love to see how everything goes

[@2WheelsGood.01]

Very honest video, awesome. I started about a year ago now. Did the MSF course, which I highly recommend. A month later I went out and bought a KLR650 and rode it on the SoCal highway on the way home, with no experience in-between MSF and actual riding. It was terrifying, but manageable if you just stick to the basic principles. I'm on a SV650 now and absolutely love the bike. I raced road bicycles before and rode bicycles A LOT, and I think that was a huge help in terms of high speed cornering, body positioning and just overall two wheels confidence.

[@IceTheCloser]

100%! Props to you on riding a bike right after the course, I did not have the guts to do that😂

[@Max-mx8cy]

Although its a pain in the butt, I do appreciate the licensing system in europe. You won't see a scared very bad or scared rider. Take it easy dont worry about what bike you're getting next just enjoy the sv you'll never outgrow it

[@dieselboy914]

I really appreciate this vid so much more than those published by major publications or high-profile KZbinrs. As I prepare to get on 2 wheels, it's content like this that really helps me through my decision-making process. This bike is on my Top 3 list of potential first rides, and I do like how well-engineered Suzukis are, even though they may not have all the latest and greatest bells and whistles like say the Yamaha MT-07 does. The Suzuki aftermarket support is also through the roof, so that's another plus. Thank you, and enjoy!

[@IceTheCloser]

I am glad it could help! My goal is to fill gaps of all the questions it was very difficult to find answers for, so if you have any further questions please let me know!

[@hamzasyed7766]

Learning counter steering is a must and really helps avoid accidental wide turns

[@ws8080]

But counter steering is not for low speed such as the u-turn, etc.... At higher speeds you can only counter steer, so I think you mean learning to rely on it more. When I was learning, avoided a near collision by counter steering more, since you don't want to brake mid-turn at speed - so many new riders make that mistake and hit something instead. The other rider I was with was surprised I remembered the training to for counter steering to use it correctly, but I frankly just enjoy leaning through corners. You are correct it is the key thing for people to get better at, but that's why the MSF teaches getting your head around, picking your line and sticking to it. I just retook the MSF course and too many new riders in my MSF course were not going to the prescribed speed and weren't learning to counter steer - they were too afraid of speed when we were only going 15mph(!). I have to say the scooter riders were the worst and never adapted.

[@CaptainThirdGen]

one of the more valuable motorcycle videos ive ever watched. The real honesty of it makes it seem much more doable for someone like myself. Hoping to get on a street bike in the next few years. Thanks for the video

[@IceTheCloser]

I am glad it could be of assistance! Safe riding for when you start your journey✊🏾

[@parallelfinn]

I feel like a 650 is fast enough to be safe but not so powerful that you'll backflip it into a car. Here in the UK you're restricted to 125cc then about 500 or a restricted power 650cc. I feel a LOT safer on a bigger bike like a 500cc/650cc as it allows you to get out of situations and people won't be tailgating you all the way home. Great video man, look forward to seeing more :)

[@IceTheCloser]

Do you think the US should have the same regulations as the UK with motorcycles?

[@parallelfinn]

@@IceTheCloser Good question, I think there should be something in between to he honest. 125 cc is far too weak in my opinion. Maybe restricted to 90bhp for 1 year and mandatory msf course? I think the progression is definetly a good way to create good riders before hopping onto an r1 or something 😅 I'm glad I only have 500cc right now while I learn. I would have killed myself on a litre bike I think.

[@Tonyx.yt.]

@@parallelfinn yeah but 125cc is just for 16-17yrs old, so too young for a car anyways. if you are old enought to go straight to A license you can start on a turbo busa too, i get motorcycle license at 24 so was unlimited A but i get an A2 motorcycle.

[@alexamos2458]

Man I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed this video! Thank you so much!

[@destinyfarris3313]

Thank you TONS for filming and keeping it authentic!! Definitely has been an extremely helpful video!

[@njohnson3331]

5:20 Yes! There are those that say the MSF isn't perfect, but it's better than going it on your own or have a buddy (who might not be a great teacher) train you. Great video!

[@IceTheCloser]

100% facts!

[@super_ninja9375]

This is a fantastic video for new riders! Been riding just over a year now and this video resonates so well with me.

[@justinober9783]

Thanks for making this video. I've been riding for about 4 months; just signed on the line for a new SV650 today. This video was just what I wanted to see!

[@IceTheCloser]

I am glad I could be of service, congratulations on your new SV!!

[@RomulusReemus]

How's it going 3 weeks later?

[@ninongjohnny2964]

This is a great video. I've been riding motorcycles for a long time now but I never had a chance to ride bigger displacement bikes. I've been riding a maximum of 200cc bikes and I think I'm ready for a bigger one. Thanks for the great perspective!

[@mhoeij]

If you're worried about a car behind you at the light, you can also practice take-offs in a parking lot. Yes, you can take off without any throttle but it's better if you do use some throttle because you don't want to linger around too long at an intersection.

[@shiftedtwistie]

I have rode my whole life, at least since I was 8 or 9. I have had many bikes. I'm about to buy a 2023 SV650. That's a big bike for someone legit new. Great job learning! Be safe brotha. Very cool video.

[@lorentzinvariant7348]

Great video! That was the best new rider presentation I have ever seen.

[@IceTheCloser]

Thank you Lorentz, I really appreciate that

[@Drobium77]

Mate! you are seriously one of the most genuine and insightful 'new rider' experiences I've seen. You really do get across the new rider feel of things, and that is very rare. please keep on being genuine , as there are so many pretentious riders out there who thing they are in the 'Fast and Furious' world, when after a few years, you know you cannot adhere to their reckless philosophy. Remember the old biker saying from literally 80 years ago "there are old riders, and bold rider, but no old bold riders" in other words, don't be a hero, you have next to nothing between you and the road, and you get one chance to bugger up majorly, and that is death!

[@IceTheCloser]

I appreciate your kind words, it’s things like this that make this experience so beautiful. I will continuously push to stay true to myself and represent us everyday riders out here, the ones who want to be old

[@mezmorizedauto1]

Just got mine today. Hyosung Aquila GV650.Not going to ride until I take my safety course. Totally understand & aware of this New Journey in my life ( pushing 60!) New Experience!! Blessings my brother

[@IceTheCloser]

Congratulations on pursuing it! Pushing 60 but young at heart at that’s the hardest thing to hang on to!

[@l-mac5105]

Great video! I’m still somewhat of a new rider. Been riding for a year and a half. I was looking at the SV650 for my first bike, but ended up buying a 2019 Honda CB500F. I was ready for an upgrade after about 9 months. I upgraded to a 2020 SV650 last November. If I had it to do over again, I would’ve purchased the SV650 to begin with. The only thing that would’ve taken some time to get used to is the throttle assist feature the SV650 has for when taking off from a stop. It helps to minimize the chance of the bike stalling by automatically giving it gas while you slowly release the clutch. I think the bike can go up to 8-10 mph with just easing out the clutch and no throttle. I don’t think I would’ve improved on my slow speed maneuvering as quickly on the SV650 as I did on the CB500F. I’m very happy with my SV650. It’s an amazing bike.

[@IceTheCloser]

I love it too, I did not know the 2020s had a throttle assist feature. It’s odd because I feel like I don’t really see a lot of SV650s in person, mainly harleys, gsxrs and r1s or r6s, but it is a great bike and can keep up with most

[@IceTheCloser]

Do you motovlog?

[@l-mac5105]

@IceTheCloser Same here. I’ve only seen one other person riding an SV650s. I see mostly the others you mentioned.

[@l-mac5105]

@IceTheCloser I don’t motovlog. I tried it shortly after I bought my Honda, but I was disappointed with the wind noise in my videos and I didn’t want to invest anymore money in an external microphone for my gopro. I may give it another try in the future. I was running my GoPro on a GoPro chest harness which was a perfect view of what I wanted. I didn’t want to mount it to my helmet.

[@tonynittoli4792]

Glad you put your height and weight out there. The bike looked tiny but 6’2” 200lbs definitely shows on a bike this size.

[@Jwrp29]

I started on a 650 and still got it. I haven't tried a smaller bike for real (only test drives) and I feel like anything smaller for the sake of riding and possibly overtaking in certain situations wouldn't be ideal for me as but just for the sake of riding, a smaller bike would be fine. I have no problems with handling the bike either, it's light as a father compared to my dad's vfr 800 for sure ☺️

[@IceTheCloser]

How is your VFR 800 on gas and how is it on the highway?

[@raynbow6]

Nice video man. The SV650 has been around a long time, endless aftermarket parts and mods, plenty of power to grow into, plus you get a lot for your money. Just needs that headlight updated to LED and it looks like it'll be my first bike too

[@bobdible8608]

I liked your process of knowing your limits and building skills. Looking at your two year video next. Beautiful area by the way.

[@only1kleigh]

Thanks for the insight! This is my first time watching any videos of this sort and I appreciate you sharing it. I'm planning on getting my first bike soon.

[@habitualbuilder459]

You just helped me make the decision. I’m going for the 650 thank you 🙏

[@RomulusReemus]

Great Noob perspective. Interested in the SV650 but the reputation of the "snatchy" throttle making me nervous. This might be my favorite of all the SV650 vids I've watched b/c its from a real beginner vs. an expert talking about whether a beginner can handle it.

[@FunniestFlicks]

your a respect for the bike is so high, which is awesome! when I made the transition from pit bikes and minibikes to full size motorcycles I knew I needed something that wouldn't bite back so I bought a ninja 250. bought an sv650 as my second bike after I became a great street rider and went wide open throttle on the test drive. its all about knowing yourself.

[@maje9144]

I love you being honest ... those feelings are exactly what I felt

[@Deepsouth34]

This video is helping me so much. Definitely on the fence about buying a SV650

[@RomulusReemus]

Did you do it?

[@nikkigraham6660]

Thank you for such a detailed video! I've just bought exactly the same bike (same colour too) after ten years off the road. I used to ride a ninja 250, but felt I wanted to take the next step on a bigger bike. I'm very happy with my choice with the sv650

[@erikrohr4396]

What do you know, I bought a 2004 Ninja 250 when I was 22, rode it for 5 years until my first child was born, took a 13 year break, and just a couple months ago I got a black SFV650.

[@Mai-zd3lf]

Brilliant video and great honesty.. This is what new/potential riders need to see.

[@bwbhammer]

Great video with new rider perspective. I bought my first motorcycle in May, an SV 650. I followed the manufacturers break in recommendation so keeping the speed in check was not an issue at first. I scared myself with how fast it gets to 60 with a really hard launch. I am very glad I get that motorcycle and will likely have it for a very loong time.

[@drunkensenseiii]

Subbed bro ! I've been wanting a bike since I was 19 and I'm finally going through with it at 26. 250 and 300's have always sounded superrrr underwhelming to me to start out on. I'm not trying to purchase a bike and just be bored of it within 1 year. It's nice to hear that a 650 isn't TOOO overwhelming as long as you respect it.

[@IceTheCloser]

Yes, it is a great bike! Just remember, the moment you get bored is the moment you have a lot more to learn about yourself and the bike, particularly in the first year. So much to learn whether slow speeds, cornering, making everything smooth, oil changes, etc

[@SamanthaHargreaves-l6n]

Thank you for this video. I’m planning on taking the MSF safety course in a couple months and I want to get a 650. You answered a lot of questions I had.

[@IceTheCloser]

I wish you the best on the course and am excited to hear how your journey starts! Glad to help

[@SquatSimp]

Fantastic video! Thank you for sharing your experience. Highly considering getting one of these as my first bike within the week

[@IceTheCloser]

Let me know what you get! The process is always so exciting,congratulations in advance!

[@frankbloemhoff6242]

I love my sv k5 so much, ive learned on her and now its a beast :D

[@jshumphress13]

I also bought a (2018) SV650 as my first bike. I got my permit, rode a little bit, took the MSF, and then started racking up the miles. I think most of it is about maturity. I was 33 when I got the bike, and I was able to manage the power. If it was 18 year old me, I would probably be dead...

[@DimitrisDr3am]

Yup I agree. I had a shadow 750 ace for under a month before I got a Vstrom 650 which has the same motor as the sv but tuned down and for more low end. I bought my first bike at 39 though. Had I been 20 I'd probably have killed myself based on how I drove my mustang back then

[@tonycoffman1324]

Another exceptionally well done video. It's great to hear the newer rider perspective. Beautiful bike, great video, and amazing roads where you are 👍

[@yuiwei]

thank you for this, i love the candidness with which you told the story

[@ThatHoosierKid17]

the most helpful video I’ve seen and I’ve been researching beginner videos/forums for like 2 months straight

[@IceTheCloser]

I am so happy to hear this!! I hope it continues to help people, I definitely struggled finding videos for the early stages, myself

[@Raiendrops]

I bought a used 2012 SV650 which is currently my first bike since I received my license. Driving in Toronto is still scary as I continue to learn. Ride safe my guy

[@IceTheCloser]

You too! You will get the hang of it and everything will begin to slow down

[@johnwouters9835]

GREAT VIDEO! Really appreciate you including your early experience on the bike!

[@GlennAndrewD]

When I done my training I went from a smaller 250-300 to a 800cc BMW. And the BMW was far easier to ride. 650cc is definitely the sweet spot.

[@AlexKoepke]

Great video! Keep em coming!

[@benkenobi01]

Great video, one of the most helpful beginner videos I’ve seen. And we all know there’s a ton of them on KZbin.

[@blazec8756]

Dude. Thank you. Picking my first bike 2022 SV650 next month and I'm lowkey terrified.

[@IceTheCloser]

That is okay! Just start in a nice and chill neighborhood/ parking lot and take your time and wear your gear. You will get used to everything, quicker than you expect I am sure

[@RomulusReemus]

Exactly same feeling... wavering 650 vs. 400 class. Did you pull the trigger on a bike and how has the experience gone?

[@nivedni]

Thank you for the honesty man! All i did was 125 shitty scooters as i worked deliveries and im considering this as a first bike 🤟🏽 thank you so much!

[@IceTheCloser]

No problem, ride safe and let me know what you decide to get!

[@newbierides]

Great review, as a new rider myself watching you ride gave me flashbacks from about 3 months ago haha. But I'm way more comfortable on my mt07 now than when I first started on a Yamaha bolt. The slow turns and u turns were super scary.

[@azizkosber5767]

Thank you for putting this out! I’m taking the msf course this February and debating either the mt03 or sv650. This was super insightful!

[@ws8080]

Go sit on them and see first. If you are lucky, they might have a MT03 at your course (the beginner MSF courses typically have bikes for you). At my class, you could try out BMW G310, Duke, Ninja 300, Rebel 300, VStar 250, etc. and see what you like. The CB300R is lighter than the MT03 and has some additional features. Z400 will give you more than all of those and it wins the beginner/intermed shootouts all the time. It's nice to have a slipper clutch and ABS for instance. But many riding vets recommend learning on a dual sport like the XT250. They are lighter, and give you option to ride some fire roads/trails as well and that's another way to get riding time in. Personally, I plan to buy more than one bike to fill those other needs and desires..... :-) It seems to be a common affliction (multiple bikes) once you are riding more often.

[@RadDadisRad]

My first motorcycle was a 2024 Street Triple 765 RS. I took the course in June and bought the bike in August. With traction control, wheelie control along with riding modes to mute the throttle I quickly adjusted to the bike.

[@diedannuss2132]

Thx for this honest video. It remembhers me that you gotta learn slowly how to drive these things.

[@The_Z_Brah]

I got an SV650S after taking my MSF a few years ago. Great, peppy bike with a bullet proof engine, but it is really torquey down low. Great video and remember to counterweight in slower turns so you don't have to go so wide! Safe riding!

[@patrickmaurice842]

Thank you! This was great. I've just completed my MSF and past the practical evaluation. I'm prepping to shop and your video has given me the confidence to explore the 650cc a lot more.

[@IceTheCloser]

Congratulations on completing the MSF safety course! I am glad the video was able to help!

[@stylin60es]

Appreciate the upload. Like many of the comments here, refreshing review for us all. I've been riding the 2022 Benelli TNT 135 for 3 months..TONS of fun..I'm looking at the z400 or Sv650 in within the next year. Cheers and be safe! 🤝

[@BusySnoozing]

This video was exactly what I needed. Looking at SV650’s as a first bike, 6’4” 270lbs, no motorcycle experience at all except MSF. Thanks for answering so many questions!

[@IceTheCloser]

I am glad I could be of service!!!

[@slimfit767]

Hayabusa

[@jentill1034]

Send your good vibes my way. 😃I take the MSF course this Saturday and Sunday. 🤞I find your videos very helpful and inspiring, so thank you!

[@IceTheCloser]

@@jentill1034 will be sure to pray for you tonight!

[@IceTheCloser]

@@jentill1034 are you gonna vlog your journey?

[@jentill1034]

@@IceTheCloser I am thinking of doing that, yes. 👍

[@sv650nyc7]

The SV650 is a good beginner bike if you are mature, have some previous experience with motorized two-wheelers, and have a good grasp of shifting and the physics of bicycle riding. This seems to be true in your case. If you are very young with little experience driving on public roads, not a good bicycle rider, have never ridden a scooter or dirt bike, have never driven a manual car or had a bicycle with multiple gears, the SV650 is a horrible beginner bike (so are all other middle-weight bikes with 70+ hp). You will be better off to start with something in the 150-300cc range and with less than 30 hp if you want to learn how to ride well and safe in the fastest possible way. Going too fast up in power and weight will just slow down your learning process needlessly and will be much less fun since you'll be mostly occupied with controlling the bike and holding yourself back from opening the throttle too much instead of actually riding it. Most young riders (and many older ones) won't be able to resist to ride way faster than their skill level allows. Riders in the US receive little to no training before they are allowed to ride on public roads on any bike they wish. There's a good reason why in the EU riders under 20 years are restricted to 45hp bikes, and you need four years of actual riding experience if you're under 24 years before you're allowed on an unrestricted bike. The result is that the kind of crashes you see all over KZbin because riders lose control of their bikes are virtually unheard of in Europe. If you start on a bike that's too much for you, you may never learn how to become a good rider other than going in a straight line.

[@chancecarlton8403]

I'm just learning to ride, its great to see you progress. I like the logic of this bike for a newbie, was thinking of the Duke 390 or this.

[@IceTheCloser]

Will be posting a video next week of the one year progress!! Duke 390 is a beautiful bike, SV650 will certainly be cheaper and likely have more uses long term and be more durable in my humble opinion

[@chancecarlton8403]

@@IceTheCloser I didn't know it cost less, that sure tips the scales a bit. I already have a Suzuki c50, I could stay Suzuki lol.

[@driscollis]

I agree with everything here! It's all about your personal comfortability and discipline. I started out being intimidated on a 500cc to selling it for a 650cc in less than a month. Just don't be dumb and respect what the bike can do and you'll be fine! that being said, for sure don't feel embarrassed to start out on a smaller bike, ultimately it's your ride and your life on the line

[@remigusker6024]

So far this is probably one of the best new rider experience videos I've seen. Very nicely done! As for looking into an R1 or R6, I'd check out some of the super nakeds first. I've been riding for about 6 years and originally I was hype on getting a Supersport eventually, but I found the super nakeds delivered what I wanted in a much more comfortable package. As for whether or not a 650 is too much depends on the rider, but by and large I feel like it's probably fine for most riders. It's the potential of how fast the bike can be compared to what a new rider is used to that causes a lot of the intimidation imo. But so long as a rider is mindful of the bike then it's fine. And of course in the end if one is really too uncomfortable to start on a 650 class bike there's always smaller options. I myself for example wasn't sure if I was ready to for a middle weight so I started on an R3 before eventually moving onto my current MT-09.

[@IceTheCloser]

How do the supernakeds handle the highway compared to super sports?

[@aftermarks]

@@IceTheCloser Supersport vs. naked on the highway is going to be a compromise between more wind protection and more comfortable riding position. Both are going to have ample power, usually nakeds are geared more for the street so you're not having to rev as high. At your height you'd want to test ride a sport bike to see where the wind hits you, some taller riders still get wind to the helmet except in a full tuck, which isn't practical in street riding. Also check out cycle-ergo dot com to visualize how you fit on each model, it can vary a lot. There used to be more half-faired bikes like the Yamaha FZ6 Fazer/FZ1, BMW F800S, and Honda Hornet S, but my favorite remaining currently is the Aprilia Tuono V4 1077cc and the new Tuono 660cc twin. There are also tons of OEM and aftermarket windscreens for the SV650. I've heard good things about Puig brand, they're around $160.

[@IceTheCloser]

@@aftermarks thank you so much for the information! I have certainly been checking the aprilias a bit, I didn’t really know half-faired was a thing until now. And I’m gonna certainly check puig out too for these Highway rides😂 thank you again!

[@aftermarks]

@@IceTheCloser Hell yeah. The categories are confusing, Aprilia calls the Tuono a naked (but they also have the Shiver, which is a more traditional naked/standard), but naked used to mean no windscreen or front fairing / bodywork. So it takes a little searching to find the hybrids. Ride safe 🤙

[@thomasmaier7053]

Thank you, very humble and smart assessment!

[@IceTheCloser]

Thank you, I appreciate that!

[@ToothDecay7758]

Great video and so relatable, I also started this year in January and got an older SV650S (2005) as my first. It's been a blast to learn on, it's done a great job teaching me how to ride and what I want and don't want in my next bike. I'm already looking at other bikes but I just might keep this one to throw around as a beater or even track bike instead of selling it, these things can't be beat

[@IceTheCloser]

Definitely plan on keeping mine for sure when I get second... if I didn’t already🙃

[@Andrei15193]

You've reconfirmed my choice for the SV650, which I plan on getting next year. Thanks for the video!

[@IceTheCloser]

Glad I could help! Love your research and planning

[@Andrei15193]

@@IceTheCloser I've watched some videos that were saying that the SV650 may be too much bike for a beginner and you covered this. It may be a bit scary at the beginning, but you got used to it in a short amount of time. It's really encouraging :)

[@radiant_toe]

Great video. Like hearing from a fellow newbie about the 650 rather than a 20 year vet saying its a beginner. I myself have been riding an ebike that does 35mph, mountain 6 all sorts of stuff, and I am taking the msf next week! Hardest part is seeing bikes you want on the market when you can't buy yet lol.

[@IceTheCloser]

@@radiant_toe trust me, they will come! And as you ride and learn more, you may not even want them anymore. That’s what happened to me with the R1

[@radiant_toe]

@@IceTheCloser yes im looking at an sv after my msf on monday haha

[@Grovreicraynth]

I like that you gave the SV a review while you were still starting out riding. I wilk say that yeah the SV650 is forgivable for new riders, but note that there are 650cc and even 400cc motorcycles that are tuned to be more aggressive. Tuning does matter for bikes.

[@legendaryfatcat]

I’m looking to start soon and have been obsessing over beginner videos and this has been by far the most encouraging and helpful. I’m 5’10 and 250 lbs so a bit on the heavy side and have wondered if going above 500cc and maybe a 650/700 would be best for me to start on. Seems like if you’re cautious you can make it work perfectly. Appreciate it, brother! Stay safe.

[@IceTheCloser]

Absolutely!! Especially if it’s more of a low end torque motorcycle like the SV, just take your time and make sure you remember to pull in the clutch first in case of trouble which will help you not be thrown by an accidental “whisky” throttle

[@ws8080]

Best advice I ever got is to go sit on the bikes, then make your choice. It's easier to pass the test and learn on something smaller and lighter, or at least lower. Cruisers seem to do best on the test even though they weigh more due to the low center of gravity. I had problems with the u-turn and hard turn 20 years ago, but starting over now again I had the tallest bike on a Ninja 300 and was the shortest guy, and did fine with it - but there were much larger guys on Duke 200, BMW G310, etc with no problem. Those on the Rebel, VStar, etc. cruisers could just creep through corners and steer no problems with the low center of gravity, and no one looked too big for their bike. You can always get a standard or naked in this size range and grow with it - whether it's this SV650 or something more approachable for some like the Rebel 500, a Z400, or even a Triumph Street Twin that has larger engine but very approachable size. In the end, it doesn't matter - just find what is comfortable and fun, so you get the riding time in.

[@Zg_1357]

Thank you for this video on the 650. I'm a new rider with 650 miles on my Grom and seriously thinking of buying the cb650r 2024 model with the clutch less shifting.

[@ajwallace381]

Thoroughly enjoyed this video, ride on!

[@CommViewer]

Thanks, very useful because I am thinking about taking up this hobby....great perspective.

[@brianglendenning1632]

Had a 17 SV650 as my first bike. 14 months later (minimum time for someone my age to have restricted licences) traded it for an 18 BMW S1000R. Found neither bike too much, but being an older (now 54) rider with extensive road and mountain bike racing/riding (which I think helps in terms of hazard identification) and good self control. I did track days from very early on, and rarely feel pressured to ride more quickly than I feel on the day (and I have mates I ride with who have two or three decades of motorcycle racing experience, and their slowest day is a brisk ride for most)

[@rogerp4612]

Depends on the bike and the rider. I started on a Honda CB650R as an older rider discovering motorcycling. Zero issues. Zero regrets. It makes power high in the rev range, so a bit of sloppy throttle off idle won't send the front wheel to the sky. And and I gained confidence, I explored more of the rev range.

[@fredflintstone1547]

i rode a lot of bicycles my entire life and when I took the MTC it was very strange for me to turn right by PUSHING the handle bar with my right hand.... it made no sense because on a bicycle you pull with right to turn right.... I put it all together when I got used to the idea that I had an engine and didn't have to pedal anymore. With an engine I no longer had to counterbalance myself and the bike in order to pedal. I could focus on the arc of the turn, the lean and the throttle. Pushing the bar also helps manipulate the weight of the motorcycle to your advantage whereas if you tried to pull on the handle bar you would be fighting all the weight of the motorcycle. After a few rides I got the hang of it, but push right go right was a strange concept for me wrap my head around at first.

[@mhoeij]

At 7:00 you were duckwalking to get going in a turn, but there is a technique to do this in the right way. I would really recommend some additional training because doing this correctly does make motorcycling a lot more fun. The trick is this: when you're standing still at a stop sign, and you want to make a turn from a stop, already lean the bike while standing still. Then when you go, immediately put your foot on the pegs as soon as the bike starts to move. You'll feel the bike "falling" to the side but this is actually a good thing since it helps you to make a quick tight turn. Before doing this on a road, practice this on a parking lot, make it a point to not put a foot down when the bike appears to "fall", but instead use more clutch+throttle when the bike is "falling". You can use the lines on a parking lot as the "lane" you are supposed to turn into.

[@mhoeij]

PS. Learning this is especially important for right-turns because those turns are tighter and you never want to go wide and end up in the other lane! Practice this until it goes correctly 100% of the time because the turn at 4:05 is a big no-no! You went wide there because you were afraid to lean the bike. Never go wide in a turn, push the inside handlebar and trust the bike. To learn this safely, you have to practice in an empty parking lot. There are lots of videos on KZbin to help you with this. When I bought my SV650, I almost went wide in a curve on the way home and I promptly signed up for additional training.

[@acvn-hg9gy]

Im from europe, and got my license at 20yo, so i got my A2 license. Which means i learned on a 35kw bike, it was a restricted ER6. The amount of lessons we have to take with the aditional two practical and one theoretical exams really give you the confidence to get on the road safely. I bought myself a '89 honda cb450s after that, which had no electronics whatsoever but it really tought me to ride in all kinds of weather. I now ride a vfr800 and i really dont feel like i need more, although i might just WANT more haha.

[@IceTheCloser]

I love the VFR platform and was also considering that as a more long distance commuter bike. How is it when maneuvering in tight spots? I know it is a bit on the heavier side

[@acvn-hg9gy]

@@IceTheCloser you do have to mind your body position a bit more at the real tight stuff, like half circles on a narrow road, but its very manageable. But on places like parking lots its as agile as ever.

[@cameronryland1589]

I'm interested in starting myself, thanks for sharing your perspective

[@IceTheCloser]

Let me know how it goes! I am here as a resource too

[@juanitay6313]

Thank you for sharing your experience. It was so helpful in getting a real perspective on starting out. I plan to purchase a bike soon and one of my concerns was adjusting to the speed.

[@IceTheCloser]

You will be fine as long as you take your time!

[@ws8080]

Welcome to bikes, have fun and ride safe. Most of the bikes in the 600 class weigh in the 400 lbs - not 300lbs. 300 lbs is where the 250 and 300cc bikes live, and some of those (cruisers typically) may still be over 400. My old Bandit 400, with 4 cyl engine and liquid cooled, weighs 380lbs without fluids so actually over 400 lbs. But it was my 1st bike, with 15k rpm etc. Back then, we could get permit just off the written test and go ride but had to ride with an experienced rider (2 bikes) along. I took the MSF course then just to get familiar first, since it was not required, but then out to the highway without a problem. I think the requirement back then to ride with a 2nd bike was a good idea - you learn from watching and avoid some judgement mistakes. NOTE - it's a good idea to ride with others even if it isn't required, for those reasons and increased visibility to the crazy car drivers. After moving around for 20 years, my endorsement got lost along the way and I'm starting over. In WA state now, you have to take the MSF course 1st just to get your permit, then can ride whatever and wherever - just not at dark. Within 6 months you then take a 2nd course and test for license. I'm not sure it is better this way. I think the Europe approach is better - be licensed for smaller bike first, ride a while before earning the bigger bike. Anyway, I'm thinking of buying a SV650 now. Glad to see you like yours. This is a bike that isn't crazy but you can ride forever and even has track days. The main obstacle for me as a 5'7" person with 30" inseam is the seat height, and having a bike I feel comfortable doing the U-turn within the lines. I may go smaller and lighter for a short while, but the SV is a great bike and think I'll be back to it one way or another. As you said, it's really about riding time and getting comfortable. Enjoy your riding!

[@AaaSWE]

In Sweden you need to do a lot of training to get a motorcycle licence. It can be quite hard at times, but it is good because you are ready for most things when you finally pass the final tests. I took my licence on a mt-07 and now a few years later I ride a SV650. Great bike.

[@IceTheCloser]

@@AaaSWE would you say fatal motorcycle accidents are rare in Sweden/closer to car accident numbers?

[@Awon2zip]

Just took my MSF course this weekend and I also learned on a 250 Nighthawk! Probably not gonna get the SV650 as my first but great video!

[@IceTheCloser]

Thank you! And congrats on completing the course🤙🏾🤙🏾

[@Awon2zip]

@@IceTheCloser well I ended up getting a really good deal on a 2002 SV650s and bought it yesterday! 😅

[@AdolfHitler-pm3lc]

​@@Awon2zip How was it?

[@SonesBen]

Very helpful video--thanks for sharing! I'm in that same boat--new rider, just finished the MSF and got my license, but no experience riding other than the course. And trying to decide if I should get a 400, or if I could handle a 650.

[@svaralen]

Thanx for your excellent video!!! I am myself a 50 years old total beginner and want hopefully to buy this beauty as my first bike 👌. Looking forward to have a test drive soon and to decide 🤪 , ride safe bro and wish you all the best from Serbia 🇷🇸✌️

[@IceTheCloser]

Shoutout to Serbia on your behalf!! I am excited for you to start your journey, it will change your entire perspective of life🙌🏾🤙🏾

[@svaralen]

Bro, its done 👍 I order the SV, mist wait 3 months for the delivery and its ok anyway its winter time in Europe. Really looking forward to have it!!! Happy new year and ride safe ✌️

[@mikegm6326]

Great video , thanks for sharing !!

[@IAMMACK28]

Real guy right here, he's not a serial CAPPER! Subbed

[@IceTheCloser]

My G!!✊🏾✊🏾

[@kmvjor]

Thanks I got a 650 and never rode. Going to take course asap for mc license. U give me hope cuz I’m scared as hell rn

[@IceTheCloser]

@@kmvjor You can do it! The course will help tremendously and remember to keep God at the forefront

[@Ricardo4788]

I started on a cbr600rr lol. I think if you take your time you can start on whatever you want.

[@remigusker6024]

My only real problem with the idea of starting on something like a 600cc Supersport is that you can't really explore the limits of the bike on the road and as a new rider the bike can cover for your own deficiencies in handling until you over extend.

[@Ricardo4788]

@@remigusker6024 I get that. At the end of the day one has to be responsible and figure out what works best for them. Unfortunately where I live it's most highways if you want to get around in any kind of reasonable amount of time. Even if I wanted to get a 250 or even 400 it likely would struggle to get my 290 pounds to 70 mph.

[@remigusker6024]

@@Ricardo4788 Oh I'm not trying to knock you for your choice, sorry if the tone implied otherwise. Just putting forward my concern about starting on a 600 Supersport. As for smaller bikes on the highway, it depends. On a 250? Probably not that great for the highway. But my R3 (320cc, 40hp) handled my 70 miles (35 each way) of highway commuting (and 350lbs asd) at 80 without issue so smaller bikes certainly can handle the task if needed.

[@patrickmba7638]

@Mohan Sreekant 😀. Good point.