Suzuki is a Japanese manufacturer better known for its motorcycles than its cars, Sidekick notwithstanding. The company began life as a manufacturer of looms in 1909, moving into motorcycles in the 1950s. By 1953, Suzuki was producing 6,000 bicycles a month, and today Suzuki produces cars, all-terrain vehicles and even outboard motors for ships
High-performance rockets with cool names like the Hayabusa and Katana are Suzuki’s best sprinters, and the brand is very proud of its racing division, but the company also makes a range of cruisers, dirt bikes and adventures . motorcycles They’re generally considered reliable, affordable and easy to maintain, with the Boulevard S40 cruiser and the discontinued SV650 topping the list of low-maintenance, high-reliability options.
The SV650 is a smaller, bare-bones bike that’s recommended for beginners while retaining its appeal to experienced riders. The 2003-2009 models, after the carburetors were removed but before the Gladius generation of SV650s, are some of the most sought-after Suzikis for their durability and general ease of operation. However, even newer models like the 2023 shown above have good reviews, and at under $8,000, they won’t break the bank on initial purchase or maintenance.