SUZUKI GSX650F (2007 - 2015) Review

Highlights

  • A Bandit with a fairing
  • Unrivalled real world performance
  • Can hold its own on a trackday too

At a glance

Owners' reliability rating: 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5)
Annual servicing cost: £150
Power: 86 bhp
Seat height: Medium (31.1 in / 790 mm)
Weight: Medium (476 lbs / 216 kg)

Overall rating

Next up: Ride & brakes
5 out of 5 (5/5)

The budget and novice-friendly Suzuki GSXF650F all-rounder proves that sometimes, brilliance is found in the most unlikely places.

Although on face value merely a ‘Bandit with a fairing’ the GSX650F’s blend of real world performance, practicality, fun factor and value is pretty much unmatched anywhere.

This bike replaced the 1996 GSX600F

Once you've read this review and our owners' reviews, you may want to join an online community such as the GSX650F Group on Facebook.

Watch: Suzuki GSX650F vs Yamaha R6

Ride quality & brakes

Next up: Engine
4 out of 5 (4/5)

The Suzuki GSX650F’s chassis is, for the most part, Bandit 650, too, being centred around the same, no frills, cost-conscious steel tube cradle and conventional forks. Yet in GSX-F guise it gets a more sophisticated shock for added sporting ability and subtly adjusted poise thanks to the fairing, new one-piece, rubber-mounted, lower bars plus new one-piece seat that all adds up to a riding position and balance that is both textbook sports-tourer and somehow impressively pure, too.

Engine

Next up: Reliability
5 out of 5 (5/5)

The Suzuki GSX650F’s 16-valve, dohc four was all-new in the 2007 650 Bandit, is Euro3 clean, slick and responsive and, most pertinently, tuned for real-world versatility but with an exhilarating top end rush. Fuelling mods means it revs a little higher than the Bandit, although performance is unchanged. Peak power of 85bhp spread progressively over the rev range and decent enough grunt low down means this is a powerplant that’s sufficiently willing and able whatever the gear or your ham-fistedness, yet still rewards with three-figure thrills.

Reliability & build quality

Next up: Value
4 out of 5 (4/5)

Usual Suzuki standard, which is no bad thing on a sub-£5K bike. Everything gleams and is crisply assembled and from 20 yards you’d easily mistake the GSX650F for a much more expensive machine. Mechanicals and cycle parts are all proven Bandit fare so there should be no reliability issues. Job done. 

We've currently got 32 Suzuki GSX650F owners' reviews on the site, with an overall score of 4.8 stars out of 5. It's clear owners absolutely adore their bikes. 

Value vs rivals

Next up: Equipment
5 out of 5 (5/5)

There’s not other way of putting it: Suzuki’s new GSX650F is astonishingly good value. Where Bandits and the like, though hugely worthy, are still conspicuously ‘budget’ bikes, the GSX650F somehow seems entirely classier and more valuable. It’s no GSX-R, of course, but for under five big ones it’s a steal…

Watch: Suzuki GSX650F vs Honda CBF600S vs Kawasaki ER-6F

Equipment

4 out of 5 (4/5)

The key distinguishing feature of the Suzuki GSX650F is, of course, the fairing which at once manages to evoke and mimic GSX-R sportsbike style, provide decent protection from the elements and blend into the whole motorcycle as if the whole design was a clean sheet affair. But there are plenty of other goodies rare on a sub-£5K machine: span-adjustable brake and clutch levers; effective, widely-spaced mirrors; swanky GSX-R style sports instruments (a large analogue tacho flanked by the now usual LCD digital speedo, useful fuel gauge, plus assorted warning lights).

Specs

Engine size 656cc
Engine type 16v transverse four, 6 gears
Frame type Tubular steel double cradle
Fuel capacity 19 litres
Seat height 790mm
Bike weight 216kg
Front suspension Preload
Rear suspension Preload and rebound
Front brake Twin discs
Rear brake single disc
Front tyre size 120/70 x 17
Rear tyre size 160/60 x 17

Mpg, costs & insurance

Average fuel consumption 50 mpg
Annual road tax £117
Annual service cost £150
New price -
Used price -
Insurance group 12 of 17
How much to insure?
Warranty term Two year unlimited mileage

Top speed & performance

Max power 86 bhp
Max torque 45.6 ft-lb
Top speed 135 mph
1/4 mile acceleration 11.94 secs
Tank range 150 miles

Model history & versions

Model history

  • 2007: Model introduced.
  • 2015: Model goes off sale.

Other versions

None.

Owners' reviews for the SUZUKI GSX650F (2007 - 2015)

39 owners have reviewed their SUZUKI GSX650F (2007 - 2015) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.

Review your SUZUKI GSX650F (2007 - 2015)

Summary of owners' reviews

Overall rating: 4.8 out of 5 (4.8/5)
Ride quality & brakes: 4.4 out of 5 (4.4/5)
Engine: 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5)
Reliability & build quality: 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5)
Value vs rivals: 4.9 out of 5 (4.9/5)
Equipment: 4.4 out of 5 (4.4/5)
Annual servicing cost: £150
5 out of 5
14 February 2024 by Nik

Year: 2013

It's a great bike for daily commute, touring, riding relaxed or rather riding sporty. It is wel equiped with a gear indicator, fuel gage decent seat for a pillion. Great bike.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

it's not the easiest bike to ride. If you do everything right it's very playful however you always need to work the bike. It is a very stable ride, so long highway touring is no problem.

Engine 5 out of 5

Love the 4 cilinder sound, thrilling acceleration that keeps on going. However below 4k rpm not a lot of power is to be found.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

at 47000 km i have the first "problem" the neutral light doesn't show anymore. Sometimes causing the bike not to start. This is a known problem and should be solved by cleaning or replacing the gear sensor. The bike always starts even when it stood still for 2 months in winter.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

I service it myself so it cost me about 80€ for oil, oil filter and airfilter. Highest cost is the tyres.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Gear indicator and fuel gauge is very nice at the price level of this bike. Even newer bikes still don't always have this. I installed a center stand, would recommend if you want to do servicing yourself en for touring/camping. I also have 3 piece luggage kit.

5 out of 5 underrated middleweight
30 January 2023 by Anthony wheeler

Year: 2009

Annual servicing cost: £150

keep on top of the servicing to get best out of it

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

brakes get serviced regularly, comfort good for 150 miles dont take pillions so cant comment, have done touring on this bike and will continue to do so, highly recommended.

Engine 5 out of 5

plenty of power but not over the top

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

never let me down buid quality built to a budget

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5

handles really well with decent rubber, currantly running Battlax BTO23

4 out of 5 GSX650F return to motorcycling bike, think got it right
30 January 2023 by Pete B

Version: F8

Year: 2009

Annual servicing cost: £140

Apart from the wheels which will need a repaint or powder coat, for a 13 year old 26000 mile bike its still in very good condition. Been looked after and it shows. My return to bikes last year 1000mile relearn then 2000 mile Scotland trip and another 1000 miles into Jan 2023. Not missed a beat.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

had organic pads in when brought, bit spongy, changed to sintered and replaced the brake fluid. much better.

Engine 5 out of 5

such a good overall motor. smooth with enough power across the range, 55 mpg over the 4000 miles so far

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

most is still a s good as new, wheels paint is poor, needs doing

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

depends on if just oil and filter or full plugs and filters service

Equipment 5 out of 5

For its year can't fault it for equipment. ABS would have been nice but tht came on the FA

Buying experience: Dealer and was very good all the way through

5 out of 5 Safe riding
23 June 2022 by Bob Warden

Version: Gsx650f

Year: 2008

Excellent bike for a new rider or someone who wants a more relaxed driving experience without loosing performance. Acceleration is good for its size as well as it’s ability to eat up the miles no matter the weather. I found it better in windy conditions than others.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Rear brake linkage tends to need regular cleaning and oiling as dirt seems to ingress in to the linkage

Engine 5 out of 5

Great power and performance. Acceleration is more than adequate. I would recommend fitting an aftermarket exhaust though. The original is quite heavy.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Mostly well built although a centre stand would be better if fitted giving easier access for chain oiling etc

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Good mpg. Standard tyre sizes etc. no scary experiences with costs

Equipment 5 out of 5

Good seat hight for us smaller riders. Suspension could be a bit stiffer if taking a pillion passenger but not too much an issue. Overall it looks the part

Buying experience: Bought from a dealer in 2021. 22700 miles with fsh. £2800. I might of got it cheaper if a private sale but no warranty with that option

5 out of 5 Perfect retirement bike
16 August 2021 by Jaswinder Singh

Year: 2015

Annual servicing cost: £240

Excellent all rounder bike. I bought a RE interceptor 650 brand new and found myself wanting more. I went to A&M motorcycles and saw the Suzuki GSX650F. Went home and read loads of reviews and owner reviews. I am really glad I bought the Suzuki and would recommend it to anyone looking for an easy to ride, fast (enough for me), and comfortable on my backside.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Very good all rounder bike. More of a sports tourer than out and out sports bike. Which isn't a bad thing for a first big bike. It is on the heavy side but this lends itself to better stability.

Engine 5 out of 5

Cannot fault the engine. Smooth and loves to rev. Only down side is the fuel pump and filter built into the fuel tank that can cause issues with higher mileage bikes.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

I found some surface rust around the headstock but otherwise not bad.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Not had a Service yet, so will find out nearer the time. But was informed this was a ball park figure of £240.

Equipment 3 out of 5

Would have liked it more if it came with a centre stand.

Buying experience: Bought from A&M Motorcycles in Hertfordshire. Easy and pleasure to buy from. Highly recommended to go take a look there for your next bike.

5 out of 5 Bombproof workhorse, lovable too
19 July 2021 by James Martin

Year: 2008

Annual servicing cost: £40

Owned for 5 years now and put 81,000 miles on it (7k miles when I got it). I've crashed it 3 times now I think, and rebuilt almost every area of it except the engine. Mega reliable, entertaining, and able to hustle with much faster bikes on the road.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Suspension is definitely budget, and it certainly is no gsxr in the corners. Brakes are good and strong, pads are cheap, calipers quite resistant to winter. Ride is comfy on most surfaces, which makes up for the lack of refinement at the limit to be honest. I've ridden 500 miles stopping only for fuel before, so I'd say it's comfy enough.

Engine 5 out of 5

Bombproof reliability, but somewhat restricted in the upper revs. Fixed by opening up the airbox and fitting a power commander. Next to try are straight trumpets, but the airbox, exhaust and power commander have definitely been a success. Opening up the airbox had the side effect of making the most delicious induction noise too, grabbing a handful has never been so satisfying! Prior to modification, the engine felt like revving above 10500rpm was pointless, now it pulls harder all the way to the limiter.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Parts are cheaply constructed, but unlikely to fail. There are a lot of steel brackets which are made very cheaply, but are for the most part invisible. Unlike alloy parts they are easy to repair if required. Despite the huge miles in all weathers and deplorable cleaning regime, mine was only lightly rusty in places and a recent overhaul has removed all corrosion without requiring welding. The bike has literally never let me down I don't think, despite being thrashed every day. Even if mine blew up tomorrow it is still hugely reliable in my book.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

I just change the oil and filter once every 3-5k. I rebuilt the brakes some years ago and they are still mega now. Have not changed discs in 88k, and they refuse to warp or fail an MOT, despite heavy abuse. I have a scottoiler fitted and am on my fourth set of chains and sprockets. Never done the clutch. It is a touch thirsty, drinking almost 10% more than my mates Fazer 600 and Z1000SX on the last tour.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Fuel gauge and warning light system is the best of any budget bike of the period in my opinion. Just lacks a temperature gauge but so do many rivals. Enormous capacity for luggage from givi too, full size side boxes! Back seat good for strapping things to, I've had car engine blocks strapped to the back of mine before.

Buying experience: Dealer, with 6 month warranty (which I didnt use at all, despite 12000 miles in those 6 months)

5 out of 5 Had it 8 years - great bike!
21 November 2020 by Mf

Version: K8

Year: 2010

Annual servicing cost: £298

Would and have recommended to a friend for a sub £3000 used bike.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

After about 1 hour in saddle it starts to feel a bit.

Engine 5 out of 5

Excellent

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Average Over 5 years.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Easy to view dashboard- good if you have senior eyes

Buying experience: Dealer

5 out of 5
12 August 2020 by Wilson

Year: 2015

Annual servicing cost: £125

Very smooth engine and gearbox

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Nice more upright riding position

Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5

Excellent Suzuki mechanicals Gear selection indicator is great use it a lot

Buying experience: Bought 750 mile example from a dealer on internet Excellent

5 out of 5 All Day, Everyday Bike
21 April 2020 by Big Al

Year: 2009

Annual servicing cost: £100

used mainly for commuting, have owned this bike since it was 18mths. old & it only let me down once when the battery failed. "fabulous all day every day bike"

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

ride quality is 5 brakes only 4, [previous bike yam bulldog 1100 had much better stoppers!]

Engine 5 out of 5

i love this engine, it does everything well, & sooo reliable

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

5 is for reliability, 4 is for quality but having said that after 9 years of mixed summer & winter riding it still looks good. [did repaint the wheels last year]

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

paid £3.500 9 years ago, 9 years & 18,000 miles later still worth £2.500

Equipment 5 out of 5

dash layout is fantastic for a "budget bike"

Buying experience: bought from my brothers friend

4 out of 5
17 April 2020 by Graeme Norton

Year: 2009

Annual servicing cost: £90

Nice easy ride, comfortable enough for a tank fills riding before a break. Only downfall is a less than excellent suspension which is probably part due to the weight of the bike itself, which is another down point.

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 Good all rounder with good looks
22 March 2020 by Chris

Year: 2011

Annual servicing cost: £250

I have owned the bike for 3.5 years,been used in all weather by me and previous owner and is looking a bit average now,wheels need re coating and there is surface corrosion here and there. It is 100% reliable, starts on the button in all weather,handling is ok,it is a heavy solid bike ,engine is strong enough, good riding position and suits commuting well. I added a touring screen and heated grips, done 10000 miles now, time for a change now to a supersport

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Good commuter and short distance tourer,with the Suzuki touring screen,most wind is deflected and fairing is very good at protecting rider from the elements

Engine 5 out of 5

Smooth engine through the Rev range, plenty of torque, don't expect high performance from 85bhp though.

Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5

Reliable but riding in winter and being stored outside by former keeper has led to wheel pain chipped off,surface rust on parts of frame and alloy.

Value vs rivals 3 out of 5

Valve check service cost 350 Fuel consumption not great only get a 100 miles per tank

Equipment 5 out of 5

Gear indicator and petrol gauge but no temp gauge Michelin road 4 tyres are good match No centre stand but after market available

Buying experience: Private sale

5 out of 5 Great all rounder: Tour, commute and have a bit of fun. Good first big bike. Could do with losing a few pounds though
29 May 2018 by Derm

Year: 2008

Annual servicing cost: £150

Great all rounder. Easy to ride, comfortable and quick enough for most circumstances. Heavy when moving it round the garage but fine on the move.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Comfortable between 150 mile fill ups. Screen and fairing do a good job of protecting.

Engine 4 out of 5

Can be a bit underpowered when loaded but good enough for most circumstances. Smooth and good mid range.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

No rust or failures

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5

Buying experience: Private purchase by eBay. Paid about £2200 for an immaculate bike with full main dealer history and less than 9k miles. Happy.

4 out of 5 Great all round bike
16 March 2018 by Mark Bowles

Version: FK9

Year: 2009

Annual servicing cost: £120

A great all round bike but let down by poor paintwork on the wheels. Could benefit from losing some weight.

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5

Great ride, can ride for a couple of hours before needing a break. Brake pads wear out fast using the bike around town or city hence 3/5 score.

Engine 5 out of 5

Great

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Great build quality for the price. Corrosion is starting to show but mainly just surface rust.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Fairly cheap to run but I recommend a service each year.

Equipment 4 out of 5

Not much in the way of standard equipment Recommend heated grips for winter riding.

Buying experience: Brought from dealer £2999 + part ex my old Bandit 600S

5 out of 5 Cracking all rounder
02 August 2016 by Matt

Year: 2009

Annual servicing cost: £100

Cracking all rounder. Owned from new and done all 19k miles on her. 4k touring Europe, 1.5k Scotland with pillion for a week where it happily cruised at 120. Done Nurburgring, Donington, Castle Combe, Llandow. Not a perfect tourer, not a fast racer, but a good all rounder that can hold its own. I also own an r1 but kinda prefer this one, it's heavy but feels light and agile against the r1 (4c8). A cracking comfortable all rounder that offers great value for money.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

It's made cheap which means steel not ally, stuff like that. Means it's heavy but it's also solid. I don't think I've ever had any problem with anything, always starts first time, still on first battery, don't think I've even ever changed a bulb

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5

Not much comes with it in 09 but what do you want at that price?

Buying experience: Bought from fowlers of Bristol in Oct 09 for £4700 and interest free credit. Win.

5 out of 5 best looking all-rounder
30 March 2016 by gsxgazza

Year: 2013

Annual servicing cost: £80

excellent commuter and tourer, highly recommend to especially newly passed bikers.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

best after run in, smoother and everything is settled down. take a quick break at every fill up!

Engine 5 out of 5

no problems encountered with this

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

fairing is missing that 'little something' otherwise does what its asked to do

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

cheap as chips to run, easily does 150miles+ on a tank, even with panniers, tyres last over 18months,

Equipment 4 out of 5

the fairing is the best feature, makes the bike look 'the part', fairing needs something added to it, change the bridgestones to continental conti motions, improve the seat for comfort and arse grip to stop the sliding!

Buying experience: dealer, £6300.

4 out of 5
01 January 2016 by Paul

Year: 2009

Annual servicing cost: £100

This is my first bike after completing my Direct Access Course. I looked at lots of different types of second hand bikes and spent a bit more than my budget but I'm very happy with my choice. The bike looks great and people often stop and ask me about it. I've toyed with the idea of changing my bike but its hard to beat on smiles and performance for the money.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5

Very smooth engine and more than enough power for my first bike.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Bike has never let me down in 2 years of riding apart from the idiot van driver who knocked me off. Dealer was excellent in returning the bike to it's original condition but it was in the workshop for a couple of months.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5

A centre stand would be nice but still not got round to putting one on. Rear hugger helps the bike clean, especially when caught out in a shower.

Buying experience: Bought a '09 plate second hand bike from a Suzuki Dealer & was happy with the deal, new tyres (they were looking a little low on tread), 4k service & tank of fuel to be included.

5 out of 5 Best do-all machine out there!
29 October 2015 by SilverD

Version: White/Blue

Year: 2008

Great low and mid range torque. Super comfortable upright riding. Suspension may not be top of the line, but it absorbs everything you can throw at it. Stock seat is one of the best out there. You can ride all day with this GSX, but it has all the makings of a sport bike, without the sore back.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

Only drawback are the rear brakes, not super strong, but they work.

Engine 5 out of 5

Smooth power delivery from the fuel injection.Lots of power. Cannot believe how smooth and quiet this bike is!

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5

Awesome seat. The instrument cluster is top notch, with fuel gauge, 2 trip meters, odometer, and a clock. large digital speedo is awesome, get your speed at a quick glance.

Buying experience: Private sale, $3600 Canadian dollars.

5 out of 5 Mr
19 June 2015 by Martin

Year: 2014

Annual servicing cost: £250

Riding position is really comfortable but at high speeds the screen gives little protection. Paint quality on frame etc is rubbish, but I'm picking holes. I love this bike and have ridden it through the winter, abs really works good.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Abs is fab

Engine 5 out of 5

This thing can move, much quicker than my GS850 lol.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Better paint job

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5

Would like a change gear indicator

Buying experience: A dealership bought bike, really pleasant experience, Bike and clothing £4800. Bargain.

5 out of 5 Class act!!!!!
16 January 2013 by nfr57

Read the MCN review on this bike and saw the Cris Moss video review, bought a new one in Feb 2012 in all black....cracking bike, have used it for touring, Sunday blasts and trackdays. Its no GSXR but its not meant to be....class act!!!!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 first great bike
31 July 2011 by

i brought the gsx650f about 18 mounths ago,and im over the moon with it. its my first big bike. to start with,theres no vibrations to speak of.the gearchange is very smooth and forgiving.ive had the bike rolling at 3mph and still very up right steady and smooth, the engine is very relaxed. the bike is very shore footed at speed,and comfortable as well.weight i feel is not a problem, not as bad as some others in this class of bike. where i live, i get lot of cross winds on the roads. but she holds very steady.at speed the bike is very responsive to the smallest of inputs. but you can have a bit of fun too,she dose not take long to get to top end,good i would say for a track day or two.i took the big can off, and put a smaller one on. sounds good. the bike has aways started first time. the lights and indicators do there job.i must say the head light is top marks at night,better then some cars ive had.theres plenty comfortable room for the lady or man at the back seat.just be aware of the side stand,seems weak locking in place.motor bikes at this price need to be looked after in quality terms. a little wd40 after a wash down helps a great deal.paint work could be thicker,as my little boy put that to the test with his match box car as it hit the top of the petrol tank. my eyes just poped out with springs on.what can you say.at the end of the day , it dose what it says at the back of the tin and a little bit more if you want.this bike is a jack of all trades, but master of non.a good alrounder for the money.there are some very good bikes out there,some better then the gsx650f.to me the bikes got a lot of pluses for the price i paid.im i looking for another bike, no.i well keep for a long time. suzuki has a gem,and thats the gsx650f. my future wish is gsx650f with lighter frame and slightly droped handle bars,a poor mans sports bike with pactablity.just like to say thank you stamford super bikes now wheels for selling me a great bike.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Fabulous learner bike!
27 July 2011 by lagpie01

I'm new to riding motorcycles (I used to ride a scooter, so it doesn't count), and I researched extensively before buying this bike. It has just enough power to make it interesting, handles very well and is very forgiving. A little heavy, for sure, but reasonable. And it looks really, really nice for a bike at that price range! Plus, the ABS is a major bonus when you live in rainy Vancouver, so for that money, you won't find anything safer for sure... In short, I love it. It will keep me satisfied for a looooooong time!

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 Great all rounder
20 April 2011 by birch466

I had this bike as my first bike, brand new and with a good deal 0% and £99 for the 1st year insurance. I took the bike for a test rise the weekend after I passed my test, and it took a while to get used to the fairing being on, but i fell in love with it. not long after buying it I sold my car and braved the weather over winter. I am so glad I bought this bike, it is nice and comfy-until the 1hr30 mark, where I have a quick stretch of the legs and all is good. My family are all over, and the bike hasnt once let me down, there is a little bit of surface rust but that cant be helped. All in all it is a nice bike and good one up tourer. My step dad has the 1250 version and they look identical.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 BEST FIRST TIME BIG BIKE
01 June 2010 by BUSA666

wish i would have had the choice of this as my first big bike when i first started... it ticks all the boxes... looks good, fast enough, and the right price.. Suzuki have hit it spot on with this bike.

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5
Engine 3 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 top bike
10 May 2010 by gsxwarby

Had bike one month now done over 2000 miles. my last bike was er6 had that 18 month did 2500 miles. as you might think i love the GSX 650F its safe fast and fun to ride.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 Final Review
18 April 2010 by wombat4

It has gone now after two years and 33000 miles it was a brilliant bike still looked pretty good after two winters. The only bad bits were the monstrosity exhaust always getting in the way and the fact that you couldn't see the clock at the same time as the odo. I previously had an ER6F and have just replaced the Suzuki with an XJ6 Diversion - my recommendation - buy the GSX650F Brilliant Bike.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5
5 out of 5 First Big Bike
19 November 2009 by madasaskaven

Having just passed my test I wanted a suitable first big bike. And the bike training school I used told me to take a look at one of these. I fell in love with it stright away. If your looking for that fist big bike then you can be asured you'll love riding this. I'm only 5.8" so I'm not crapmed up and find the riding possition good. I've just bought a bigger screen to help deflect some of the wind away from my shoulders, as thats the only issue I have with this bike.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Great Bike for Montana Roads
15 November 2009 by

This is a great bike. I pruchased it in April 2009 and put over 5,000 miles on it this summer. There is plenty of power when I need it and it's comfortable on long trips. It turns heads too.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 gsx650f
20 October 2009 by AFSHIN

The best first time biker.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 My first Bike
16 October 2009 by pamfs1

Hello everyone! :) I justed wanted to say that I have bought Suzuki GSX 650F (2008 model) as my first bike! :) Partially thanks to article :) I actually got my education on Ninja 600R, but i find it quite nervious and very light weighted... Suzuki, is very balanced, very stable, i feel very safe having the weight under me :)It is very calm, i am able to release the gas without any problems and keep going... i am actually used to keeping my right hand free more than the left one - cougld't do that with Ninja. GSX650F is yet quite powerful, it was always able to get me going fast! Aceleration is a blast ! and i am still running within the first 1000km, so i can't go up in to the high revs...but i must say, this bike forgives you the wrong gears, and i am able to drive on 4-5th gear about 40 km/h without realizing it... it may be a little bit heavy for newcommers, or short people...but it has really grown on me...I have stoped feeling it after about 100 km. It was heavy on the feet though, at the first week. But i did manage to do the figure of 8 and etc for the driving exam on kawasaki 600R without anyproblems on the first go after driving Suzuki... Sure GSX650F is not very agile, but on the motorway it is extremely pleasent to drive, and even in the city it takes the curves great! it is just not light enough for traffic madness...but maybe, it's just me not being skilled enough. Breaks are great, and the engine aids a lot in stopping power. Plus you feel almost no vibrations from the engine. in total - GREAT bike, i love it. I actually bought it without ever trying it...and i was pleasently surprised! The funny thing is: At first my driving instructed said it was a bad idea getting a big bike as the first...he said it is too clumsy, too big for the city...so i gave him to try it for 30 minutes in the city traffic. And he told me that when i decide to sell it in the future...i should talk to him :) Haha ha He was very impressed with it too... And just if you are interested ...why km and all...I am Russian, and I live and drive in Italy :) PS: i was considering Yamaha too...but i saw a FZ6R crashed on the day i was getting a motocycle...and i thought it was a bad sign... PSS: GSX650F is not a common bike...which means that it is less likely to be stolen. Cause here a lot of motorbikes are stolen and then sold for parts at the black market...especially this is common for popular models.... I will be glad if someone finds my comments usefull.- oh...GSX650F also has a fuel and gear gauge...very useful to me :)

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 GSX650F 8,000 miles in
15 August 2009 by Colin1009

I have had my GSX650F for 8 months now and done 8,000 miles so feel I can make a proper assessment of the Bike. Compaired to my previous GSF650 (air cooled) it feels so much betterin all respects and the only thing similar id the fuel consumption at 55mpg. I have done 650 miles in a day without hardly any discomfort, the bike has been very reliable and NO problems at all. I paid £4K new for mine in January so value is six stars. The GOOD. For back to biking (BAMBIE) it is brill. Fast enough, good brakes, good handeling, looks good, and easy to ride. Beware at 220KG it is heavy, so care required when moving it arround the garage and beward of the side stand. Make sure it is locked down as I have and many others dropped the bike because of this. Bad Points. The exhaust is horrable, good news for £120 I got a fuel exhaust and bike looks and sounds much better. The BT020 tyres are no good. When worn out (4.5K on mine) get Dunlop roadsmarts. Handle brill and a wearing much better. So if you are looking for a good but cheap Sports/tourer you have to consider this bike.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 My GSX650f
12 August 2009 by wombat4

This is my third review of the GSX650F which has now covered 25000 miles I love it to bits, as you can see by the mileage I have really used it. Apart from a duff microswitch on the clutch lever which stopped it starting it has never missed a beat. It is really comfortable, economical I get around 55MPG and I don't hang about, so smooth and quiet. It handles brilliantly and the Dunlop Roadsmarts that I have fitted grip brilliantly wet or dry 14,000 out of the front and 10,000 out of the rear. I cannot recommend this bike highly enough if you want an everyday bike as I said I love it.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5
5 out of 5 SUZUKI MAKE AN 1100 VERSION WITH LIGHT WEIGHT SHFT DRIVE
23 July 2009 by sportsboyuk

COME BOYS YOU CAN DO IT

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 Jack of all trades
21 May 2009 by Dave888uk

Have done over 2000 trouble free miles riding this machine, no faults no problems excellent value if you own a GSX650F there is a UK based owners club http://www.gsx650f.me.uk

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 I Love this Bike!
31 March 2009 by papalazerou

I picked up my bike two weeks ago from the dealer and right from the outset I have had trouble-free, brilliant riding. It pulls off so smoothly and confidently, the engine never complains, even if you are accidently in the wrong gear, there is enough weight between your legs to feel really secure at speed, and the pillions I have taken on the back say they feel very secure there. It is a fantastic bike, you get so much for your money!

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 Back to Biking
31 December 2008 by kev650

Just picked up my 650 this week, first bike after a long lay off. So far - great . Rode 105 miles back from showroom with no problems. Really pleased with decision to buy

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Great Bike
20 December 2008 by wombat4

I am updating this review having owned the bike for 9 months now. I do cover quite a few more miles than average and the bike has now done 14000. It is still a very good bike, comfortable, smooth, handles very well. I do a lot of motorway miles and it does this very well returning 55-60 MPG if you keep in 2 figures. The size of the Exhaust can is a problem as it does get in the way in traffic, I might change it for this reason. The finish seems pretty good, I am a bit sceptical about the mild steel exhaust though. Dunlop Roadsmart seem to work well on it. Overall I am very impressed and will keep the bike until 2010. I still wish that the Instruments were capable of showing time at the same time as the odometer.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 My First Big Bike
13 December 2008 by ratboyab

After my girlfriend passing her restricted licence and paying for me to take my test, I decided to get a bigger more exciting bike. Before this I was riding her Honda CG125 and for the last few weeks her mother's Kawasaki EL252 F2. Just to give a bit of informtaion into what I am using this bike for. Basically I have a very nice car, but it's a 2.5 litre V6 petrol and due to the economic slow-down and me being in and out of work alot, I can't afford to keep using it for the 30-mile trip to work each day when I'm only getting at most 30mpg (generally more around 25mpg). So I've mainly brought the bike for commuting to work, so I wanted something that is good around town and economical. On the other hand I have a passion for driving and speed, so I also wanted a bike that can be fun. I'd also like to take it abroad touring so again, it had to be comfortable. Now my original plan was to buy a GSX-R600. It's a bike I've alway's wanted, I love the look's the power, the handling, it's just alway's been my dream bike. The only problem is they aren't really designed for the daily commute. The bike's I did my test on I didn't find particularly comfortable due to the riding position so I wanted something a little more upright for them longer journey's. After seeing the GSX-650F, I fell in love, it had all the styling of GSX-R, but had the more comfortable seating position. To be honest, the photo's do not do this bike justice. There are quite a few bikes out there now that are 125's immitating big bike's, and they look good but you know there not a big bike, and to be honest that is kinda how this bike look's in some of the photo's, I think mainly because it doesn't look that wide. But upon seeing it in person, it doesn't give that impression at all. I actually brought this bike without test-riding it and actually brought it from Yorkshire and rode it all the way home to Kent, about 230 miles at only 2 degrees. Admittedly, it wasn't a very nice journey, but the GSX-F made it so much more enjoyable. The ride was so much better than I expected. The power throughout the range is astonishing on this bike. I can sit at 30mph in 6th gear, open the throttle and it will still pull fine. Or if I want to boot it, 2nd gear will gladly reach 70mph. On the way back we pulled into a couple of service station's and I was just crawling around the road's at about 15mph thinking I was in 2nd and I was sitting in 4th, and it just felt so comfortable. It's a lovely bike on the motorway's and has plenty of power and the seat is very comfortable. Now using the bike for the daily commute it is actually a great bike. I was concerned that being over 100kg's heavier than the previous bike's I'd riden that it may be a bit awkward filtering through traffic and crawling around but it's so well balanced it feel's like a much lighter bike. The fuel tank has a 19litre capacity which will get you around 200 miles. Taking it around country lanes it handle's so much better than a city bike, it's so responsive, even though my brother has alway's owned sport's bike's, when he had a ride of it, he said it handled pretty much like a sport's bike. The technology has come along alot since my brother had his last CBR. The rev counter although analogue, is actually electronic and you can set up a rev-light to alert you that you have reached your desired rev's. When adjusting this the rev-counter needle spin's round to 6,000rpm and each press of the button takes it another 500rpm. After this you can set-up whether you want the light off, on, or blinking and even change how bright you want the light in 5 stages. Unlike older bike's you have a digital fuel guage, digital odometer, didgital speedometer, two trip meter's and even a reserve trip meter. What this does is as soon as the petrol dip's below the reserve level, it start's counting how many mile's you have done so you know roughly how far you have until the tank is completely empty. Now for the downside's. As good as the digital display is, the main downside is that is doesn't permanently display the clock, if you want to know how many miles you have done, you have to lose the clock. Another problem with the digital display is the bottom's are very small and hard to push when wearing gloves. One feature that would have been nice is a stopwatch as my last two car's have had them and it would have just been a nice addition. Another downside is the mirror's. They could do with being a little longer as you spend alot of time's staring at your shoulder's. The only other downside I can find with this bike is it's lack of storage space. Basically, you have room under the seat for the tool kit (just about), and that's it, there is no other storage on the bike at all. All in all, this bike is absolutely superb, the only fault's aren't really fault's, they are just niggle's. But I love it! As a newbie to the big bike's, it is so easy to handle and is a great introduction, but as you learn to ride, it is so much more, when you push it, it will thrill you, it will try to scare you, but all the time keeping you just from going over the top and making you lose control. It'll take you to the edge but not take you over. I think people who already own bigger bike's will also love this. It recently won bike of the year and I can see why!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 My Cruiser is gone
09 May 2008 by appleins

Can you believe it, I switched from a 1100 Honda Sabre cruiser to this 2008 GSX650F. After 1500 miles I love every second riding this bike. Handling, braking, gas mileage and everything else I can think of is better on this bike. I've added a center stand and mirror extenders. Fun factor for me is way off of the charts. One small request, Suzuki should of made it easier to drain front oil and replace.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 GSX650F
26 April 2008 by wombat4

A very good bike if a little bland for a Suzuki. I have done 3000 miles in the 6 weeks I have owned it. It handles very well, I get around 220 miles on a tankful without really trying ~(55-60 MPG). Its very comfortable the mirrors are excellent (compared with my previous ER6-f)the gearbox is the usual Suzuki excellence. The engine is so smooth it pulls from tickover yet has a useful top end now that it has freed off. (It does concern me where people don't use their bikes because in my experience it takes 4 to 5000 miles to the engine to fully free up) My major issues are that it is too quiet and very difficult to judge your speed without constant reference to the speedo, the lack of underseat storage (Why?) and the lack of a constantly visible clock in the display (you have to choose between Clock or odo.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
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