Sports Tourer

Shortlist: Honda VFR800. Suzuki SV1000. BMW R1100S. Yamaha FJR1300.

Winner: Suzuki SV1000

THE SV1000 has shaken up the idea of big-bore V-twin all-rounders in the same way the Fazer redefined the budget multi-cylinder machines.

Using Suzuki’s proven 1000cc V-twin in a new chassis with sharp unfaired or half-faired styling, it will happily cruise down to Spain then drag its pegs around the twisties when you get there. It is a true Jack of all trades.

And all for a bargain £6500.

For those reasons and more the Suzuki SV1000 is our top sports tourer of 2003.