I posted something similar on supermotojunkie last night, looking to get more input on the SXV here...
Hey all,
I've been lurking/stalking the forums for about 3 months now. I am going to be getting a bike soon and am looking at a few models but namely the ones mentioned in the title. I know what you may be thinking, the SXV shouldn't be compared to the DRZ and maybe likewise for the others, but I am still considering them, at least. I want to buy a bike I will keep and not one that I will get bored (at least power-wise) of, or want to sell to be able to upgrade down the line. By the way, the bike will be mainly used to commute to work 1-3 days a week (work is a 2 mile drive - but I'll probably take the backwoods way ) and the occasional long (couple hours) ride on the weekend (probably twice a month).
I have read hundreds of threads on each bike and even comparisons of some and I thank everyone here and over at thumper talk for all the awesome info. I just would like answers to some specific questions. I figure I'll run through each model and describe my thoughts on each and see if they are accurate or on course.
SXV 450 - From what I hear its a beast. 60hp at the wheel is insane and fun. But also at a cost - of maintenance. This didn't really scare me (oil changes are no deterrent for me) until I read about valve adjustments every 3k miles and the bike literally consuming a noticeable amount of oil between every couple gallons of gas/fill up. That to me is nuts, is it really that bad? Do you guys who ride SXV's carry oil with you or just top it off like every week or so? Also, how labor intensive is it to adjust the valves? Monthly or biweekly oil changes don't scare me - but checking valves every 3 or 6 months sounds like something I don't want to do if it takes more than something like 3 hours or so. All maintenance issues aside, the SXV has just drawn me in and that V-twin is so unique.
DRZ400SM - This was the first bike I looked at and for quite some time was of great interest to me. Now, though, after learning more about other supermotos out there, it doesn't appeal as much, mainly because of power. I feel like I would quickly lose interest and want to upgrade to one of the other models here. Is a DRZ with substantial upgrades (let's say anything but BBK) close to anything listed here? I really don't think I'll be going with the dizzer, but still, its a nice bike and a ton of parts/support available.
Husky 610 - This is the bike I am really leaning towards. I feel it has the best balance of power and reliability. Are these close to as reliable as the DRZ? Oil changes about 3k miles right? How about more intense maintenance such as valve adjustments?
Husky 510 - More of a race bike from what I hear, but is it as bad as the SXV? How frequently should oil changes and valve adjustments be done? This bike is pretty sexy, I kind of view it as a mix between the Husky 610 and SXV.
Any and every piece of feedback/opinion is appreciated. I'm sorry to start another comparison thread but I really want to make the right purchase. If you think there's a particular model I left out or should consider, I'd love to hear from you .
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Originally Posted by rmbukk
