2009 Suzuki GSX650F Review

Exterior

2009 Suzuki GSX650F

Designing this Gixxer-like motorcycle, Suzuki people took in consideration comfort and visual attraction, the bike being practically a perfect blending of those very same qualities. The Suzuki GSX650F features new full fairing design with styling cues taken from the high performance GSX-R series for a sport-inspired look with full wind protection for the rider. Also, whether you’re on the back roads or on the open highway, you’ll appreciate the GSX650F’s comfortable design, including a more upright seating position that makes all-day riding a pleasure.

A compact fuel tank was designed for an easy reach to the handlebar with a narrow mid section while still retaining a full 5.0 gallons of fuel capacity. As a distinguishable note from the Kawasaki and Yamaha models, the GSX features a one-piece seat.

Colors combinations available for 2009 are the usual Blue/White and shiny new Orange/Black.

Test Drive

2009 Suzuki GSX650F

We got our hands on a 2008 model year and experienced for ourselves what Suzuki’s idea of a middleweight sports bike is. A must to be said is the fact that as soon as you get on its seat you will notice that any mid-sized person can flatfoot the ground thanks to the 30.3 inches that set it apart from the rider’s bottom. The handlebars are at quick reach and slow speed maneuvering is the easiest thing despite the 531 lbs curb weight.

In the city, the bike efficiently deals with traffic as its versatile character makes it easy to slip its way on top of car columns and the 656cc inline-four engine is there to make sure that all traffic is left behind. Also, the low-to-mid range tuning makes it adequate for beginners by providing the sufficient amount of power and torque without them being needed to rev all the way up to the red line. Still, an experienced rider will be able to do that without the implicit amount of risk that comes especially in the case of those who are simply attracted by the bike’s awesome mpg.

That very same engine will prove very efficient on delivering great power out of curves when riding on winding roads, just to give an example. Still, that kind of an experience can only be marked by a greatly built chassis, both for stability at high speeds and ease of riding at slower speeds. The suspensions equipment, 41mm front forks and link-type at the rear contribute to its versatile behavior and make it adequate for various riding conditions as well as preferences, but, most importantly, they are forgiving on the inexperienced rider.

Fitted with a full fairing and highly-mounted windscreen, the GSX650F offers great wind protection without the rider being needed to hug the fuel tank. Also, riding in an upright position is a blessing for a rider’s back, something that can’t be said about competition’s bikes.

Overall, the bike proved comfortable and fuel efficient strictly meeting the 43 mpg target.

Price

The Suzuki GSX650F starts being marketed for exactly the same MSRP of the 2009 Kawasaki ZZR600, $7,299. Being a four-cylinder and an entry-level category, the bike is expected to be very successful and to continue the Katana legend…and to keep make a point in relation to the Kawasaki.

Conclusion

Inspired both by its sport-touring and super sport siblings, the 2009 Suzuki GSX650F is one successful combination from all points of view: there is enough power for whatever on earth a rider will feel like using it, the chassis is effective both in and out of town and the ergonomics are day-long comfortable. Also considering the price, this bike makes for one awesome bag for the buck.

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