The SFV650 Gladius is an entry level naked motorcycle introduced by Suzuki for the 2009 model year as a successor for the SV650. It is a direct competitor to Honda's Hornet, Kawasaki's ER6N, Yamaha's FZ6 or Ducati's 696 Monster. Suzuki's aim when developing the Gladius was to provide "an easy motorcycle even for beginners or females at an affordable price on a motorcycle of high impact styling design."
The bike carries the name of the legendary Roman blade, continuing the sword theme launched by Suzuki in 1979 with the Katana. It may not be the sharpest tool in Suzuki's shed but it certainly is a fine little naked which manages to be both sporty and practical.
Mounted on a stylish, Ducati-like frame sits the 4-stroke, 645 cc, DOHC, 90 degree V-twin engine coupled with a 6-speed constant mesh gearbox to develop 66 hp at 9,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 63 Nm at 7600 rpm while keeping fuel consumption as low as 58 mpg (4 l/100 km).
The clutch release cam type mechanism has been scrapped in favor of a ball-screw type and the change has not only improved actuating pressure, but overall feel as well: the clutch no longer acts like a toggle switch.
Overall, the SFV 650 Gladius is a worthy descendant of Suzuki's venerable SV650.
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