Suzuki GSX650F
The US doesn't have the widely popular Bandit 650 anymore that Europe still enjoys. There just isn't a lot of demand in America for naked 600cc bikes, and if there is Suzuki already has it covered with the Gladius. But, what we have in the GSX650F is essentially a fully-faired Bandit 650; similar frame, same motor-and that's a good thing. The Bandit line has historically been associated with hooligan stunters and city street killers, so getting the GSX650F dialed should be a cakewalk. It's nearly there in style, but there's always room for improvement. We might just have an in-town GSX-R600 killer on our hands by the time we're done with it...
With better brakes,
and lighter pipe, the Suzuki...
and lighter pipe, the Suzuki will really turn some heads.
SUGGESTED MODS
Slip-on exhaust: Yoshimura, $599
It's almost mandatory that if you have a Suzuki sportbike it should be rocking a Yosh pipe. The R-77 slip-on is a slice of carbon fiber bliss that drastically improves looks and reduces weight significantly.
Quick release gas cap: Roaring Toyz, $74.99
While this mod isn't totally necessary, it'll help push your bike's looks a little bit closer to a true racer. And, it makes life easy at the gas station.
Brake lines, rotors: Galfer, $98 (lines), $640 (rotors)
Wave rotors are a spendy upgrade, but the porky Suzuki needs extra bite. Their stunning appearance will only add to the bike's sporty attractiveness.
Smoked windscreen: Puig, $74.95
A smoked screen will help make the frontal area appear smaller, and in doing so tighten up the Suzuki's overall appearance. Wind protection is already plentiful, so no need to move to an oversized style.
Total: $1486.94
SSB'S "Boardroom Meetings"...
SSB'S "Boardroom Meetings" are a little different than most.
If the constant news reports on the terrible economy have spooked you away from visiting your local dealership lately it's time to turn off the TV. There are deals everywhere, and considering these bikes are already priced well below their sportbike counterparts you can expect outrageous savings. And that means there will be a little leftover for some smart mods. It won't cost much to get these bikes running strong, and when you get all the fundamental mods installed you'll likely end up with the dark horse that's the envy of your crew.