[101lifts2]

I've owned a 2003 SV650S and a 2005 SV1000s.

The bikes are actually pretty similar in handling, but the 1000 has much more power. The 1000 has actually near perfect power weighted to a light feeling chassis. It turns only slightly less then its 650 sibling and pulls hard up to 155mph while keeping the front end off the ground. It is one of only a few liter bikes I can wind out without feeling like the bike is going to loop when near the rev limiter.

Now...on the other hand, because of the big V-twin you get alot of clanging if you are in 6th gear going like 50mph then full accelerating. It is really annoyoing, which is really the only bad thing about the bike. Keep the revvs up and you will be fine.

The SV1000s has adjustable suspension, whereas the 650s does not.

I'd take the 1000 personally, but it is really a toss up.