Suzuki SVF 650 GLADIUS edition MOTO et MOTARDS 2009 — Specifications

We all remember the arrival of this Gladius. Suzuki, with its legendary SV 650, had lost its way trying to seduce the latte generation with soft curves and a look that was a bit too ‘design.’ But underneath the hood, the soul of the famous 90° V-twin remained, faithful to its post. So when the magazine Moto et Motards, known for its direct tone and rock’n’roll side, decided to get involved, it resulted in this limited series of 500 units. An unprecedented partnership between a brand and a magazine, it was daring, almost punk.

This special edition is primarily about the aesthetics. For about €300 more than the standard model, it receives a Yoshimura GP Evo II silencer, frame and footpeg protectors in imitation carbon fiber, and of course, a decoration in the magazine's colors, complemented by a numbered aluminum plate. The investment is far from being stolen from those looking to personalize their machine from the time of purchase. Visually, it saves the bike from the somewhat too ‘consensus’ aspect of its original lines.

Because the substance remains excellent. The engine is still that good old 645 cm³ V-twin delivering 72 horsepower at 8400 rpm and a meaty torque of 62.8 Nm from 6400 rpm. This is where the interest of the Gladius lies: a flexible, lively, and incredibly educational engine. It forgives the beginner's mistakes while offering authentic sensations to the experienced road rider looking for simplicity. With a weight of 200 kg fully fueled and a seat height of 785 mm, it remains accessible. The trellis frame and 41 mm fork ensure healthy and predictable handling, even if we are far from the madness of scale with a top speed approaching 200 km/h.

For €6599 at the time, this Moto et Motards edition positioned itself as a good deal for a young license holder or a rider looking for a fun road bike without any headaches. It did not claim to rival pure sportbikes, nor the comfort of large trail bikes. Its role was clear: to offer a smile with the minimum of complications. The 500 units, two of which were to be won via a contest, have become curiosities for collectors of the brand. This Gladius will remain as a testament to an era when Suzuki tried to rejuvenate its image, with the help of a magazine that, for its part, had never lost it.