Suzuki goes back to the future, with the SV-7GX

The soon-to-be axed SV650 just does not want to die. Like a recently reawakened zombie offering its heart up from the grave, it breathes new life into another model we’ll probably be talking about for millennia - the Suzuki SV-7GX.

Taking the fight to the contenders in the class, the Yamaha Tracer 7 and Triumph Tiger Sport 660, the new middleweight is designed to sit between the SV650 and the V-Strom range. It’s described as a “crossover”, but in reality, it’s a practical road bike with a bit more comfort and a lot more tech than the outgoing 650 - RIP,  by the way, we will miss you!

Power comes from that familiar 645cc 90-degree V-twin, the same basic engine Suzuki has used since Jesus was in short trousers. For 2026, it’s updated with a ride-by-wire throttle, traction control, and three selectable riding modes. There’s also a bi-directional quickshifter, slipper clutch, and styling that aligns with its bigger sibling, the GSX-S1000GX. In SV-7GX trim, the likeable engine produces 72 bhp at 8,500 rpm and peak torque of 47 lb ft at 6,800 rpm.

The chassis uses a steel trellis frame, which looks visually similar to that of the SV650, and 17-inch wheels, to hopefully keep the handling sharp but predictable. Suspension comes in the form of 41mm front forks and a preload-adjustable rear shock, while braking is taken care of by twin 290mm front discs and a single 240mm rear, both with two-channel ABS as standard.

As you’d expect, the SV-7GX apes the styling of the GSX-S1000GX, with a small front fairing, adjustable screen, and handguards. The screen and fairing will obviously give better wind protection than the SV650, and the 17.4-litre fuel tank offers a bit more range - going by Suzuki’s claimed 55mpg figure, it should be good for around 200 miles between fill-ups. The seat height is pegged at 795mm, which should suit most riders without feeling too tall.

Electronics include a new TFT display with smartphone connectivity, navigation, and weather updates. There’s also a USB-C port on the dash for charging devices.

Overall, the SV-7GX looks to be a logical update to the SV650 rather than a wholly new model. It keeps the same easy-going engine and approachable nature but adds comfort, range, and tech to make it more suited to everyday use and light touring. For riders who liked the SV650 but wanted something a bit more capable straight from the box, this is probably it.

It’s also nice to see a mid-weight bike arrive without a crossplane crank twin engine. There will still be some who will cry about Suzuki not pushing forward or developing enough new bikes, but with an engine as good as the venerable old SVs, why develop another one?

Suzuki SV-7GX specs