Suzuki TL1000S

When the topic of v twin sports bikes comes up most people think of Ducati. Yes the Italian company has become the image of two cylinder sports bikes since the beginning of sports bikes, but in the mid 90's Suzuki had a v twin bike of their own. It was called the TL10000 an aluminum framed sports bike with a 90 degree 1000cc v twin. It came in two flavors the TL1000S with a half fairing and later the TL10000R with a full fairing. The TL was an entirely new concept for Suzuki who like the other Japanese manufacturers specialized in inline engines. When the bike was released to performed well and seemed to be a great overall package. There were issues with the bikes design however. The TL's suspension couldn't handle the excessive travel and was prone to overheating. In addition to the suspension problems the bike had stability problems, that gave the TL the reputation of the "widow maker". Despite updates and improvement the damage had been done, and Suzuki ended TL production.

Suzuki did get the last laugh however. In 1999 the SV650 was introduced. The SV650 was an entry level middleweight with a 650cc v twin. The SV650 became a huge success because of its low price and ability to please the novice biker as well as the most experienced. Later a 1000cc version was introduced to take the place once occupied by the TL.

Family Tree
1997-2001 TL1000S
1998-2003 TL1000R