WOT Report.

[infidel]

I hit the magic 1500    and its WOT time.

I must say, even riding vs my SV or GSXR - this thing is still really quick WOT, especially off the line though 2nd, into 3rd. Up to 80 I reckon all three would probably still be within a bikes length. Deceptively quick. The SV will keep up with GSXR to 100 then it fades.

It does feel a lil like she's struggling for air, and needs to breathe. (K&N on the way just for induction soundtrack and cleaning ability if nothing else.)
Bit of shame it dies off so soon, but its great for what it is. That VVT version they patented I think would this thing sing...

In closing, a tale from this afternoon and my new WOTability, a X5 driver who got the hump cos I filtered right in front of him in a Q to a dual carridgeway. He pulled out into the right hand lane as we both joined together at 25mph, and he floored it. Yes mate, you look that silly, and yes its that's quick. 

Edited to add. On re-reading I think that last sentence should read. "Yes mate, It may LOOK like a large banana, but its quick enough to make you look silly".. 

[wurzel]

It will never be rocket ship,but you can liven up the top end and general throttle response with a decat pipe, and power commander setup, makes the bike feel like it's not being strangled by the emissions stuff.

[infidel]

Acceleration is beyond my expectation and as you say it just need a spark at the end of the midrange to make it worth using that rpm space at all and not torque surfing all the time, as much wonderful fun as that is on this engine.

Oh and the stock sound track needs changing... Just can't decide which...

[tallpaul]

WOT and MPG are very closely related...

[infidel]

Don't I know it... The SV goes as low as 18mpg.. 

[mr_diver]

I've had the Varadero as low as 26mpg and they are know for being thirsty but 18mpg!
Track day?

Most 600cc and above bikes will make an X5 seem slow to accelerate. (apart from my xj600n as they are crap)

But the 1 ltr v-twins do have that satisfying kick in the arse and move feel.

I do love the twin induction noise with a K&N. The Varadero whistles and pops from the airbox and snorts and snarls from the open exhaust.

But for sheer fun ride a retro muscle bike against mr X5. They see an old bike like a CB550 from 1978 and think "I'm having that bike!"
Release the 1402cc from a Gsx1400 and the X5 becomes a blur in the distance... until 100mph and you start fighting to hold on. 
Not that I've ever made SWMBO's GSX do that sort of thing or know what a GSX14 is 

I should take a new DL1000 while I still have the chance.

[infidel]

Yup - a track day or 'spirited' Sunday ride will usually empty the SV's 17L tank in 35/40 minutes. Light on at ~70 miles, 5-10 miles spare in tank.

Not intending to WOT this one excessively, as its for touring really. But am impressed with the grunt it has stock, perfect for road use as I'm sure the varadero is with that lovely firestorm lump in it.

Funny you mention the muscle bike - was also thinking I should own one of those for a year or two at some point (not into cruisers/harleys and the armchairs) - the blue white gsx1400 would my choice. I do see one locally fairly regular and it does look and sound fantastic.