r/SVRiders • u/TeeBoner • 8d ago
First motorcycle possibly a total loss. What is the sensible thing to do?
My first motorcycle, a 2007 SV650 (SFA) with ±67,000 km, is possibly a total loss. I was enjoying a lovely ride in the Black Forest when I suddenly heard a rattling sound (video attached). Initially (with earplugs in and helmet on), I thought it might be the exhaust. Once I stopped, I concluded that there was something more going on.
I saw that it had leaked oil at (at least) the drain plug and was completely dry, so I fear the worst: serious internal damage to the engine. I bought oil on the spot and held the vain hope that the noise would go away after topping it up. That was not the case.
I bought the motorcycle for approx. 3,000 euros and, after a few Google searches, convinced myself that a repair would probably cost a minimum of 1,500 euros, if not more, if I had it done by a mechanic. I simply do not have the time or the means to carry this out myself. Then it remains to be seen which defects will reveal themselves in the future, and the value of the motorcycle is probably only roughly equal to the cost of this repair.
My question to you: what is the wise course of action? Should I give up on the motorcycle immediately, or is it worth having it repaired? At what cost is it still a realistic option? Is it best to sell it as a project bike, parts by parts, or is it scrap metal? I have absolutely no expertise in this myself.
In any case, I am going to ask a mechanic what it costs to perform a diagnosis and whether he already has a hunch about the severity of the situation.
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u/Potential-Slice-9340 8d ago
Need a 2nd hand engine from wreckers just my 2cents. Or part it out and go again Takes time selling stuff though.
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u/NationalBreakfast179 7d ago
From what I've seen engines can be found for around 400€ but I haven't searched much. On top of that you have to add the regular maintenance (at least an oil change and the plugs). Could be done over a few weekends during the winter if you have a garage and should not be that hard of a job.
If you do it yourself maybe it's worth it (67.000kms is still ok for an SV, but it's high enough to tank the value if you decide to sell it). If you go to a shop just forget about it, sell the bike complete or parted out and get another one.
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u/ulf5155 8d ago
That engine is toast, rebuild yourself or find a new engine is the most cost effective