PERFORMANCE
ENGINE AND GEARBOX
The Hyosung GV650 Aquila Pro is powered by a fuel injected 647cc water cooled 90 degree v-twin cranking out max power of 74 bhp @ 9000 rpm with max torque of 62.1 nm @ 7500 rpm. The engine speed seems high for a cruiser motorcycle and there’s some history behind it. Hyosung started its operations way back in the 70’s as a sub-contracting engine manufacturer for Suzuki motorcycles. And thanks to the old Hyosung-Suzuki technical collaboration, the present v-twin motor on the Hyosung GV650 Aquila Pro shares similar architecture to the famed Suzuki SV650 engine which essentially was a sports touring motorcycle. The same engine propels other Hyosung motorcycles like the GT650R and the GT650N. But where the GT series comes equipped with a six speed transmission, the Aquila Pro manages with a 5 speed gearbox. Also the Aquila Pro has been tuned to produce marginally higher horsepower and torque than the GT models.
Despite the absence of a tacho on the Aquila Pro, it’s easy to comprehend the quick-revving nature of the motorcycle. However, even with its rev happy engine, the Aquila pulls with relative ease from way down the rev-range. The Aquila Pro shifts through its 5 speed gearbox smoothly no pronounced clunks. Riding in peak hours through traffic infested Pune roads was never an issue though the engine heat was a bit discomforting. Then again, clogged city streets aren’t exactly the Aquila’s habitat.
Once we hit the wide Pune-Bangalore highway, the Hyosung GV650 Aquila Pro showed its true colours. From trundling in top gear at a meager 60 kph, the Aquila Pro was eager to pounce on the higher revs with surprising urgency. We didn’t carry our VBOX for the numbers test, but it didn’t take the Aquila Pro much time to click (much) upwards of triple digit speeds. Slight vibrations can be felt on the pegs at lower speeds, it all disappears when taken to the higher revs.
The manufacturer claimed top speed of 195 kph couldn’t be put to the test, but 170kmph shouldn’t take too long. Given a vacant straight, there’s no doubt that the Aquila Pro is more than capable of achieving those speeds. But this performance comes with its own set of irritations. As mentioned earlier, the placement of the footpegs are far forwards and with the kind of brutal acceleration the Aquila Pro packs in- one tends to be pushed back into the seat with chances of the feet slipping off the pegs. The windblast is another factor that gets unbearable when riding upwards of 130 kph. Hence the Aquila Pro feels best as an all day 120 kph cruiser and can be put to short doses of high speed when in a mood for adrenalin rush.
NEXT PAGE FOR HANDLING, BRAKING AND RIDE QUALITY
After over 10,000 miles on my 2008 Hyosung GV650, I saw another bike that I thought was beautiful. But, when I checked the price vs. value- I couldn’t see it. The problem with the GV650 is that it’s so good, other midsized cruisers just don’t offer a similar value. All are heavier, have lower HP and similar torque when compared to weight, and they all lack amenities. Now, I’ve already installed hard bags, a windshield, etc… so, my Avitar (former name) is ‘properly set up’ for grabbing milk, or, taking a long trip. Most people ask me if it’s a V-Rod, but, everyone likes the overall look, which is a little unusual when compared to traditional cruisers. I have had zero issues, so, dependable can be used in the same sentence without fear. So, dollar smart is the answer. Also, my brakes, although slightly wooden, are better now that they are broken in. I could change compounds for $15.00 and install braided stainless steel lines, but, I haven’t seen the need. Great bike- new or used, although the rear suspension is a little short for rough roads…
superb
awesome