Bought a 2004 model (2nd gen) for track only. It's already prepped for racing and am happy with the purchase. What are the potential common problems that I should prepare for? I've noticed that many of the STT control riders/racers ride these so I'm simply asking for your experience of how to do some preventative matianence. Thanks...
The only things I can think of are the green connector for ignition switch burning up and swapping the R/R with a mosfet from a honda or something. I think the r/r to mosfet thing is more of a first generation issue. I haven't had to do anything significant to either of my SVs. I replace the consumables responsibly and just ride the things. They're very reliable bikes and can take a beating. Throw some sticky street tires on there and go ham.
Early model 2nd gens (03 and I think 04) have weak rods. They were upgraded to make them stronger, but still not as strong as 1st Gen rods. Draik had his front rod in his 03 break at Roebling Road last year. Luckily, he was able to get off the track and didn't crash. You can replace the rods with first gen parts if you aren't worried about keeping it Superstock legal (a trackday-no-nevermind). Other than that, we were extremely happy with the SV platform.
Is the 03-04 or just the 04 the odd ball sv with the rear subframe? If the frame is silver you have to get 03 specific exhausts FYI. It's an SV. Ride the snot out of it. I just do the regular maintenance and haven't had an issue in a few seasons of racing.
I think revisions were 03, 04, 05-06, 07-09. The oddball was the 03 with different rearsets, taller subframe, side covers, etc. 04 also had a silver frame, but was the new dimensions for the exhaust, etc. Exhaust typically fit 03 and 04+ Things also varied depending on whether it was an S or an N bike. Triple tree offset, rearset height, sprocket size, swingarm length, clip-ons vs handlebars, etc. 07+ changed to the automatic idle and twin spark stuff.
Thanks for the replies. I have gone over the SV with a fine tooth comb and will be taking it to Circuit of The Americas July 9th. My Ducati 748 has givin me a hard time so I bought this bike as a back up since I had a failure at Gingerman that ruined my weekend and have lost some faith. Hopefull that the SV will be a reliable ride and not have any issues for such an expensive track day!