There are different levels of sportbikes. The highest level is what we call 'supersports', and these bikes are really more at home on the track than on the street. That's the CBR, GSX-R, R6, etc. Right below that are what we might call 'sporty' bikes, the SV650, FZ6, Ninja, etc.
The real difference between these two classes is that the supersport class are 'special purpose' or 'single purpose' machines. Their design compromises every other consideration to speed and handling. The 'sporty' class are general-purpose, good for all kinds of riding, so their design also considers things like comfort, safety, economy, reliability and longevity, etc.
It's not about just displacement. A 600cc Yamaha FZ6 will 'smoke' a Suzuki SV650. But riding a motorcycle is about commuting, Sunday rides, weekend trips, rides with friends, it's not ALWAYS about smoking. A CBR is better for smoking (unless you're up against another supersport) but its just damned inconvenient for most other things!
"I understand a 600cc would smoke an sv650 in all terms..."
Don't you believe it. An SV-650 with a decent rider will run rings around most 600cc bikes that are ridden by an average rider. It's not the bike or the engine that matters - it's the rider's skill and ability
I like NIghtworks comment. Typically, the best way to learn good riding skill is on an underpowered motorcyle. When you look at streetbike competitions there are different theories to winning a race. Watch the 125cc streetbike races. The bike does not accelerate well. But, it brakes better than the big boys and can handle a turn better. The theory of winning with a small bike is to brake as late as possible. Take full advantage of cornering ability of bike. Be off the brake as soon as possible and on the throttle. The key to winning a race with a small bike is not to have better performance than your competitor. Like the big boys. But, to make less mistakes than your competitor and move inches ahead at each turn. When you learn on a small displacement bike you learn to ride the bike to the top of it's ability. one a 600cc sportbike very few riders will ever find the bikes true abilites. Small bikes are generally more satisfying to ride. Instead of looking at the 600cc class or the 650 take a look at the 321cc Yamaha or 300 ninja sportbike. ONce you develope true riding skill around town you will be able to outride your friends on their 600cc bikes. But, I don't look to ride in groups. I like to ride alone. Enjoy not only the ride but the weather and scenery. Then, come together at the clubhouse to talk about your ride.
Even though the SV650 has a larger displacement engine, it is less hyper than the 600 series sportbikes. It can be a good bike to learn on. It agile, but not hyper, it's super reliable if cared for and can be a lot of fun on the street. It's even a competent race bike for the track if you wish to go there, though not nearly as fast as one of th e600cc sport bikes.
A decent rider on a Ninja 250 will smoke most 600 riders. You can check it on YouTube.
YOU NO DARK SKIN!!!!!!!!!!!!
