My dad has an SV 650 mk1 naked curvy model with carbs. I have ridden it quite a lot and on some long rides too so have quite a decent knowledge of what it's like. It is a good laugh and very different to the fazer, but in my opinion certainly not better. His has been very reliable though, can be a bugger to start but he doesn't ride it as often as he used to now. The engine is great around town and it feels noticeably lighter but get on any decent straight and the Fazer will dominate it all day long. I much prefer the handling on my fazer too it feels more planted, but maybe I would just need to get used to his more or didn't get on with the Avon tyres he was using. For a change from the fazer you won't be disappointed, it would be my 2nd choice in this "budget middleweight" group for sure and is a right laugh on shorter journeys where it does well. He was fine on his all over wales too, although it did have a tendency to eat oil if he wasn't careful so look out for that on yours. His is naked and has had some work done by the previous owner so looks amazing I think, I hope you enjoy yours.