Hyosung GV 650 (2007–2011): The Korean Power Cruiser That Demands Attention

Introduction

When Hyosung introduced the GV 650 Aquila in 2007, it wasn’t just launching another cruiser—it was making a statement. This Korean V-twin challenged the status quo with bold styling, unexpected performance, and a price tag that raised eyebrows. Riding the GV 650 feels like straddling a paradox: it’s a budget-friendly machine that punches above its weight class, yet it carries quirks that remind you of its underdog origins. After spending days with a well-maintained 2010 FI Aquila model, here’s why this bike deserves a closer look—and how it holds up against its rivals.

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Design & Styling: Unapologetically Bold

The GV 650’s design is its first hook. With a stretched silhouette, aggressive 180mm rear tire (or a jaw-dropping 240mm on the German-built Trend Killer Special Edition), and a low-slung seat height of 705mm (27.8"), it echoes the muscularity of bikes twice its price. The 41mm USD forks and blacked-out engine components give it a modern, almost streetfighter edge—a far cry from the chrome-heavy cruisers of the mid-2000s.

Hyosung wasn’t afraid to experiment:
- Color Schemes: From subtle titanium silver to audacious black/orange and even pink (!), it catered to extroverts.
- Special Editions: The 30th Anniversary model (2008) added candy-red accents and limited-edition badging, while the Aquila Pro (2010–2011) introduced LED lighting and a sportier windscreen.
- Custom Potential: The belt drive and steel frame made it a blank canvas for modifiers. MMS Cycles’ Trend Killer concept proved this bike could wear a 240mm rear tire and superbike bars with swagger.

Yet, some details felt half-baked. The green-tinted digital dash—a novelty in 2007—ages poorly next to analog rivals, and the plastic fenders lack the heft of metal alternatives. Still, park this anywhere, and it’ll draw crowds asking, “What is that?”

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Performance: Small Block, Big Attitude

Engine Specs:
- 647cc DOHC 90° V-Twin
- Power: 72–80 HP (53.7–59.6 kW) @ 9,000 RPM
- Torque: 61.2–67 Nm (45–49.4 lb-ft) @ 7,250 RPM
- Redline: 10,500 RPM (a rarity for cruisers)

Hyosung’s liquid-cooled V-twin is the star here. Thumb the starter, and the engine barks to life with a surprisingly throaty growl from the stock exhaust. The 2010–2011 fuel-injected models smooth out the low-rev hiccups of earlier carbureted versions, delivering linear power from 3,000 RPM onward.

On the Road:
- 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph): ~4.5 seconds (quicker than the Suzuki Boulevard S40’s 5.8).
- Top Speed: 190–195 km/h (118–121 mph)—enough to humble 800cc cruisers.
- Fuel Efficiency: 21.6 km/L (51 MPG) makes the 16L (4.2 gal) tank good for 345 km (214 mi).

The 6-speed gearbox (5-speed on pre-2010 models) has a clunky action, but the belt drive silences chain rattle and cuts maintenance. Cruising at 120 km/h (75 mph) feels effortless, though the engine vibrates noticeably above 6,000 RPM—a small price for its sporty character.

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Handling: A Cruiser That (Almost) Corners

With a 1,665mm (65.5") wheelbase and 34° rake, the GV 650 isn’t a canyon carver—but it’s shockingly agile for a cruiser. The USD forks and preload-adjustable rear shocks (on FI models) handle bumps competently, while the 218–230 kg (480–507 lb) weight stays manageable at low speeds.

Key Takeaways:
- Tires: The 110/70-17 front and 180/55-17 rear (standard) offer decent grip, but the Trend Killer’s 240mm tire sacrifices lean angle for style.
- Brakes: Dual 300mm front discs bite harder than the Honda Shadow’s single disc, though feel is wooden compared to Japanese rivals.
- Ergonomics: The 705mm (27.8") seat and mid-mounted pegs suit riders under 5’10”, but the upright bars strain wrists on long rides.

Push it hard, and the chassis protests with vague feedback, but for city commutes and weekend twisties, it’s more engaging than most cruisers.

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Competition: How the GV 650 Stacks Up

1. Suzuki Boulevard S40 (650cc):

• Pros: Lighter (179 kg / 395 lbs), air-cooled simplicity.
• Cons: 40 HP, drum rear brake, dated design.
• Verdict: The S40 is a beginner-friendly classic but lacks the GV 650’s tech and power.

2. Honda Shadow Phantom (750cc):

• Pros: Honda reliability, 45 MPG, 27.5" seat.
• Cons: 44 HP, no liquid cooling, heavier at 244 kg (538 lbs).
• Verdict: The Shadow’s a safer bet, but the GV 650 outruns it easily.

3. Kawasaki Vulcan 900:

• Pros: 903cc torque monster, 26.8" seat, vast aftermarket.
• Cons: 50 HP, 288 kg (635 lbs), pricier.
• Verdict: The Vulcan dominates highways, but the GV 650 feels nimbler in cities.

Hyosung’s Edge: More HP than all three, liquid cooling, and adjustable suspension (FI models). Yet, resale value and dealer support lag behind Japanese brands.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Korean V-Twin Happy

The GV 650 isn’t high-maintenance, but it demands consistency:

1. Engine Care:

• Oil Changes: 3.2L (3.4 qt) of 10W-40 semi-synthetic every 5,000 km (3,100 mi).
• Valve Adjustments: Every 12,000 km (7,500 mi). Intake: 0.10–0.20mm (0.004–0.008"), Exhaust: 0.20–0.30mm (0.008–0.012").
• Spark Plugs: NGK CR8E (standard) or CR8EIX iridium for longer life.

2. Critical Fluids:

• Coolant: 1.6L (1.7 qt) ethylene glycol. Check for leaks near the water pump.
• Brake Fluid: DOT 4, changed every 2 years.

3. Tires & Belt:

• Pressures: 2.2–2.4 bar (32–35 PSI) front, 2.4–2.6 bar (35–38 PSI) rear.
• Belt Drive: Inspect every 10,000 km (6,200 mi) for cracks. Upgrade to a heavy-duty Kevlar belt for aggressive riding.

4. Common Upgrades:

• Air Filter: High-flow kits wake up the EFI models.
• Brake Pads: Swap sintered pads for better bite.
• Suspension: Progressive springs improve front-end feel.

Pro Tip: The clutch cable stretches over time—keep it lubed, or retrofit a hydraulic kit.

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Conclusion: The Underdog Worth Considering

The Hyosung GV 650 isn’t perfect. It’s held back by a cheap-feeling gearbox, vague instrumentation, and a parts network that’s still catching up to Japanese rivals. But as a secondhand buy or a project base, it’s a riot. Few cruisers in its class offer this mix of power, liquid cooling, and custom potential. If you’re willing to overlook its quirks (and stock up on MOTOPARTS.store’s aftermarket catalog), the GV 650 rewards with thrills that punch way above its price point.

Ride it hard, mod it boldly, and let its V-twin roar silence the doubters.

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Specifications sheet

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