The characterful SV generates 75hp which is plenty of grunt for a bike of this size and it sounds the part too, thanks to a combination of noticeable
induction noise and an adequate (and easily upgradable!) standard exhaust, which are best appreciated in the middle of the rev range.
The
induction noise is pumped to the back of the dashboard through a tube, where it resonates and creates the brap sound-note, which feels quite original.
The outer two are normally blanked off, but they open up when you select Race Mode -- as does an acoustic flap in the bulkhead, letting more
induction noise into the cockpit.
At 4,500rpm there's a crackle of exhaust and a bark of
induction noise as the ST Mountune sprints forwards.
Lay into that extended torque band, and a "sound symposer," which amplifies the engine's
induction noise into the quiet cabin, converts the EcoBoost's well-oiled mechanical whirr into a subtle induction woffle.
However, it can adjust the tone and volume with its "sound creator", designed to artificially amplify the V-6
induction noise to enhance the sensation of acceleration.
The
induction noise is exquisite as it howls and growls down the straights.
It's quiet, too, compared to the petrol engine which suffers from
induction noise when accelerating hard.
Noise attenuation poses a special challenge because of the difficulties in reducing induction noise within the induction system without affecting engine performance.
The magnitude of induction noise that results is a function of the manifold geometry.
It sounds like the machine that turns a teen's scratchy warbling into an X Factor winner but it's actually a device that takes the
induction noise from the engine's intake manifold and feeds it into the cabin.
As for sound, the 748 (pounds 7799 on the road) can't come up with a sonic boom, but the
induction noise from its sucking twin sounds like a throaty bullfrog amplified through a rock band's speaker system.