The latest version of Suzuki’s versatile V-Strom could be all the bike you’ll need - it really is that good.
We have fond memories of the Suzuki V-Strom 650 at Telegraph Motoring. We ran one as a long-term test bike in 2004 and it didn’t just gradually win our affection, as many bikes will; it proved good enough to be our bike of the year.This accolade wasn’t for spectacular performance, and it was despite the bike’s unbalanced looks. It won us over because it was so good at so many everyday things, and for such a good price. Yet time is cruel to man and motorcycle alike. When I rode the
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Suzuki V-Strom 650 white abs Adventure Motorcycle Picture |
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New Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS (dl650) Black |
As with the old bike, the luggage rack sits flush with the passenger seat so loads can bridge the two easily, while the additional dash info such as economy and temperature can be scrolled through from the left bar switch – no need to let go to push a button on the dash itself. Annoyingly, you still need tools to adjust the headlight angle, which you’ll have to do often if your load varies, and there’s no tool supplied to undo six bolts to alter the screen height.
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2013 Suzuki V-Strom 650 Black Motorcycle |
Riding: The ride quality is firmer, of course, but still comfortable, aided by the exceptionally accommodating seat. Your backside rests just over half an inch higher than on the old bike’s, otherwise the riding position is still spacious and natural. Suzuki supplies alternative seats which are 20mm lower or higher than standard. It’s the same on the back, where there’s plenty of room and potential long-distance comfort.
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Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS (DL650) White |
For harder, more demanding riding, there’s a more controlled and tactile feel through the chassis, and an impressive new ABS system if you get over-ambitious with the brakes. The bike changes direction with enough vigour to be exciting, although a long wheelbase like the V-Strom’s will never allow really rapid flicks.
Suzuki V-Strom 650 Price,Features and Competitors:
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Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS Price, Review, specifications and pictures |
Price/on sale: From £7,024/August
Power/torque: 68bhp @ 8,800rpm/44lb ft @ 6,400rpm
Top speed: 120mph (est)
Fuel tank/range: 4.4 gallons/ 240 miles
Verdict: Competitively priced all-rounder that upholds the virtues of the original version of the V-Strom and builds on them with improved range, sharper handling and better comfort – it also looks a lot better than the older bike
> RIVALS- Suzuki V-Strom 650 Competitors;
>Kawasaki Versys, £7,024
A fine bike that’s sportier than the Suzuki, although its engine is less engaging and requires you to use the gearbox more. It also vibrates more. Although the Suzuki is the better tourer, these are closely matched.
>Triumph Tiger 800 ABS, £7,749
The adventure bike style will appeal to many, as will its three-cylinder engine and British heritage, but it costs another £700 and its range is about 80 miles less than the V-Strom’s. Comfort is not as good, either.
>Honda XL700V Transalp, £6,775
Lacks the comfort and range of the V-Strom, while it’s not quite so good for hard riding. But the Transalp is still very capable, with legendary reliability and longevity. It’s also a better bet for limited off-roading.
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