In December i sold my 2008 V-Strom 650 to buy, what else, a Yamaha Tracer 700 2020. In the next 20 days it will be in my hands and I'm really sure that I'm going to find the fun that i lost riding the V-Strom so many years. Yes V-Strom is trouble free but that's only it for me.
Bro you talk about 600-700cc bikes. Where do you saw fun there??? I can understand having fun with 100-160hp but from 72hp fun???? More like commuting... and tracer have hard suspensions and bad wind protection, so maybe new v strom or a super tenere
FoxOn Commute You don’t need more than 70 hp to have fun on a motorcycle. Even less will do in most regards. Most of those +150 hp bikes are way overpowered for fun riding on public roads. Try bashing a 500 cc class bike around and you will know. There are other ways of having fun on a motorcycle than going fast in a straight line right? I kind of agree though that if you want to have more fun riding it seem a bit silly to “upgrade” from a v-strom to a Tracer 700.
FoxOn Commute the new V Strom is a 1 litre bike, the 650 remains the same. I’ve got a 1 litre V strom gen 3, but the 650 outsells the 1 litre bike by almost 2:1, which is probably why the thousand got the upgrade. It was either that or drop it from the range, the 650 is very capable and you can really throw them around they’re great fun!
Range, hand guards, adjustable rear suspension, charger, rear rack, baggage option, one button start, low rpm assist....The Yamaha is no where near the Strom in terms of features.
Here’s my not so humble opinion: Been riding over fifty years and still own a number of bikes, including sport, and standards. Along the way, I’ve bought three new ‘Stroms (‘09, ‘12, ‘15) and cumulatively ridden them long and hard over 200 000 kilometers. Through the jungles of Central America, mostly off road in Baja and Mexico proper and the frozen tundra of northern Canada. My 2012 now has over 100 000 kilometers; no issues. The only reason I won’t buy another is because I still have a perfectly good and fully farkled ‘15 XT model and the new release doesn’t add anything significant. I also went to buy the new 1050 ‘Strom but I’m going to pass on that too; if the the DL 650 doesn’t do the trick, I’d suggest buying a better (IE: much more expensive) bike. Bottom line: The DL650 V-Strom is far from perfect but, for most people, it’s perfectly fine.
Perfectly fine for me! I've had '06 (parts bike after being run off the road), '09 (still truckin' @ 110K) & '11 (as a replacement for the "09 that won't wear out). The Honda CB500X interests me as a "3/4 Strom650", but really I'm waiting to see what Suzuki will do as an update 650/700 in the next few years. I like my bikes (like my woman) steady, comfortable & dead set faithful. Go Strom or go home.
Ben Haynes I hear you! I had my ‘15 ‘Strom out yesterday, on and off pavement, and wondered why I have other bikes. Well, I know why I have other bikes, it’s because the ‘Strom hasn’t depleted my disposal income, yet another reason to keep a ‘Strom.
@@dadmadforgot4050 A lot of those riders are chasing an image. The best way to make a Wee better or faster? A riding course. Worked with a bloke who used to put shit on my scooter for a couple of weeks, because he was a 'real rider' with his Ducati. My workmates took the fun out of it when they pulled him aside and told him I had other motorcycles. Of course, he bought every little bit of titanium bullshit for his bike, because weight reduction counts! He was only 25kgs overweight so shedding those grams counts. Strom reminds me of the bikes I started riding, UJM's that you ride to work all week, took to the hills to do a bit of scratching with your mates on the weekend and then take your girlfriend away for couple of days or weeks with all your gear. A do it all, everyday motorcycle. Amuses me, imagine if you had a friend that was unreliable, regularly cost you money, and left you stranded without warning on occasion, would you describe them as having 'character'?
Geran Simpson Same me, I like the analog everything in older BMWs 650 GS. My current bike Yamaha FZ6 has also a mixed tachometer and speed meter, very good looking and so easy to read.
The Yamaha looks and feels sportier, more modern look, but nothin beats a classic¡! The Vstrom is tough as nails, reliable and jack of all trades. Plus I Love that Classic dash in the Vstrom....analogue+ digital is the best combo. I stick with the Vstrom..my next bike.
I’m a new rider and selected the 2020 V-Strom 650XT as my first bike. I will be commuting daily but also looking forward to long road trips and off-road adventures. After months of research, I felt the V-Strom was the most versatile. I live in the US so the Tracer 700 is not available. It was between the V-Strom and the Versys. The V-Strom is so much more comfortable. Sat on Versys and felt as if my family jewels were getting crushed against the tank. The V-Strom provides a more linear powerband which I believe is better for a new rider compared to bikes like the Tracer or Versys that are probably more fun to ride but can get a new rider into trouble. I hear people complain about the dash on the V-Strom but I think it’s well designed and provides all the information you will ever need. Everyone is entitled to their opinion and in my case the V-Strom fits the bill. Looking forward to many years with my V-Strom.
I just ordered a 2020 Vstrom 650 to update from my 2012 Vstrom 650, yes it’s an older bike design but that means Suzuki have had time to engineer out the problems, they are simply reliable and practical.
Like Mr. Wilkins, I also have been riding for over 50 years and have owned many, many machines over the years and I also have found the V-Strom to be quite an eye opener in so many ways that the bike just keeps a smile on my face every time I ride. I have owned a bunch of sport bikes and a my share of dirt bikes and standards, the Suzuki is a great blend of on and off road as well as sport touring. I am very happy with my DR 650 and intend to keep it for a long time. And I prefer large analog gauges over the digital ones. JMO jfrom a geezer.
Great compo! Having tried both, here's my bottom line: While both are great, real world, road bikes, the Yamaha is the more 'disposable' feeling bike and the Suzuki is the one for the long haul, and is the 'keeper'.
interesting. same for triumph, IMHO. VStrom is just a better bike, better engineered, smooth, not a world dominator, but slow and steady wins a lot of races
I love the V twin engine and the deltabox placement of my vstrom ! It swallows cornerings so easy ! I am thinking to get some dirt bike tyres on it if i go on a mountain path! This bike is so great like the good old days!
Stateside commentor here 🙋♂️. Purchased a used 012 Vstrom 650 Adv model w/ all the factory kit. Toured it all over the western US states. Besides a little buzzy it was a brilliant ride w/basic maintenance. I traded it for a 09 KLR650. That was stupid. I definitely would consider another Vstrom purchase be it a 650 or 1k. A Swiss Army knife type machine. 💙 Cheers🍻, Gabe in Boulder City Nv. USA.
The V-Strom isn't the coolest or most glamorous bike but you just can't go wrong with them. They do everything well at minimum cost where as the Tracer, while undeniably prettier & cooler, seems to be more a style over substance mock adventure bike to me. Not ridden one though so could be wrong of course!
The styling & profile is an obvious nod towards adventure bikes, just like the BMW F900XR, which BMW class as an adventure bike incidentally. Where as Yamaha class the Tracer as a sport tourer despite them essentially being the same concept. I don't have an issue with "sport tourer" tag as it's a more accurate representation of what the bike is for imo. The Tracer is a sport tourer with adventure bike type looks which is the whole point of my comment. The V Strom is a better adventure bike because the Tracer isn't one. Ask Visordown why they decided to compare the V-Strom with the Tracer 700 instead of the Tenere 700.
@flippy5118 So are you if you're unfamiliar with the phrase "style over substance" & absolutely did not say style doesn't matter. The basis of my comment was about form over function.
After 41 years of riding and a number of different machines I will say the "funnest" bike I ever owned was a used $600 '83 honda XL600 that I beat further into the ground than it's previous owner, yes "fun" is a relative term and isn't necessarily a function of technology, price or horsepower.
I used to ride VStrom 1000 (Concours 14 currently). VStrom’s upright riding position was extremely comfortable, much better than Concours. And its huge seat space is great for 2 ups. The few problems for me were its insufficient wind protection and its stability in windy situation.
Contrary to what the video said, the Wee does have riding modes. Parallel twins (with few exceptions) are boring and a dime a dozen. Even the V-Strom replacement will probably be a parallel twin unfortunately. If you love the character of the L twin your choices are pretty much Suzuki or Ducati and the Suzuki doesn't won't be in the shop every other month lol. Don't get me wrong, the Tracer is cool, but when the V-Strom turns off on to the dirt road, the Tracer probably should'nt follow. 10 years from now no one will be looking for an old Tracer, but vintage V-Stroms will still be sought after.
@@daubentonsbat4257 Thanks for sharing :) I'll have to do that. I can't pick which I shoul buy. I change my mind about it every couple of weeks :) Need to test drive all three.
Used to ride first gen VStrom, it was an excellent bike but very boring. As I wasn't doing much 2 up touring, and did a lot of in town comuting + weekend twisties I switched to 2nd gen Versys and it is a better bike for me. Only issue is vibration. Rode MT-07 the other day and that engine is a gem, so smooth. Thinking of buying a new Tracer now
I think the PCP deal info for the v-strom is incorrect. The max deposit is £2350 down and with 4000 miles per annum works out at £66.17 per month (3% interest currently). £159 per month is based on an HP deal.
Would love to see a comparison between the DL650 XT and the Tènèrè 700 in a real world test where they do highway, normal road, dirtroads and orr road. Fit the with equal tires and lets find out which one is the best budget adventure tourer and not which one is the best off roader...
Sold my 650 V strom for a 700 Ténéré,what a mistake ! 10 times better for road use the Suzy,better confort,better autonomy,tubeless tyres,definitively my best bike for 44 years.And I can't stand the sound and caracter motor of the T7
Having owned a 2012 vstrom 650 and now still a 2014 vstrom 1000 I would 100% go for the Vstrom. I love it’s quirky looks 😍. All the Vstrom models. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Trust me I know how the looks are perceived... I just don’t get it. Vstrom when I see one I love looking at its farkles. I think there goes a good practical person, someone who likes reliability, cornering, strong torque engines, comfort and going on adventures. They are such a nice versatile machine.
Nice video. As the owner of a 2017 V-Strom 650 I have found it to be the best bike for me. Of course here the US we don't get the Tracer 700 so we cannot even compare the two. The Versys 650 would be its closest competition here. Both close in price and travel range. But if you think the V-Strom dash is dated I wonder what your opinion of the Versys dash is.
amigo la versys es mas asfaltica y el motor mas deportivo la vstron xt el motor es una delicia muy tranquila y empuja de una forma muy lineal, es la moto perfecta para el fin del mundo
You mention PCP. I assume that is a purchase payment plan. If you’re buying a motorcycle, why do they care how many miles you ride it? Or, is that a lease plan?
R Zu pcp is a purchase plan with a large payment at the end of the lease period if you want to keep the bike otherwise it returns to the shop. Best avoided if you plan on keeping the bike.
The vstrom are the one l buy. Its a do it all bike. As a commuter my 04 vstrom works hard all winter with no fuzz. In summer it takes me on long trips fully loaded,and it takes me for fun on gravel/twisty backroads. Despite its 16yo this year it looks brand new. So yeah i go for the dl. The Yamaha looks very cool, but it feels small.
The Wee Strom was the first bike I owned. I had it for 8.5 years and 70,000 miles. But I have to admit I traded up for a Versys 1000. I don't need the (limited) off-raod ability of a Strom, and it's hard to argue with the powerful and smooth engine of the big Versys.
idk about y'all that prefer Digital Tach, I own a bike with digital tach, they're bothersome, sometimes the light is too much and I can't see anything beyond 10m ahead.
Nice review; fair & honest verdict; i would love a comparaison review of all bikes with a 19 inches front wheel: CB500X, Desert Sled, F750GS, V85TT, Tiger 900GT, V-Strom650/1050XT, R1250GS... Thanks.
Nice vídeo. Congrats. 👍 I'm tented to buy a vstrom 2020 black edition. Mainly for commuting and some touring. I also do around 300 km on highways twice a week. Can you explain me what you've said at 4:34 about "...let down on long trips by the slightly (v... i... b)? nature of the v-twin engine." Can't understand what you said, between parenthesis. And the meaning of the sentence. Sorry, I'm not an English native. It's importante to me as I need to do a lot of highway. Which one do you consider better for that purpouse. Thanks. Nice rides.
he said viby, meaning it vibrates. Don't know about the test rider or how the tracer is (I didn't ride one) but after proper day of 6-7 hours riding on my V strom 650 XT (2019 model) I had absolutly 0 issues with vibration. I actually felt none ...
very honest and correct versus I would say and I totally agree. I would like to add though that I think the seat on the Strom is more comfortable than the one on the tracer. I own a '19 650 XT Strom, rode an mt-07, never rode on a tracer though but I would guess the seat on the Tracer would be somewhere between the MT and the Strom in terms of comfort. One big advantage the Tracer has over the Strom is 20 kilos less weight.
My current bike has full LEDs all round and I can't say it's any better than any other bike I've owned. I'm sure there are examples where it's better though.
@@stamK. ....And the 'Strom's is.Better than near any LED setup. K1600 is better, but that light assembly costs, and weighs, near as much as the entire 'Strom.
You can buy a aftermarked LED headlight for the V-strom. And yes I know it's not standard fitted. But I think it will get LED headlight in a 2021 update.
@@stamK. most of the time there not. All you can use is a 55w lamp and the only deciding factor of how bright it is will be the physical size of the reflector housing. Some of the projector housings are better but they still need too be rather big. Some bikes have led lights that are not great either. I would never go back to lamps again.
Love my ‘08 “Wee”Strom 650, amazing all rounder, but I wanted a little upgrade. Can’t get past the beak, so went with another equality bulletproof Yamaha this time with a shaft. Ride on!
If Honda could have placed a slipper assist clutch on the new CB500F/X, what is the "justifiable" reason for Yamaha ( I don't know about this Suzuki ) not to stick it on the new Tracer700 ? And again - they have replaced the problematic start switch from the 7/9 series on the Tenere 700, so why is it still there on this Tracer 700 ??? A TC ist not so expensive concept. The 7 series Yamaha still do not have it ! A simply - STINGY policy from Yamaha. They would like to give the buyers as less as possible.
I've heard the Strom is soft in the suspension, and the 19 inch front makes it sluggish to turn in, but when I seen it in this video is seems to be doing just fine. Of course that rider is way more experienced than me, and I'm not really ever pushing the limits of a bike. I guess it's comforting to know that it's capable.
Just sold my BMW R1200RT this week, realised my V-Strom 650 does exactly the same job using much less fuel and bulk. Ok maybe not with a passenger. Great for a few off road trails also, the RT wasnt!
I'm selling my BMW 1200 GSA. Bought a Versys 650. The 1200 is just too big and bulky. Thinking of going to a Vstrom 650 to get less vibes (the Versys has high frequ buzzing).
2 great bikes and would love to upgrade to either, if you could just get the modern looks of the yamaha with the driveabilty of the suzuki.. There has to be a new vstrom 650 in the near future so will be interesting to see if it will stand alone modern design or a baby version of the 1050
All the Tracers suffer from having foot pegs on rear sets leaving your feet tucked up behind your butt. This is plain daft for a bike that might be used for touring. WAKE UP YAMAHA.
I've got a "classic" that still gives the thrills. My 04 (and updated here and there) VStrom 1000 seems to be good for just about anything...after a few things have been finally dialed in. The prospect of *either* of these two is really enticing. The overall engine performance is probably pretty close, now, but losing a few pounds is always a good thing. They surely are more entertaining in the twisties.
Difficult to choose one among them however if Yamaha's wheel base should be increased by few inches will make it more relaxed touring bike for long rides.
It missed the Kasaki Versys 650 and Honda Nc750 for a complete vs video. In this comparision is a close one, the Yamaha looks and driver sportier, but the Vstrom is a reliable as you can get and is a perfect all rounder, plus I love that hybrid dash...analogue just looks sportier and nicer. I would go for the Vstrom ...
A V-twin sounds better and has more low rpm torque, but more vibration at higher rpm. I have 2 bikes- a V-twin for shorter trips at 60 mph or less, and an inline 4 for longer trips at 75 mph.
As for as looks go, I defenitly prefer the Tracer. I just started riding and next spring I want to sell my recently purchased Honda NTV from 1992 and do some test riding. The Tracer is a good contender.
@@MADTASS thank you for your reply. In the meantime I received my 2020 Tracer and mine luckily is fitted with the USB port. I believe it was optional and not standard.
Am I the only person that doesn’t like the 3 cylinder Yamaha engine? I had the MT-07 18’ but it didn’t for fill my wishes of a naked bike and sold it after only 1 year. Didn’t like the vibration from the engine and the lack of power after 6.000 rpm. Yesterday I tried the 700 tracer and the 650 v-storm, I wanted too compare them and I wanted too see if I felt the same way about the Yamaha engine. To my disappointment it was exactly the way I remembered it. I like the looks and the finesse of the tracer. It looks modern, while the V-Strom looks outdated BUT if I was going too choose between the two of them, there would be no doubt in my mind I would go for the V-Strom. It was way quicker then expected also I 6. Gear going from 135 too 160 km/t and I felt connected too the bike before I went in 2. Gear for the first time. Your confidence in riding a bike rises through the sky’s like never before. Only complain I have with both bikes was the wind protection. Both, on highest setting made so much turbulence that it make no sense having a windscreen And I came directly from my naked GSXS 750.
I'd like to see you test Italy's 3rd best selling bike . The Benelli TRK502 against the Honda CB500X and the KTM 390 Adventure. Many cheap bikes are made in China India and Thailand, does that matter wrt reliability, build quality?
Tracer for me, as soon as I sat on the Vstrom I didn't like it. The dash didn't do it for me either, I like either analogue clocks or digital, not a mish mash of both. Both bikes are good, it just comes down to personal preference really.
Really like the style/design of the Tracer 7, but it lacks a simple thing like the TC. The Vstrom is a realiable bike and despite the dated looks, it's well equiped for the price range. Yamaha makes great bikes, but is too expensive for the base equipment it brings, at lesat for the midle range price bikes, imo!
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
In December i sold my 2008 V-Strom 650 to buy, what else, a Yamaha Tracer 700 2020. In the next 20 days it will be in my hands and I'm really sure that I'm going to find the fun that i lost riding the V-Strom so many years. Yes V-Strom is trouble free but that's only it for me.
Bro you talk about 600-700cc bikes. Where do you saw fun there??? I can understand having fun with 100-160hp but from 72hp fun???? More like commuting... and tracer have hard suspensions and bad wind protection, so maybe new v strom or a super tenere
FoxOn Commute You don’t need more than 70 hp to have fun on a motorcycle. Even less will do in most regards. Most of those +150 hp bikes are way overpowered for fun riding on public roads. Try bashing a 500 cc class bike around and you will know. There are other ways of having fun on a motorcycle than going fast in a straight line right?
I kind of agree though that if you want to have more fun riding it seem a bit silly to “upgrade” from a v-strom to a Tracer 700.
@@Elliot_Vulpe Billy Big Balls here. You do your CBT on a Hyabusa mate aye? 😂
FoxOn Commute the new V Strom is a 1 litre bike, the 650 remains the same. I’ve got a 1 litre V strom gen 3, but the 650 outsells the 1 litre bike by almost 2:1, which is probably why the thousand got the upgrade. It was either that or drop it from the range, the 650 is very capable and you can really throw them around they’re great fun!
FoxOn Commute Bruh I ride a scooter but I can still have fun on it
I bought a Vstrom after riding baggers and cruisers for years. I don’ miss the big bikes at all. The Vstrom made riding fun again.
Range, hand guards, adjustable rear suspension, charger, rear rack, baggage option, one button start, low rpm assist....The Yamaha is no where near the Strom in terms of features.
Not to mention the V strom does have off road feature as well.
You left out center-stand option which to me, isn't an option. And the Yamaha doesn't have it!
Here’s my not so humble opinion: Been riding over fifty years and still own a number of bikes, including sport, and standards. Along the way, I’ve bought three new ‘Stroms (‘09, ‘12, ‘15) and cumulatively ridden them long and hard over 200 000 kilometers. Through the jungles of Central America, mostly off road in Baja and Mexico proper and the frozen tundra of northern Canada. My 2012 now has over 100 000 kilometers; no issues. The only reason I won’t buy another is because I still have a perfectly good and fully farkled ‘15 XT model and the new release doesn’t add anything significant. I also went to buy the new 1050 ‘Strom but I’m going to pass on that too; if the the DL 650 doesn’t do the trick, I’d suggest buying a better (IE: much more expensive) bike. Bottom line: The DL650 V-Strom is far from perfect but, for most people, it’s perfectly fine.
Thank you
Perfectly fine for me! I've had '06 (parts bike after being run off the road), '09 (still truckin' @ 110K) & '11 (as a replacement for the "09 that won't wear out).
The Honda CB500X interests me as a "3/4 Strom650", but really I'm waiting to see what Suzuki will do as an update 650/700 in the next few years.
I like my bikes (like my woman) steady, comfortable & dead set faithful. Go Strom or go home.
Ben Haynes I hear you! I had my ‘15 ‘Strom out yesterday, on and off pavement, and wondered why I have other bikes. Well, I know why I have other bikes, it’s because the ‘Strom hasn’t depleted my disposal income, yet another reason to keep a ‘Strom.
‘Perfectly fine’ is... fine... but isn’t really what speaks to the passion that a lot of riders have.
@@dadmadforgot4050 A lot of those riders are chasing an image.
The best way to make a Wee better or faster?
A riding course.
Worked with a bloke who used to put shit on my scooter for a couple of weeks, because he was a 'real rider' with his Ducati.
My workmates took the fun out of it when they pulled him aside and told him I had other motorcycles.
Of course, he bought every little bit of titanium bullshit for his bike, because weight reduction counts!
He was only 25kgs overweight so shedding those grams counts.
Strom reminds me of the bikes I started riding, UJM's that you ride to work all week, took to the hills to do a bit of scratching with your mates on the weekend and then take your girlfriend away for couple of days or weeks with all your gear.
A do it all, everyday motorcycle.
Amuses me, imagine if you had a friend that was unreliable, regularly cost you money, and left you stranded without warning on occasion, would you describe them as having 'character'?
am i the only one who prefers the V-stroms analog tach? cant stand new dash's that look like an Ipad stuck on the bars
Think you might need to upgrade your ipad mate.
I like the tach better on the V-Strom as well. A digital tach just doesn't seem right
Analog tach is one of the reasons I bought a '15 V-strom :)
I prefer analog everything
Geran Simpson
Same me, I like the analog everything in older BMWs 650 GS. My current bike Yamaha FZ6 has also a mixed tachometer and speed meter, very good looking and so easy to read.
The Yamaha looks and feels sportier, more modern look, but nothin beats a classic¡! The Vstrom is tough as nails, reliable and jack of all trades. Plus I Love that Classic dash in the Vstrom....analogue+ digital is the best combo. I stick with the Vstrom..my next bike.
I’m a new rider and selected the 2020 V-Strom 650XT as my first bike. I will be commuting daily but also looking forward to long road trips and off-road adventures. After months of research, I felt the V-Strom was the most versatile. I live in the US so the Tracer 700 is not available. It was between the V-Strom and the Versys. The V-Strom is so much more comfortable. Sat on Versys and felt as if my family jewels were getting crushed against the tank. The V-Strom provides a more linear powerband which I believe is better for a new rider compared to bikes like the Tracer or Versys that are probably more fun to ride but can get a new rider into trouble. I hear people complain about the dash on the V-Strom but I think it’s well designed and provides all the information you will ever need. Everyone is entitled to their opinion and in my case the V-Strom fits the bill. Looking forward to many years with my V-Strom.
Hey, i'm curious to hear how it (still) feels to ride your V-strom? Still happy, satisfied? :)
I just ordered a 2020 Vstrom 650 to update from my 2012 Vstrom 650, yes it’s an older bike design but that means Suzuki have had time to engineer out the problems, they are simply reliable and practical.
Like Mr. Wilkins, I also have been riding for over 50 years and have owned many, many machines over the years and I also have found
the V-Strom to be quite an eye opener in so many ways that the bike just keeps a smile on my face every time I ride.
I have owned a bunch of sport bikes and a my share of dirt bikes and standards, the Suzuki is a great blend of on and off road as well as sport
touring. I am very happy with my DR 650 and intend to keep it for a long time. And I prefer large analog gauges over the digital ones.
JMO jfrom a geezer.
If you are 6ft2 and want to take.a pillion the V Strom is the only choice! Awesome engine and a big bike feel with great grunt and torque.
V-Strom = the official bike of "you can hate my design but you cannot hate my reliability"
V Strom for sure 😎👍 Not forgetting the fuel efficiency on V Strom 😃
@flippy5118 there will always this one Yamaha guy… Cool 😎
Great compo! Having tried both, here's my bottom line:
While both are great, real world, road bikes, the Yamaha is the more 'disposable' feeling bike and the Suzuki is the one for the long haul, and is the 'keeper'.
interesting. same for triumph, IMHO. VStrom is just a better bike, better engineered, smooth, not a world dominator, but slow and steady wins a lot of races
I love the V twin engine and the deltabox placement of my vstrom ! It swallows cornerings so easy ! I am thinking to get some dirt bike tyres on it if i go on a mountain path! This bike is so great like the good old days!
Stateside commentor here 🙋♂️.
Purchased a used 012 Vstrom 650 Adv model w/ all the factory kit. Toured it all over the western US states. Besides a little buzzy it was a brilliant ride w/basic maintenance. I traded it for a 09 KLR650.
That was stupid.
I definitely would consider another Vstrom purchase be it a 650 or 1k.
A Swiss Army knife type machine. 💙
Cheers🍻, Gabe in Boulder City Nv. USA.
Vstrom for life
Yuck
I feel like there's a good chance you got that tattoo. 😉
I agree
The V Strom Nailed it
The V-Strom isn't the coolest or most glamorous bike but you just can't go wrong with them. They do everything well at minimum cost where as the Tracer, while undeniably prettier & cooler, seems to be more a style over substance mock adventure bike to me. Not ridden one though so could be wrong of course!
What? The Tracer isn’t trying to look like or be an adventure bike lmao. That’s what the Tenere is for.
The styling & profile is an obvious nod towards adventure bikes, just like the BMW F900XR, which BMW class as an adventure bike incidentally. Where as Yamaha class the Tracer as a sport tourer despite them essentially being the same concept. I don't have an issue with "sport tourer" tag as it's a more accurate representation of what the bike is for imo. The Tracer is a sport tourer with adventure bike type looks which is the whole point of my comment. The V Strom is a better adventure bike because the Tracer isn't one. Ask Visordown why they decided to compare the V-Strom with the Tracer 700 instead of the Tenere 700.
@@ragerider6283 The Tracer is closer to the V-Strom in intended usage than the Tenere.
@@MrBenHaynes The Wee sits right between the two.
@flippy5118 So are you if you're unfamiliar with the phrase "style over substance" & absolutely did not say style doesn't matter. The basis of my comment was about form over function.
After 41 years of riding and a number of different machines I will say the "funnest" bike I ever owned was a used $600 '83 honda XL600 that I beat further into the ground than it's previous owner, yes "fun" is a relative term and isn't necessarily a function of technology, price or horsepower.
Engine, dashboard and... that's it? What about brakes, suspension, clutch? There's quite a bit more to tell about those bikes. I missed a lot of info.
I love how everyone is dissing the Tracer butt I think Yamaha intended the tracer to be a up right less torquee mt 07. And I love it
the v strom is in my heart..... a true perfect bike and a joy to ride......... yamaha, beside the roaring engine has nothing......
What pleasant change to find a sensible comparison!
For fun and commuting i would pick the Tracer over the V-Strom.. for touring i would prefer the suzuki.
I used to ride VStrom 1000 (Concours 14 currently). VStrom’s upright riding position was extremely comfortable, much better than Concours. And its huge seat space is great for 2 ups. The few problems for me were its insufficient wind protection and its stability in windy situation.
Contrary to what the video said, the Wee does have riding modes. Parallel twins (with few exceptions) are boring and a dime a dozen. Even the V-Strom replacement will probably be a parallel twin unfortunately. If you love the character of the L twin your choices are pretty much Suzuki or Ducati and the Suzuki doesn't won't be in the shop every other month lol. Don't get me wrong, the Tracer is cool, but when the V-Strom turns off on to the dirt road, the Tracer probably should'nt follow. 10 years from now no one will be looking for an old Tracer, but vintage V-Stroms will still be sought after.
How about Versys 650? How does it compare with those two?
@@daubentonsbat4257 Thanks for sharing :) I'll have to do that. I can't pick which I shoul buy. I change my mind about it every couple of weeks :) Need to test drive all three.
Very good comparison review. Can you please make a comparison video on Vstorm 650 XT and Versys 650 please?
Sometimes the good old is better, like the analog clock, is much clearer and legible than digital. The other parameters are preferably digital.
Used to ride first gen VStrom, it was an excellent bike but very boring. As I wasn't doing much 2 up touring, and did a lot of in town comuting + weekend twisties I switched to 2nd gen Versys and it is a better bike for me. Only issue is vibration. Rode MT-07 the other day and that engine is a gem, so smooth. Thinking of buying a new Tracer now
I think the PCP deal info for the v-strom is incorrect. The max deposit is £2350 down and with 4000 miles per annum works out at £66.17 per month (3% interest currently). £159 per month is based on an HP deal.
@NoOrdinaryJoe - this makes more sense...
Would love to see a comparison between the DL650 XT and the Tènèrè 700 in a real world test where they do highway, normal road, dirtroads and orr road.
Fit the with equal tires and lets find out which one is the best budget adventure tourer and not which one is the best off roader...
Sold my 650 V strom for a 700 Ténéré,what a mistake ! 10 times better for road use the Suzy,better confort,better autonomy,tubeless tyres,definitively my best bike for 44 years.And I can't stand the sound and caracter motor of the T7
Hi. Would be great if you can compare the BMW F900xr / Tracer 900 / Tiger 900.
Tracer 700 still not sold in the US 😑
Having owned a 2012 vstrom 650 and now still a 2014 vstrom 1000 I would 100% go for the Vstrom. I love it’s quirky looks 😍. All the Vstrom models. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Trust me I know how the looks are perceived... I just don’t get it. Vstrom when I see one I love looking at its farkles. I think there goes a good practical person, someone who likes reliability, cornering, strong torque engines, comfort and going on adventures. They are such a nice versatile machine.
At 2:52 it's the 1000 V-strom not 650. Hydraulic Cluth there...
The forks are USD on the 1000cc Too.
V . Strom 650 XT forever.
No
how do both of these bikes do on 2 up riding?
@@daubentonsbat4257 Awesome! Thank you for your response!
My wife rides pillion regularly on my 2013 V-strom 650. She's comfy for about 3 hours, I try to keep the rides under 5 hours😉
Why no Versys 650?
Nice review! I would love to see a mid-weight adventure comparison. Perhaps the BMW 850 v Honda AT v KTM v Yamaha T7.
Nice video. As the owner of a 2017 V-Strom 650 I have found it to be the best bike for me. Of course here the US we don't get the Tracer 700 so we cannot even compare the two. The Versys 650 would be its closest competition here. Both close in price and travel range. But if you think the V-Strom dash is dated I wonder what your opinion of the Versys dash is.
amigo la versys es mas asfaltica y el motor mas deportivo la vstron xt el motor es una delicia muy tranquila y empuja de una forma muy lineal, es la moto perfecta para el fin del mundo
He wasnt messing about on that XT
Was getting it in them curves, I would never go that fast!
Yeah...he was sitting on a 1000 in the curves. Look at the clutch...😀
which one of the two ?? for daily use on city traffic and sometimes trips with my girlfriend .. ?
You mention PCP. I assume that is a purchase payment plan. If you’re buying a motorcycle, why do they care how many miles you ride it? Or, is that a lease plan?
R Zu pcp is a purchase plan with a large payment at the end of the lease period if you want to keep the bike otherwise it returns to the shop. Best avoided if you plan on keeping the bike.
More mileage means you pay more each month. As at the end of the plan the higher mileage bike will be worth less
The vstrom are the one l buy. Its a do it all bike. As a commuter my 04 vstrom works hard all winter with no fuzz. In summer it takes me on long trips fully loaded,and it takes me for fun on gravel/twisty backroads. Despite its 16yo this year it looks brand new. So yeah i go for the dl.
The Yamaha looks very cool, but it feels small.
The Wee Strom was the first bike I owned. I had it for 8.5 years and 70,000 miles. But I have to admit I traded up for a Versys 1000. I don't need the (limited) off-raod ability of a Strom, and it's hard to argue with the powerful and smooth engine of the big Versys.
For me it's like comparing apples with oranges. One is a sports-tourer, the other a so called adventure bike. Both are delicious.
I think with passenger (my wife) the best choise is V-Strom.
Agreed, one of the key factors for me.
The v Strom is always my pick 🥰
idk about y'all that prefer Digital Tach, I own a bike with digital tach, they're bothersome, sometimes the light is too much and I can't see anything beyond 10m ahead.
Great Job on the Vid Mate, I'd like to see your comparison of a Triumph tiger and a Tenere
Well, the v-strom is a pathfinder while the tracer is a tracer indeed to follow the path laid by the first)
Very clever
Ok, ok I must confess, I bought the suzuki V strom, and I love it
It's crazy how outdated-looking digital dashes are now. I think because of smartphones we're just used to seeing crisp color display.
Nice review; fair & honest verdict; i would love a comparaison review of all bikes with a 19 inches front wheel: CB500X, Desert Sled, F750GS, V85TT, Tiger 900GT, V-Strom650/1050XT, R1250GS... Thanks.
Sterling idea!
Nice vídeo. Congrats. 👍
I'm tented to buy a vstrom 2020 black edition. Mainly for commuting and some touring. I also do around 300 km on highways twice a week.
Can you explain me what you've said at 4:34 about "...let down on long trips by the slightly (v... i... b)? nature of the v-twin engine." Can't understand what you said, between parenthesis. And the meaning of the sentence. Sorry, I'm not an English native. It's importante to me as I need to do a lot of highway. Which one do you consider better for that purpouse.
Thanks.
Nice rides.
he said viby, meaning it vibrates. Don't know about the test rider or how the tracer is (I didn't ride one) but after proper day of 6-7 hours riding on my V strom 650 XT (2019 model) I had absolutly 0 issues with vibration. I actually felt none ...
@@ioandragulescu6063 OK. Thank you for your share 👍.
I have The VStrom. It's my best friend now
Do think the newer Honda NC750X manual trans bike would compare to these 2 bikes?
Would like to see comparesan of Ajs Daytona vs Ajs roadster. Thanks
Geez the V-Strom rider was nuts. Took those curves like they were born and raised on them. I really need to go to a riding skills school....
very honest and correct versus I would say and I totally agree. I would like to add though that I think the seat on the Strom is more comfortable than the one on the tracer. I own a '19 650 XT Strom, rode an mt-07, never rode on a tracer though but I would guess the seat on the Tracer would be somewhere between the MT and the Strom in terms of comfort. One big advantage the Tracer has over the Strom is 20 kilos less weight.
Like the vstrom 650, but could not go back to a
Halogen headlight after owning a bike with LEDs. A good headlight is such an important safety feature.
Halogens can be really good too
My current bike has full LEDs all round and I can't say it's any better than any other bike I've owned. I'm sure there are examples where it's better though.
@@stamK. ....And the 'Strom's is.Better than near any LED setup. K1600 is better, but that light assembly costs, and weighs, near as much as the entire 'Strom.
You can buy a aftermarked LED headlight for the V-strom. And yes I know it's not standard fitted. But I think it will get LED headlight in a 2021 update.
@@stamK. most of the time there not. All you can use is a 55w lamp and the only deciding factor of how bright it is will be the physical size of the reflector housing. Some of the projector housings are better but they still need too be rather big. Some bikes have led lights that are not great either. I would never go back to lamps again.
Love my ‘08 “Wee”Strom 650, amazing all rounder, but I wanted a little upgrade. Can’t get past the beak, so went with another equality bulletproof Yamaha this time with a shaft. Ride on!
I also dislike beaks. Did you buy a Super Tenere? I'd love a shaft, but with a mid capacity engine.
Yamaha really needs to bring the Tracer 700 to the US
If Honda could have placed a slipper assist clutch on the new CB500F/X, what is the "justifiable" reason for Yamaha ( I don't know about this Suzuki ) not to stick it on the new Tracer700 ?
And again - they have replaced the problematic start switch from the 7/9 series on the Tenere 700, so why is it still there on this Tracer 700 ??? A TC ist not so expensive concept. The 7 series Yamaha still do not have it ! A simply - STINGY policy from Yamaha. They would like to give the buyers as less as possible.
the height ... the height of the saddle .......missing info crucial for adventure bikes. Also, I do not feel the Yamaha a real adventure bike.
I've heard the Strom is soft in the suspension, and the 19 inch front makes it sluggish to turn in, but when I seen it in this video is seems to be doing just fine. Of course that rider is way more experienced than me, and I'm not really ever pushing the limits of a bike. I guess it's comforting to know that it's capable.
I wish the Tracer was available in the US.
Just sold my BMW R1200RT this week, realised my V-Strom 650 does exactly the same job using much less fuel and bulk. Ok maybe not with a passenger. Great for a few off road trails also, the RT wasnt!
I'm selling my BMW 1200 GSA. Bought a Versys 650. The 1200 is just too big and bulky. Thinking of going to a Vstrom 650 to get less vibes (the Versys has high frequ buzzing).
Don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Japanese motorcycle maker Yamaha does not sell Tracer 700 in Japan.
2 great bikes and would love to upgrade to either, if you could just get the modern looks of the yamaha with the driveabilty of the suzuki.. There has to be a new vstrom 650 in the near future so will be interesting to see if it will stand alone modern design or a baby version of the 1050
All the Tracers suffer from having foot pegs on rear sets leaving your feet tucked up behind your butt. This is plain daft for a bike that might be used for touring. WAKE UP YAMAHA.
Yamaha
Can anyone explain why I can’t buy this Yamaha here in JAPAN?
Vstrom is love, Vstrom is life!
I've got a "classic" that still gives the thrills. My 04 (and updated here and there) VStrom 1000 seems to be good for just about anything...after a few things have been finally dialed in. The prospect of *either* of these two is really enticing. The overall engine performance is probably pretty close, now, but losing a few pounds is always a good thing. They surely are more entertaining in the twisties.
You should put the prices & specs on the screen when you mention them.
I prefer a 90 degree v, just wish the big 4 or more would give US a hypersports version that's serious!
I guess it's the V-storm for me, to park along with my beloved Street twin…
I like the t7 for around town & probably a build, the v strom is more the swiss army knife of the 2,V strom is my pick👊🏽😎
Difficult to choose one among them however if Yamaha's wheel base should be increased by few inches will make it more relaxed touring bike for long rides.
It missed the Kasaki Versys 650 and Honda Nc750 for a complete vs video. In this comparision is a close one, the Yamaha looks and driver sportier, but the Vstrom is a reliable as you can get and is a perfect all rounder, plus I love that hybrid dash...analogue just looks sportier and nicer. I would go for the Vstrom ...
A V-twin sounds better and has more low rpm torque, but more vibration at higher rpm. I have 2 bikes- a V-twin for shorter trips at 60 mph or less, and an inline 4 for longer trips at 75 mph.
Superb review whilst I am looking at both these and new 800 strom thats toooooo heavy
As for as looks go, I defenitly prefer the Tracer. I just started riding and next spring I want to sell my recently purchased Honda NTV from 1992 and do some test riding. The Tracer is a good contender.
I prefer those with the 19 "front.
Yeah, It's a must have for me. 19" is goldilocks front.
Is the USB port on the Yamaha Tracer 700 2020 standard?
I've got the 2020 model and it's not fitted on mine, there is a hole for it just to the right of the dash but it is empty.
@@MADTASS thank you for your reply. In the meantime I received my 2020 Tracer and mine luckily is fitted with the USB port. I believe it was optional and not standard.
I prefer parallel twin now. I'd like a Tracer with the Strom wheels. It'd be nice if there was a compartment with USB plugs for electronic equipment.
What's the difference between the 650XT model and the 650 model of the Suzuki V-Strom. That's what I'm trying to find out on RUclips
the XT has spoked wheels, plastic handguards, a plastic engine protection and heavier bar ends, adding up to 3 kilos over the normal version.
How they compare to the Honda NC750?
The suggestion would be to add the values in kg or € in the screen
The Strom might be good, but it's so old. The engine, dash, styling. I'd definitely have the Yamaha.
VTECheart u must know...vstrom has proven for along time ago since 2004...so no major problem n complaining on Vstrom about quality and performance
Am I the only person that doesn’t like the 3 cylinder Yamaha engine? I had the MT-07 18’ but it didn’t for fill my wishes of a naked bike and sold it after only 1 year. Didn’t like the vibration from the engine and the lack of power after 6.000 rpm.
Yesterday I tried the 700 tracer and the 650 v-storm, I wanted too compare them and I wanted too see if I felt the same way about the Yamaha engine. To my disappointment it was exactly the way I remembered it. I like the looks and the finesse of the tracer. It looks modern, while the V-Strom looks outdated BUT if I was going too choose between the two of them, there would be no doubt in my mind I would go for the V-Strom. It was way quicker then expected also I 6. Gear going from 135 too 160 km/t and I felt connected too the bike before I went in 2. Gear for the first time. Your confidence in riding a bike rises through the sky’s like never before.
Only complain I have with both bikes was the wind protection. Both, on highest setting made so much turbulence that it make no sense having a windscreen And I came directly from my naked GSXS 750.
The mt07 does not have a 3 cylinder engine. You a re a confused amateur.
@@dogzero1 U are right, still don't like the engine.
I'd like to see you test Italy's 3rd best selling bike . The Benelli TRK502 against the Honda CB500X and the KTM 390 Adventure. Many cheap bikes are made in China India and Thailand, does that matter wrt reliability, build quality?
Tracer for me, as soon as I sat on the Vstrom I didn't like it. The dash didn't do it for me either, I like either analogue clocks or digital, not a mish mash of both. Both bikes are good, it just comes down to personal preference really.
I would buy the Yamaha on looks alone over the V-Strom
🤣🤣🤣 tipucal yamaha guys
Give us a real world comparison, this was more like a spec comparison that you oculd read.
Really like the style/design of the Tracer 7, but it lacks a simple thing like the TC. The Vstrom is a realiable bike and despite the dated looks, it's well equiped for the price range. Yamaha makes great bikes, but is too expensive for the base equipment it brings, at lesat for the midle range price bikes, imo!
We need tiger sport 660 vs tracer 700 2021 compared as soon as possible.
i like V-Strom because of that dashboard and appearance.
Where's the Versys? (I'd bet above)...