They do grow on you. I've had several over the yrs and now have a 1050XT. When you get down to it what more could you want? It's like a good dog. Always there waiting, ready to go. An old friend.
For me would be great to have cradle frame and 1.5 or 2 taller ground clearance and perhaps not more but want less technology like cable throttle and no IMU and I personally not need power mode and traction control
Great review sir. I can't wrap my head around why Suzuki on the 1050DE putted a tube on the front wheel and a tubeless on the rear wheel... However, this one is 100% tubeless and if you spend 99.9% of the time on the road, you can't beat the 19" front wheel 🙂
Easy solution... buy a DE demonstrator ,a few hundred miles on the clock,for under £10k, fit a 19" sealed rim, now tubeless, big has the right stance(DE sits front end high),best colour, and you can still go up tracks and shale roads? £130 a pop,and anything is tubeless!
Still breaking mine in, did a wee 300km today. The bike does everything that you need it to do. Hit a construction zone with gravel and a giant ridge back to the pavement. Bike handled it like a champ. My riding partner on her Indian bobber didn't fare so well. Cheers from Canada.
@jhguygih just upgraded the windshield to a Puig unit. Stock is decent but I'm getting older and need more wind protection. Can't wait to see how well it works. Seat and riding position ate perfect for me. You won't be sorry.
I own a 2014 V Strom 1000, it's my first Suzuki. I've owned a 2004 Yamaha FZ 6, 2013 Versys 650 and a 2005 BMW R1200 GS. Very satisfied with the V Strom quality, engine performance and dependability. Though the liter ADV category has a lot to offer, I have to say the V STROM is still a top contender for my next bike, when it's time to upgrade. Thanks for your review 👍🏾
Another great review, thank you although based on your Enfield twin review…. I like the practicality of the bike but less enjoying the look of it….. but as you say, and some of your followers say, I’m sure it would grow me…. There is an attraction for me in having a bike that I can get on and ride and not be worrying about pretty much anything other than making sure I’ve got enough meat on my tyres…. It really does seem to be an outstanding machine. Thank you again
I live quite close by and didn't realise Colin Appleyards still existed! There have been quite a few stores over the years, but I can't recall seeing one for quite a long time. Before I passed my bike test (14 years ago now!) I wanted a DL650, but since then, whenever sitting on a V-strom derived bike, I haven't felt like the quality was quite there. I would very much like to ride one though.
Completely agree with you in twins. v twins and parallel with 270 degree are amazing. I’ve recently got my self the super meteor and that engine is an absolute peach of a thing. Sadly I took a risk with the riding position on the super meteor being my first cruiser and it really doesn’t do it for me. Should of waited for the new interceptor with the cast wheels or gotten a second hand v storm 😂. Live and learn moment. Great videos mate, only recently stumbled on your channel and liking the content, ride safe
Cheers for the shout out pal. With better marketing in the early years it’d be even more popular than it is today. Sadly the Japanese seem not to promote their bikes unlike the Europeans. Mine was the AL2 650 (2012 “Glee Strom “ ) It was a loyal dependable servant which never missed a beat in the 6 years I owned it. The Suzuki Vstrom - Go and have a go on one down at Appleyards it you get the chance.
i will now use all my vast biking knowledge and come up with a very informative comment involving a lot of research and skill and say ----- nice colour ;;;;
Good afternoon sir, a great review of this underrated motorcycle. If only I was a lot taller I would love to test ride this bike at my local dealership but your review was very informative and a joy to watch. Great work and thanks 😊 👍 🙏 😀.
I am always drawn to the V-Strom even after I get a new bike. How is the wind protection on that model (as screen issues are among the most common comments on touring bikes). Enjoyable review!
I've got a 2015 V-Strom 1000. Had it for two years, and I'm now a V-Strom fan. Been extremely pleased with it. There is currently no other adventure bikes I'd like to swap it for than this 2023 (non-de) model. I really like the looks of the fully equiped DE (in blue-white) - but for road purposes this one is better.
Hello again, Dave. As you are by now probably all too aware, this class of bike is not my cup of tea. You have, however, conveyed fair and reasonable opinions as to why such machines are so popular. They are without doubt the complete package for those who's prerequisite is versatility..... in abundance. Still adamant though, that if one is serious about touring great distances and in all weather conditions, particularly, dusty, off-road scenarios, shaft drive is the way to go. This bike, especially in DE form, would then be perfect for those folk who's preferences are for such machines. 👍
Thank you Mark yes shaft has advantages but downside can be weight and torque drain. Sadly all the shaft drive adv bikes are the 1200cc plus monsters with exception of the Moto Guzzi 85 TT
Cruise control and tubeless tyres will be the clincher for many folk. Must say that it would look great with colour matched luggage. On the other hand, the 800DE's suspension would make it my choice.
I adore ‘Stroms; bought three new and cumulatively rode them well over 230 000 trouble free kilometers. Still have one with 77k that runs better than new. And, therein lies the problem. Coming off the production line, the new bikes (likely including the new DE800) are better. The Wee ‘Strom may still appeal to one’s sense of frugality, but the Big Guy is too expensive, too long in the tooth, and simply can’t compete in the marketplace. With full respect - RIP.
They do grow on you. I've had several over the yrs and now have a 1050XT. When you get down to it what more could you want? It's like a good dog. Always there waiting, ready to go. An old friend.
Very true and I’m so tempted 👍🏻
For me would be great to have cradle frame and 1.5 or 2 taller ground clearance and perhaps not more but want less technology like cable throttle and no IMU and I personally not need power mode and traction control
@@hafthohlladung1208in others words, you want a DR650… not a Vstrom 😉
Great review sir. I can't wrap my head around why Suzuki on the 1050DE putted a tube on the front wheel and a tubeless on the rear wheel... However, this one is 100% tubeless and if you spend 99.9% of the time on the road, you can't beat the 19" front wheel 🙂
Agreed. That's why I chose the alloy option on my vstrom. Plus you get a better choice tires when it comes time to change them.
Easy solution... buy a DE demonstrator ,a few hundred miles on the clock,for under £10k, fit a 19" sealed rim, now tubeless, big has the right stance(DE sits front end high),best colour, and you can still go up tracks and shale roads? £130 a pop,and anything is tubeless!
Do you have a link you could share for the suggested tubeless rim? Also, wouldn't that change drastically the geometry of the bike?@@williamrae9954
Well done mate. Such an underrated bike. I have a black one coming soon 🙂
Great Chris you lucky person….I want one myself
Still breaking mine in, did a wee 300km today. The bike does everything that you need it to do. Hit a construction zone with gravel and a giant ridge back to the pavement. Bike handled it like a champ. My riding partner on her Indian bobber didn't fare so well. Cheers from Canada.
Yes, construction season here! Hope your partner and her bike are good!?
I'm planning to trade in my bonneville t100 in a vstrom. Not finding the bonneville good for long distance at the mountains
@jhguygih just upgraded the windshield to a Puig unit. Stock is decent but I'm getting older and need more wind protection. Can't wait to see how well it works. Seat and riding position ate perfect for me. You won't be sorry.
I own a 2014 V Strom 1000, it's my first Suzuki. I've owned a 2004 Yamaha FZ 6, 2013 Versys 650 and a 2005 BMW R1200 GS. Very satisfied with the V Strom quality, engine performance and dependability. Though the liter ADV category has a lot to offer, I have to say the V STROM is still a top contender for my next bike, when it's time to upgrade. Thanks for your review 👍🏾
Thank you they’re a great bike, practical, fast and reliable
Ive had my 1050XT for a year. Done 9000km and its a great bike. Tasteful SWMotech mods can be added and no need for a sport tourer when setup.
Yeah we dont lose our license here across the lake , we just pay a fine and go about our day. Its just nice to have the choice 😊
How did it compare to your crosstourer.
Good Morning Dave another cracking review on the Suzuki Vstrom , thank you for sharing your thoughts on this bike , take care & ride safe
Thank you Steve….I do love the VStroms 😁
Another great review, thank you although based on your Enfield twin review…. I like the practicality of the bike but less enjoying the look of it….. but as you say, and some of your followers say, I’m sure it would grow me…. There is an attraction for me in having a bike that I can get on and ride and not be worrying about pretty much anything other than making sure I’ve got enough meat on my tyres…. It really does seem to be an outstanding machine. Thank you again
I live quite close by and didn't realise Colin Appleyards still existed! There have been quite a few stores over the years, but I can't recall seeing one for quite a long time. Before I passed my bike test (14 years ago now!) I wanted a DL650, but since then, whenever sitting on a V-strom derived bike, I haven't felt like the quality was quite there. I would very much like to ride one though.
Really enjoyed this down to earth review, I knew I'd get that from a northerner!
I think you've hit the nail on head... what more do you want!
Yorkshire rationale…..all meat and no gravy 😂
Spot on review - It has helped me make my mind up to get one - Thanks
Cheers Phillip glad to be of help 😁
Completely agree with you in twins. v twins and parallel with 270 degree are amazing. I’ve recently got my self the super meteor and that engine is an absolute peach of a thing. Sadly I took a risk with the riding position on the super meteor being my first cruiser and it really doesn’t do it for me. Should of waited for the new interceptor with the cast wheels or gotten a second hand v storm 😂. Live and learn moment.
Great videos mate, only recently stumbled on your channel and liking the content, ride safe
Many thanks for those kind words very much appreciated
Cheers for the shout out pal. With better marketing in the early years it’d be even more popular than it is today. Sadly the Japanese seem not to promote their bikes unlike the Europeans. Mine was the AL2 650 (2012 “Glee Strom “ ) It was a loyal dependable servant which never missed a beat in the 6 years I owned it. The Suzuki Vstrom - Go and have a go on one down at Appleyards it you get the chance.
You’re welcome pal…if I could only have one bike it’d be one of the DEs (800 or 1050)…..I’d better stop thinking about it though 😂
Okay, you win. I just didn't wait!
lovely review
Great review! This will be my next bike!! 😊
Thank you 😎👍🏻
Y la mía también suerte y bendiciones
i will now use all my vast biking knowledge and come up with a very informative comment involving a lot of research and skill and say ----- nice colour ;;;;
😂
Good afternoon sir, a great review of this underrated motorcycle. If only I was a lot taller I would love to test ride this bike at my local dealership but your review was very informative and a joy to watch. Great work and thanks 😊 👍 🙏 😀.
Thank you Gary that is really appreciated
I bet they do a yellow and blue one, which I'd prefer. Never ridden a V-Strom 1000/1050 but always been an admirer. 13:21 It looks really good.
Yellow and blue rules 😀
I am always drawn to the V-Strom even after I get a new bike. How is the wind protection on that model (as screen issues are among the most common comments on touring bikes). Enjoyable review!
Cheer’s wind protection just fine for me 👍🏻
I've got a 2015 V-Strom 1000. Had it for two years, and I'm now a V-Strom fan. Been extremely pleased with it. There is currently no other adventure bikes I'd like to swap it for than this 2023 (non-de) model. I really like the looks of the fully equiped DE (in blue-white) - but for road purposes this one is better.
They are a great bike better than a GS all day long
I'm new to your channel and would like to know your height and inseam.
It’s in every review video 👍🏻
Hello again, Dave. As you are by now probably all too aware, this class of bike is not my cup of tea. You have, however, conveyed fair and reasonable opinions as to why such machines are so popular. They are without doubt the complete package for those who's prerequisite is versatility..... in abundance.
Still adamant though, that if one is serious about touring great distances and in all weather conditions, particularly, dusty, off-road scenarios, shaft drive is the way to go. This bike, especially in DE form, would then be perfect for those folk who's preferences are for such machines. 👍
Thank you Mark yes shaft has advantages but downside can be weight and torque drain. Sadly all the shaft drive adv bikes are the 1200cc plus monsters with exception of the Moto Guzzi 85 TT
That's why I'm thoroughly enjoying the VFR1200X :)
The only ADV bike that is practical.
Cruise control and tubeless tyres will be the clincher for many folk. Must say that it would look great with colour matched luggage.
On the other hand, the 800DE's suspension would make it my choice.
Yes DE for me too and shame about cruise
I heard a rumor that Suzuki may come with a 800 with a 19" front wheel for 2024. Let's cross fingers!
@@swissteam777 That's what I've heard, cast wheels and tubeless. Cruise control would be more suited to a road bike - we can only dream.
It comes in red!?!?
It does 😀
Balancer shafts?..dont think so, check out the Suzuki bumps, the 1050 dosent have a balancer shaft & I dont think the 650 has one either
I adore ‘Stroms; bought three new and cumulatively rode them well over 230 000 trouble free kilometers. Still have one with 77k that runs better than new. And, therein lies the problem. Coming off the production line, the new bikes (likely including the new DE800) are better. The Wee ‘Strom may still appeal to one’s sense of frugality, but the Big Guy is too expensive, too long in the tooth, and simply can’t compete in the marketplace. With full respect - RIP.
I think the 800 is the future 😎👍🏻