I'm so confused by what is going on in both the bike and car market at the moment. People are spending more and more money to buy vehicles which are jam packed with things that they not only don't need, but also a lot of the time probably don't even want, and they only get it because other people have. I like the base model v strom 1050 or even the 650 because they're just good, simple, honest bikes.
I like the change of format, where you jump in and out of showing individual features. Breaks everything up nicely and keeps it interesting. Must be more work to edit, but works really well. 👍
Thanks for that feedback Andy - I like it I must say although it is a lot more of a pain to film and edit - requires a bit more thought and planning but I’ll probably try and stick with it when I can….
Done 9000 miles on my 1050XT and owned for 20 months. I came from a GSA and tiger 800 and have to say this is my favourite by far. The engine is an absolute peach and can really wind it on when you want.
I really like this new format with the ride and walk around being alternating. Really pleasant to watch :). Your quality of video keeps getting higher and higher with the years.
My friends’ neighbours have the 650’s, husband and wife. They regularly go from Vancouver (island) across Canada and south down to Mexico. They love them and as these a long trips, thousands of miles, says a lot for the bikes.
Yep, I’ve got a few bikes but the Wee ‘Strom is the one I rode solo from Prince Edward Island to El Salvador, including a few weeks travel in remote parts of Mexico. Also, on another run, the Wee circumnavigated Baja, mostly off road. A month ago, I took a Wee around the Trans-Labrador Highway - perfectly adequate performance. I know it’s a matter of opinion but, for me, a fully farkled Wee outshines the Big ‘Strom in almost every way.
@@UncleWally3 sounds like some great trips. Another thing for going to a 650cc, at least here in BC, is insurance costs. ICBC are expensive, as you may know. I’m looking forward to trying out the new Tiger 660, could just be the ideal bike for me.
I am almost 50, started learning to ride 12 months ago and my first bike is a 1050xt. Your ‘first ride review’ I believe is spot on. It is not a BMW or a triumph nor is it the best looking bike. Also a bit of a handful for a new rider like me. It is, however, a good all rounder with a nice engine and good value for money. The balance of your initial XT review, for me, validates all the other reviews and videos of yours I have watched over the last 12 months of having been into biking. Well done.
Just got mine 2 weeks ago, have done 1000km.. am loving in and am just 5f5in.. no problem at all.. all good cruising around and busy road handle well during low ref. No regret despite my initial plan to get on GS
My daily commuter and I absolutely love it! Added Givi panniers and Denali running lights, now have 30,000 miles done with no issues. Air filter changes are a bit of a job though.
I’ve clocked around 30k on the 18 model (1000), good honest bikes, reliable and in comparison to this model it feels a bit more torquey lower down the range. They’re good budget tourers that get the job done without being flashy - reliability is probably their top strength but I can’t help feeling the competition have caught up and passed Suzuki and it’s high time we saw something new in this sector from them.
Loved this new edited format, and what a great bike. Already looking forward to hearing more in a few weeks time. The waistcoat airbag and Oxford jacket look like a must have, top quality products at affordable prices.
G'day Andy. I currently have the 2014 model (from new), with 98k kms on the clock. Great for touring as it is utterly reliable and comfortable. I have covererd a lot of different types of road surfaces and it handles them all very well. Cannot fault the big Vee so it is a keeper. The Vee will soon be sharing the garage with a new '21 Speed Twin. Life is pretty good. Great reviews as per usual brother. Stay safe
I don't think I could bring myself to twirl around, alone in front of a camera, in a public parking lot. I'm glad someone does it though. Thanks for all the reviews.
I bought the XT tour myself about 3 months ago. I'm 6'2" and found the screen a bit too narrow, and made for noisy airflow more on the side of my helmet (top was OK). Changed for a Puig touring screen (which is slightly taller, but more importantly wider) and problem solved. Cruise control is only enabled with the right hand button, then you set the cruise speed with the left "set" control. Neutral is also very easy to find. So much so, that it is easy to pop it in neutral when accelerating away and changing between 1st and 2nd, or is that just me not being positive enough. I found the real world mpg around 50 and that's with 3000 miles done, but that has been done mainly on winding A roads, as when touring I avoid the motorways. So that might be a little on the low side. Otherwise very happy with the bike, and the aluminium panniers are great too.
Took one for test ride today and the screen was the only thing I could find that was a fault ,good info on the Puig touring screen first thing to order cheers.
Great review as always Andy. Two months’ ago I traded in my 2019 V-Strom 1000 for a new 1050XT in black (I think it looks much better than the colour you’ve been given here). I’m in the fortunate position where I can afford pretty much any motorcycle on the market, so I road tested a 1250 GS as well. IMO the only area where the GS really excelled over the V-Strom was the suspension (telelever front @ electronic rear) and the clarity of the dash (until someone steals it!). The big problem with the GS is that it’s impossible to buy a standard version unless you place a factory order & wait about 6 months. My nearest dealer had plenty of TE models in stock but all had other extras and were at least £19K. The GS sat nav prep would also be useless for me as I have my iPhone on the V-Strom cross bar as you pointed out. So I would end up paying for things I don’t want/need. Also, my Suzuki dealer offered me £700 more for my trade in and was more interested in keeping me as a customer than the BMW dealer was of gaining a new customer.I also really dislike the sound of the 1250GS boxer engine and as you mentioned in the video, the V twin in this Suzuki sounds brilliant. Suzuki have somehow made the Euro 5 version sound better than my previous Euro 4. I also get about 5 mpg more out of the new 1050 and find the engine smoother & more responsive than the previous model. I’m really happy with the upgrade. Other good points; LED headlight is miles better than the old halogen unit, cruise control works easily (after starting the engine just activate on the right switch before pulling away, then just one tap of your left thumb on the down arrow sets it), there’s a programmable change up light (really bright white LED at top of dash) & adjustable seat height. I’ve been all over Wales on my new 1050 XT since I bought it and I love it. My only complaint is the heated grips were a dealer fit option - surely all adventure or touring bikes sold in the UK should have them as standard.
Love the way you edited this video, I like the in out way of looking at the features. I also love that your not claiming to be a professional rider or journalist and makes it more relatable. I'm looking at one of these for a every day rider. Cheers
Thanks Andy, appreciate the feedback - had a few say they don’t like this format but generally the comments have been positive….all the best and thanks for watching….
Yes and no. I owned the 2016 model for 5 years and nearly 30k. It’s much better value for sure, and basically half the price of the GSA. Reliability likely better too. However… The GS, especially the 1250 really is a much better bike.
@@IanTed certainly I have never ridden a GS either, unfortunately the GS will most likely be forever out of my reach! Where I live a new base model GS is nearly double the price of this Suzuki!
@@MoroMagrew if you really want a GS you can get it.. it’s just a matter of making clear, for yourself, what are your, priorities where you spend your money. I have the 750, and she just delivers. For the money I could get another bike more powerful, but the building quality and all the tech she’s got..it’s a great bike. Now is working and saving, for when the 3 years warranty go, get a big GS or GSA
True. But it’s just another bike on the road. Ok you can say the same about the GS, but just like MF says “riding a bike it’s, also how she makes you feel..”, and for me this one doesn’t cut it. Is ugly AF, and I look to it, and nothing moves me to get one. I rather ride my 750gs than a this 1000cc Suzuki
Good, solid, comfy, long-term partner that will never let you down. One of my bikes is an old VStrom 1K and I just can't give it up! When I need something that I can really count on, and will spend several hours on it, it's the pick. Many owners have more than 200K miles on them (one just reported ~300K miles!) with no major problems.
Agree with previous comments, love the new style of format, top marks. I have over 6 weeks to catch up as internet was sketchy in France, but I look forward to seeing what you have been up to. Love this bike, one of my mates has one. Well done, great review
I loved the 650cc v-Storm. It’s on my list for a new bike, should I win the lottery. I always sit on my bike when moving it around; much more control and much safer. Suzuki’s last forever. Easy to use do it all bike.
Great review as always. Just got my self a 650, after thirty years out of the saddle. And loving the wee, definitely got my eye on up grading to the 1050 in the future. Fantastic bikes for the price ,just can’t go wrong with them.
Excellent review as always. Your camera angles are very good and so is the audio. Keep them comming brother. I bought my 1050xt in red and white. Vstrom is a work horse, wouldn't change it for any other ADV motorbike.
I've had the 650 2005and 1000 2003 and found them great . Didn't care about the looks just good comfortable capable bikes. Peace and love brother 👍🏻☮♥️
Love the 1050. Re cruise control, you do turn it on with your right, but then you set it with your left. So you don’t set it with the throttle hand :) Another great review!
Wicked Suzuki motorbike. Love the new side view camera angle when you riding, looks cool. Brilliant jacket, I thinking that would be great when out and about on my mountain bike. That’s nears I got to two wheels.
Great review. This is bike which I've never paid a lot of attention to in the past, but I may have missed something, as it looks like a very good bike and excellent value for money. Being old enough to remember the DR 800 (Dr Big) models from the early 90's, I actually quite like the looks as well.
I appreciate the review of the new V-Strom 1050 and as we typically have similar thoughts on bikes I was curious to see what you thought. I agree on the cheap LCD display and hard seat but don't agree the riding position is as sporty as you noticed. When I think of a sporty position I think of the BMR R1250RT which is not only sporty (read cramped) but the boxer engine makes placing your feet forward nigh impossible. I'd like a dedicated road touring bike but the RT won't work and the Goldwing is just a bit too expensive. And while you may not like the right hand activation button for the cruise control, remember that is only to activate the cruise control. To actually set or adjust speed you use the left hand as you prefer. I had to install the Suzuki heated grips on my bike but they work well even if the install took a few hours. Fuel range looks to be about 250 miles which is about the same as my 2018 GS. Powerwise I think the V-Strom 1050 is very strong. It is not as powerful as the 2018 R1200GS I sold to buy the V-Strom. And yes you read that right I sold a GS to buy the V-Strom. My 2018 R1200GS had spokes on the rear wheel loosen while touring Europe; twice. By the time I returned to Washington State (NW of the US, not our miserable political capitol) a spoke was missing and there was a centimeter of free play in the wheel. At this time I had about 6,000 miles on the odometer and the camshafts had worn out. I had to fight several dealers to get them to pull a valve cover on the GS to discover this somewhat common problem. If you go to my page (I am not trying to get hits ) you can click on sound files of before and after to hear what I am referring to. The GS has since been repaired but I just did not trust it on any more long distance trips. Before repair: ruclips.net/video/SeELzPcZjLE/видео.html So while I also agree it is a budget ADV bike (but as capable on gravel or unimproved roads as any other) I suspect mine will be much more reliable than the GS I sold. Ironically, the US market is super hot for used bikes and sold the GS for enough money to buy the V-Strom outright and outfit it with a full luggage suite. Looks are subjective but I bet if you could have landed one with the North American Color Scheme of Glass Blaze Orange you would like the appearance much more. suzukicycles.com/adventure/2020/v-strom-1050xt www.rk-productions.net/Assets/Photos/bikes/2020%20V%20Strom%20New%20Bike%20Day/PendOrielleRide/IMG_7148%20(1).jpg Either way, I enjoy your reports and hope you have at least a more positive than negative final opinion on the V-Strom 1050. If not, I totally get it and recognize that we all don't like the same bike. Ride safe and looking forward to your thoughts on the Multistrada V4S . . . soon I hope.
I’ve got a 2015 1000, I keep talking about a new bike but just can’t come up with a better do it all. All my riding mates are on naked bikes, and the Vstrom never gets left behind. On the occasional dirt road….they don’t see where it went! They are a conservative machine and apparently boring, but gee they can just do anything. Looks like another 6 years for it in my garage!! And that engine…I love it.
Bought mine three months ago and we haven’t been able to get away for a tour as yet so just day tripping so far and we’ve been very pleased, I have found that she rides really nicely with my wife on the back. Really good low speed handling loves the back roads and so far my only gripe is the placement of the foot pegs when I go to put put my feet down they tend to get in the way, more of an issue as you get tired.
Hi Marc. The panniers on the Strom appear to be higher than the seat when fitted, has this caused any comfort or access issues for your wife when pillion? Cheers Graham
@@grayjohn1906 Hi John my wife likes the layout she says it feels very secure with the panniers sitting slightly high. When boarding we use the pillion first approach and so far no problems.
@@TheMissendenFlyer to be fair there is stuff accounting for that extra weight that some people would put on anyway, like the engine protectors (sorry, accessory bars :) ), center stand and so on.
Have been riding on of these for 5 months, approx 10,000 KM. This is my only bike. Old people here seems to love this bike. They always check it out hhahah City commute - very stable, good weather protection. Engine wont boil your balls in summer and the fairing of saves your balls from freezing cold and rain. Handle bars are at SUV mirror height, so, it is kind of good to filter if your city doesnt have many SUVs Touring - Is very good if you take pillion and luggage. One person touring, feels like it has little bit more power than what I need. I am a 5'8 70Kg guy. This thing doesnt even notice me if I am on top of it and pulls like a train Extremely good in the twisties - much much much better than what you would expect it to be if you put 100% road tyres Off road - if you change tyres, it can do gravel, not the technical stuff I dont like the engine sound at lower rpm tho :( after 7000 rpm, is nice, before that no... I think its a wise choice for a do it all bike. I want to get an R6 or GSXR 600 as a second bike for solo rides on the mountain roads
Really good intro review TMF...looking forward to your two week review. I think the bike looks pretty good, there are some real odd ball lookers in the category, this isn't one of those - handsome rather than pretty !
I got one as a loan bike when my Katana was in for a service. First 10 or so miles I didn’t like it, 175 miles later I was totally sold. Not the grunt of the Kat but still really comfortable and fun to ride. I would happily own one as a second bike
Nicely done TMF, I think the bike looks great in the blue and grey. The whole tech thing grates on me. Surely riding a bike is about getting away from the everyday life behind a computer screen and IT issues. Look forward to the long term review.
Very nice quality review. Loving the cut away scenes from riding to the specific feature your talking about in more detail. As for the bike, seems decent & typically Suzuki in that it's a good honest bike at a good price but maybe a bit unremarkable?
@@TheMissendenFlyer Yes, I can imagine it's a pain with editing etc but for me it gives it a classy quality feel. It's this sort of effort & attention to detail etc which elevates your channel imo. Keep up the good work TMF.
Absolutely love the DR BIG retro styling. Would love to hear a comparison to the Guzzi V85TT as an addition to the end of your in-depth review Mr Flyer👍. Which is more comfy, which is more "special" ... Is an event to take out, character, makes you feel good, even at 30mph, which is best at what as a multi functional motorcycles🤔
I had the pleasure of taking a V-Strom 1050 XT on a 2,000 mile road test across Europe to ride the B500. Cracking bike. I even ended up hiding from a down pour under the trees with a German guy on a GS.
Thanks for another great real-world review. When I bought the GS I considered this one as well. My arthritic left hand needs a quick shifter or DCT so I had to discard this otherwise-nice bike.
Had a GS 1150 (one owner low miler),dreadful bike ,was appalled by it's build quality yet the BMs i had in the 70's and 80's were much better built? Made me appreciate the Suzook much more!!
Some clarification: Weight fully fueld of the XT-Modell is 248 kg. Supension is at any model adjustable as described in the video. Traction control is not lean sensitive at the XT, but the brakes are linked and load sensitive. Difference in spec between normal version and XT is an adjustable wind screen, hand guards, crash bars, adjustable seat hight, spoked wheels, cruise control, lean sensitive ABS, LED indicators. If you are into this stuff, get the XT. As someone who owns a yellow one for 3000 km I got a grin on my face as you said: "It is not a very exciting bike." True, but it works and this big sport enduro tourer will grow on you. Because it just works on tour, on a spirited ride and on your comute. Weight is only an issue if you go offroad or you have to lugg it around.
Great review as always thanks Andy, haven't really got into the adventure bike scene as have no intention of off roading, and as such Suzuki other new offering the GSXS1000GT really would interest me. Just back from a wonderful week touring Cornwall on the Ducati Supersport which was fantastic and made light of the 400 mile journey each way. Cheers TMF.
Glad you finally reviewed the 1050XT. I just replaced my 2019 650XT with a new 2020 1050XT (orange and white) and love it. Added a Corbin seat to it, Givi V35 side cases, top box and the heated grips. Looking forward to many trips on it.
@@pnfctg12 I’ve had a 1050XT for two months and done 2000 miles, current average is 59 mpg (UK). On a gentle ride while running it in I got 66 mpg. It’s actually more economical than my 2019 V-Strom 1000 I had before it.
@@davidbrowning6777 Thanks David, much appreciated. Being a recent release, the 1050 has sparse real world performance stats ... so such information is very helpful for those considering this machine. I get 53 mpg (US) on my versys 650, so, 59/66 mpg (imperial) are pretty impressive numbers for the 1050 !
One year in and 5000 miles and big Scottish trips under its belt...no issues at all good at everything great value and not to complicated tec wise...recommend a Fuel exhaust soooooonds lovely....
A small point, but personally I love this style of the review with the walk around cut up and mixed in with the on-bike footage. Really well put together, informative and helpful.
Fabulous review as always - I do like this bike however Honda are about to unveil the NT 1100 which I understand is more of a sports tourer in looks and of course Suzuki have the new GSXS 1000 GT Having owned a couple of Suzuki's I can bear testimont to the reliability of the brand so it wll be a tough decision what to go for next.
I have the XT in Marlboro colours, and love the bike. Yup, easy to manoeuvre around, very quick but not stupidly fast, 55mpg most of the time, insurance fine, amazingly stable at motorway speeds compared to many previous bikes I had. Have to be in 4th gear at least for cruise (would like to be able to use in 3rd for the 30mph areas) but use it all of the time, display is OK, readable in bright sunlight, but I still think Kawasaki have the best one (see Z1000SX). Suspension is pretty good, I prefer comfort over sport. Seat is fine for longer trips as long as you slide back in it, if you sit forward then it tends to be a bit hard. Screen is a bit too small, I'll change to either the Puig or the Givi Airflow one day - but I don't want to bust the looks of the bike, so am putting that off for the moment ! Had the 650 before this, that was also a brilliant bike, 70+mpg, half the insurance, a bit lower so easier to manage - I just liked the get-up-and-go of the 1050. Dealer is brilliant. Happy guy :-)
I think this may be my next bike, I actually like the look of the updated 1050 over the 1000! I don’t love the dash, I wish they kept the analog tach with the smaller digital speedo, like the 650 still has, or like the Versys 1000, that dash is pretty slick. Thanks for another great video.
The 1050XT is a really good bike but i think the 1000XT was the better package and the better deal. The 1050XT got features that are nice but not really necessary for a much higher price. It also is heavier and the display is new but hard to read. I also liked the low down torque of the older model more. But it still is a good bike. I prefer the yellow one!
Nice colour scheme and, erm, erm...sorry Andy, can't work up any enthusiasm for this one. Good review though as usual, and i like the useful fashion section at the end.
Good review TMF. A mate of mine has the previous generation (2018 1,000cc) model and loves it. I really like the slightly (but not excessively so) retro graphics. Particularly the red and white version. But looks aside, it appears to be a great bike at a reasonable price, too.
Great review from TMF, like always. Cannot say anything against. Anyway Suzukis are forever bikes, not trendy and hi-tech, but this model seems to be the opposite, except for the dash. :)
Seriously considered one of these, but went for the Crosstourer in the end. Main factors for me where shaft drive on the Honda, the quality of build is a notch above Suzuki. But, for the money can’t really argue against the v-strom, fantastic bit of kit. 👍👍
@@TheMissendenFlyer Very… it’s c300kg fully fuelled and it feels like it’s all on the top. Very top heavy feel to it and it’s a burden off road. Driveline shunt isn’t too great on it either. Yes, I have dropped it, purely because of the top-heaviness. I’ve had GS’s as well and it’s chalk and cheese. Fully fully loaded GS with tents, panniers and box etc feels ‘lighter’ than the Crosstourer does with 1/2 tank of fuel. V4 vs Flat twin I guess… 👍👍
Fantastic bike for a long term loan! Looking forward to the in depth review! As for the looks, subjective as they are, in my opinion the vstrom 1050 and 250 are two of my favourite looking adventure style bikes, certainly favourite looking Suzuki bikes! The 650 not so much, just not as characterful or sharp compared to the others, maybe it’s just more out of date and it shows what my opinion of he 250 and 1050 will be in a few years…
@@chrishart8548 I think you’re onto a winner with that formula! Hopefully the 650 is suitably updated soon! That middle section is super competitive with some great bikes, just got more so with the new Triumph 660 Tiger!
I've found most Suzuki are designed for shorter legs and long arms. Not to keen on the design personally but overall the vstrom seems like a good do it all bike for most riders. Not sure why they've styled it like an adventure bike when it has zero pretence of being an offroad bike. Guess that bike in the Suzuki range has been occupied by the new gsx GT.
While I agree with most of the comments here, as a Vstrom (650XT) owner I'm bound to make a few points. I fully agree with the "does it float your boat approach" to buying a bike, they are toys after all, but if people insist on applying logic to the process then here's my 2c worth... First, if you buy a bike like this, it's going to be more about where you go on it, rather than what it looks like while you are doing it. Second, I don't know of any Vstrom owner that doesn't love the bike after owning it for 20,000kms or more. Third, if you look at second hand ones, you will find the average miles/kms per owner will be higher than for a lot of other bikes, there's a reason for that, these bikes get ridden, not many vstrom garage queens. Fourth they are indeed great touring bikes, all day comfortable (including pillion) economical and most of all quiet. That big muffler might neuter the sound a bit but if you are on it 8 hours a day, that's a real blessing. Fifth, fit a chain oiler and I would argue that this is far less maintenance than a shaft drive. I have a high mileage 1200GS as well and I much prefer refilling the chain oiler on the XT every 1000kms or so than pulling the final drive apart every 15,000kms to make sure its still properly greased. But I do have to confess that when I head out for a ride, its usually on the GS..and certainly for longer distance road touring. Its got cruise control which my 650 doesnt and thats a major on a long day. I don't know what people in England consider to be "off road" but I wouldn't take either of them properly off road. They are both equally comfortable on a gravel road and we have some pretty rugged gravel roads here in NZ. Where do you ride off road in the UK anyway??? Green lanes?
@@TheMissendenFlyer you're welcome Andy. I enjoy your channel very much, its very honest. I agree with you that there are very few bad bikes. Looking forward to your next electric bike review.
I'm so confused by what is going on in both the bike and car market at the moment. People are spending more and more money to buy vehicles which are jam packed with things that they not only don't need, but also a lot of the time probably don't even want, and they only get it because other people have.
I like the base model v strom 1050 or even the 650 because they're just good, simple, honest bikes.
I like the change of format, where you jump in and out of showing individual features. Breaks everything up nicely and keeps it interesting. Must be more work to edit, but works really well. 👍
Thanks for that feedback Andy - I like it I must say although it is a lot more of a pain to film and edit - requires a bit more thought and planning but I’ll probably try and stick with it when I can….
Done 9000 miles on my 1050XT and owned for 20 months.
I came from a GSA and tiger 800 and have to say this is my favourite by far.
The engine is an absolute peach and can really wind it on when you want.
Good feedback - thanks for that Greg!
I really like this new format with the ride and walk around being alternating. Really pleasant to watch :). Your quality of video keeps getting higher and higher with the years.
Thank you! Glad you like it!
My friends’ neighbours have the 650’s, husband and wife. They regularly go from Vancouver (island) across Canada and south down to Mexico. They love them and as these a long trips, thousands of miles, says a lot for the bikes.
Indeed it does!
I took my 650 22,000 km camping across Canada and the US over 40 days in 2018. It carried me and all my stuff with aplomb and never missed a beat.
Yep, I’ve got a few bikes but the Wee ‘Strom is the one I rode solo from Prince Edward Island to El Salvador, including a few weeks travel in remote parts of Mexico. Also, on another run, the Wee circumnavigated Baja, mostly off road. A month ago, I took a Wee around the Trans-Labrador Highway - perfectly adequate performance. I know it’s a matter of opinion but, for me, a fully farkled Wee outshines the Big ‘Strom in almost every way.
@@UncleWally3 sounds like some great trips. Another thing for going to a 650cc, at least here in BC, is insurance costs. ICBC are expensive, as you may know. I’m looking forward to trying out the new Tiger 660, could just be the ideal bike for me.
I am almost 50, started learning to ride 12 months ago and my first bike is a 1050xt. Your ‘first ride review’ I believe is spot on. It is not a BMW or a triumph nor is it the best looking bike. Also a bit of a handful for a new rider like me. It is, however, a good all rounder with a nice engine and good value for money. The balance of your initial XT review, for me, validates all the other reviews and videos of yours I have watched over the last 12 months of having been into biking. Well done.
Thank you and welcome to biking!
Just got mine 2 weeks ago, have done 1000km.. am loving in and am just 5f5in.. no problem at all.. all good cruising around and busy road handle well during low ref. No regret despite my initial plan to get on GS
Congratulations!
My daily commuter and I absolutely love it! Added Givi panniers and Denali running lights, now have 30,000 miles done with no issues. Air filter changes are a bit of a job though.
I’ve clocked around 30k on the 18 model (1000), good honest bikes, reliable and in comparison to this model it feels a bit more torquey lower down the range. They’re good budget tourers that get the job done without being flashy - reliability is probably their top strength but I can’t help feeling the competition have caught up and passed Suzuki and it’s high time we saw something new in this sector from them.
Same bike myself and agree with yr comments
The new GT maybe?
@@TheMissendenFlyer sans the body posture the new GT would be a better option for most people.
@@TheMissendenFlyer Certainly looks better VFM to me.
When you almost meet your namesake...
Very underrated.
Rode 40000 on a 650 all over Europe and loved it. She loved it on the back too.
Everything you need. More really.
Happy travels 👍
Loved this new edited format, and what a great bike. Already looking forward to hearing more in a few weeks time. The waistcoat airbag and Oxford jacket look like a must have, top quality products at affordable prices.
Cheers Sam more to come soon!
The 1050 V Storm has always struck as a very sensible bike. It’s not flashy, but it is super practical
Couldn’t agree more!
G'day Andy. I currently have the 2014 model (from new), with 98k kms on the clock. Great for touring as it is utterly reliable and comfortable. I have covererd a lot of different types of road surfaces and it handles them all very well. Cannot fault the big Vee so it is a keeper. The Vee will soon be sharing the garage with a new '21 Speed Twin. Life is pretty good. Great reviews as per usual brother. Stay safe
Cheers Andrew - thanks for watching!
I don't think I could bring myself to twirl around, alone in front of a camera, in a public parking lot. I'm glad someone does it though. Thanks for all the reviews.
I’m sure worse things happen in public parking lots!
😂
Agreed, the negative LCD display needs updating asap.
I bought the XT tour myself about 3 months ago. I'm 6'2" and found the screen a bit too narrow, and made for noisy airflow more on the side of my helmet (top was OK). Changed for a Puig touring screen (which is slightly taller, but more importantly wider) and problem solved. Cruise control is only enabled with the right hand button, then you set the cruise speed with the left "set" control.
Neutral is also very easy to find. So much so, that it is easy to pop it in neutral when accelerating away and changing between 1st and 2nd, or is that just me not being positive enough.
I found the real world mpg around 50 and that's with 3000 miles done, but that has been done mainly on winding A roads, as when touring I avoid the motorways. So that might be a little on the low side.
Otherwise very happy with the bike, and the aluminium panniers are great too.
Took one for test ride today and the screen was the only thing I could find that was a fault ,good info on the Puig touring screen first thing to order cheers.
Great review as always Andy. Two months’ ago I traded in my 2019 V-Strom 1000 for a new 1050XT in black (I think it looks much better than the colour you’ve been given here). I’m in the fortunate position where I can afford pretty much any motorcycle on the market, so I road tested a 1250 GS as well. IMO the only area where the GS really excelled over the V-Strom was the suspension (telelever front @ electronic rear) and the clarity of the dash (until someone steals it!). The big problem with the GS is that it’s impossible to buy a standard version unless you place a factory order & wait about 6 months. My nearest dealer had plenty of TE models in stock but all had other extras and were at least £19K. The GS sat nav prep would also be useless for me as I have my iPhone on the V-Strom cross bar as you pointed out. So I would end up paying for things I don’t want/need. Also, my Suzuki dealer offered me £700 more for my trade in and was more interested in keeping me as a customer than the BMW dealer was of gaining a new customer.I also really dislike the sound of the 1250GS boxer engine and as you mentioned in the video, the V twin in this Suzuki sounds brilliant. Suzuki have somehow made the Euro 5 version sound better than my previous Euro 4. I also get about 5 mpg more out of the new 1050 and find the engine smoother & more responsive than the previous model. I’m really happy with the upgrade. Other good points; LED headlight is miles better than the old halogen unit, cruise control works easily (after starting the engine just activate on the right switch before pulling away, then just one tap of your left thumb on the down arrow sets it), there’s a programmable change up light (really bright white LED at top of dash) & adjustable seat height. I’ve been all over Wales on my new 1050 XT since I bought it and I love it. My only complaint is the heated grips were a dealer fit option - surely all adventure or touring bikes sold in the UK should have them as standard.
Wow - thanks for the long comment!
Love the way you edited this video, I like the in out way of looking at the features. I also love that your not claiming to be a professional rider or journalist and makes it more relatable. I'm looking at one of these for a every day rider. Cheers
Thanks Andy, appreciate the feedback - had a few say they don’t like this format but generally the comments have been positive….all the best and thanks for watching….
Loving your new format of how you're presenting with breakdowns with specs and detailed information. Keeps everything fresh
Glad you like it Julian! Thanks for watching once again….
For most people this is as good as a GS on the road at a way cheaper price...
Yes and no. I owned the 2016 model for 5 years and nearly 30k. It’s much better value for sure, and basically half the price of the GSA. Reliability likely better too.
However… The GS, especially the 1250 really is a much better bike.
You’ve never ridden a GS😉, feels like a cheap rip off in comparison, good bike but the expensive GS sells for a reason.
@@IanTed certainly I have never ridden a GS either, unfortunately the GS will most likely be forever out of my reach! Where I live a new base model GS is nearly double the price of this Suzuki!
@@MoroMagrew if you really want a GS you can get it.. it’s just a matter of making clear, for yourself, what are your, priorities where you spend your money. I have the 750, and she just delivers. For the money I could get another bike more powerful, but the building quality and all the tech she’s got..it’s a great bike. Now is working and saving, for when the 3 years warranty go, get a big GS or GSA
True. But it’s just another bike on the road. Ok you can say the same about the GS, but just like MF says “riding a bike it’s, also how she makes you feel..”, and for me this one doesn’t cut it. Is ugly AF, and I look to it, and nothing moves me to get one. I rather ride my 750gs than a this 1000cc Suzuki
Good, solid, comfy, long-term partner that will never let you down. One of my bikes is an old VStrom 1K and I just can't give it up! When I need something that I can really count on, and will spend several hours on it, it's the pick. Many owners have more than 200K miles on them (one just reported ~300K miles!) with no major problems.
Well said!
My buddy has a 2018 650 version and loves it. Very utilitarian and a great stance. Thanks for taking us out! 👌🏼
My pleasure!
Agree with previous comments, love the new style of format, top marks. I have over 6 weeks to catch up as internet was sketchy in France, but I look forward to seeing what you have been up to. Love this bike, one of my mates has one. Well done, great review
Thank you very much!
I loved the 650cc v-Storm.
It’s on my list for a new bike, should I win the lottery.
I always sit on my bike when moving it around; much more control and much safer.
Suzuki’s last forever. Easy to use do it all bike.
Thank you Mr Flyer, another great bike reviewed by the best "ordinary" reviewer on RUclips
That’s very kind of you Peter thank you!
Great review as always. Just got my self a 650, after thirty years out of the saddle. And loving the wee, definitely got my eye on up grading to the 1050 in the future. Fantastic bikes for the price ,just can’t go wrong with them.
Excellent review as always. Your camera angles are very good and so is the audio. Keep them comming brother. I bought my 1050xt in red and white. Vstrom is a work horse, wouldn't change it for any other ADV motorbike.
Much appreciated! ..and glad you like the bike....
I liked the VSTROM so much I bought one. Great value.
I've had the 650 2005and 1000 2003 and found them great . Didn't care about the looks just good comfortable capable bikes.
Peace and love brother 👍🏻☮♥️
i bought the 650 v strom after your review and really love the bike for my bimbeling around wales on the weekend. Dave & lisa
So glad you like it!
12:33 You giggle away all you want - adds to the charm and character of the vlog
Thanks!
Love the 1050. Re cruise control, you do turn it on with your right, but then you set it with your left. So you don’t set it with the throttle hand :)
Another great review!
Cheers - and yes I realised that as soon as I said it!!
Love the new format, breaks it up really nicely. You'll be bafta bound soon.
Hehe - it appears not everyone agrees Gary….!
Brought my 650 xt new about 4 months ago liking it a lot.
Good to hear!
Also I chopped in my 1250gs for a VStrom 1050XT. No regrets, and I had money left over… which of course, I put towards another bike!
Wicked Suzuki motorbike. Love the new side view camera angle when you riding, looks cool. Brilliant jacket, I thinking that would be great when out and about on my mountain bike. That’s nears I got to two wheels.
Great review. This is bike which I've never paid a lot of attention to in the past, but I may have missed something, as it looks like a very good bike and excellent value for money. Being old enough to remember the DR 800 (Dr Big) models from the early 90's, I actually quite like the looks as well.
I appreciate the review of the new V-Strom 1050 and as we typically have similar thoughts on bikes I was curious to see what you thought. I agree on the cheap LCD display and hard seat but don't agree the riding position is as sporty as you noticed. When I think of a sporty position I think of the BMR R1250RT which is not only sporty (read cramped) but the boxer engine makes placing your feet forward nigh impossible. I'd like a dedicated road touring bike but the RT won't work and the Goldwing is just a bit too expensive. And while you may not like the right hand activation button for the cruise control, remember that is only to activate the cruise control. To actually set or adjust speed you use the left hand as you prefer. I had to install the Suzuki heated grips on my bike but they work well even if the install took a few hours. Fuel range looks to be about 250 miles which is about the same as my 2018 GS.
Powerwise I think the V-Strom 1050 is very strong. It is not as powerful as the 2018 R1200GS I sold to buy the V-Strom. And yes you read that right I sold a GS to buy the V-Strom. My 2018 R1200GS had spokes on the rear wheel loosen while touring Europe; twice. By the time I returned to Washington State (NW of the US, not our miserable political capitol) a spoke was missing and there was a centimeter of free play in the wheel. At this time I had about 6,000 miles on the odometer and the camshafts had worn out. I had to fight several dealers to get them to pull a valve cover on the GS to discover this somewhat common problem. If you go to my page (I am not trying to get hits ) you can click on sound files of before and after to hear what I am referring to. The GS has since been repaired but I just did not trust it on any more long distance trips.
Before repair: ruclips.net/video/SeELzPcZjLE/видео.html
So while I also agree it is a budget ADV bike (but as capable on gravel or unimproved roads as any other) I suspect mine will be much more reliable than the GS I sold. Ironically, the US market is super hot for used bikes and sold the GS for enough money to buy the V-Strom outright and outfit it with a full luggage suite. Looks are subjective but I bet if you could have landed one with the North American Color Scheme of Glass Blaze Orange you would like the appearance much more. suzukicycles.com/adventure/2020/v-strom-1050xt
www.rk-productions.net/Assets/Photos/bikes/2020%20V%20Strom%20New%20Bike%20Day/PendOrielleRide/IMG_7148%20(1).jpg
Either way, I enjoy your reports and hope you have at least a more positive than negative final opinion on the V-Strom 1050. If not, I totally get it and recognize that we all don't like the same bike. Ride safe and looking forward to your thoughts on the Multistrada V4S . . . soon I hope.
This is just as good an off-roader as any other bike, because it will be a better off-roader than 99% of riders (me and Andy included!)
True!
I’ve got a 2015 1000, I keep talking about a new bike but just can’t come up with a better do it all. All my riding mates are on naked bikes, and the Vstrom never gets left behind. On the occasional dirt road….they don’t see where it went! They are a conservative machine and apparently boring, but gee they can just do anything. Looks like another 6 years for it in my garage!! And that engine…I love it.
You don’t set the cruise control speed with your right hand; you are only activating it. Speed is set with your left hand, so the system is fine.
Yes I realised that and regretted it as soon as I mentioned it!!
Thanks for the review Andy, nice bike. Much appreciated. Keep ‘em coming👍🏼
Will do James!
Superbly produced and honest review as always. Very nice to see that 360 cam providing another angle.👍😜
Wow coming from you Dave, that means a lot! Thank you so much!
I like the new review format. Well done
Good feedback to have - thank you Nigel (difficult to film but I’ll stick with it for future I think)…..
Great video, really like the breakaway sections to explain stuff. Proper tv style, very pro.
Thank you Gary - takes a bit of effort that but I like the format so will use it when I can….
Totally agree about the TourX I've tried many others and always come back to buy another one.
Bought mine three months ago and we haven’t been able to get away for a tour as yet so just day tripping so far and we’ve been very pleased, I have found that she rides really nicely with my wife on the back. Really good low speed handling loves the back roads and so far my only gripe is the placement of the foot pegs when I go to put put my feet down they tend to get in the way, more of an issue as you get tired.
Nice one - and agree re the foot pegs…
Hi Marc. The panniers on the Strom appear to be higher than the seat when fitted, has this caused any comfort or access issues for your wife when pillion?
Cheers Graham
@@grayjohn1906 Hi John my wife likes the layout she says it feels very secure with the panniers sitting slightly high. When boarding we use the pillion first approach and so far no problems.
@@marcdawson2156 thanks for reply, enjoy your Strom👍
Love love the color scheme on this one
@5:58 that would be the weight for the "vanilla" one. The XT is 247 kilos.
Thanks for the clarification!
@@TheMissendenFlyer to be fair there is stuff accounting for that extra weight that some people would put on anyway, like the engine protectors (sorry, accessory bars :) ), center stand and so on.
Missed you, few vlogs lately. Good report on lovely bike
Yes I’m on my new one video a week (Wednesday) schedule now to see how that goes - there are a few bonus Saturday vids coming too soon…
Have been riding on of these for 5 months, approx 10,000 KM. This is my only bike. Old people here seems to love this bike. They always check it out hhahah
City commute - very stable, good weather protection. Engine wont boil your balls in summer and the fairing of saves your balls from freezing cold and rain. Handle bars are at SUV mirror height, so, it is kind of good to filter if your city doesnt have many SUVs
Touring - Is very good if you take pillion and luggage. One person touring, feels like it has little bit more power than what I need. I am a 5'8 70Kg guy. This thing doesnt even notice me if I am on top of it and pulls like a train
Extremely good in the twisties - much much much better than what you would expect it to be if you put 100% road tyres
Off road - if you change tyres, it can do gravel, not the technical stuff
I dont like the engine sound at lower rpm tho :( after 7000 rpm, is nice, before that no...
I think its a wise choice for a do it all bike. I want to get an R6 or GSXR 600 as a second bike for solo rides on the mountain roads
Nice one - thanks for the feedback, appreciated!
Really good intro review TMF...looking forward to your two week review. I think the bike looks pretty good, there are some real odd ball lookers in the category, this isn't one of those - handsome rather than pretty !
Very, good review Mr Flyer I'm impressed you covered pretty much all the aspects of the storm including the suspension ,Yeah great job 👍
Thank you!
Sometimes Suzuki seems to be stuck in the past ,but this seems like a great value ,and a really good looking bike.
I got one as a loan bike when my Katana was in for a service. First 10 or so miles I didn’t like it, 175 miles later I was totally sold. Not the grunt of the Kat but still really comfortable and fun to ride. I would happily own one as a second bike
Nicely done TMF, I think the bike looks great in the blue and grey. The whole tech thing grates on me. Surely riding a bike is about getting away from the everyday life behind a computer screen and IT issues. Look forward to the long term review.
Yes I agree - it’s the basics that count, how it makes you feel when you ride it….
i read rhat aTFT replacement out of warranty can be £1000 + . LCD has its advantage down the road .
Good point…
Very nice quality review. Loving the cut away scenes from riding to the specific feature your talking about in more detail. As for the bike, seems decent & typically Suzuki in that it's a good honest bike at a good price but maybe a bit unremarkable?
Glad you like the format RR - a bit more tricky for me to film but I think I may stay with this format in future…
@@TheMissendenFlyer Yes, I can imagine it's a pain with editing etc but for me it gives it a classy quality feel. It's this sort of effort & attention to detail etc which elevates your channel imo. Keep up the good work TMF.
A very good motorcycle for road focused touring.
Absolutely love the DR BIG retro styling. Would love to hear a comparison to the Guzzi V85TT as an addition to the end of your in-depth review Mr Flyer👍. Which is more comfy, which is more "special" ... Is an event to take out, character, makes you feel good, even at 30mph, which is best at what as a multi functional motorcycles🤔
As a Guzzi fan, I second that :-)
I had the pleasure of taking a V-Strom 1050 XT on a 2,000 mile road test across Europe to ride the B500. Cracking bike. I even ended up hiding from a down pour under the trees with a German guy on a GS.
Did you shelter under his awning 😳
Thanks for another great real-world review. When I bought the GS I considered this one as well. My arthritic left hand needs a quick shifter or DCT so I had to discard this otherwise-nice bike.
Great to see Suzuki getting a bit more competitive with their new bikes. 👍
Great vid as always I do like the fashion segment at the end it useful as it always good to know what kit is available 👍😎
Thanks Anthony - appreciate the feedback!
Had a GS 1150 (one owner low miler),dreadful bike ,was appalled by it's build quality yet the BMs i had in the 70's and 80's were much better built?
Made me appreciate the Suzook much more!!
Great review! I like the looks and seems like a good value for what you get!
Some clarification: Weight fully fueld of the XT-Modell is 248 kg. Supension is at any model adjustable as described in the video. Traction control is not lean sensitive at the XT, but the brakes are linked and load sensitive. Difference in spec between normal version and XT is an adjustable wind screen, hand guards, crash bars, adjustable seat hight, spoked wheels, cruise control, lean sensitive ABS, LED indicators. If you are into this stuff, get the XT.
As someone who owns a yellow one for 3000 km I got a grin on my face as you said: "It is not a very exciting bike." True, but it works and this big sport enduro tourer will grow on you. Because it just works on tour, on a spirited ride and on your comute. Weight is only an issue if you go offroad or you have to lugg it around.
Agreed!
@@TheMissendenFlyer the shock also has adjustable rebound damping at bottom of shock body. On all versions.
Great review as always thanks Andy, haven't really got into the adventure bike scene as have no intention of off roading, and as such Suzuki other new offering the GSXS1000GT really would interest me. Just back from a wonderful week touring Cornwall on the Ducati Supersport which was fantastic and made light of the 400 mile journey each way. Cheers TMF.
Fashion segments are such a great idea!
Glad you approve Fred!
Glad you finally reviewed the 1050XT. I just replaced my 2019 650XT with a new 2020 1050XT (orange and white) and love it. Added a Corbin seat to it, Givi V35 side cases, top box and the heated grips. Looking forward to many trips on it.
Sounds good Charlie! Enjoy!
This may sound silly, but wondering what mpg you have been averaging with the 1050. Please specify if that's imperial or US gallon.
@@pnfctg12 So far I've only put 150 miles on it since I purchased it. I'll let you know what I get in the up coming weeks. It will be us gallons.
@@pnfctg12 I’ve had a 1050XT for two months and done 2000 miles, current average is 59 mpg (UK). On a gentle ride while running it in I got 66 mpg. It’s actually more economical than my 2019 V-Strom 1000 I had before it.
@@davidbrowning6777 Thanks David, much appreciated. Being a recent release, the 1050 has sparse real world performance stats ... so such information is very helpful for those considering this machine. I get 53 mpg (US) on my versys 650, so, 59/66 mpg (imperial) are pretty impressive numbers for the 1050 !
That is a good running bike ! Suzuki makes great stuff
I also like the new format.
Thanks for the feedback Bernard!
One year in and 5000 miles and big Scottish trips under its belt...no issues at all good at everything great value and not to complicated tec wise...recommend a Fuel exhaust soooooonds lovely....
Good to hear!
Seems a really good value bike. Lamb Chop Rides loved it! Keep up the good work Andy-love the channel.. 🤝🏼
Thank you Gav, really nice to hear that!
He did 😁
The basic model makes a little more sense when your local dealer starts doing pre reg bikes for 8.5k.
Bargain!
Thanks! I really like the jeans and the airbag vest- something I am looking at
Nice to learn about the airbag, interesting stuff there!
Love the look. Very nice bike indeed. Good figures, sound.
Like the looks of this one. The previous colours were a bit 'Marmite'. Cracking bike and cracking value.
A small point, but personally I love this style of the review with the walk around cut up and mixed in with the on-bike footage. Really well put together, informative and helpful.
Thank you Nat!
Great value bike. I owned a 98 TL1000S, loved the Vtwin engine much my preference over the Boxer. Video and audio quality seem a big improvement.
Good to hear - thanks for watching!
Fabulous review as always -
I do like this bike however Honda are about to unveil the NT 1100 which I understand is more of a sports tourer in looks and of course Suzuki have the new GSXS 1000 GT
Having owned a couple of Suzuki's I can bear testimont to the reliability of the brand so it wll be a tough decision what to go for next.
Yes I’m looking forward to seeing that..
Always interesting to hear GS owners.comment on other bike s looks 🤔😂
I have the XT in Marlboro colours, and love the bike. Yup, easy to manoeuvre around, very quick but not stupidly fast, 55mpg most of the time, insurance fine, amazingly stable at motorway speeds compared to many previous bikes I had. Have to be in 4th gear at least for cruise (would like to be able to use in 3rd for the 30mph areas) but use it all of the time, display is OK, readable in bright sunlight, but I still think Kawasaki have the best one (see Z1000SX). Suspension is pretty good, I prefer comfort over sport. Seat is fine for longer trips as long as you slide back in it, if you sit forward then it tends to be a bit hard. Screen is a bit too small, I'll change to either the Puig or the Givi Airflow one day - but I don't want to bust the looks of the bike, so am putting that off for the moment ! Had the 650 before this, that was also a brilliant bike, 70+mpg, half the insurance, a bit lower so easier to manage - I just liked the get-up-and-go of the 1050. Dealer is brilliant. Happy guy :-)
Good feedback thanks for that!
I just bought a used vstrom, I find the motor to be smooth enough that it doesn't bother my hands! Do wish it had cruise control, like the new ones.
Loving the vid I’m really interested in one of these so I will look forward to a few more posts 👍
Stay tuned - more to come….
I think this may be my next bike, I actually like the look of the updated 1050 over the 1000! I don’t love the dash, I wish they kept the analog tach with the smaller digital speedo, like the 650 still has, or like the Versys 1000, that dash is pretty slick. Thanks for another great video.
My pleasure Russo - thanks for watching!
The 1050XT is a really good bike but i think the 1000XT was the better package and the better deal. The 1050XT got features that are nice but not really necessary for a much higher price. It also is heavier and the display is new but hard to read. I also liked the low down torque of the older model more. But it still is a good bike. I prefer the yellow one!
Fair enough!
Nice colour scheme and, erm, erm...sorry Andy, can't work up any enthusiasm for this one. Good review though as usual, and i like the useful fashion section at the end.
Good review TMF. A mate of mine has the previous generation (2018 1,000cc) model and loves it. I really like the slightly (but not excessively so) retro graphics. Particularly the red and white version. But looks aside, it appears to be a great bike at a reasonable price, too.
Sure is!
I sat on a white XT at Blade in Swindon and have to say I do prefer the looks at its predecessor 👍
Yes I think I do too….
Great review from TMF, like always. Cannot say anything against. Anyway Suzukis are forever bikes, not trendy and hi-tech, but this model seems to be the opposite, except for the dash. :)
Well I guess Suzuki have to go with the flow!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Agree on that. :)
Love the fashion segment but the Mrs. says to tell you that Freddie D does it better! 😎
Well Freddie is as cool as…..and is about half my age!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Ha Ha.... I still prefer yours though, so I can see what I might look like in the gear! lol 😀
The catwalk can't be far away with those twirls in the clothing segment.😂
Just another of my many talents!
Seriously considered one of these, but went for the Crosstourer in the end. Main factors for me where shaft drive on the Honda, the quality of build is a notch above Suzuki. But, for the money can’t really argue against the v-strom, fantastic bit of kit. 👍👍
Do you not find the cross tourer a bit heavy?
@@TheMissendenFlyer Very… it’s c300kg fully fuelled and it feels like it’s all on the top. Very top heavy feel to it and it’s a burden off road. Driveline shunt isn’t too great on it either. Yes, I have dropped it, purely because of the top-heaviness. I’ve had GS’s as well and it’s chalk and cheese. Fully fully loaded GS with tents, panniers and box etc feels ‘lighter’ than the Crosstourer does with 1/2 tank of fuel. V4 vs Flat twin I guess… 👍👍
Fantastic bike for a long term loan! Looking forward to the in depth review! As for the looks, subjective as they are, in my opinion the vstrom 1050 and 250 are two of my favourite looking adventure style bikes, certainly favourite looking Suzuki bikes! The 650 not so much, just not as characterful or sharp compared to the others, maybe it’s just more out of date and it shows what my opinion of he 250 and 1050 will be in a few years…
If the 650 could get the same style as the new 1050 and a set of USD forks it would be an improvement.
@@chrishart8548 I think you’re onto a winner with that formula! Hopefully the 650 is suitably updated soon! That middle section is super competitive with some great bikes, just got more so with the new Triumph 660 Tiger!
I've found most Suzuki are designed for shorter legs and long arms. Not to keen on the design personally but overall the vstrom seems like a good do it all bike for most riders. Not sure why they've styled it like an adventure bike when it has zero pretence of being an offroad bike. Guess that bike in the Suzuki range has been occupied by the new gsx GT.
I've got long legs and a short body. I could hardly make the reach to the handle bars on the v-strom 650
While I agree with most of the comments here, as a Vstrom (650XT) owner I'm bound to make a few points. I fully agree with the "does it float your boat approach" to buying a bike, they are toys after all, but if people insist on applying logic to the process then here's my 2c worth... First, if you buy a bike like this, it's going to be more about where you go on it, rather than what it looks like while you are doing it. Second, I don't know of any Vstrom owner that doesn't love the bike after owning it for 20,000kms or more. Third, if you look at second hand ones, you will find the average miles/kms per owner will be higher than for a lot of other bikes, there's a reason for that, these bikes get ridden, not many vstrom garage queens. Fourth they are indeed great touring bikes, all day comfortable (including pillion) economical and most of all quiet. That big muffler might neuter the sound a bit but if you are on it 8 hours a day, that's a real blessing. Fifth, fit a chain oiler and I would argue that this is far less maintenance than a shaft drive. I have a high mileage 1200GS as well and I much prefer refilling the chain oiler on the XT every 1000kms or so than pulling the final drive apart every 15,000kms to make sure its still properly greased. But I do have to confess that when I head out for a ride, its usually on the GS..and certainly for longer distance road touring. Its got cruise control which my 650 doesnt and thats a major on a long day. I don't know what people in England consider to be "off road" but I wouldn't take either of them properly off road. They are both equally comfortable on a gravel road and we have some pretty rugged gravel roads here in NZ. Where do you ride off road in the UK anyway??? Green lanes?
Yes good point! Thanks for the feedback - appreciate you taking the time to write!
@@TheMissendenFlyer you're welcome Andy. I enjoy your channel very much, its very honest. I agree with you that there are very few bad bikes. Looking forward to your next electric bike review.
and rebound damping on rear suspension and anti stall assist
Yes I love that anti stall that Suzuki does, nice feature….
I had that helmet once, i do miss wearing an Arai.