The Wee Stroms are great bikes. I bought one way back in 2009, had it for a few years then got seduced by more expensive bikes. But i always remembered how good the 650 Stroms are, so after 10 years of buying the latest and greatest i've just returned to Suzuki and bought a new Wee this year. This gen 3 model is even better than the gen 1 i had. Love its comfort, its simplicity and its renowned bullet proof reliability. I'm getting 68mpg average. I've test rode the 1000 Strom a few times, but always preferred the Wee and never feel its short on power. Its biggest strength is that brilliant V Twin engine, sadly gonna be a parallel twin on the new Wee Strom next year. Which is another reason i bought a new one this year.
Exactly what I did. Gen 3's are superb! had a '17 traded it reluctantly then bought a new '22 650 Adventure. This bike is with me till the lights go out.
Same thing here, Jeff. Own a 2012 1050XT and just picked up a barely used 650XT creampuff. I ride the Wee more than the big boy. Just wonderful bikes and 70HP goes a long way on a very light bike.
Great vid on a great bike. I bought a new Vstrom 650XT 18 months ago and it's my favorite bike ever.Linear power band, good passing power even at highway speeds, very comfortable seat, excellent handling and very good gas mileage (if I ride in a civilized manner). I'm tall so I added the Givi Airflow wind screen, lowered the pegs and raised the bars with 2 inch Rox Pivoting bar risers. After adding Givi side and top cases, it's hard to imagine a better bike for my purposes, in any price range. I've never needed any more power than it gives and the buttery smooth transmission is a dream. Thanks for a great review - Suzuki got it right on this bike.
I have the 2013 AL3 version from new. Lovely do it all bike. Great commuter. Had to change the mirrors for slimmer Aprilia mirrors and changed the screen foir a Givi Airflow because of the buffeting. Good suspension adjustments. The v twin gives good grunt at low revs. Averaged 63 mpg since new. Super comfy seat especially for the pillion.
Great bikes - I’m 6’3” and tall seat, lowered foot controls and 1 inch bar risers and I have as much space as a GS1250 and having more fun on B roads and back roads too!
Good video, thanks for this. I’ve just picked up and L4 (2014) as my first bike, just passed my test in August this year. I’ve found the bike to be really good for me, settled into it now, and just started with a pillion too! It’s still a great bike,comfortable 2 up, suspension adjustment is easy, and it does have enough power for us. Givi windscreen and a Schuberth helmet had solved the buffeting and wind noise, and as a commute/leisure and tour bike, I’m certain it’ll do us for a good few year. 🙏
Nice review on a cracking biking day. I bought a new 2020 v storm 650 xt in yellow from Cupar Motorcycles .it’s been a great bike and I regularly see 70 to 72 mpg! Re the screen, I’m 6ft tall and fitted the MRA 7 way adjustable spoiler and have no trouble with wind buffeting. Fitted ravetech alloy sump guard to protect down pipe and oil filter and sw motech crash bars and removable rear rack system. Givi trekker outbak box and case. A few other items but I recommend the Denali mini sound bomb horn upgrade..much louder. Anyway delighted with bike.
Looks like a great little cruiser - I just got myself a 650 Ninja after getting the full licence, just want the days to start brightening up a bit! I've had enough of riding in sub zero temps for the time being!
The Givi wind screen is the best! Even though it looks similar to other windscreens, you think they wouldn’t be that much difference, but the design of it pulls the air through and up over your head. I love it and I’ve had three different windscreens the GIVI is the best.
I have a strom for two full weeks and a great motorcycle, in my country a bit too expensive (9000eur naked, with full equipment 11000eur, suitcases, tank bag,.......), let me continue, great motorcycle, not like Honda, Yamaha, but at all it's not far behind them, maybe even better in some segments, comfortable, smoothes the road perfectly, the engine is quite lively for 650 cc, mostly suitable for me and recommended for beginners and people who want panoramic driving...
The 650, Wee and SV, are staying in Suzuki's current production models for the time being. This engine is Euro 5 so no reason for it to be dropped yet. But who knows how long it will be around for.
Fab looking bike! A question, I was out with my instructor on Thursday and he says I'm inclined to ride to the right of the centre of the lane rather than the centre. I also had the same comment from a Tester. So obviously I'm doing it. The problem is I think I'm riding in the Centre! Any tips to correct this habit?
Hey, Ruairi. I'd start with making a practice plan before you go out next. Make a point of constantly reminding yourself to stay in position 2(command position), take note of where you at all times on the road. If you see you're getting closer to the white line in the middle of the road, tell yourself again to move back over. I always tell people to talk to yourself out loud while practicing something, this can sometimes help until it becomes 2nd nature. Hope this helps, if you're stuck with anything else feel free to ask. 🤜🤛
@@MotoEcosse Great thanks. I was watching your videos on Roundabouts and the one on Lifesavers again today. Very helpful and something I need to keep working on before my next test. My test last Thursday was cancelled after ten minutes out due to high winds! maybe that's why I was drifting towards the centre of the road? 😃 My Hi Vis L Plate Vest wasn't helping either as the wind was billowing beneath it. It felt like I was paragliding while riding, has to be a first for a motorcyclist!
Just a wee correction, you said it was the basic model…..it’s not. It’s the top XT you were on. Base spec doesn’t have spoked wheels, hand guards or engine guard. I have an adapter for the 12v on mine and it’s absolutely fine. Means I can also plug in portable tyre inflator if the need arises!
Got the same model and I can confirm that the panniers encroach on the legroom for the pillion. It becomes uncomfortable for my wife, with the boxes rubbing on her legs
I've got the aluminum Suzuki cases on mine, my wife has no complaints other than the obstacle they present when mounting and dismounting, she's 5'0" and the boxes make the bike wide and the top case is right where she'd like to swing her leg around, but once seated she says she doesn't notice they're there other than appreciating the top box for a back rest.
I am 26, only have a £2500 budget to get licence + motorcycle and insurance. What motorcycles do you recommend? I am 5 feet so any suggestions would be appreciated.
Hi, Kate. Do you know what engine size you want to go for? Adventure bikes like the V Strom series are pretty tall but totally manageable if you approach it correctly. Bikes like the Suzuki bandit or a gen 1 sv650 aren't tall, easy to ride and you can pick them up fairly cheap nowadays, the bandit is heavy though. A Kawasaki er6 is also a great first bike, not that tall and you can pick up older models for a reasonable price as well. There are lots to choose from to be honest but these are a few that come to mind. 🤜🤛
@@beverleynorth4914 Yeah you can probably hear it at times in the video, the wind itself was fine though. It would definitely be something I'd upgrade if I owned a V Strom.
I am not sure how slow everyone is riding these bikes to get such great mileage! I get 50 mpg on average. I do drive the crap out of it though! Biggest annoyances are the ridiculously bad buffeting. Worst I have ever seen on a bike. And wish it had a quick shifter. Other than that I have driven this bike very hard and it has been amazing!
![Eminem - The Death of Slim Shady [Graveyard Album Trailer]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/vOJD-6vQpXU/mqdefault.jpg)
One of the best motorcycles ever made
The Wee Stroms are great bikes. I bought one way back in 2009, had it for a few years then got seduced by more expensive bikes. But i always remembered how good the 650 Stroms are, so after 10 years of buying the latest and greatest i've just returned to Suzuki and bought a new Wee this year. This gen 3 model is even better than the gen 1 i had. Love its comfort, its simplicity and its renowned bullet proof reliability. I'm getting 68mpg average. I've test rode the 1000 Strom a few times, but always preferred the Wee and never feel its short on power. Its biggest strength is that brilliant V Twin engine, sadly gonna be a parallel twin on the new Wee Strom next year. Which is another reason i bought a new one this year.
Exactly what I did. Gen 3's are superb! had a '17 traded it reluctantly then bought a new '22 650 Adventure. This bike is with me till the lights go out.
@@TrustyZ900 Good that the 650 is staying in Suzuki's line up now. I thought it may be dropped with the new 800DE coming out. The SV is also staying.
Same thing here, Jeff. Own a 2012 1050XT and just picked up a barely used 650XT creampuff. I ride the Wee more than the big boy. Just wonderful bikes and 70HP goes a long way on a very light bike.
Still a vee atm
Great vid on a great bike. I bought a new Vstrom 650XT 18 months ago and it's my favorite bike ever.Linear power band, good passing power even at highway speeds, very comfortable seat, excellent handling and very good gas mileage (if I ride in a civilized manner). I'm tall so I added the Givi Airflow wind screen, lowered the pegs and raised the bars with 2 inch Rox Pivoting bar risers. After adding Givi side and top cases, it's hard to imagine a better bike for my purposes, in any price range. I've never needed any more power than it gives and the buttery smooth transmission is a dream. Thanks for a great review - Suzuki got it right on this bike.
My 21 has 10000ks on her. What a absolutely brilliant machine. Smoothest, best handling and well made bike over ever known.
I have had a V Strom for 9 years now. No faults and I have ridden it two up around the world. 43,000 miles. I changed the mirrors to reduce buffeting.
The best thing i did to my 2021 was cut the screen short. It transformed the bike and no wind buffeting.
Great review, well done. You passed through the areas where I grew up 🙂👍
I have the 2013 AL3 version from new. Lovely do it all bike. Great commuter. Had to change the mirrors for slimmer Aprilia mirrors and changed the screen foir a Givi Airflow because of the buffeting. Good suspension adjustments. The v twin gives good grunt at low revs. Averaged 63 mpg since new. Super comfy seat especially for the pillion.
Great bikes - I’m 6’3” and tall seat, lowered foot controls and 1 inch bar risers and I have as much space as a GS1250 and having more fun on B roads and back roads too!
Good video, thanks for this. I’ve just picked up and L4 (2014) as my first bike, just passed my test in August this year. I’ve found the bike to be really good for me, settled into it now, and just started with a pillion too! It’s still a great bike,comfortable 2 up, suspension adjustment is easy, and it does have enough power for us.
Givi windscreen and a Schuberth helmet had solved the buffeting and wind noise, and as a commute/leisure and tour bike, I’m certain it’ll do us for a good few year.
🙏
Nice review on a cracking biking day. I bought a new 2020 v storm 650 xt in yellow from Cupar Motorcycles .it’s been a great bike and I regularly see 70 to 72 mpg! Re the screen, I’m 6ft tall and fitted the MRA 7 way adjustable spoiler and have no trouble with wind buffeting. Fitted ravetech alloy sump guard to protect down pipe and oil filter and sw motech crash bars and removable rear rack system. Givi trekker outbak box and case. A few other items but I recommend the Denali mini sound bomb horn upgrade..much louder.
Anyway delighted with bike.
Looks like a great little cruiser - I just got myself a 650 Ninja after getting the full licence, just want the days to start brightening up a bit! I've had enough of riding in sub zero temps for the time being!
The Givi wind screen is the best! Even though it looks similar to other windscreens, you think they wouldn’t be that much difference, but the design of it pulls the air through and up over your head. I love it and I’ve had three different windscreens the GIVI is the best.
Im new to riding. And the blue 2022 vstrom is the same one i have. I dont think I could have chosen a better first bike. Love it!
I loved it as well. Great bike to ride.
que belleza de moto, parece de 1000 cc !! 👍👍👍👍
I have a strom for two full weeks and a great motorcycle, in my country a bit too expensive (9000eur naked, with full equipment 11000eur, suitcases, tank bag,.......), let me continue, great motorcycle, not like Honda, Yamaha, but at all it's not far behind them, maybe even better in some segments, comfortable, smoothes the road perfectly, the engine is quite lively for 650 cc, mostly suitable for me and recommended for beginners and people who want panoramic driving...
VStroms are great Bikes. Will be sad not seeing anymore 650 produced. Good Video 👍
Cheers mate. We've got the 800 to look forward to next year. 😁
@@MotoEcosse Have to see how this new engine performs. Will be an interesting 12 months seeing the reviews
The 650, Wee and SV, are staying in Suzuki's current production models for the time being. This engine is Euro 5 so no reason for it to be dropped yet. But who knows how long it will be around for.
My suzuki dealer told me, that 650 v strom isn't being dropped..Hopefully it will continue.
@@TCDEWE That's good.
I read the cylinders are different between V-Strom and SV650?
What the damage for a new 2024 one, old model stock would do me.
Had a Vstrom for 6 months now. Great bike. Standard screen is terrible and needs replaced. I bought a givi airflow for mine
My local biking roads… awfy bonnie day anaw.
That wind is coming from those giant trucker sized mirrors. I had to swap mine for slim Aprilia tuono mirrors much less wind turbulence
I really did not like the stock windshield, but am very happy with a Givi Airflo.
Any review I watch says stock screen is very noisy
Fab looking bike! A question, I was out with my instructor on Thursday and he says I'm inclined to ride to the right of the centre of the lane rather than the centre. I also had the same comment from a Tester. So obviously I'm doing it. The problem is I think I'm riding in the Centre! Any tips to correct this habit?
Hey, Ruairi. I'd start with making a practice plan before you go out next. Make a point of constantly reminding yourself to stay in position 2(command position), take note of where you at all times on the road. If you see you're getting closer to the white line in the middle of the road, tell yourself again to move back over. I always tell people to talk to yourself out loud while practicing something, this can sometimes help until it becomes 2nd nature. Hope this helps, if you're stuck with anything else feel free to ask. 🤜🤛
@@MotoEcosse Great thanks. I was watching your videos on Roundabouts and the one on Lifesavers again today. Very helpful and something I need to keep working on before my next test. My test last Thursday was cancelled after ten minutes out due to high winds! maybe that's why I was drifting towards the centre of the road? 😃 My Hi Vis L Plate Vest wasn't helping either as the wind was billowing beneath it. It felt like I was paragliding while riding, has to be a first for a motorcyclist!
Just a wee correction, you said it was the basic model…..it’s not. It’s the top XT you were on. Base spec doesn’t have spoked wheels, hand guards or engine guard. I have an adapter for the 12v on mine and it’s absolutely fine. Means I can also plug in portable tyre inflator if the need arises!
Cheers mate. I'm personally not a fan of the adapter. I've just had rotten luck with them in the past. 🤜🤛
Doubt it only 2 amps , just a phone charger
I still don’t get it! Suzuki still puts halogen bulb in headlights? C’mon it’s 2023 Suzuki!!! 😂 Besides that it’s an awesome bike!!
hi brother as you face the same wether as me over in falkirk whats a good all wether tank bag? ps i use a 125cruiser
It's not something I really use to be honest mate. Sport bike shop have a lot of good deals on that sort of thing. 🤜🤛
@@MotoEcosse ok ty mate
I have the exact bike. Greetings from Russia)
SV is an amazing bike. Ride safe 🤜🤛
Is it still comfortable for the pillion with those panniers on?
Got the same model and I can confirm that the panniers encroach on the legroom for the pillion. It becomes uncomfortable for my wife, with the boxes rubbing on her legs
@@colinstorrar449 Thank you for sharing your experience!
I've got the aluminum Suzuki cases on mine, my wife has no complaints other than the obstacle they present when mounting and dismounting, she's 5'0" and the boxes make the bike wide and the top case is right where she'd like to swing her leg around, but once seated she says she doesn't notice they're there other than appreciating the top box for a back rest.
Would you go for this or Tracer 7?
I'd personally go for the V Strom but it'd definitely be worth booking a test ride on both.
I am 26, only have a £2500 budget to get licence + motorcycle and insurance. What motorcycles do you recommend? I am 5 feet so any suggestions would be appreciated.
Hi, Kate. Do you know what engine size you want to go for? Adventure bikes like the V Strom series are pretty tall but totally manageable if you approach it correctly. Bikes like the Suzuki bandit or a gen 1 sv650 aren't tall, easy to ride and you can pick them up fairly cheap nowadays, the bandit is heavy though. A Kawasaki er6 is also a great first bike, not that tall and you can pick up older models for a reasonable price as well. There are lots to choose from to be honest but these are a few that come to mind. 🤜🤛
Try a suzuki gladius. Same engine as this easily lowered. I bought my short arse daughter one. Lovely bike
Traction control is for on the road not off.
Does screen protect head and body? I’m 6 foot tall, would it be ok
Are you in a bubble, not hitting top of head or anything
Yeah there's plenty of wind protection, didn't have any issues with it. There was a bit more wind noise than usual but nothing crazy.
I had to change my screen and got a Givi Airflow one, buffered my head on motorway terribly but airflow sorted it. I’m 6’2”
@@doddy7623 thanks for that.
I’m concerned getting a bike with a screen. Seems in so many cases that the buffeting is worse than clean air on a naked
Bit of a nuisance if there’s a lot of wind noise
@@beverleynorth4914 Yeah you can probably hear it at times in the video, the wind itself was fine though. It would definitely be something I'd upgrade if I owned a V Strom.
I am not sure how slow everyone is riding these bikes to get such great mileage! I get 50 mpg on average. I do drive the crap out of it though! Biggest annoyances are the ridiculously bad buffeting. Worst I have ever seen on a bike. And wish it had a quick shifter. Other than that I have driven this bike very hard and it has been amazing!
I agree, even riding conservatively I'm getting 52-53 MPG. Same as my RT 1250.