I prefer the standard because you can make it the way you want it. Don't care for the spoke wheels on the XT and the crash bars on the XT do nothing for the upper part of the bike and I would much rather have the ones you have in this video. Like you I really like the gray and black color. The standard is all I need.
Nice review. Everything else I've found on the 2020 Vstr ok m 1050 is about the XT. I just bought the same bike. Got a good deal on what I've wanted for years. 1 mile on the odometer at test ride. The XT certainly offers more bang for the buck than the standard version, as several upgrades, like the engine guards, extra lights, skid plate, etc. are all necessary on this bike, as is a whole hard luggage system..
I don't know if I would go for the base model because the lack of cruise control. I'm in Canada and often I find myself in a long stretch of highway, endless, straight and boring highway. It is always an invitation to go a bit faster than one should and cops are everywhere. Cruise control helps to curb that temptation IMO. However, the colors of yours is my favorite. I find the yellow and blue, orange and white great looking vehicles but, over time those schemes can become démodé. The old neutral colors never grow old.
Yes it was the colour that sold it for me plus the fact the dealer had already put all the extras on it already.. If you do alot of motorway riding I can see why you would want cruise control, bear in mind though that the XT model is over 10kg heavier than the standard model.. But I'm certain that you'll be more than happy with either one 👍.. I'm going to do a video on the panniers in the next week or so
I test drove a V Strom last week, always thought they ugly until I saw the blue and yellow 1050XT. Bought it 4 days later, now I'm pissed cause I never looked at them, before.
I’ve owned three ‘Stroms, two with the aluminum wheels and one XT; cumulatively they’ve survived well over 200 000 km’s. In my opinion, the XT’s farkles and a tad more cachet doesn’t make it a better bike. Most Stromtroopers are more impressed with value than superfluous function and most non-Stromtroopers don’t understand the attraction to ‘Stroms in the first place. That said, the same principle applies to the new vs old ‘Stroms where the previous generation is held in more esteem than the “new” tweaked 2020 offering.
Interesting, I ride the previous model and they’ve carried over a few items to your bike (rear light, mirrors, indicators). I hate to say this but yes you’ve probably made a mistake, but you’ve still got a great bike👍. I test rode your model just to get a feel for it, the engine character has changed they’ve pushed the “shove” further up the rev range but it felt smoother. Check out Givi’s airflow screen and only for the latest bike - side deflectors, they’re supposed to eliminate a lot of the turbulence that’s still present on the new one. Enjoy your ride, and you’re right the colour scheme and cast wheels are unbeatable👍 Oh one final point - get yourself a radiator guard, when I was test riding your model bike I should’ve been test riding the XT but couldn’t because the rad had been holed - they cost a lot of money to replace.
Thanks for the comments Andrew, if I'm honest I'm more than happy with my choice now, always loved the engine on the Vstrom .... Yes I've actually ordered a rad guard so that will be on there ASAP! I'm hoping to add another bike to my collection in the next month but we will see.. Ride safe 👍
I totally agree with u Joe..when I first got my 1050XT I didn't think I'd use the cruise control but after trying it once on a long motorway trip I never looked back 👍
Nothing wrong with building up the base model mate. That way you can customize the bike to your taste and budget. I have a 2014 Vee 1000 (from new), and have set it up to my requirements and I love it. 95,000kms and still purrs along beautifully. Engines are so bloody reliable and you can actually work on them yourselves. Will shortly be replacing the rear shock, and apart from normal wear and tear after 7 years, (sprockets and chains), thats it it! Great choice of bike and I know its not as flashy as the BMW, KTM or Ducati MS, but its a real work horse that will do everything you require of it. Enjoy the big vee mate.
From the specs on suzuki's website it appears that the standard version of the 1050 does not have lean sensitive abs which is kind of surprising since it had that feature in all 2018/2019 vstrom 1000 models. The 1050 base model is also heavier than the 1000 base model.
Interesting video. I bought a used VStrom 650 and I've been trying to figure out how it has many XT accessories but has cast wheels. Couldn't get much info from the dealer--they buy these things at auction. Anyway, my guess after watching your video is that it is an XT but the first owner wanted the cast wheels. I like the cast wheels. They look great and as you say, they are far easier to clean and maintain. Mine is black and white by the way. I like that "police bike" look! Thanks.
Hey Q...thanks for yr comments, I've just watched a couple of Yr videos and you've got a stunning trio of bikes!!.. im not 100% sure if yr weestrom is an XT spec'd with cast wheels or if the previous owners have lavished money on a non XT bike 🤔 either way you've got a lovely looking bike there! A friend of mine used to have a 650 Strom and sold it for the 1050 (he does alot of 2 up touring) but still talks about how much he loved and misses the 650! The black/white colour scheme on the 650 (and the 1000) looks great 👍 it's the 1050 that looks like a police bike!!..Ride safe bud
@@2wheeledwillie395 thanks my friend. I’ve been looking at the 1000’s and 1050’s now that I’m enjoying the 650, but I’m really not sure those would be an upgrade. Maybe the new DE800? I’ve decided I am strictly a pavement and dirt road rider-no more trail riding for me. So the XT’s and the 21 inch front wheels won’t do much for me.
@@2wheeledwillie395 I do like it a lot. It’s a much more raw motorcycle experience than the VStrom. It has 47 horsepower, which is enough. They look beautiful. The VStrom is smoother, more power, better suspension, but every time I jump on the Interceptor for an hour long romp it brings a grin to my race and gets my heart pumping.
Your bike looks great. I went with the XT because I'm in Australia and cruise control is so useful on long open road rides. I would be very happy with yours for the price.
The standars version of thenew Vstrom 1050 just has one thing missing: cruise control.. other than that is a great bike. Hope Suzuki can add the cruise control for 2022.
Somewhere out there is a video from someone wondering “should I have bought the standard bike instead of the XT?” We all suffer from “buyer’s remorse” from time to time, it’s normal. Every decision is difficult, and in the end almost always a compromise. I bought a Versys 1000 SE GT and then agonised over its weight and height. But it was a great deal financially and now I don’t even think of its size. Be happy with what you have, it looks like a great bike 😀
One upside I see right away on the base model 1050 is the lack of electronics. Less things to fail over time. It's unfortunate that in order to get the cruise control, you have to get all the other electronics with it. If I were in the market, I'd look at the XT. The cruise control is just too nice to miss out on. I would probly make a switch for the ABS or pull fuses depending on how it affects the other systems. The Suzuki panniers that come with the XT ADV are nice, but they look like they make it difficult for both rider and passenger to mount/dismount. The XT ADV is also pushing into Africa Twin ADV Sports price range and that's a far better off road machine.
I’ve got a 2015 in the market for a 1050XT for cruise control and all the other electronics and protection, I’ll have to add a skid plate have SW-Motec on mine. I can’t believe the XT doesn’t come with heated grips so Oxford it is. Might have to swap out the wind shield as well or add deflectors. But hey if you’re not happy you can always upgrade. Ride safe pal, if I see you out there I’ll give you the enthusiastic wave that all V riders get.
Informative video, thanks. I’m deciding on my next bike, narrowed down the options to a ‘17 wee or ‘15 Versys 650, though still considering a vee. I can definitely see myself getting a used orange n white 1050xt 1 day, so nice! Subbed.
It seems the previous years bas model 1000 (still available per Suzis web site) would be the sweet spot right now. SV 1000 base comes with adjustable screen, cornering abs, skid plate, handguards and looks pretty good. in black/red in my view.$1000 less thqn 1050 base msrp! I'm very tempted to order one but it seems the bike gets boring quickly for some people. Did that happen to you?
Enjoyed your video. I traded in a 2019 VStrom 650XT for a 2020 VStrom 1050XT Orange/White recently. The 1 thing I couldn't get the dealership to do was to swap the wheels. I would have preferred the mags since I'm not going to do much off-roading at all. I waited until the dealerships started discounting the bikes to make the upgrade and I'm happy with it. Will be interesting to see if Suzuki offers a 2022 model here in the states or replaces it with something else entirely.
Cheers Charlie 👍.. IMO you've got the best colour V-Strom!! Still really miss mine and think it won't be too long before I get another one 🤔 Ride safe Dude
@@2wheeledwillie395 I didn't realize you had swapped it out, had to go back and watch some more of your videos. Yes I've done that more than a few times but between this and the 2021 CB500X I bought for some camping and light trail riding I'm hoping to get many years out of them. Keep up the videos, it's always good to see others sharing the same motorcycle disease :)
@@2wheeledwillie395 I had bought a 2021 Himalayan to go camping and fire road adventuring, kind of like the green lanes you have. I did an over night trip and while it handled all my gear and was fun to ride in the dirt, the ride back from the North Georgia mtns trying to keep up with my friend on his Tenere 700 convinced me that it wasn't the answer. I also wasn't that impressed with the workmanship of the Himalayan and it's annoying idling characteristics from a cold start. It was easy to find another owner for it and the logical replacement was the CB500X. As you say it's a Honda. It only took a test ride to know it was the right choice. I've started adding accessories to make it more off road capable and I'm still breaking it in but it should do well. I did realize that while not as featured as the 650XT, they were too similar so I traded that in on the 1050XT. So far neither bike has disappointed.
I was going to buy a versys 650 tomorrow for £7600 or the touring one for £8400, but noticed a brand new v strom 1050 for £9000 up in Fife, so am now looking at reviews online, so thanks for the video My current bike is a gsx1250
100% not a mistake reasons xt is 11kgs heavier /cheapest xt ive seen was £1.500 more./ you also bought best colour champion yellow and glass blaze orange in my opinion look awful glass sparkle black looks ok apart from it has gold bits in it. Also personal preference but on my vstrom first thing I changed was them ugly mirrors for some nice diamond shaped ones £ 16 off Ebay + half the weight. To sum up you got a bargain!!
I’m going for the XT but I’d swap the diamond mirrors for the good old square ones. Yes, the diamond shape looks better but performance wise the square ones show more.
Very nice color of the bike! I would take it too) Do you know the manufacturer name of spot lights? I'm looking to get myself a pair but i can not decide which one to get =/
Many thanks! The spot lights came direct from Suzuki and I think they are approximately £475ish so quite expensive compared to other after market ones.. They do make a massive difference for night time riding though
I agree with you. But in Korea, only one type of xt is sold, so I can't change the hard-to-clean wheel. Personally, I like your bike. I wish they sold all kinds in Korea.
Thanks for yr comment buddy.. I've in fact now bought an orange and white XT version! I've done a couple of videos on it so let me know what you think 👍
Hey Mo, Hepco and becker are a great brand.. I've had them before and they really are top quality.. Sadly the bike has been replaced and the luggage went with it!
Just ordered my new 2021 1050 XT tour. (Yellow) So many parts are available aftermarket like engine bars, heated grips and such that are far cheaper than the genuine items. PCP I've paid 2500 upfront, for 3 years at 125 quid with 3 years warranty, 8k miles a year.
@@2wheeledwillie395 Yes and and apparently some extra electrical stuff the other models don't have, but it's not as much as the expedition model regarding guards and heated grips.
If you buy a brand new XT you can ask for the cast wheels instead of the wire ones... But obviously if you buy the non XT then they come with cast wheels as standard 👍... You won't be disappointed!
Hi willieT I bought the same model as you for the same reasons! I like the colour and don't like the spoked wheels on the xt all adventure bkes are ugly but I still like some style lol.who needs hill assist anyway? mine came with the city pack I was going to buy the Ali boxes to until I saw the price! I did buy the lower accessory bars £425 from Suzuki and the hand guards radiator cover I don't bother with the TC which is annoying as the light stays on I personally don't want more electronics i have bikes with double the power without TC my right wrist is my traction control lol but a great bike and a relaxed ride I'm enjoying it the smoothest v twin I've ever rode and I've had 9. I think you made the right decision. £1500 cheaper better colour better wheels and not many electronics to go wrong! Enjoy
Hi I said exactly on cruise control 🤔 but long motorway trip I did... I'm now converted...just wait till you can get out all doubt will disappear...there brilliant...ps I made my own guard ...to hide oil filter.😉 atb dave
I predict you will own a XT one day…;-) But all kidding aside: a V-strom 650 might just be all the bike one would need. I love the updated version of the 1050. Its now exactly right.
@@2wheeledwillie395 I rode the updated bike yesterday. I really didn’t get along with the quick shifter- but that’s probably me. What I did find is that the engine is quite vibey . Especially in the higher rev range. Is that your experience as well?
@@JPWest020 Hi, yes its definitely more vibey at higher speeds than other bikes I've owned but I think being a big V twin it's to be expected maybe?🤔 The Kawasaki Versy 1000 is meant to be very smooth
i'm from across the pond, i am starting to see the orange and white models near my state (new jersey) but mostly we saw them on the west coast first (california, the warmer weather so you get my drift, sales would be higher there being now its winter and all that pandemic stuff happening) but i do see the prices, kind of high for the xt...around $13k US dollars for the yellow and orange one. For the XT adventure even higher....almost $16k!
@@2wheeledwillie395 Yeah truly it's another $30 or so, depending on the amount, but still, the insurance being up to 10 times more expensive than the insured object, that's not how it works usually.
@jkristjanvalk I appreciate u watching my video but I think yr missing the point...a buddy of mine hit a small rock on his and the oil filter split shedding all the oil...he was on 3 day biking holiday and in the middle of nowhere & pretty much f***ed as he couldn't ride the bike anywhere, he ended up having to get the bike recovered ( at a cost) plus he lost almost a full day's riding ...I would rather spend the money on a belly pan so that would never happen to me!!....and plus I think they look good! Thanks again for watching the video 👍
Why buy original assesories when you can buy better cheaper.Those hand wind reflectors (not protectors) are useless. Almost same money would have got you best handprotectors in the market, Barkbusters. I would have bought XT over basic. Just cruise control would have been enough, but there are lots off usefull stuff in XT package.
All the accessories were already on the bike when I bought it so didn't pay for them... If I'd bought an XT then I'd spend another £1500.. And I wouldn't have got the colour I wanted.. Ride safe
Yes. You should have get XT version. But look at the bright side. You still have one stonking bike for great price. The deal breaker on non XT is lack of cruise control. WHY Suzuki? B.T.W. Removing adjusting mechanism on the screen that is adjustable by design? This is pathetic. Get your s**t together Suzuki or we will have a serious problem.
so long as you enjoy the bike that's all that matters, thanks for the review
Thanks for yr comments Keith.. And you are exactly right!... Ride safe
The XT also gives you 20kg more.
Personally i like the colour and the wheels on the base version better.
It is lighter , and has all one really needs.
I prefer the standard because you can make it the way you want it. Don't care for the spoke wheels on the XT and the crash bars on the XT do nothing for the upper part of the bike and I would much rather have the ones you have in this video. Like you I really like the gray and black color. The standard is all I need.
Nice review. Everything else I've found on the 2020 Vstr ok m 1050 is about the XT. I just bought the same bike. Got a good deal on what I've wanted for years. 1 mile on the odometer at test ride.
The XT certainly offers more bang for the buck than the standard version, as several upgrades, like the engine guards, extra lights, skid plate, etc. are all necessary on this bike, as is a whole hard luggage system..
I don't know if I would go for the base model because the lack of cruise control. I'm in Canada and often I find myself in a long stretch of highway, endless, straight and boring highway. It is always an invitation to go a bit faster than one should and cops are everywhere. Cruise control helps to curb that temptation IMO. However, the colors of yours is my favorite. I find the yellow and blue, orange and white great looking vehicles but, over time those schemes can become démodé. The old neutral colors never grow old.
Yes it was the colour that sold it for me plus the fact the dealer had already put all the extras on it already.. If you do alot of motorway riding I can see why you would want cruise control, bear in mind though that the XT model is over 10kg heavier than the standard model.. But I'm certain that you'll be more than happy with either one 👍.. I'm going to do a video on the panniers in the next week or so
I love the bike, congratulations!! I ended up buying a Tracer 900, only because it was 2k cheaper. When I see your bike, I regret it xD
Alberto don't regret it the Tracer 900 is a lovely bike! And you've saved yourself a load of money too 💰👍
I test drove a V Strom last week, always thought they ugly until I saw the blue and yellow 1050XT. Bought it 4 days later, now I'm pissed cause I never looked at them, before.
I think they look amazing buddy.... In fact you might be interested in the bike I've just bought!! 😜 Video on that later this week 👍
I’ve owned three ‘Stroms, two with the aluminum wheels and one XT; cumulatively they’ve survived well over 200 000 km’s. In my opinion, the XT’s farkles and a tad more cachet doesn’t make it a better bike. Most Stromtroopers are more impressed with value than superfluous function and most non-Stromtroopers don’t understand the attraction to ‘Stroms in the first place. That said, the same principle applies to the new vs old ‘Stroms where the previous generation is held in more esteem than the “new” tweaked 2020 offering.
Interesting, I ride the previous model and they’ve carried over a few items to your bike (rear light, mirrors, indicators). I hate to say this but yes you’ve probably made a mistake, but you’ve still got a great bike👍. I test rode your model just to get a feel for it, the engine character has changed they’ve pushed the “shove” further up the rev range but it felt smoother. Check out Givi’s airflow screen and only for the latest bike - side deflectors, they’re supposed to eliminate a lot of the turbulence that’s still present on the new one. Enjoy your ride, and you’re right the colour scheme and cast wheels are unbeatable👍 Oh one final point - get yourself a radiator guard, when I was test riding your model bike I should’ve been test riding the XT but couldn’t because the rad had been holed - they cost a lot of money to replace.
Thanks for the comments Andrew, if I'm honest I'm more than happy with my choice now, always loved the engine on the Vstrom .... Yes I've actually ordered a rad guard so that will be on there ASAP! I'm hoping to add another bike to my collection in the next month but we will see.. Ride safe 👍
After much resistance, I have come to love the cruise control on long trips. It really helps reduce fatigue.
I totally agree with u Joe..when I first got my 1050XT I didn't think I'd use the cruise control but after trying it once on a long motorway trip I never looked back 👍
Nothing wrong with building up the base model mate. That way you can customize the bike to your taste and budget. I have a 2014 Vee 1000 (from new), and have set it up to my requirements and I love it. 95,000kms and still purrs along beautifully. Engines are so bloody reliable and you can actually work on them yourselves. Will shortly be replacing the rear shock, and apart from normal wear and tear after 7 years, (sprockets and chains), thats it it! Great choice of bike and I know its not as flashy as the BMW, KTM or Ducati MS, but its a real work horse that will do everything you require of it. Enjoy the big vee mate.
The yellow and blue looks like a highlighter I can’t stomach it.
From the specs on suzuki's website it appears that the standard version of the 1050 does not have lean sensitive abs which is kind of surprising since it had that feature in all 2018/2019 vstrom 1000 models. The 1050 base model is also heavier than the 1000 base model.
I really like those bags, did you keep them for your new vstrom?
No I didn't but should have done! They were great bags👍
Like the YELLOW!!! Suzuki V-Strom is awesome!
Interesting video. I bought a used VStrom 650 and I've been trying to figure out how it has many XT accessories but has cast wheels. Couldn't get much info from the dealer--they buy these things at auction. Anyway, my guess after watching your video is that it is an XT but the first owner wanted the cast wheels. I like the cast wheels. They look great and as you say, they are far easier to clean and maintain. Mine is black and white by the way. I like that "police bike" look! Thanks.
Hey Q...thanks for yr comments, I've just watched a couple of Yr videos and you've got a stunning trio of bikes!!.. im not 100% sure if yr weestrom is an XT spec'd with cast wheels or if the previous owners have lavished money on a non XT bike 🤔 either way you've got a lovely looking bike there! A friend of mine used to have a 650 Strom and sold it for the 1050 (he does alot of 2 up touring) but still talks about how much he loved and misses the 650! The black/white colour scheme on the 650 (and the 1000) looks great 👍 it's the 1050 that looks like a police bike!!..Ride safe bud
@@2wheeledwillie395 thanks my friend. I’ve been looking at the 1000’s and 1050’s now that I’m enjoying the 650, but I’m really not sure those would be an upgrade. Maybe the new DE800? I’ve decided I am strictly a pavement and dirt road rider-no more trail riding for me. So the XT’s and the 21 inch front wheels won’t do much for me.
@@QuentinsMotoVlog I think the DE800 will be the one to have buddy 👍
@@QuentinsMotoVlog I'm actually thinking of getting a 650 interceptor in the same colour as you've got...are u pleased with yrs?
@@2wheeledwillie395 I do like it a lot. It’s a much more raw motorcycle experience than the VStrom. It has 47 horsepower, which is enough. They look beautiful. The VStrom is smoother, more power, better suspension, but every time I jump on the Interceptor for an hour long romp it brings a grin to my race and gets my heart pumping.
Your bike looks great. I went with the XT because I'm in Australia and cruise control is so useful on long open road rides. I would be very happy with yours for the price.
The standars version of thenew Vstrom 1050 just has one thing missing: cruise control.. other than that is a great bike. Hope Suzuki can add the cruise control for 2022.
Great honesty.
Where did u get your belly pan and panniers from ? Did the luggage price include the fixing kit ?
Thanks
Thanx... The belly pan was from Suzuki.. The panniers came complete with the fixing kit/brackets 👍
I was going to buy a Strom, but my wife told me, to get a BMW XR . . .
for it looked more comfy!
What a woman . . .
Lol! I hear you bro! 😂
Somewhere out there is a video from someone wondering “should I have bought the standard bike instead of the XT?” We all suffer from “buyer’s remorse” from time to time, it’s normal. Every decision is difficult, and in the end almost always a compromise. I bought a Versys 1000 SE GT and then agonised over its weight and height. But it was a great deal financially and now I don’t even think of its size. Be happy with what you have, it looks like a great bike 😀
Thanks for yr comments Charles.. Sadly the Vstrom has now made way for something a little less practical!!
@@2wheeledwillie395 And what would that be?
One upside I see right away on the base model 1050 is the lack of electronics. Less things to fail over time. It's unfortunate that in order to get the cruise control, you have to get all the other electronics with it. If I were in the market, I'd look at the XT. The cruise control is just too nice to miss out on. I would probly make a switch for the ABS or pull fuses depending on how it affects the other systems. The Suzuki panniers that come with the XT ADV are nice, but they look like they make it difficult for both rider and passenger to mount/dismount. The XT ADV is also pushing into Africa Twin ADV Sports price range and that's a far better off road machine.
Solved with the 2023 as the base gets cruise control as well
@@BlazinBlades very nice
It’s a Suzuki, not a KTM, don’t worry about the electronics failing😜
@@martyn_g I know, it's just more things to potentially fail
beautiful bike mate :) i just ordered my glass sparkle black XT cant wait
You won't be sorry buddy...incredibly underated bikes..enjoy!!
I’ve got a 2015 in the market for a 1050XT for cruise control and all the other electronics and protection, I’ll have to add a skid plate have SW-Motec on mine. I can’t believe the XT doesn’t come with heated grips so Oxford it is. Might have to swap out the wind shield as well or add deflectors. But hey if you’re not happy you can always upgrade. Ride safe pal, if I see you out there I’ll give you the enthusiastic wave that all V riders get.
Check out my later videos bud you'll see I did exactly that!! 👍
Informative video, thanks. I’m deciding on my next bike, narrowed down the options to a ‘17 wee or ‘15 Versys 650, though still considering a vee. I can definitely see myself getting a used orange n white 1050xt 1 day, so nice! Subbed.
Thanks Russell, The Vstrom 650 is an AMAZING bike, hired one on holiday and absolutely loved it....Good luck with the search 👍
It seems the previous years bas model 1000 (still available per Suzis web site) would be the sweet spot right now. SV 1000 base comes with adjustable screen, cornering abs, skid plate, handguards and looks pretty good. in black/red in my view.$1000 less thqn 1050 base msrp! I'm very tempted to order one but it seems the bike gets boring quickly for some people. Did that happen to you?
Hi Daniel... I guess I did get bored with it quick.. They are great bikes to ride and imo look great but just lacked the wow factor I guess
Enjoyed your video. I traded in a 2019 VStrom 650XT for a 2020 VStrom 1050XT Orange/White recently. The 1 thing I couldn't get the dealership to do was to swap the wheels. I would have preferred the mags since I'm not going to do much off-roading at all. I waited until the dealerships started discounting the bikes to make the upgrade and I'm happy with it. Will be interesting to see if Suzuki offers a 2022 model here in the states or replaces it with something else entirely.
Cheers Charlie 👍.. IMO you've got the best colour V-Strom!! Still really miss mine and think it won't be too long before I get another one 🤔 Ride safe Dude
@@2wheeledwillie395 I didn't realize you had swapped it out, had to go back and watch some more of your videos. Yes I've done that more than a few times but between this and the 2021 CB500X I bought for some camping and light trail riding I'm hoping to get many years out of them. Keep up the videos, it's always good to see others sharing the same motorcycle disease :)
Thanks again Charlie 👍 I'm interested to know how you find the CB500X? Always really liked the look of them and it's a Honda!
@@2wheeledwillie395 I had bought a 2021 Himalayan to go camping and fire road adventuring, kind of like the green lanes you have. I did an over night trip and while it handled all my gear and was fun to ride in the dirt, the ride back from the North Georgia mtns trying to keep up with my friend on his Tenere 700 convinced me that it wasn't the answer. I also wasn't that impressed with the workmanship of the Himalayan and it's annoying idling characteristics from a cold start. It was easy to find another owner for it and the logical replacement was the CB500X. As you say it's a Honda. It only took a test ride to know it was the right choice. I've started adding accessories to make it more off road capable and I'm still breaking it in but it should do well. I did realize that while not as featured as the 650XT, they were too similar so I traded that in on the 1050XT. So far neither bike has disappointed.
I was going to buy a versys 650 tomorrow for £7600 or the touring one for £8400, but noticed a brand new v strom 1050 for £9000 up in Fife, so am now looking at reviews online, so thanks for the video
My current bike is a gsx1250
Dave you won't be disappointed with the 1050... Let us know if you buy the one in Fife 👍
100% not a mistake reasons xt is 11kgs heavier /cheapest xt ive seen was £1.500 more./ you also bought best colour champion yellow and glass blaze orange in my opinion look awful glass sparkle black looks ok apart from it has gold bits in it. Also personal preference but on my vstrom first thing I changed was them ugly mirrors for some nice diamond shaped ones £ 16 off Ebay + half the weight. To sum up you got a bargain!!
Cheers Terry... You're right on all counts 👍
thats a tatse mate. i found the normal colours like grey and white very cheap
I’m going for the XT but I’d swap the diamond mirrors for the good old square ones. Yes, the diamond shape looks better but performance wise the square ones show more.
How do you like the seat on that bike? It looks kind of thin compared to previous Vstroms.
Hi Keith, The seat seems fine although I've not done a long ride on it yet
Great video. Looking at the XT650 V Strom as I want a light off road ability and I’m only 12stone.
Cheers Dude... The 650 vstrom is a mega bike, had one for as a loaner and absolutely loved it.. You definitely wont regret it.. Ride safe buddy
Very nice color of the bike! I would take it too)
Do you know the manufacturer name of spot lights? I'm looking to get myself a pair but i can not decide which one to get =/
Many thanks! The spot lights came direct from Suzuki and I think they are approximately £475ish so quite expensive compared to other after market ones.. They do make a massive difference for night time riding though
body color scheme looks great ! sci-fi like from UFO, Star-Wars !
Have you still got this Willie or has it been part ex to your currently RE fleet?
Hey buddy, no that's long gone! In fact I've had 2 more 1050XT vstroms since then!! Incredible bikes...I will definitely have another one one day!
The crash bar on the XT goes under the oil filter from one side to the other and is positioned toward the front of it.
I agree with you.
But in Korea, only one type of xt is sold, so I can't change the hard-to-clean wheel. Personally, I like your bike.
I wish they sold all kinds in Korea.
Thanks for yr comment buddy.. I've in fact now bought an orange and white XT version! I've done a couple of videos on it so let me know what you think 👍
Nice review. How's the Hepco Becker luggage holding up?
Hey Mo, Hepco and becker are a great brand.. I've had them before and they really are top quality.. Sadly the bike has been replaced and the luggage went with it!
Just ordered my new 2021 1050 XT tour. (Yellow)
So many parts are available aftermarket like engine bars, heated grips and such that are far cheaper than the genuine items.
PCP I've paid 2500 upfront, for 3 years at 125 quid with 3 years warranty, 8k miles a year.
Nice! So does that come with the full luggage?
@@2wheeledwillie395 Yes and and apparently some extra electrical stuff the other models don't have, but it's not as much as the expedition model regarding guards and heated grips.
@@aking610 Nice! Bet you can't wait!
@@2wheeledwillie395 not kidding, moving from a 1991 Pan euro to it. Although the Pan is amazing she's had enough of life 🤣🤣
mate thats a top looking bike you have i personally think you done well top looking bike enjoy it 👍
I would choose lava red xt or new blue 2021.
Cruise control and the adjustability of the screen or the only disappointments. I like your bikes color.
Thanks and yes your spot on 👍
I am thinking about buying a V-Strom but I also want cast rims and not the wire spoke rims.
If you buy a brand new XT you can ask for the cast wheels instead of the wire ones... But obviously if you buy the non XT then they come with cast wheels as standard 👍... You won't be disappointed!
Hi willieT I bought the same model as you for the same reasons! I like the colour and don't like the spoked wheels on the xt all adventure bkes are ugly but I still like some style lol.who needs hill assist anyway? mine came with the city pack I was going to buy the Ali boxes to until I saw the price! I did buy the lower accessory bars £425 from Suzuki and the hand guards radiator cover I don't bother with the TC which is annoying as the light stays on I personally don't want more electronics i have bikes with double the power without TC my right wrist is my traction control lol but a great bike and a relaxed ride I'm enjoying it the smoothest v twin I've ever rode and I've had 9. I think you made the right decision. £1500 cheaper better colour better wheels and not many electronics to go wrong! Enjoy
Thanks Alan! I'm glad I'm not the only one that thinks the grey /black is the best colour, have you put a belly pan on yours? Ride safe
@@2wheeledwillie395 hi Willie T no belly pan on mine
Hi I said exactly on cruise control 🤔 but long motorway trip I did... I'm now converted...just wait till you can get out all doubt will disappear...there brilliant...ps I made my own guard ...to hide oil filter.😉 atb dave
Yes you're probably right, can't wait to get back out! Good job on making yr own guard 👍 definitely think the oil filter needs some kind of protection
Hello, I have the same kind of engine, it is excellent, I covered 4000 km. enjoy the ride
Got a 22 black sparkle XT and I love it.
I predict you will own a XT one day…;-)
But all kidding aside: a V-strom 650 might just be all the bike one would need.
I love the updated version of the 1050. Its now exactly right.
Yes the updated version looks very nice 👌
@@2wheeledwillie395
I rode the updated bike yesterday.
I really didn’t get along with the quick shifter- but that’s probably me.
What I did find is that the engine is quite vibey . Especially in the higher rev range.
Is that your experience as well?
@@JPWest020 Hi, yes its definitely more vibey at higher speeds than other bikes I've owned but I think being a big V twin it's to be expected maybe?🤔 The Kawasaki Versy 1000 is meant to be very smooth
Black / part white looks like a police bike? Rather that than left in grey primer 🤣
i'm from across the pond, i am starting to see the orange and white models near my state (new jersey) but mostly we saw them on the west coast first (california, the warmer weather so you get my drift, sales would be higher there being now its winter and all that pandemic stuff happening) but i do see the prices, kind of high for the xt...around $13k US dollars for the yellow and orange one. For the XT adventure even higher....almost $16k!
Hi Rich, thanks for subscribing 👍 I'm guessing you've got a Yam fjr1300?! Lovely bike 👍
@@2wheeledwillie395 yeah i just had the recall done on the transmission, its ok, snow over here, very cold now, so not riding weather right now
@@richfjr1300 yeah snow here too.. Itching to get back on the bike!
On the standard you get the mirrors Suzuki are using for over 20 years. ugly but they work well
Yr right I've definitely seen better looking mirrors! But as you say they work really well
So what are those bike sport tourers or adventure
Definitely an Adventure but more of a road focused Adventure bike 👍
Why do you absolutely need to protect a $5 oil filter which like one person out of a hundred will damage once in a lifetime with a $250 belly pan?
It's not the cost of replacing the oil filter!! It's losing all the oil out of the motorbike
@@2wheeledwillie395 Yeah truly it's another $30 or so, depending on the amount, but still, the insurance being up to 10 times more expensive than the insured object, that's not how it works usually.
@jkristjanvalk I appreciate u watching my video but I think yr missing the point...a buddy of mine hit a small rock on his and the oil filter split shedding all the oil...he was on 3 day biking holiday and in the middle of nowhere & pretty much f***ed as he couldn't ride the bike anywhere, he ended up having to get the bike recovered ( at a cost) plus he lost almost a full day's riding ...I would rather spend the money on a belly pan so that would never happen to me!!....and plus I think they look good!
Thanks again for watching the video 👍
Pressure washer cleans wired wheels quite nicely. Take it from some dirtbike guys!!
Since I've now got a bike with wire wheels I'm with u dude 👍
Didn’t know you can get the cast wheels on the XT 👍
Hi Dave.. Yes apparently if you're ordering a brand new one you can request it 👍
Will, new user name but no adverts 😂
Love the user name mate! 😍
@@2wheeledwillie395 it’s all me
@@AJPerci mate I'm so chuffed your here! 🙏
Does the standard version come with a USB port?
Hello buddy... Yes the standard model does come with a USB port (it's on the side of the instrument cluster) ride safe
@@2wheeledwillie395 Thanks mate. Doing a test ride of the xt model tomorrow, but planning to buy the standard model.
@@erosas887 exciting! I bet you love it mate.. Let me know how you get on 👍
only 9000 pounds? in Greece the basic model is 13000 euros! that is about 11000 pounds!
Wow! That's crazy money! 😱
Yes you did!
Look at that weld on the frame....nasty stuff....Suzuki need to up their game
You're right about that Scott, thought the same thing myself
Go V!
Could care less about the wheels, XT has the cruise which is what I want.
so i guess looking ahead on this, you did buy the XT version and you weren't satisfied with that either lol.
I loved the 1050 XT but the Scrambler was a similar type of bike and truth be said I couldn't afford 2 £10k plus bikes
Why buy original assesories when you can buy better cheaper.Those hand wind reflectors (not protectors) are useless. Almost same money would have got you best handprotectors in the market, Barkbusters. I would have bought XT over basic. Just cruise control would have been enough, but there are lots off usefull stuff in XT package.
All the accessories were already on the bike when I bought it so didn't pay for them... If I'd bought an XT then I'd spend another £1500.. And I wouldn't have got the colour I wanted.. Ride safe
Yes. You should have get XT version. But look at the bright side. You still have one stonking bike for great price. The deal breaker on non XT is lack of cruise control. WHY Suzuki?
B.T.W. Removing adjusting mechanism on the screen that is adjustable by design? This is pathetic. Get your s**t together Suzuki or we will have a serious problem.
Nay i prefer this with cast wheels
Sorry but I think you did a mistake. Nice presentation though thanks! Enjoy!
Lol!! Thanks for the comment 👍
I think u did =(
😭 Although you might find that things will be changing soon 😜
@@2wheeledwillie395 great, because the XT Is insane!