They do grow on you. I've had several over the yrs and now have a 1050XT. When you get down to it what more could you want? It's like a good dog. Always there waiting, ready to go. An old friend.
For me would be great to have cradle frame and 1.5 or 2 taller ground clearance and perhaps not more but want less technology like cable throttle and no IMU and I personally not need power mode and traction control
Still breaking mine in, did a wee 300km today. The bike does everything that you need it to do. Hit a construction zone with gravel and a giant ridge back to the pavement. Bike handled it like a champ. My riding partner on her Indian bobber didn't fare so well. Cheers from Canada.
@jhguygih just upgraded the windshield to a Puig unit. Stock is decent but I'm getting older and need more wind protection. Can't wait to see how well it works. Seat and riding position ate perfect for me. You won't be sorry.
Great review sir. I can't wrap my head around why Suzuki on the 1050DE putted a tube on the front wheel and a tubeless on the rear wheel... However, this one is 100% tubeless and if you spend 99.9% of the time on the road, you can't beat the 19" front wheel 🙂
Easy solution... buy a DE demonstrator ,a few hundred miles on the clock,for under £10k, fit a 19" sealed rim, now tubeless, big has the right stance(DE sits front end high),best colour, and you can still go up tracks and shale roads? £130 a pop,and anything is tubeless!
I own a 2014 V Strom 1000, it's my first Suzuki. I've owned a 2004 Yamaha FZ 6, 2013 Versys 650 and a 2005 BMW R1200 GS. Very satisfied with the V Strom quality, engine performance and dependability. Though the liter ADV category has a lot to offer, I have to say the V STROM is still a top contender for my next bike, when it's time to upgrade. Thanks for your review 👍🏾
I have the same year model and absolutely love it. It's comfortable with plenty of power, ridiculous reliability and low cost of ownership. Having an aftermarket exhaust, the sound is that nice thumpy growl that can get a bit angry with ample throttle and it's fits me being a taller rider which has always been an issue and I don't want a 900# cruiser.
I live quite close by and didn't realise Colin Appleyards still existed! There have been quite a few stores over the years, but I can't recall seeing one for quite a long time. Before I passed my bike test (14 years ago now!) I wanted a DL650, but since then, whenever sitting on a V-strom derived bike, I haven't felt like the quality was quite there. I would very much like to ride one though.
Completely agree with you in twins. v twins and parallel with 270 degree are amazing. I’ve recently got my self the super meteor and that engine is an absolute peach of a thing. Sadly I took a risk with the riding position on the super meteor being my first cruiser and it really doesn’t do it for me. Should of waited for the new interceptor with the cast wheels or gotten a second hand v storm 😂. Live and learn moment. Great videos mate, only recently stumbled on your channel and liking the content, ride safe
Cheers for the shout out pal. With better marketing in the early years it’d be even more popular than it is today. Sadly the Japanese seem not to promote their bikes unlike the Europeans. Mine was the AL2 650 (2012 “Glee Strom “ ) It was a loyal dependable servant which never missed a beat in the 6 years I owned it. The Suzuki Vstrom - Go and have a go on one down at Appleyards it you get the chance.
Another great review, thank you although based on your Enfield twin review…. I like the practicality of the bike but less enjoying the look of it….. but as you say, and some of your followers say, I’m sure it would grow me…. There is an attraction for me in having a bike that I can get on and ride and not be worrying about pretty much anything other than making sure I’ve got enough meat on my tyres…. It really does seem to be an outstanding machine. Thank you again
Good afternoon sir, a great review of this underrated motorcycle. If only I was a lot taller I would love to test ride this bike at my local dealership but your review was very informative and a joy to watch. Great work and thanks 😊 👍 🙏 😀.
i will now use all my vast biking knowledge and come up with a very informative comment involving a lot of research and skill and say ----- nice colour ;;;;
I've got a 2015 V-Strom 1000. Had it for two years, and I'm now a V-Strom fan. Been extremely pleased with it. There is currently no other adventure bikes I'd like to swap it for than this 2023 (non-de) model. I really like the looks of the fully equiped DE (in blue-white) - but for road purposes this one is better.
Cruise control and tubeless tyres will be the clincher for many folk. Must say that it would look great with colour matched luggage. On the other hand, the 800DE's suspension would make it my choice.
Hello again, Dave. As you are by now probably all too aware, this class of bike is not my cup of tea. You have, however, conveyed fair and reasonable opinions as to why such machines are so popular. They are without doubt the complete package for those who's prerequisite is versatility..... in abundance. Still adamant though, that if one is serious about touring great distances and in all weather conditions, particularly, dusty, off-road scenarios, shaft drive is the way to go. This bike, especially in DE form, would then be perfect for those folk who's preferences are for such machines. 👍
Thank you Mark yes shaft has advantages but downside can be weight and torque drain. Sadly all the shaft drive adv bikes are the 1200cc plus monsters with exception of the Moto Guzzi 85 TT
I am always drawn to the V-Strom even after I get a new bike. How is the wind protection on that model (as screen issues are among the most common comments on touring bikes). Enjoyable review!
I adore ‘Stroms; bought three new and cumulatively rode them well over 230 000 trouble free kilometers. Still have one with 77k that runs better than new. And, therein lies the problem. Coming off the production line, the new bikes (likely including the new DE800) are better. The Wee ‘Strom may still appeal to one’s sense of frugality, but the Big Guy is too expensive, too long in the tooth, and simply can’t compete in the marketplace. With full respect - RIP.
