Bought my First V Strom, 1000, 2005 Model. Got on it and Drove it home ( 760 km - Not Riding Fit as I have not been on a bike for 2 years ). What a Pleasure !!
So, here it's Sept of 2022 watching a video review of an 08 Vstrom in 2016.. I gotta say, it's still relevant. I had a 04 DL1K about 8 years ago for 6 years, terrific machine as American Flyer has demonstrated.. since, I've been through a Bandit 1200s, 1250s and a Miata- a bike with doors ;) just this month, picked up an 06 DL650 (Weestom) and I must say, it's really an ideal bike, also still relevant especially if folks don't have tons of cash for the newer stuff.. $3K +/- can get you something totally usable and actually 80% as good as the current offerings at multiple of thousands more, if you don't mind not having abs, ride modes, etc..also they are known for stunning reliability.. the 650 does, really well, it does lack that hard 1000cc pull, but it really does quite good, plenty for traffic.. will hold 80mph just fine with a decent reserve, just won't freight train up to 120+++ like the big brother.. I spend less time managing the bike and more time enjoying the ride..
Great review. I own a FJR1300 and a 2014 V Strom 1000. I got the Strom for the same reasons you mentioned - better handling on rough roads, the ability to explore a little more on gravel roads, etc. However, I discovered that the Strom is actually more comfortable than the FJR on the highway, for me at least. The seat is better, and the great leg room is a blessed relief for my knees. And the Strom vibrates less than the FJR at, ah, cruising speeds. The FJR is a terrific machine, and I like the electric wind screen, shaft drive, and the cruise control is somewhat useful, but for me, the Strom is more enjoyable, day to day. It’s a do-it-all machine.
Hey, Don. Thanks for the feedback. I love my 06' FJR but lving in Asheville NC I'm wanting a V-Strom 1000. Looking right now, Aug 29th, a local dealer 07' 14k miles $4300. Think I'm gonna move on it!
I bought my 2014 VStrom 1000 because I was tired of getting beat up on bad roads on my 2004 Honda VTX1300C. My Strom handles gravel roads with ease and floats over rough asphalt and concrete roads without injuring me.
love that 113A and the corner by the church with that beautiful field at 9:12 ...Glad you started talking about the suspention in there ,,My Triumph Sreet Scrambler I would be standing on the pegs . Thanks for the great clip ..
I have this bike. Runs great. I have a lot of bikes and I am getting ready to sell this one. Mine is a 2007. Very nice review and I agree with everything you said. I got into soft sand and went down with it. Hurt my ankle pretty bad when I first got it. Definitely a fun bike.
Awesome review. NO BS... also, I am from New Hampshire, haven't lived there in years. You made me homesick. In a lot of ways, I think NH is the best motorcycling state.
Great review. I sold my ZRX a couple years ago and found one of these used and am seriously considering getting it. BTW you sound like Ray Romano with the helmet cam LOL.
Great bike. I've got the same 2004 1000. Bought new, and still looks and rides as new with about 21k miles. I've test ridden many bikes over the years, and this is the best all around bike. Very versatile and comfortable. Still love it.
Great video as I am looking to buy a used 2008 DL1000. I recently moved to the Great Northwest, Washington State. The roads are to die for here so just have to get another bike after leaving SOCAL. Can you tell me what you were using to record the audio and video on this ride. The audio was great even a road speeds.
Wayne, the V-Strom 1000 is a great all-around bike. Go for it. I used a GoPro Hero 4 Silver with a cheap external mic taped to the inside of my helmet.
I agree withe the others in saying you did a excellent video with an objective review of the Vstrom 1k. Two days ago, I bought a used 2007 V 1k with 45k miles on the odo. Yesterday, I took the bike out for a spirited run with some buds, and I was quite impressed with the ergo and comfort of the bike. On the matter of power, you mentioned impressive power of the engine up to 7k rpm, but didn't say at what rpm point this power could be tapped. My experience yesterday found the instant power was much available below 4k or 4.5k rpm. I also felt the shifting from 1st gear to 2nd was not as smooth as I would like. The one significant negative was what I perceive to be inaccurate fueling while pulling away in 1st gear. There was a definite roughness felt there. The characteristic compression braking of the V twin engine, perhaps combined with what might be some transmission and drive line slack caused for some irritating slow speed riding on the streets between traffic lights. I wonder whether you or other Vstrom 1k owners might comment on these last couple of negative items. Are these negatives common to the Vstrom 1k and if so, what might be the modifications or adjustments that would provide some corrections to what might otherwise be a great bike for distance touring? (On the fueling issue, I'm considering a Power Commander as a modification.) Thanks for a really well done video.
Winfield Jung: Thank you. The crappy 1st to 2nd upshift has annoyed me since I got the bike. Don't know of a fix. And I have no problem crawling along in first gear whether in traffic or off-road. And I do have a Power Commander. Seems to work just fine. However, when I first bought the bike it would occasionally stall at red lights. Hasn't done that in over a year now. Mysteriously fixed itself. I still enjoy the bike very much. I rode a Ducati Multistrada 950 recently (video coming soon). And while the Duc is a better bike in almost all respects (as it should be for the money), I liked the Suzuki V-twin better than the Duc V-twin!
The trick for "smoother" up shift..try preloading the shift lever and matching engine speed better. It is an acquired skill but works well for most bikes.
Love your review on the DL1000. The V-Twin delivers power in a safer way than the inline 4 cylinder IMO. You crank on it and BAM!!!!! ...and the power pulses have more significant gaps between them that act as a passive traction control. The tire gets a chance to hook up between pulses, even at high levels of throttle. Yeah I love my TL1000R. Love that V-Twin Motor.
Yeah, like I said in the video, I'm done with inline 4s. I'm a convert to the V-Twins now. BTW, I test rode an SV1000 before I bought the V-Strom and loved the bike. It just wasn't comfortable enough for all the riding I do.
American Flyer do u still have the V2 1k..?! bought one clean with 70k..cheap..just ride for 1k mile only..how could i feel love with it..?! I feel I'm not excited..!
@@americanflyer4126 how tall r u? Is the Vstrom comfy for longer trips? I'm 6.3 have a KLR650 now which if I'm solo I can put my feet on the rear pegs and I can be comfortable.
@@sachsgs2509 I am also 6'3" tall. It was fairly comfortable before but last year I raised the bike an inch and have great legroom now. Only problem is the kickstand is too short now. I added a foot to the stand and it helped but it's not enough. I carry a block of wood in my pocket and put it under the kickstand.
Very nicely done video. I haven't owned/ridden a bike for over 12yrs and I'm 59yrs old, 5'9 tall, bout 220lbs. I've been shopping on local CL and found 2011-2015 V Strom DL650's for sale. My last bike I owned was a 90's KLR-%650. I was really leaning to get a 800-1100cc Cruiser style bike/ But I'm not crazy about all the Harley-wana be style Cruiser looks. Though there are alot of Cruisers for sale near me for very low prices, I just think I'd like the V Strom/Honda Versys 650's as my new to me, re-starte bikes. Was gona go look at some this coming week then I found a 08 V Strom DL1000, 13K miles for sale just right down the street from me. And its at the same or bit less price of the DL650's I planned to go test drive this week. Just wondering if the DL1000 might be too much bike for me as a re-starter bike. I would only use the bike mostly just for Sunday morning rides with a buddy who rides a 800 Vulcan. I'm not trying to be a speed-demon or ever any off-roading for me. So maybe a Cruiser is what I need. But I just like the looks and stance of these DL650/1000 bikes. Guess I should at least go see the DL1000, Just think it might be too much, too soon for me.
I think for most people the 650 is enough. It's about 50 lb lighter and gets better fuel mileage too. I think it's better off road too. But the 1000 has quite a bit more power. If you don't want that power, get the 650. Now, compared to a cruiser either bike is going to be faster, handle better, may or may not be more comfortable and gives you the option of exploring off road. The cruisers are going to have a lower seat height but you can get a Koubalink to lower the V-Strom. Thanks for watching.
I own the DL 1000 and im 5,8" 148 lbs no problem handling the bike , the 650 might be more nimble for Sunday rides and easier to back up out of a curb and all thou 650 has a better gas mileage the range on the hwy goes to DL 1OOO ( 220 + miles on a tank ) plus more power . on the other hand earlier models of DL 650 had ABS already something that the big brother DL 1000 had to wait for .
The '08 DL1000 for sale is about 9 mins from me, a DL650 way across town. Both about 14K miles. The DL1000 only $200 more than 650, so that's on my mind too. Been on StromTroopers, so many talk of burnt stator issue on the V Stroms. Honda 919 in my hunt too.
aaa that is another nice bike the 919 is sweet naked bike I do own similar SV650 same style smaller engine so much fun to ride this they are phenomenal bikes the only thing is that if you ride a bit faster you take all the wind on your shoulders and that will wear you out after a few hours, but the look/ feel of the bike is awesome btw I have videos of both of them on my channel if you would like to see , good luck
The Honda 919 is quite a bit different from either V-Stroms. Inline 4 vs V-twin. No wind protection vs good wind protection. Sportier egos vs more relaxed ergos. Ride both.
I have a 2011 650a and I too think it leans WAY too far over on the side stand. I’m short of inseam and will be putting lowering links on soon, 3/4 inch. Should help with the lean angle on the side stand.
By rough terrain do you mean rough pavement? It eats up rough pavement very well. If you mean rough terrain off road, it's a handful because it's so heavy and has limited ground clearance.
I want to buy a Suzuki vstrom 1000 ... I know it is a category of touring bike, ideal for long road trips, but I'll have to ride on rough terrain too (off road). Actually, the bike seems to be pretty heavy, but I'm going to have to get used to it. Thank you for your opinion.
They are great bikes. However, the foundation of the G Strom 1000 engine was the early GSXR 1000 engine. Once those became non-competitive in Cafe racing Suzuki designed a new engine for the race bikes but kept this engine for touring bikes.
Somebody PLEASE tell him its an L twin not a V twin......the brakes are more than adequate for what the bike is capable of on and off road I've been riding over 50 years love my DL sorry to nit pick
Stu....cylinder configuration 90 degree cylinder spread ( Ducati or the Suzuki copy) are referred to as L-twins 60 degree cylinder spread ( hardly dependable HD) are referred to as V-twins.......because of this cylinder arrangement the L - twin exibits better balance and can rev much higher where as the V-twin tends to shake much worse but renders the exaust note that people tend to associate with a twin. Length of stroke and valve configuration ( Push rods or multi over head cams ) also factor into HP and torque out put. But these are the basic differences between a L and V twin.
Bought my First V Strom, 1000, 2005 Model. Got on it and Drove it home ( 760 km - Not Riding Fit as I have not been on a bike for 2 years ).
What a Pleasure !!
So, here it's Sept of 2022 watching a video review of an 08 Vstrom in 2016.. I gotta say, it's still relevant. I had a 04 DL1K about 8 years ago for 6 years, terrific machine as American Flyer has demonstrated.. since, I've been through a Bandit 1200s, 1250s and a Miata-
a bike with doors ;) just this month, picked up an 06 DL650 (Weestom) and I must say, it's really an ideal bike, also still relevant especially if folks don't have tons of cash for the newer stuff.. $3K +/- can get you something totally usable and actually 80% as good as the current offerings at multiple of thousands more, if you don't mind not having abs, ride modes, etc..also they are known for stunning reliability.. the 650 does, really well, it does lack that hard 1000cc pull, but it really does quite good, plenty for traffic.. will hold 80mph just fine with a decent reserve, just won't freight train up to 120+++ like the big brother.. I spend less time managing the bike and more time enjoying the ride..
One of the nicest and most honest bike review I´ve ever seen on YT. Great job :)
I agree :)
Ray romano reviewing bikes :)
Great review. I own a FJR1300 and a 2014 V Strom 1000. I got the Strom for the same reasons you mentioned - better handling on rough roads, the ability to explore a little more on gravel roads, etc. However, I discovered that the Strom is actually more comfortable than the FJR on the highway, for me at least. The seat is better, and the great leg room is a blessed relief for my knees. And the Strom vibrates less than the FJR at, ah, cruising speeds. The FJR is a terrific machine, and I like the electric wind screen, shaft drive, and the cruise control is somewhat useful, but for me, the Strom is more enjoyable, day to day. It’s a do-it-all machine.
Hey, Don. Thanks for the feedback. I love my 06' FJR but lving in Asheville NC I'm wanting a V-Strom 1000. Looking right now, Aug 29th, a local dealer 07' 14k miles $4300. Think I'm gonna move on it!
@@ashevilledurden4461 how did that go on your bike I'm from black mtn nc myself
just thinking about a fjr or the v strom or honda varadero the fjr is most expansive in my country
I bought my 2014 VStrom 1000 because I was tired of getting beat up on bad roads on my 2004 Honda VTX1300C. My Strom handles gravel roads with ease and floats over rough asphalt and concrete roads without injuring me.
love that 113A and the corner by the church with that beautiful field at 9:12 ...Glad you started talking about the suspention in there ,,My Triumph Sreet Scrambler I would be standing on the pegs . Thanks for the great clip ..
I have this bike. Runs great. I have a lot of bikes and I am getting ready to sell this one. Mine is a 2007. Very nice review and I agree with everything you said. I got into soft sand and went down with it. Hurt my ankle pretty bad when I first got it. Definitely a fun bike.
A++ review, thumbs up for the 3rd person angle camera
Awesome review. NO BS... also, I am from New Hampshire, haven't lived there in years. You made me homesick. In a lot of ways, I think NH is the best motorcycling state.
Great review. I sold my ZRX a couple years ago and found one of these used and am seriously considering getting it. BTW you sound like Ray Romano with the helmet cam LOL.
laugh in Ray Romano
Great bike. I've got the same 2004 1000. Bought new, and still looks and rides as new with about 21k miles. I've test ridden many bikes over the years, and this is the best all around bike. Very versatile and comfortable. Still love it.
Great video as I am looking to buy a used 2008 DL1000. I recently moved to the Great Northwest, Washington State. The roads are to die for here so just have to get another bike after leaving SOCAL. Can you tell me what you were using to record the audio and video on this ride. The audio was great even a road speeds.
Wayne, the V-Strom 1000 is a great all-around bike. Go for it. I used a GoPro Hero 4 Silver with a cheap external mic taped to the inside of my helmet.
Well done,,,I think I like the big even more now...thanks
Super video. Thanks
Great review
Enjoyed every minute
Nice vid..how so far the Vee with you is..?!" BAM..the power always there.."
Keep ride..look around..
I agree withe the others in saying you did a excellent video with an objective review of the Vstrom 1k. Two days ago, I bought a used 2007 V 1k with 45k miles on the odo. Yesterday, I took the bike out for a spirited run with some buds, and I was quite impressed with the ergo and comfort of the bike. On the matter of power, you mentioned impressive power of the engine up to 7k rpm, but didn't say at what rpm point this power could be tapped. My experience yesterday found the instant power was much available below 4k or 4.5k rpm. I also felt the shifting from 1st gear to 2nd was not as smooth as I would like. The one significant negative was what I perceive to be inaccurate fueling while pulling away in 1st gear. There was a definite roughness felt there. The characteristic compression braking of the V twin engine, perhaps combined with what might be some transmission and drive line slack caused for some irritating slow speed riding on the streets between traffic lights. I wonder whether you or other Vstrom 1k owners might comment on these last couple of negative items. Are these negatives common to the Vstrom 1k and if so, what might be the modifications or adjustments that would provide some corrections to what might otherwise be a great bike for distance touring? (On the fueling issue, I'm considering a Power Commander as a modification.) Thanks for a really well done video.
Have your throttle bodies synchronized
Yeah mine is perfect no such issues and buttery smooth gearbox operation
Winfield Jung: Thank you. The crappy 1st to 2nd upshift has annoyed me since I got the bike. Don't know of a fix. And I have no problem crawling along in first gear whether in traffic or off-road. And I do have a Power Commander. Seems to work just fine. However, when I first bought the bike it would occasionally stall at red lights. Hasn't done that in over a year now. Mysteriously fixed itself. I still enjoy the bike very much. I rode a Ducati Multistrada 950 recently (video coming soon). And while the Duc is a better bike in almost all respects (as it should be for the money), I liked the Suzuki V-twin better than the Duc V-twin!
The trick for "smoother" up shift..try preloading the shift lever and matching engine speed better. It is an acquired skill but works well for most bikes.
CYMARC uk do a plate called a gearshift enhancer which sorts out the misalignment between front and rear sprockets, £38 in the uk works a treat.
I really enjoyed your review. I'm deciding an the Suzuki V-Strom 1000, Yamaha FJR 1300 or Honda ST 1300.
my name... what did you buy?
Yeah. Im also curious
Love your review on the DL1000. The V-Twin delivers power in a safer way than the inline 4 cylinder IMO. You crank on it and BAM!!!!! ...and the power pulses have more significant gaps between them that act as a passive traction control. The tire gets a chance to hook up between pulses, even at high levels of throttle.
Yeah I love my TL1000R. Love that V-Twin Motor.
Yeah, like I said in the video, I'm done with inline 4s. I'm a convert to the V-Twins now. BTW, I test rode an SV1000 before I bought the V-Strom and loved the bike. It just wasn't comfortable enough for all the riding I do.
American Flyer do u still have the V2 1k..?! bought one clean with 70k..cheap..just ride for 1k mile only..how could i feel love with it..?! I feel I'm not excited..!
@@americanflyer4126 how tall r u?
Is the Vstrom comfy for longer trips?
I'm 6.3 have a KLR650 now which if I'm solo I can put my feet on the rear pegs and I can be comfortable.
@@sachsgs2509 I am also 6'3" tall. It was fairly comfortable before but last year I raised the bike an inch and have great legroom now. Only problem is the kickstand is too short now. I added a foot to the stand and it helped but it's not enough. I carry a block of wood in my pocket and put it under the kickstand.
@@americanflyer4126 awesome thank you for the info!!👌
I have the Delkevic exhaust on my dirtbike and I have to say that thing would drive me nuts on a touring bike! NO WAY, I agree with you
An proof reading correction to my post...I meant to say: "...instant power was not much available below 4k or 4.5k rpm."
Watching in 2024, going to look at a 06 strom today. 20k miles on it.
Very nicely done video. I haven't owned/ridden a bike for over 12yrs and I'm 59yrs old, 5'9 tall, bout 220lbs. I've been shopping on local CL and found 2011-2015 V Strom DL650's for sale. My last bike I owned was a 90's KLR-%650. I was really leaning to get a 800-1100cc Cruiser style bike/ But I'm not crazy about all the Harley-wana be style Cruiser looks. Though there are alot of Cruisers for sale near me for very low prices, I just think I'd like the V Strom/Honda Versys 650's as my new to me, re-starte bikes. Was gona go look at some this coming week then I found a 08 V Strom DL1000, 13K miles for sale just right down the street from me. And its at the same or bit less price of the DL650's I planned to go test drive this week.
Just wondering if the DL1000 might be too much bike for me as a re-starter bike. I would only use the bike mostly just for Sunday morning rides with a buddy who rides a 800 Vulcan. I'm not trying to be a speed-demon or ever any off-roading for me. So maybe a Cruiser is what I need. But I just like the looks and stance of these DL650/1000 bikes. Guess I should at least go see the DL1000, Just think it might be too much, too soon for me.
I think for most people the 650 is enough. It's about 50 lb lighter and gets better fuel mileage too. I think it's better off road too. But the 1000 has quite a bit more power. If you don't want that power, get the 650.
Now, compared to a cruiser either bike is going to be faster, handle better, may or may not be more comfortable and gives you the option of exploring off road. The cruisers are going to have a lower seat height but you can get a Koubalink to lower the V-Strom.
Thanks for watching.
I own the DL 1000 and im 5,8" 148 lbs no problem handling the bike , the 650 might be more nimble for Sunday rides and easier to back up out of a curb and all thou 650 has a better gas mileage the range on the hwy goes to DL 1OOO ( 220 + miles on a tank ) plus more power . on the other hand earlier models of DL 650 had ABS already something that the big brother DL 1000 had to wait for .
The '08 DL1000 for sale is about 9 mins from me, a DL650 way across town. Both about 14K miles. The DL1000 only $200 more than 650, so that's on my mind too. Been on StromTroopers, so many talk of burnt stator issue on the V Stroms. Honda 919 in my hunt too.
aaa that is another nice bike the 919 is sweet naked bike I do own similar SV650 same style smaller engine so much fun to ride this they are phenomenal bikes the only thing is that if you ride a bit faster you take all the wind on your shoulders and that will wear you out after a few hours, but the look/ feel of the bike is awesome btw I have videos of both of them on my channel if you would like to see , good luck
The Honda 919 is quite a bit different from either V-Stroms. Inline 4 vs V-twin. No wind protection vs good wind protection. Sportier egos vs more relaxed ergos. Ride both.
Bought a 2002 dl1000 in 2008 and after 4days left Athens to Milan, Corsica and back still have it. Never opened the engine.
What about the valve adjustments?
What about it?
I have a 2011 650a and I too think it leans WAY too far over on the side stand. I’m short of inseam and will be putting lowering links on soon, 3/4 inch. Should help with the lean angle on the side stand.
@@joecamel6835
What the fk does that mean?
I heard there are 4 cylinder engines with good torque at low rpm too (e.g. Bandit 1200/1250).
Galfer steel braided lines and EBC pads.....Make Brakes Great Again!
How does this bike behave on rough terrain?
By rough terrain do you mean rough pavement? It eats up rough pavement very well. If you mean rough terrain off road, it's a handful because it's so heavy and has limited ground clearance.
I want to buy a Suzuki vstrom 1000 ... I know it is a category of touring bike, ideal for long road trips, but I'll have to ride on rough terrain too (off road).
Actually, the bike seems to be pretty heavy, but I'm going to have to get used to it. Thank you for your opinion.
If you are going do be riding more than 30% off road, I suggest getting something lighter like a DR 650, KLR 650 or XR 650.
Big trail bike would be the best option for my need .... I'll check the ones that you suggested.
Thank you again.
They are great bikes. However, the foundation of the G Strom 1000 engine was the early GSXR 1000 engine. Once those became non-competitive in Cafe racing Suzuki designed a new engine for the race bikes but kept this engine for touring bikes.
Uh, no?
@@GroupFourProductions you might want to do a little research.
@@GroupFourProductions also Cagiva and Kawasaki used this exact engine in their motorcycles for a period of rime.
TL1000R was the twin. Not gsxr....
KLV was just a rebranded Strom...
I hear that clunk into second gear!! My 2002 does the same
Nice review👍
Is it worth selling 650
To buy 1000?
Naw, I actually think the 650 is a better overall package.
just got my first bike strom1000
Still ridin it ?
Turdy Time. Lol 😂 😂 😂
Turdy time 😅😅.
Turdy time! Lol
No offence man.. but you ain't see "Crappy" roads yet.. i mean.. tarmac "crappy" road for real..
The clutch suffers from chudder horrible sound and suzuki still ain’t fixed it
Bam !!
Somebody PLEASE tell him its an L twin not a V twin......the brakes are more than adequate for what the bike is capable of on and off road I've been riding over 50 years love my DL sorry to nit pick
Stu....cylinder configuration 90 degree cylinder spread ( Ducati or the Suzuki copy) are referred to as L-twins 60 degree cylinder spread
( hardly dependable HD) are referred to as V-twins.......because of this cylinder arrangement the L - twin exibits better balance and can rev much higher where as the V-twin tends to shake much worse but renders the exaust note that people tend to associate with a twin. Length of stroke and valve configuration ( Push rods or multi over head cams ) also factor into HP and torque out put. But these are the basic differences between a L and V twin.
Suzuki called it a v-twin then, and they call it a v-twin now. It's a v-twin.
Yah, but nobody calls it an L-Strom. Just sayin'. :P
You may be technically correct. But, Suzuki, the company that makes the V Strom, calls the engine a V-twin.
You are incorrect. Suzuki specs List It as a 90-degree V-Twin.