I've been watching Dork in the Road since he's 250L days (I had the same bike). I did enjoy his older videos more. Not because of anything more than, at that time, he felt more like a regular dude like myself who worked through the week and got an occasional weekend to go out and play. Now he gets to ride a whole lot more and and is fortunate enough to get to ride a lot of bikes and do what he wants. Kudos to him. I will say though, if the time comes that he does try out an 800de and it changes his opinion, he'll be the first to admit his initial comments were wrong. That I do still like about him.
Truth be told, no new adventure touring bike makes much sense to me. Ted Simon went on quite an adventure with a 37hp, 650cc, 1974 Triumph Tiger. He wasn't ripping wheelies off 60' sand dunes or roosting through knee deep mud. That isn't what you do on adventure touring bikes. People forget that these are touring bikes. The T in ADV is silent. It stands for touring. Because of this, manufacturers believe adventure touring bike should be an expensive, heavy and fragile pseudo dual-sport that some people might tour on. These 160hp, 550lb+ ADV touring bikes genuinely perplex me. People want to test these bikes as if they are dual-sports. (Pro-tip: Nothing over 400lbs is a dual-sport). Reviewers seldom mention luggage, the sub-frame strength or GVWR. They don't discuss user-serviceability, ease of repair or general reliability. These bikes are judged on qualities which have little importance with actual touring. For this reason I generally dislike most reviewers. I watch their videos but do so only to learn a bit more about the bike with regards to size, fitment, impressions, etc. As an "ADV TOURING bike", this looks like an exceptional bike. I look forward to hearing about many people riding them around the world. TL/DR? Just ignore me, him and all the rest.
@@Roger_Ramjet I'm guilty of it myself. I added thousands of dollars in accessories to bikes that, if I were honest about it, never really needed them. I upgraded skid plates when the stock one perfectly fine. I tipped a 500lb bike over in a bunch of rocks and grumbled about how the factory crash bars folded up like card table. Foglights. Who "tours" at night? I'll cut this one some slack because moar lighting is moar better. I put knobbies on an "adventure" bike that was sold new with street tires. Knobbies are for short trips, not long tours! I just hope people begin to notice these things themselves.
Dork was great when he appeared to be a regular guy. He made some nice videos showing beautiful riding areas. He also appeared honest with regard to riding. He was just learning like many of us… Somewhere along the way his video persona changed from being a Dork to being the Expert. It’s actually kind of funny that he really believes he is an expert now. Dork may have rode a VStrom sometime, but I don’t believe he ever owned one. When I started watching him he had a Versys 650 and a CRF250L… since that time he has owned lots of bikes, none of which he has kept for very long or put many miles on. My guess is the most actual miles he has put on a bike is the Norden. Just a guess but he’s probably under 4000 miles on that even, maybe even under 3000. If you look back at his videos you will notice that he trucks his bikes most places. Given his experience in theater/education he is an expert at staging. I wouldn’t let his opinion (we’re all entitled to that) bother you on the VStrom 800DE. You likely got a great bike. It compares very well to the Tenere 700 and other midsize Adv bikes. Like any bike it has pluses and minuses. Those pluses and minuses are specific to the rider as well. The Fraud Has Spoken!
I appreciate the response. He’s a good dude and has evolved into sort of an ADV ambassador now. I’m not really “bothered” by his comment, but he’s talking to a lot of people without ever having sat on a 800DE. I just want people to know this is a very good bike.
I had the same response when the 800 was announced. I was just surprised at how heavy the final kerb weight was. Clearly the decision to end with a final kerb weight above 500 pounds what not a decision that Suzuki took…lightly. Despite the high mass figure on paper Suzuki has demonstrated that they know what they are doing and designed an excellent motorcycle with capabilities exceeding the sum of its parts. I’m sure if dork gets the chance to ride one he will come to understand that just as we have witnessed with others.
Enjoy your new bike bro, she's a beaut!!! I sat on one last week and I loved the way it felt & looked. I just felt that it was gonna be a bit too much bike for where I am in my riding journey. I'm actually a couple of steps behind you lol. I just got the V-Strom 650 XT "Adventure" which I'm pretty thrilled with. I'm coming off of an R3 so the V-Strom seems SUPA powerful 😜
I absolutely love my Suzuki 800DE. It meets my needs perfectly for the type of riding I do here in Vermont/New England (dirt roads & pavement). This is my 39th motorcycle and easily in the top 3 bikes I've ever owned. I am a KLR650 fanboy, however, I recently sold my 2022 KLR 650 Adventure because the 800DE made it redundant.
100% agree. I’m adding one to the stable to sit next to my V-Strom 1000 (Which is set-up more for 2-up touring with the bride). Hope to see you on the road sometime here in Ohio. Go Bucks!
WOW !!! I am really torn on which bike to get-- the t700 or Vstrom 800. Have you gotten the new one ? How is it doing ? Also are you going to change the tires for the BDR
@@michaelk946 no I haven't gotten the vsrom 800de yet. I have to sell my t7 first.. and yes when I get the vsrom the first thing I do before I even ride it is change the tires
I did test ride this 800DE about one hour with Suzuki demo ride….guest what i sale my T7 to get this bike…..by far BEST than the T7 for 50/50 ride👍the major thing is road plushness.
I don't know about if it makes sense on paper or not, I think that is like analysing statistics, it depends on the approach, and that's why politicians love it, because it can go one way or the other... I think the Suzuki doesn't win comparatives because it's not meant to excell. It's meant to be versatile. And for some, versatility is a true expression of freedom. So, though I haven't tried it, but considering all of the TH-cam research available out there, it may not excell at all terrain as an Enduro bike or close enough like a t700, or not excell at touring with a little gravel aspiration as the transalp, or standout as performance oddities at the cost of reliability as the Italian bikes, the V-STROM 800 DE strikes me as excellent at versatility,and in that way, at freedom. At least that's how I feel and why I'm thinking about getting one for me.
Love to see everybody worried about the weight, but at the same time loading the bikes with every possible heavy stuff: aluminium side and top cases, crash bars, thick skid plates, aux lights... I mean, it's only 15 kg heavier than a F800GS! People load top cases with that weight in beer.
Obviously I can't speak for Ben, but having just gone through the exercise of choosing one of these bikes, I suspect that his initial negative response to the DE (on paper) may simply be its weight, compared to the alternatives from Honda, Yamaha and Aprilia. I sat on the DE, and lifted it from its sidestand (having just test ridden the Transalp and the Tuareg) and the Suzuki DID feel relatively heavy. But reports suggest it has several benefits in its own right, such as a better TFT unit (with ambient temp!) and better midrange engine response, so keep heckling Ben to test ride the model. I guess he is now in a position where he needs to back up such a 'throw away comment' with a fact-finding mission! But the 'comparo tests' that try out all four alternatives - Yamaha, Suzuki, Honda and Aprilia - are the most clear on the relative virtues and drawbacks, which are more obvious when the various models are ridden back-to-back. But the fact is, all these bikes have 'downsides', particularly in this mid-size bracket, where cost-savings are unfortunately a reality, and manufacturers are wary of creating a mid-sized model that could take buyers away from their flagship models. So it is left to us to choose the one closest to what we want, and adapt the bike to us, and us to it. I have ordered the Honda, but accept that it will require some upgrading of its suspension, and a decent bashplate. And some patience when servicing the air filter... Good to hear you are happy with your Suzuki.
Good content on your Suzuki. I’ve just cancelled my Honda Transalp order having ridden the demonstrator and now looking for a bike with more character. I found the TA good, but bland. So following your video I’ll book a test ride on the Suzuki and hope I like it as much as you obviously do. Thank you for the content 🙏
I took the 2023 Transalp for a good test ride on the highways around Cape Town yesterday. I found it to be bland indeed, I was instantly and thoroughly bored on it. The 800 is coming soon, I know she will be the one. Currently ride a 2021 dl650xt which I keep on the tar.. my dr650 is my goto gravel bike. Will trade in the DL650xt for the DE, possibly. I do love that V-twin although this new parralel is just as good apparently.
Don't let the reviewer's spoil your experience with your 800 DE. If it fits you and does what you want it to do well, it is the perfect ride for you. I am considering getting an ADV as a second motorcycle, for commuting, daily rider and touring to see friends of mine that live on farms which are dirt and gravel packed roads. I am more concerned with reliability, ease of maintenance, and good highway manners. I live in South Dakota. I have considered a KLR 650, but I need a bike that can run our interstates which are speed limited at 80MPH, so a KLR might not be the best choice. I am also 6'4" and currently at 270 lbs. With luggage and camping gear the extra HP and torque would come in handy. The 800 DE might fit the bill. The weight does not concern me since my other touring bike is a 900lb behemoth and I have been riding that in dirt for 4 years. I noticed that you live in Oakland County, MI. I lived in Union Lake, MI from 1984-1989, so I know the unpaved roads in your area well. I am a new subscriber and look forward to watching your content.
I agree with you 100%. I just picked up my 800 DE adventure yesterday and after a long time of looking it only took one test drive for me to be sold. First off, the motor is amazing. So much low end torque, it can power wheelie first and second, the tech package is probably the easiest to use of all modern bikes, the quick shifter is really good and precise, the comfort is far better than most other bikes in this class and on top of that you get Suzuki quality. Overall, this was the bike that fit what I wanted the best. I considered a Moto Guzzi v85 TT and Tuareg 660. But in the end I feel like the Vstrom is what you would get if those two had a baby. I want to do a few long rides and maybe a few BDR's, I want to be comfortable doing it and I don't want to have to spend another 2k on top of the bike to set it up. I've never been much of a fan of Dork in the Road. I do watch his stuff sometimes, sure he works pretty hard to make content but is it really good or is it the lack of alternatives? My only gripe with the Suzuki is the lack of a cruise control. It baffles me why it doesn't have one. If you want to watch great content on this bike go check out @onthebackwheel that guy liked the biked so much he bought his own and is making great content for it. I trust any owner over a professional youtuber that is gifted a bike to review. I'll be uploading some content next summer on this bike on my channel, feel free to click on it if you want to see it. But it's winter here so it's gonna be a while.
I want one. I’m currently on a 2018 DRZ400SM and did WBDR on that in July. I wanna keep it for the city and exploring locally but the new Vstrom looks like the next bike for me that can do what the DRZ can’t; long highway rides to an adventure.
Lol, did you see him ride the Beta 200 RR. I give him props for growing his channel but he is a average rider at best. I saw him do his Canada singletrack trip and boy did he struggle. That's my favorite stuff to ride personally. But now as I get older my Vstrom and I will be tackling the BDR's and similar trails anywhere I can find them.
I love the look of the bike and have been thinking of replacing my tiger 800. I have seen a couple reviewers mention the heat coming from the engine onto the legs. This is my triumphs worst feature. Could you comment on the engine to leg heat transfer you have experienced. I live in the south so this near and dear to my legs. Thanks
You feel the heat in stop & go traffic. If it’s hot out, and you stop at a light, the coolant temp jumps up to about 220 degrees and the fan kicks on. Once you get going though, the wind cools things down and you don’t feel the heat. If you commute on surface streets in the summer, you’ll contend with a hot engine.
I’ve watched many videos on the new 800DE before it’s release and lots of people said the same. “ it doesn’t look impressive in paper”. They said “ it’s heavier than the old one, less HP than the 750 Transalp, has low ground clearance, no tubeless, no cruise control, and… why call it a Vstrom when it doesn’t have a V twin motor.” So yeah…. What Dork said makes sense. With no hands on experience with the DE, he’s just reiterating what others have stated. Since it’s release however, the DE is way more than the sum of its parts and it’s spec sheet.
As someone said, "you do you, boo". You know yourself best, and your riding needs. For me, at this point, a sports tourer or ADV bike which is 70-80% on road makes sense. This bike is more 50-70% road to trail. Don't listen to these pundits. It checks all of your boxes.
They’re good enough for hard pack/gravel. If the Trailmax Missions are 50/50, I’d put these Mixtours at 80/20. I wouldn’t ride sand or loose stuff on them.
On paper it doesn't have cruise control or tubeless wheels. Kinda needs those to make sense for my next adv bike. Maybe that's what they meant....Suzuki could have at least had those options to upgrade and I would be a happy camper. Cheers!
Very nice video and bike. This bike makes a lot of sense. See the review by Big Rock Moto did your bike recently. Exceeding expectations is the title. Be safe I think you have put 2 and 2 together very well😊.
The 800de is a great bike. Spec sheets don't tell the whole story. I watched Dork off and on. He never really interested me very much but since he bought his transalp he seems to be just spamming videos click bait style which is making me really not like him.
They can test them after i get my hands on one. And yeah a lot of these big youtube adv guys live in the backyard of some of the best offroad trails the US.
Great video, I am friends with Ian @ Big Rock and he absolutely loves the new Vstrom... he just put out a video, that bike will easily do any BDR!! It is a very capable machine, my pops is picking one up. You will love that bike for many years!! ✌️
@@michaelk946 if people are doing it on GS's, your bike would easily do it! I would practice on similar terrain leading up to that ride. That way you're used to the bike and all it's quirks because every bike has them!! ✌️✌️
I kind of get what he's saying, because it's just a hodge-podge of attributes that don't really go together. Good ground clearance and suspension, but over 500lbs. Techy, requires premium fuel, but no traction control and requires tubes. It's like Suzuki knew what they wanted to do, and it was two different things, but they could only make one bike.
Peoples first mistake is taking someone like Dork in the road with anything but a grain of salt. He's far from an expert. Just another guy on You tube . I own a DL 650 with 25,000 miles and everyday I marvel how trouble free it is and it gets 57mpg to boot on 87 octane. I can see myself owning a DE in a few yrs when cruise, tubeless rims and other things are worked out .Until then I will ride my Toyota corolla vstrom 650
You like watching the adventure riding space, consider adding Motorcycle Adventure Dirtbike TV. They are out of Australia and they know a thing or two about it. They have a very extensive review of the 800DE. Also if you want to see the 800DE in capable hands with knobby tires being flung up the side of a mountain? Austin Teyler.
One of the comments I have read about the Suzuki 800DE is that the engine throws off a lot of heat (like a noticeable amount). Have you experienced that with your bike (for example in stop-and-go city driving)?
You only feel it in stop & go traffic. If it’s hot outside, the engine temp rises above 200 and you feel the heat. As soon as you get going again, you don’t feel it. It’s unnoticeable when riding at speed.
Great Content you have! I am debating between that Suzuki Tall and T Rex or others. Are you still using the Suzuki or can you report on others you tried...Any advice I am only 5"9" and want the wind to go just over my helmet..Subscribed!
@@iamtubuler9266 thank you for the kind words. I have tried 4 windshields in the two seasons I’ve had the 800. The stock screen was completely ineffective. Then I bought the OEM tall screen which turned to be only slightly better, but still didn’t divert air overhead. Givi came out with their AirFlow for the 800, and I got it as soon as I could. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the answer either. Ultimately I ended up with a CalSci large screen. It’s ridiculously big, but for me (6’3”) it was the only screen that eliminated the wind noise and buffeting. Everybody is different though. What works (or didn’t work) for me isn’t necessarily the same results someone else will experience.
Lots have said it belies the spec sheet, is heavy but carries it well. I do think tubeless would have made more sense. I see headlight complaints, but as others have said how much actual night riding do people do?, it is on lit city streets, are you going to put aux lights on anyway. So dont think that would bother me. I have the 650XT, love it, gave it some offroad protection & TKC80s, did a little off road but, hand on heart, it'll be used 95% on pavement (so will swop back out the tyres). V little offroad to be had in Ireland, and offroad on your own is a bit high risk.
Nice video. I think I'd like the 800DE Adventure. Gimme the stock cases and crash bars and skid plate at the advertised price point for the adventure and two weeks ago I'd have said it's a deal worth buying. I just watched the SW-Motech video, and they have some really nice crash bars and skid plate and I'll have to research the cost, but, if SW-Motech is making aftermarket for the 800DE, they must believe it will sell. I have been beating my lower, less suspension travel, 19" front tired DL1000XAL8 (2018 V-Strom 1000XT) to death, and the 800DE sure seems a way to go. Some of the more professional riders, after riding the 800DE, have called it the DR800, which, since the DR650 is a much better bike than the KLR650, is a really good endorsement. I HAVE ridden the MABDR and the NEBDR, on that DL1000, and, yeah, I have to pick good lines, but I have maybe 6" of ground clearance, and half the suspension travel of the 800DE and the DL1000 is 100 pounds heavier. But, in dry weather, I can ride the expert sections. It may not be fair to ask Dork for a recommendation for an on/off-road MC he hasn't ridden. He's never ridden a DR650. I think maybe the expert riders that aren't locked into a brand could make a better, unridden, idea of what the MC can do, but he's got to go find someone who trusts him enough to ride their DR650 or 800DE before he can give an informed opinion. I only hazard an opinion because I've been riding its older, fatter, much less capable older sibling, and love it. It's almost like Suzuki listened to what I wanted improved. Too bad I cannot afford ANY new bike. Maybe the kids, now both are EE's will buy me one. Or buy themselves one. 🙂 FYI, since the 800DE headlights are lower in the cowling, I'd extend the beak mount a bit so the camera doesn't block the light. Or buy the SW-Motech Aux/Fog lights 🙂
How do you like the torque on the 800de compared to the 650? I want the 800de but i am looking for a real torquey bike to pull up hills and out of corners in a high gear. I've watched several videos on the 800de and they say it has good torque but how good is it? With the traction control off in 1st gear will the front end come off the ground ?
I own a 650XT and rode a DE800 this week. I was blown away by the torque. It's more than you would ever need, especially in the low - mid rpm's. I am thinking about upgrading.
Ben's has kinda gone from reviewer to "influencer" with his channel over the years. Maybe he's not getting what he wants from Suzuki so he resorts to showing dislike for the product -- dunno. I think this bike checks a lot of boxes if you really look at it. I would say you need to look 'into' the specs and not take them at face value. -- decent suspension, low end torque, etc, etc, then consider price -- it actually looks very good. I'm looking forward the regular 800 next year and will probably buy if they make CC available for it.
Yes "influencer" is how I would describe him now. To make a comment like that without first riding the bike is really irresponsible with his level of "influence". I stick mostly to the comparison type videos where 2 or 3 guys take time to swap out between bikes and then give their opinions but even they can be brand biased after awhile.
You went on about how you couldn't comprehend Dork's statement about how the bike didn't make any sense on paper, and then explained why the bike doesn't make any sense on paper... You're right, most people aren't riding a BDR on their V-Strom, they don't ride them off road at all... they just ride them on gravel roads. Which is not "off-roading," it's just riding on a gravel road. You don't need long travel suspension, a 21" front wheel, or 8 inches of ground clearance to ride down a gravel road... You're riding on roads that could be comfortably traversed in a Toyota Corolla... In which case, this is very much an adventure touring bike... in which case tubeless wheels, and cruise control make brilliant sense... Suzuki put a 21" front on the bike, then a 17" tire on the rear... Severely limiting the tire choices available to those looking to take it off-road. 21/18 definitely has the most choices for off-road rubber. The 17" rear un-does all of the benefits of the 21" front. The 800 DE isn't enough better on-road to justify not buying a T7, and for another $2000, you could've had a KTM 890, which is better than the 800DE in every way... I'm going to side with Dork here, they built a fantastic touring bike, spec'd it out to be an off-roader, but didn't finish the job... But it's massively unfair to discredit a guy, because he doesn't like the motorcycle you bought... This just reeks of choice-supportive bias... The guy has test-ridden more bikes in the last year than some people get to in a lifetime... I'm going to place more value in his interpretation than a guy who is comparing his new V-strom to his old V-strom...
The guy (Dork) was probably half in the bag with his buddy and didn't know what the hell he was saying. Hell, if anyone loaned me any bike I would be more than happy to give my opinion on it. But you know what they say about opinions, they're like a*******, everyone has one. Dude, your winning regardless, you own the bike, it's awesome. And where is Dork...... still sitting his youtube butt on the couch wishing someone would let him ride their bike for free. Baaaaahhhhhaaaaa!!!
When it comes to anything alot pf people want to have all the answers . He might of not evem know what he was talkong about when he recommended the vstrom , he mat have just guessed right lol. Always do your own reserach ,always go with what you like. Thsts what i did and i ended up buying a vstrom 800 de and lile you, i will only ever be on gravel a long touring trips. The bike is amazong . Then lean angle is incredibale as well for the twisties too!
To me the t7 doesn't make any sense. Its a massively overweight dirt bike for me, and didnt offer anything over my drz400s as far as comfort, range ect ect. Have a deposit on a 2024 800de... but i dont know when it will arrive here in sask, canada. But i see suzuki canada has already lowered the msrp by like 600??? Haha maybe ill splurge on the skid plate! The tc on the 650 can be turned off(and stays off), level 1 is unusable on gravel, level 2 is also pointless.
@@trailrider1980 c2w could condense his "reviews" down to five minute videos without losing anything meaningful. Very low information insight. It's funny after watching c2w or someone else and then watching Zack from daily Rider and I'm like "thank you, this is how it's done properly".
Dork is a Honda guy there's nothing changing that I notice since he got 300l really he won't sh*t about how great Honda's are that transalp that need 3 k just to get to the Level of pstrom yet he will tell you that that's nothing you gonna do that anyway not all ppl want heavy bars and heavy skid plate but hand guards and qs are nice add on
I bought this bike two weeks ago. The headlight sucks. BAD. The absolute worst headlight ever installed on a bike. This is something reviewers never discuss. I may end up selling the bike. Foglights powerful enough to replace the headlights are seldom street legal and never cheap.
@@due51outdoors Mines been adjusted and it still sucks. Even the people at the dealership were shocked by how bad it was. With the bike vertical, the light was aimed at a large interior wall. 20' away from the wall, the low beam light was 3.5' tall and 40'+ feet wide. High beam did not change this. With the bike on the side stand (representing the bike entering a mild, low-speed corner), there was NO light 30' in front of the bike. None. Again, high beam made no difference. I cannot ride the bike at night because I cannot make a corner with it. I can't see past the fog line. We took pictures. I called Suzuki and the dealer tech was put in contact with Suzuki USA. The dealer tech brought out a second V-Strom 800 off the show room floor and it's headlight was just as bad as mine. Even the salesmen were shocked. Suzuki claims that this is street legal. Now the government is getting involved. I contacted NHTSA about it. This is a common complaint with the bike.
![Suzuki V-Strom 800DE vs (my) Honda Transalp 750 - Objective Comparison [QuickTest#29]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/XQhG1UF7hVM/mqdefault.jpg)
I've been watching Dork in the Road since he's 250L days (I had the same bike). I did enjoy his older videos more. Not because of anything more than, at that time, he felt more like a regular dude like myself who worked through the week and got an occasional weekend to go out and play.
Now he gets to ride a whole lot more and and is fortunate enough to get to ride a lot of bikes and do what he wants. Kudos to him. I will say though, if the time comes that he does try out an 800de and it changes his opinion, he'll be the first to admit his initial comments were wrong. That I do still like about him.
Ian from Big Rock Moto did a first ride and review videos. He was quite impressed with the 800DE save for the lack of cruise control.
Because Ian actually knows what he is talking about, Dork is a Dork.
Ian from Big Rock moto has years of expertice riding and I would value his opinions much more than many other of the so called you tube "experts".
Agree
Truth be told, no new adventure touring bike makes much sense to me. Ted Simon went on quite an adventure with a 37hp, 650cc, 1974 Triumph Tiger. He wasn't ripping wheelies off 60' sand dunes or roosting through knee deep mud. That isn't what you do on adventure touring bikes. People forget that these are touring bikes. The T in ADV is silent. It stands for touring.
Because of this, manufacturers believe adventure touring bike should be an expensive, heavy and fragile pseudo dual-sport that some people might tour on. These 160hp, 550lb+ ADV touring bikes genuinely perplex me.
People want to test these bikes as if they are dual-sports. (Pro-tip: Nothing over 400lbs is a dual-sport). Reviewers seldom mention luggage, the sub-frame strength or GVWR. They don't discuss user-serviceability, ease of repair or general reliability. These bikes are judged on qualities which have little importance with actual touring.
For this reason I generally dislike most reviewers. I watch their videos but do so only to learn a bit more about the bike with regards to size, fitment, impressions, etc.
As an "ADV TOURING bike", this looks like an exceptional bike. I look forward to hearing about many people riding them around the world.
TL/DR? Just ignore me, him and all the rest.
Like giant SUVs that no one needs (but hey, look at me!!!), manufacturers realized they can make a boat load of money selling overkill.....
@@Roger_Ramjet I'm guilty of it myself. I added thousands of dollars in accessories to bikes that, if I were honest about it, never really needed them.
I upgraded skid plates when the stock one perfectly fine.
I tipped a 500lb bike over in a bunch of rocks and grumbled about how the factory crash bars folded up like card table.
Foglights. Who "tours" at night? I'll cut this one some slack because moar lighting is moar better.
I put knobbies on an "adventure" bike that was sold new with street tires. Knobbies are for short trips, not long tours!
I just hope people begin to notice these things themselves.
Dork was great when he appeared to be a regular guy. He made some nice videos showing beautiful riding areas. He also appeared honest with regard to riding. He was just learning like many of us… Somewhere along the way his video persona changed from being a Dork to being the Expert. It’s actually kind of funny that he really believes he is an expert now.
Dork may have rode a VStrom sometime, but I don’t believe he ever owned one. When I started watching him he had a Versys 650 and a CRF250L… since that time he has owned lots of bikes, none of which he has kept for very long or put many miles on. My guess is the most actual miles he has put on a bike is the Norden. Just a guess but he’s probably under 4000 miles on that even, maybe even under 3000. If you look back at his videos you will notice that he trucks his bikes most places. Given his experience in theater/education he is an expert at staging.
I wouldn’t let his opinion (we’re all entitled to that) bother you on the VStrom 800DE. You likely got a great bike. It compares very well to the Tenere 700 and other midsize Adv bikes. Like any bike it has pluses and minuses. Those pluses and minuses are specific to the rider as well.
The Fraud Has Spoken!
I appreciate the response. He’s a good dude and has evolved into sort of an ADV ambassador now. I’m not really “bothered” by his comment, but he’s talking to a lot of people without ever having sat on a 800DE. I just want people to know this is a very good bike.
Your name is misleading. You appear to be non fraudulent and objective.
I had the same response when the 800 was announced. I was just surprised at how heavy the final kerb weight was. Clearly the decision to end with a final kerb weight above 500 pounds what not a decision that Suzuki took…lightly.
Despite the high mass figure on paper Suzuki has demonstrated that they know what they are doing and designed an excellent motorcycle with capabilities exceeding the sum of its parts. I’m sure if dork gets the chance to ride one he will come to understand that just as we have witnessed with others.
Enjoy your new bike bro, she's a beaut!!! I sat on one last week and I loved the way it felt & looked. I just felt that it was gonna be a bit too much bike for where I am in my riding journey. I'm actually a couple of steps behind you lol. I just got the V-Strom 650 XT "Adventure" which I'm pretty thrilled with. I'm coming off of an R3 so the V-Strom seems SUPA powerful 😜
I absolutely love my Suzuki 800DE. It meets my needs perfectly for the type of riding I do here in Vermont/New England (dirt roads & pavement). This is my 39th motorcycle and easily in the top 3 bikes I've ever owned. I am a KLR650 fanboy, however, I recently sold my 2022 KLR 650 Adventure because the 800DE made it redundant.
100% agree.
I’m adding one to the stable to sit next to my V-Strom 1000 (Which is set-up more for 2-up touring with the bride).
Hope to see you on the road sometime here in Ohio.
Go Bucks!
Well after sitting on the 800de and a quick test ride I'm hooked so I am selling my tenere 700 to get the vsrom 800de..and yes I will ride bdr with it
I did one on a 2013 vstrom 650 no reason not to do it on an 800
WOW !!! I am really torn on which bike to get-- the t700 or Vstrom 800. Have you gotten the new one ? How is it doing ? Also are you going to change the tires for the BDR
@@michaelk946 no I haven't gotten the vsrom 800de yet. I have to sell my t7 first.. and yes when I get the vsrom the first thing I do before I even ride it is change the tires
I did test ride this 800DE about one hour with Suzuki demo ride….guest what i sale my T7 to get this bike…..by far BEST than the T7 for 50/50 ride👍the major thing is road plushness.
@@patauger1193 that is my plan.. still haven't sold my t7 yet..
I don't know about if it makes sense on paper or not, I think that is like analysing statistics, it depends on the approach, and that's why politicians love it, because it can go one way or the other...
I think the Suzuki doesn't win comparatives because it's not meant to excell. It's meant to be versatile. And for some, versatility is a true expression of freedom. So, though I haven't tried it, but considering all of the TH-cam research available out there, it may not excell at all terrain as an Enduro bike or close enough like a t700, or not excell at touring with a little gravel aspiration as the transalp, or standout as performance oddities at the cost of reliability as the Italian bikes, the V-STROM 800 DE strikes me as excellent at versatility,and in that way, at freedom.
At least that's how I feel and why I'm thinking about getting one for me.
Love to see everybody worried about the weight, but at the same time loading the bikes with every possible heavy stuff: aluminium side and top cases, crash bars, thick skid plates, aux lights... I mean, it's only 15 kg heavier than a F800GS! People load top cases with that weight in beer.
That’s what happens when you sit around and drink too much beer and think that you have something important to say lol
I grew up in Howell. Folks moved us to Orlando. Been in Fl since. It is still as beautiful as I can remember.
Obviously I can't speak for Ben, but having just gone through the exercise of choosing one of these bikes, I suspect that his initial negative response to the DE (on paper) may simply be its weight, compared to the alternatives from Honda, Yamaha and Aprilia. I sat on the DE, and lifted it from its sidestand (having just test ridden the Transalp and the Tuareg) and the Suzuki DID feel relatively heavy.
But reports suggest it has several benefits in its own right, such as a better TFT unit (with ambient temp!) and better midrange engine response, so keep heckling Ben to test ride the model. I guess he is now in a position where he needs to back up such a 'throw away comment' with a fact-finding mission! But the 'comparo tests' that try out all four alternatives - Yamaha, Suzuki, Honda and Aprilia - are the most clear on the relative virtues and drawbacks, which are more obvious when the various models are ridden back-to-back.
But the fact is, all these bikes have 'downsides', particularly in this mid-size bracket, where cost-savings are unfortunately a reality, and manufacturers are wary of creating a mid-sized model that could take buyers away from their flagship models. So it is left to us to choose the one closest to what we want, and adapt the bike to us, and us to it. I have ordered the Honda, but accept that it will require some upgrading of its suspension, and a decent bashplate. And some patience when servicing the air filter...
Good to hear you are happy with your Suzuki.
Good content on your Suzuki. I’ve just cancelled my Honda Transalp order having ridden the demonstrator and now looking for a bike with more character. I found the TA good, but bland. So following your video I’ll book a test ride on the Suzuki and hope I like it as much as you obviously do. Thank you for the content 🙏
I took the 2023 Transalp for a good test ride on the highways around Cape Town yesterday. I found it to be bland indeed, I was instantly and thoroughly bored on it. The 800 is coming soon, I know she will be the one. Currently ride a 2021 dl650xt which I keep on the tar.. my dr650 is my goto gravel bike. Will trade in the DL650xt for the DE, possibly. I do love that V-twin although this new parralel is just as good apparently.
Don't let the reviewer's spoil your experience with your 800 DE. If it fits you and does what you want it to do well, it is the perfect ride for you. I am considering getting an ADV as a second motorcycle, for commuting, daily rider and touring to see friends of mine that live on farms which are dirt and gravel packed roads. I am more concerned with reliability, ease of maintenance, and good highway manners. I live in South Dakota. I have considered a KLR 650, but I need a bike that can run our interstates which are speed limited at 80MPH, so a KLR might not be the best choice. I am also 6'4" and currently at 270 lbs. With luggage and camping gear the extra HP and torque would come in handy. The 800 DE might fit the bill. The weight does not concern me since my other touring bike is a 900lb behemoth and I have been riding that in dirt for 4 years. I noticed that you live in Oakland County, MI. I lived in Union Lake, MI from 1984-1989, so I know the unpaved roads in your area well. I am a new subscriber and look forward to watching your content.
I agree with you 100%. I just picked up my 800 DE adventure yesterday and after a long time of looking it only took one test drive for me to be sold. First off, the motor is amazing. So much low end torque, it can power wheelie first and second, the tech package is probably the easiest to use of all modern bikes, the quick shifter is really good and precise, the comfort is far better than most other bikes in this class and on top of that you get Suzuki quality. Overall, this was the bike that fit what I wanted the best. I considered a Moto Guzzi v85 TT and Tuareg 660. But in the end I feel like the Vstrom is what you would get if those two had a baby. I want to do a few long rides and maybe a few BDR's, I want to be comfortable doing it and I don't want to have to spend another 2k on top of the bike to set it up. I've never been much of a fan of Dork in the Road. I do watch his stuff sometimes, sure he works pretty hard to make content but is it really good or is it the lack of alternatives? My only gripe with the Suzuki is the lack of a cruise control. It baffles me why it doesn't have one. If you want to watch great content on this bike go check out @onthebackwheel that guy liked the biked so much he bought his own and is making great content for it. I trust any owner over a professional youtuber that is gifted a bike to review. I'll be uploading some content next summer on this bike on my channel, feel free to click on it if you want to see it. But it's winter here so it's gonna be a while.
Did you have to wire in your aux lights or are there connectors available to plug them in?
Have a look at veridian cruise for cruise control
@@df3yt I have it installed already, Thanks. It's sweet!!
I agree 100% with you …when I saw him say that I was like what the hell …. He has no idea what he’s talking about …
I want one. I’m currently on a 2018 DRZ400SM and did WBDR on that in July. I wanna keep it for the city and exploring locally but the new Vstrom looks like the next bike for me that can do what the DRZ can’t; long highway rides to an adventure.
I don't watch Dork anymore. He says every bike is a beginner bike then appears to struggle off road on them. Lol!
Lol, did you see him ride the Beta 200 RR. I give him props for growing his channel but he is a average rider at best. I saw him do his Canada singletrack trip and boy did he struggle. That's my favorite stuff to ride personally. But now as I get older my Vstrom and I will be tackling the BDR's and similar trails anywhere I can find them.
I love the look of the bike and have been thinking of replacing my tiger 800. I have seen a couple reviewers mention the heat coming from the engine onto the legs. This is my triumphs worst feature. Could you comment on the engine to leg heat transfer you have experienced. I live in the south so this near and dear to my legs. Thanks
You feel the heat in stop & go traffic. If it’s hot out, and you stop at a light, the coolant temp jumps up to about 220 degrees and the fan kicks on. Once you get going though, the wind cools things down and you don’t feel the heat. If you commute on surface streets in the summer, you’ll contend with a hot engine.
Should've installed an 18" rear to open up tire choices. Now its locked down to mostly road tires.
Plenty of good offroad tires for 17" wheels.
I’ve watched many videos on the new 800DE before it’s release and lots of people said the same. “ it doesn’t look impressive in paper”.
They said “ it’s heavier than the old one, less HP than the 750 Transalp, has low ground clearance, no tubeless, no cruise control, and… why call it a Vstrom when it doesn’t have a V twin motor.”
So yeah…. What Dork said makes sense. With no hands on experience with the DE, he’s just reiterating what others have stated.
Since it’s release however, the DE is way more than the sum of its parts and it’s spec sheet.
As someone said, "you do you, boo". You know yourself best, and your riding needs. For me, at this point, a sports tourer or ADV bike which is 70-80% on road makes sense. This bike is more 50-70% road to trail. Don't listen to these pundits. It checks all of your boxes.
What do you think about the tires? Are they good for gravel roads? Switching them?
They’re good enough for hard pack/gravel. If the Trailmax Missions are 50/50, I’d put these Mixtours at 80/20. I wouldn’t ride sand or loose stuff on them.
On paper it doesn't have cruise control or tubeless wheels. Kinda needs those to make sense for my next adv bike. Maybe that's what they meant....Suzuki could have at least had those options to upgrade and I would be a happy camper. Cheers!
Very nice video and bike. This bike makes a lot of sense. See the review by Big Rock Moto did your bike recently. Exceeding expectations is the title. Be safe I think you have put 2 and 2 together very well😊.
This 800 DE absolutily rocks!!! My next bike for sure 💪👍 regards from far away Serbia 🇷🇸
The 800de is a great bike. Spec sheets don't tell the whole story.
I watched Dork off and on. He never really interested me very much but since he bought his transalp he seems to be just spamming videos click bait style which is making me really not like him.
They can test them after i get my hands on one. And yeah a lot of these big youtube adv guys live in the backyard of some of the best offroad trails the US.
Great video, I am friends with Ian @ Big Rock and he absolutely loves the new Vstrom... he just put out a video, that bike will easily do any BDR!!
It is a very capable machine, my pops is picking one up.
You will love that bike for many years!!
✌️
Do you really think you can do a BDR or TAT with this bike ? I am debating this or T700
@@michaelk946 if people are doing it on GS's, your bike would easily do it!
I would practice on similar terrain leading up to that ride. That way you're used to the bike and all it's quirks because every bike has them!! ✌️✌️
I kind of get what he's saying, because it's just a hodge-podge of attributes that don't really go together. Good ground clearance and suspension, but over 500lbs. Techy, requires premium fuel, but no traction control and requires tubes. It's like Suzuki knew what they wanted to do, and it was two different things, but they could only make one bike.
It has multiple traction control settings. But overall I agree with you.
Dork never had a V Strom, he had a KLR and a Versys 650. I think he means make no sense on paper, he’s talking about the weight of the bike.
Peoples first mistake is taking someone like Dork in the road with anything but a grain of salt. He's far from an expert. Just another guy on You tube . I own a DL 650 with 25,000 miles and everyday I marvel how trouble free it is and it gets 57mpg to boot on 87 octane. I can see myself owning a DE in a few yrs when cruise, tubeless rims and other things are worked out .Until then I will ride my Toyota corolla vstrom 650
You like watching the adventure riding space, consider adding Motorcycle Adventure Dirtbike TV. They are out of Australia and they know a thing or two about it. They have a very extensive review of the 800DE. Also if you want to see the 800DE in capable hands with knobby tires being flung up the side of a mountain? Austin Teyler.
One of the comments I have read about the Suzuki 800DE is that the engine throws off a lot of heat (like a noticeable amount). Have you experienced that with your bike (for example in stop-and-go city driving)?
You only feel it in stop & go traffic. If it’s hot outside, the engine temp rises above 200 and you feel the heat. As soon as you get going again, you don’t feel it. It’s unnoticeable when riding at speed.
@@due51outdoors I read somewhere that this can be solved by flashing the ECU. Might be worth looking into.
Great Content you have! I am debating between that Suzuki Tall and T Rex or others. Are you still using the Suzuki or can you report on others you tried...Any advice I am only 5"9" and want the wind to go just over my helmet..Subscribed!
@@iamtubuler9266 thank you for the kind words.
I have tried 4 windshields in the two seasons I’ve had the 800. The stock screen was completely ineffective. Then I bought the OEM tall screen which turned to be only slightly better, but still didn’t divert air overhead. Givi came out with their AirFlow for the 800, and I got it as soon as I could. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the answer either. Ultimately I ended up with a CalSci large screen. It’s ridiculously big, but for me (6’3”) it was the only screen that eliminated the wind noise and buffeting.
Everybody is different though. What works (or didn’t work) for me isn’t necessarily the same results someone else will experience.
I actually just picked up my vsrom 800de yesterday October 4th..were did you get the windshield?
It’s a Suzuki OEM screen that I bought off a Japanese sight. I think there’s more availability stateside now. Enjoy the bike.
Have property in Lapeer. Used to live there. Great riding and deer hunting there
Love riding up in Lapeer County. Used to hunt up there too.
Can you get the V-Strom 800 with mag wheels instead of the spoked ones?
Not this year. But in 2024, it’s been reported that Suzuki will make a V Strom 800 (non DE version) with 19” front cast wheel.
Come back next year!
@@Geshmaal And the answer is....YES 😄
only thing missing on this and the t700 is cruise control
Veridian for that.
Lots have said it belies the spec sheet, is heavy but carries it well. I do think tubeless would have made more sense. I see headlight complaints, but as others have said how much actual night riding do people do?, it is on lit city streets, are you going to put aux lights on anyway. So dont think that would bother me. I have the 650XT, love it, gave it some offroad protection & TKC80s, did a little off road but, hand on heart, it'll be used 95% on pavement (so will swop back out the tyres). V little offroad to be had in Ireland, and offroad on your own is a bit high risk.
Nice video.
I think I'd like the 800DE Adventure. Gimme the stock cases and crash bars and skid plate at the advertised price point for the adventure and two weeks ago I'd have said it's a deal worth buying.
I just watched the SW-Motech video, and they have some really nice crash bars and skid plate and I'll have to research the cost, but, if SW-Motech is making aftermarket for the 800DE, they must believe it will sell.
I have been beating my lower, less suspension travel, 19" front tired DL1000XAL8 (2018 V-Strom 1000XT) to death, and the 800DE sure seems a way to go. Some of the more professional riders, after riding the 800DE, have called it the DR800, which, since the DR650 is a much better bike than the KLR650, is a really good endorsement.
I HAVE ridden the MABDR and the NEBDR, on that DL1000, and, yeah, I have to pick good lines, but I have maybe 6" of ground clearance, and half the suspension travel of the 800DE and the DL1000 is 100 pounds heavier. But, in dry weather, I can ride the expert sections.
It may not be fair to ask Dork for a recommendation for an on/off-road MC he hasn't ridden. He's never ridden a DR650. I think maybe the expert riders that aren't locked into a brand could make a better, unridden, idea of what the MC can do, but he's got to go find someone who trusts him enough to ride their DR650 or 800DE before he can give an informed opinion.
I only hazard an opinion because I've been riding its older, fatter, much less capable older sibling, and love it. It's almost like Suzuki listened to what I wanted improved.
Too bad I cannot afford ANY new bike. Maybe the kids, now both are EE's will buy me one. Or buy themselves one. 🙂
FYI, since the 800DE headlights are lower in the cowling, I'd extend the beak mount a bit so the camera doesn't block the light. Or buy the SW-Motech Aux/Fog lights 🙂
T-Rex Racing for protection parts based in the USA Texas.
How do you like the torque on the 800de compared to the 650? I want the 800de but i am looking for a real torquey bike to pull up hills and out of corners in a high gear. I've watched several videos on the 800de and they say it has good torque but how good is it? With the traction control off in 1st gear will the front end come off the ground ?
I own a 650XT and rode a DE800 this week. I was blown away by the torque. It's more than you would ever need, especially in the low - mid rpm's. I am thinking about upgrading.
If you got both bikes totally tuned and unrestricted, the 800 runs about 64 ft-lb. The 650 runs about 47 ft-lb.
Ben's has kinda gone from reviewer to "influencer" with his channel over the years. Maybe he's not getting what he wants from Suzuki so he resorts to showing dislike for the product -- dunno. I think this bike checks a lot of boxes if you really look at it. I would say you need to look 'into' the specs and not take them at face value. -- decent suspension, low end torque, etc, etc, then consider price -- it actually looks very good. I'm looking forward the regular 800 next year and will probably buy if they make CC available for it.
You are 100% right …I’ve watched him since day one and he has really changed …I’m probably soon done with him …
Yes "influencer" is how I would describe him now. To make a comment like that without first riding the bike is really irresponsible with his level of "influence". I stick mostly to the comparison type videos where 2 or 3 guys take time to swap out between bikes and then give their opinions but even they can be brand biased after awhile.
The Dork what would you expect from Orgean based teacher
I have no reservations about riding a BDR on the 800 DE. I would take it over an Africa Twin or any BMW any day.
The dork is no expert, his videos have definitely lost what little appeal that they once had.
I would take what D$&k says with a grain of salt. Forgot where he started from.
Best common sense review I’ve heard, yet way to go!
Well, if both of those two guys don’t like it, it must be really good. I’m gonna go check one out.
A Honda guy and a Harley guy geez
It's a great bike. I have one.
Tubeless tires and optional 19” front wheel - that what it needs. I’m pretty sure even more people would be interested in buying one.
When he talks about Blm its not bureau of land management
On paper it sucks compared to how it really is. I have one, its a great bike...
You went on about how you couldn't comprehend Dork's statement about how the bike didn't make any sense on paper, and then explained why the bike doesn't make any sense on paper... You're right, most people aren't riding a BDR on their V-Strom, they don't ride them off road at all... they just ride them on gravel roads. Which is not "off-roading," it's just riding on a gravel road. You don't need long travel suspension, a 21" front wheel, or 8 inches of ground clearance to ride down a gravel road... You're riding on roads that could be comfortably traversed in a Toyota Corolla... In which case, this is very much an adventure touring bike... in which case tubeless wheels, and cruise control make brilliant sense... Suzuki put a 21" front on the bike, then a 17" tire on the rear... Severely limiting the tire choices available to those looking to take it off-road. 21/18 definitely has the most choices for off-road rubber. The 17" rear un-does all of the benefits of the 21" front. The 800 DE isn't enough better on-road to justify not buying a T7, and for another $2000, you could've had a KTM 890, which is better than the 800DE in every way... I'm going to side with Dork here, they built a fantastic touring bike, spec'd it out to be an off-roader, but didn't finish the job... But it's massively unfair to discredit a guy, because he doesn't like the motorcycle you bought... This just reeks of choice-supportive bias... The guy has test-ridden more bikes in the last year than some people get to in a lifetime... I'm going to place more value in his interpretation than a guy who is comparing his new V-strom to his old V-strom...
Nice job!
The guy (Dork) was probably half in the bag with his buddy and didn't know what the hell he was saying. Hell, if anyone loaned me any bike I would be more than happy to give my opinion on it. But you know what they say about opinions, they're like a*******, everyone has one. Dude, your winning regardless, you own the bike, it's awesome. And where is Dork...... still sitting his youtube butt on the couch wishing someone would let him ride their bike for free. Baaaaahhhhhaaaaa!!!
When it comes to anything alot pf people want to have all the answers . He might of not evem know what he was talkong about when he recommended the vstrom , he mat have just guessed right lol. Always do your own reserach ,always go with what you like. Thsts what i did and i ended up buying a vstrom 800 de and lile you, i will only ever be on gravel a long touring trips. The bike is amazong . Then lean angle is incredibale as well for the twisties too!
To me the t7 doesn't make any sense. Its a massively overweight dirt bike for me, and didnt offer anything over my drz400s as far as comfort, range ect ect. Have a deposit on a 2024 800de... but i dont know when it will arrive here in sask, canada. But i see suzuki canada has already lowered the msrp by like 600??? Haha maybe ill splurge on the skid plate!
The tc on the 650 can be turned off(and stays off), level 1 is unusable on gravel, level 2 is also pointless.
Dork content is not thay bad. But spite's content is a mess. He contradicts himself all the time.
His mentor was yammie, so it makes sense lol.
@@MrDavidfuchser same with chase on two wheels.... every review is the same....
@@trailrider1980 c2w could condense his "reviews" down to five minute videos without losing anything meaningful. Very low information insight.
It's funny after watching c2w or someone else and then watching Zack from daily Rider and I'm like "thank you, this is how it's done properly".
@@trailrider1980+1. guy is a no nothing
Is Spike the guy with yammie noob? What a dork😂
Headlights are ridiculously small. Go check out a first gen 650 and compare how far backward they went with these. The rest of the bike seems OK.
Also kinda like Spite as well just definitely not top tier riders
ya thats very odd for them to say that.. they were DEFINITELY READING THE WRONG PAPER
Adjust your chain.
Dork is a Honda guy there's nothing changing that I notice since he got 300l really he won't sh*t about how great Honda's are that transalp that need 3 k just to get to the Level of pstrom yet he will tell you that that's nothing you gonna do that anyway not all ppl want heavy bars and heavy skid plate but hand guards and qs are nice add on
I bought this bike two weeks ago. The headlight sucks. BAD. The absolute worst headlight ever installed on a bike.
This is something reviewers never discuss. I may end up selling the bike. Foglights powerful enough to replace the headlights are seldom street legal and never cheap.
There’s been discussion on StromTrooper.com about having to adjust the light. Mine’s fine.
@@due51outdoors Mines been adjusted and it still sucks. Even the people at the dealership were shocked by how bad it was.
With the bike vertical, the light was aimed at a large interior wall. 20' away from the wall, the low beam light was 3.5' tall and 40'+ feet wide. High beam did not change this.
With the bike on the side stand (representing the bike entering a mild, low-speed corner), there was NO light 30' in front of the bike. None. Again, high beam made no difference.
I cannot ride the bike at night because I cannot make a corner with it. I can't see past the fog line.
We took pictures. I called Suzuki and the dealer tech was put in contact with Suzuki USA.
The dealer tech brought out a second V-Strom 800 off the show room floor and it's headlight was just as bad as mine.
Even the salesmen were shocked.
Suzuki claims that this is street legal.
Now the government is getting involved. I contacted NHTSA about it.
This is a common complaint with the bike.
I put Stedi daylight runner and Stedi spot lights on the VStrom 1050XT. Add lights on all bikes now on the crash bars. Highly recommended mod.
Mine is fine. I ride at night every day. Only problem is in turns when your lights shine down at the ground and not where you're turning.
@@cranedaddy678 That's my problem. That's precisely why I hate these lights.