I've put 3,600 miles on my 800 RE since purchasing it in Feb 24. I never felt vibrations in the pegs or grips. The front brake lever is buzzy. That could be a distraction, but I don't cover the front brake while touring at speed. Overall, I love the bike. It's a great package for this price point.
4000 km on the clock now. Re version. It is getting better day by day. Vibration is still there but I can barely feel it. Reduced so much after first maintenance. It is not kind of a vibration that makes your hands or foot go numb. High speed stability is perfect compared to my tenere, It still pulls like a horse where the juice of tenere ends. Good review 🫡
Kudos in giving a nod to suzuki for making a road AND dirt version of their bikes. Both the 800 and 1050. 👍🏼 The road versions get little mention by reviewers.
I have a 2015 wee-strom DL650. I am 5ft9in, 32 inseam. Can go 85 mph highway all day long. No rubber foot pegs. No vibration. Love this bike and its mpg. Take it on Arizona Forest roads 30% of the time.
Just completed 2500klms in the Alps with 45 litre topbox & 65 litre dry bag wonderful seat very comfortable riding position on a wet autobahn the bike got a little floaty 😅 while crossing banding with TC on & Off excellent motorcycle love your reviews
Thanks Scott for your review! The parallel engine with its torque is a peach. Vibrations do reduce over time. I would chose this over my current 8S, but it wasn’t released at the time & im extremely happy with the 8S set up for light touring.
Thx again for the great review. I’ve already shortlisted the 800RE and if Honda next year isn’t gonna make an update on the NC750X then the Suzuki will be my Nr1 choice. Mostly riding in town and a bit Autobahn.
I am in the same dilemma. I haven't ride them but I seated on both. The 120mm suspension travel of ncx looked bad and even if I install an aftermarket fork damper/rear shock, I am not sure how better would be in deep potheholes. The Honda is smaller in volume and feels easier to maneuver but the steering seemed to turn more in Suzuki.
I have the 800DE. I watched your video on your experience on the autobahn and purchased the tall windscreen (the one on the 800 RE) & a aftermarket wind deflector. It cuts down the buffeting quite a bit. I don't get much vibration in the bars, and only a little on the pegs towards the edge when going 130km+. Excellent videos, Scott. Greetings from Newfoundland Canada 🇨🇦 😊
@@NothingToProve I find the vibes manageable. I have yet to do more than an hour on the bike as I use it as my daily but it's very well behaved in the city and it's nice on the freeway. Yes there are some vibes but I find them manageable
I tried one of these along with the DE and the 650 vstrom. The vibes you mention put me off it, I much preferred the engine in the 650 which was smoother. Other issues owners seem to have are the poor headlight and most look to change the screen as you mention. I was willing to overlook the dubious looks of the bike as I was hoping it would be a great all round utilitarian machine, which it is - apart from the vibrations which start at 5000rpm.
You know, the 800DE weighs 230kg, but it feels like 200kg. The low center of gravity is incredible! It's easier to pick up the 800DE from the ground than the T7.
Great review there , I actually have have this bike and haven’t noticed the vibrations at all,, but I’m coming from old air head BMWs and moto guzzi,s so to me it’s bliss ,, Thanks for the review 👍🥂🥲🙋🏻♂️🕺
I had a 2009 Suzuki V-Strom 650 .it was a very good touring bike for the "price" , I would still recommend it" , The 800 seems to hit the sweet spot between the 650 and 1050"
I really like that you put into perspective the price vs the quality of the bike. It is important. Many journalists always refer to the top equipment therefore you end with bikes above 16 K Euro...even more....and afterwards we are surprised that the average age of bikers is increasing in Europe. Important to have such bike where cheap is good ! Nothing to prove no ? 😉It is always a pleasure watching you. Congrats for your videos.👏
Thanks for a great review. This bike has been number one on the list to replace my ole 2003 V-Strom 1000, with the Honda Transalp being second, I just don’t need the off road ability of the Honda or the Suzuki DE and really want to stay away from the tube tires of those two bikes. My current bike is still great but is getting a little long in the tooth, as am I, so I am looking for a bit smaller, lighter bike with a few modern bits, especially ABS. After watching your review I will be asking for some highway miles on my demo ride to check out the vibes, yours is the first I’ve watched that has had that concern, so thank you for the heads up. Sure hope it’s not a deal breaker as I’ve come to really appreciate my old Suzuki for its reliability and fun factor at a fairly low cost and have felt this could be the bike that will fit my needs.
I found the viberation at highway speed annoying too... I've been assured that fades off after 1,500 miles on the clock... Which sounds a bit weird but hopeful! Fingers crossed as I took the chance and bought it. Its amazing how many people don't seem to mention the high speed vibes, they are absolutely daft on a bike you're supposed to sit on at motorway speeds for long periods!
@@Booneville2024 the new Tiger900 is smooth like butter with its triple... Absolutely flies faster than an adventure bike has any right to! I decided the Triumph was too nice to ride to work (street parking London) and just get stolen though. Hopefully thiefs know about the vibes and leave the 800 alone lol.
Not as weird as you might think. Many engines are a little stiff and vibraty when they are new, but once they get a few thousand miles under the belt they tend to "settle in" and have less vibrations.
If this bike ends up being anything like my GSX 8S it will get smoother with more miles. After 2000 mi. my 8S (with solid alloy pegs) is very smooth up to 70 mph and again after 80 but even in the 70 - 80 range wind blast is more annoying than vibes on my naked bike.
I've ridden the 800RE, and totally agree in this bike you really feel the vibration, there is high frequency tingle. I think an hour on this at 70 to 85 is awful 30 minutes was my maximum and my right hand was going numb
I rode the GSX8S for an hour and then tried Vstrom 800 RE i gotta say i literally didnt feel vibrations from the vstrom even at 6th gear 130 kmh the 8S with just metal footpegs was insane way too much for me. Didn't have any issue with the vstrom though
I bought 650 xt a month ago. I was considering this also, but like the look of 650 xt more and for price difference I have gear up the bike with all touring and protection accessories. One of main reason choosing 650 over 800 is exactly what you mention in form of vibrations (for now) will see what else in future and opposite to that 650 is well calibrated well polished engine for over a 20 years now. So, I skipped 800 for 4-5 years until they polish new engine and close up refinement gap between the two. Anyway nice review like always. Cheers.
Agree with your comments I can roll off to 30 mph in top gear with wife and luggage and roll on again pulling away again.Coming on 40000 miles now and motor same as day I bought it. It’s been as far as Nordcap Norway from Scotland and high Atlas Mountains in Morocco. My gs BMW friends always talking about tft screen issues and call backs. The only negative I’d say on 650 is the brakes with pillion luggage as not the best. On my 3rd 650
@@mariusanderson358 that’s the only complaint I have also, when riding alone it is acceptable, but loaded with passenger and luggage you often have to use your rear brake all together for heavy braking. This bike with well calibrated brembo brakes or nissin would be magnificent bike but considering the price performance ratio and reliability it is not far from that.
I do own 800RE for 3 months now. My one came with heated grips, centre stand, belly pan and hand guards fitted by Suzuki garage. Bought myself Givi AirFlow aftermarket screen, Givi crash bars and Puig Beam 2.0 fog lights for better visibility, as tiny headlamp doesn't make you visible on the road. So far I have done 1600km or 1000 miles on it, mostly in the narrow, mountain roads. Couple of times I was able to speed up to 140km/h and couldn't feel any vibrations, I would say that the higher speed you have, the less vibrations you can feel. Quick shifter works perfect, I have noticed, that in the mountains I don't have to use brakes, as quick shifter does all the job. Bike has plenty of torque and low centre of gravity. Sitting position is almost identical as my previous bike - Honda VFR1200X, but is 80kg lighter. Overall I am very happy with the purchase and enjoy riding this bike
There's nothing like 800RE. It is DL 800. Engine vibrates as hell - high frequency that starts at 5000 revs. So no not tell us "it does not vibrate". QS sometimes works, sometimes does not (mosty does NOT work - looks like specific hardware adjustment is required).
I would think that most vibrations disappear after a while. My experience tells me that it takes around 10-15 000km. Gradually! And if this would be in my garage, I would ditch the rear end. Tailtidy and off with those rails and brackets. And a new endcan. I know the engine is a peach. I tried the 8S and I almost bought one. Thank you!
I remember the days when I checked out the V-Strom and didn't like the vibrations and the overall feel. I ended up buying a 750 GS (my first GS), and although it had a modest look and performance, riding it felt much better.
It's funny now how we have this 800re. The 800de and loads of other bikes the gsx8s. The faired version. And things like the triumph 660 daytona rs660. When bmw had the F800R F800GS F700GS (also a 800cc) F800S. Did all this 16 years ago with near 90hp for the F800R and F800S F800GT
Nice review thank you .. just bought one last week, found no big vibration at 75 mph ..which for touring in the United States is about all you need to do (or can do legally anyway). Brakes are outstanding as is the overall handling. Did buy the bigger windshield however.
Suzuki's road oriented model whose main goal should be touring, and most people who buy it will want to cross many kilometers on it, has noticeable vibrations on casual highway cruising speed... That's a deal breaker in my book. Of course I'd travel most of the time away from the highway, but surely i want to have a nice experience when I actually am. Transalp no.1 in the middle adventure category, in my book. Big plus for Suzuki is remote preload adjuster. 👍
Yeah I thought it was weird he give it such a glowing recommendation when the primary reason people would buy the bike it's.... bad at? If I wanted something I could do short highway jaunts on there are much more fun, affordable, and better looking bikes. It should at the very least be comfortable on the highway.
Just subscribed! What is your top 5 mids then? I was excited about this until you had the freeway vibes, my commute is half freeway. Multi V2S, 890SMT or Transalp still best?
The 800s look fun but for me the main thing they’ve done is make the 1050 look better for me. You get cruise control, a nicer engine and an actual V. Not much more when you look around for leftovers or lightly used ones either.
Vibration seems to be hit and miss from the testers and journalists I've watched. Doesn't mean the same things to the every person, obviously, but it's worth noting. I'm wondering if it has something to do with engine tuning. The GSX-8S/R bikes have said to be very smooth at mid-higher RPM and suddenly the V-Strom vibrates. It's got a different exhaust system and potentially from bike to bike, the throttlebody vacuum balance could be off slightly and other issues causing the engine to go out of balance and cause sympathetic frequencies through the chassis. Wondering if tuning would eliminate that issue or reduce it significantly. I had a new 2011 FZ1 Yamaha at one time that I put a full system exhaust on, got the ECU flashed with a quality tune, adjusted the TPS, and the vibration on that bike went down significantly..... at least 80%.
Honestly it can vary from bike to bike, the demo RE I rode had some, they got progressively worse above 4.5 k revs but much less of a problem than the noise and buffeting from the screen. The one I bought seems smoother after 30 miles than the demo bike and will only get better from here in.
@@neilhaughey6869 All the same engines (8S/8R/DE). All the same inherent mechanical design. If the buzz varies that much between everything, its the tuning, not the rotating mass. Lean operation induces vibration. Passing emissions is often a set of fuel variables in a spreadsheet in the ECU. Regulations requires a specific emissions level at specific engine RPM when these things are tested. Often that's exactly where people say buzz sets in. Get them tuned and it goes away (and you don't need to change a single hard part for tuning).
@@neilhaughey6869 Like I said, emissions regs are passed with the engine running at a specific RPM in a government testing facility. Lean and hot passes emissions. It also induces vibration. It's a complex discussion about homogeneous fuel mix and combustion stability, but there's two ways to create vibration and that is to either have a rotating mass that's inherently imbalanced or to have a unstable combustion process which happens out on the fringes of lean burn condition. If you run more ethanol, you'll run even more lean due to the higher volume of ethanol to air ratio necessary for stable combustion. Motorcycle computers are not set up like autos, which adjust a/f based on 10,000 feet altitude, massive swings in temps, and fuel types. Motorcycles are much more simple in complexity with EFI.
Hello, Thanks for the presentation, I really like the bike, especially in black. I'm just a little afraid of engine vibration. Maybe they will improve on it next year.
I test rode this bike and the new tiger 900 gt pro. The suzuki is less vibey at idle and low speeds or low load, but worse at motorway speeds. Both way less vibes than the moto guzzi v7 I am used to riding. Depends what you need, this is a brilliant country roads bike for 100 kph 60 mph roads.
Did you experience vibes with the 21" front tire version? That's a deal breaker if they all suffer from that. I rode the snot out of a 650 'Strom back in the day. It's a bummer Suzuki (for understandable bean counter reasons) ditched the v-twin configuration.
Considering your critisizm of the unpleasant vibrations through the handlebars, seat and footpegs I'm surprised you failed to mention that in your very positive verdict.
@@NothingToProve True...I have read several comments from people who own the Suzuki 800 who suggest that the vibes diminish significantly over time. Others say that vibes aren't an issue at all which was my own experience when I test ride the 800DE.
Muchas gracias por los subtitulos en español. Muy buen video. Estaría genial más pruebas de scooters y maxiscooters. Un saludo enorme desde Zaragoza (España) 👍🏻👍🏻✌🏻👏🏻👏🏻🙋🏻
? Could the vibration you felt at high speed be from the tires? Did you drop to a lower gear to rule that out? Thanks for you info. I found a cruise con for it and now I might get one.
I was very intrigued by this review and then I went on the Suzuki webpage for my country to find out it doesn't have cruise control. That's an absolute deal breaker for me on a modern throttle by wire road bike today. It's odd because the 1050 does have cruise. Other then that it looked good for the price.
That Suzuki 800 Vstrom (Road version) appears to be a great motorcycle!!! But, based on your experience, it's let down by excessive vibes, hopefully after more time/ miles on the clock it will smooth out some?
@@NothingToProve it’s not that simple though is it? It’s a big enough bike to do thousands of miles and inevitably this bike would be used for touring, as you said many times in your review. To recommend a bike as highly that has to stay off the highway makes no sense. Plenty of its competition are fine up to 100mph on the highway. No real excuse for that amount of vibes. It killed S1000XR gen 1 sales…
Its ‘on the road’ price is low for a reason. If Suzuki added a few of the other options that people would like to see (heated grips, cruise control, hand guards, adjustable screen, the O.T.R. price would reflect it and probably put into a price bracket that people might start looking at other motorcycles.
Would you recommend this bike for a 1st gen DL650 owner who is generally very satisfied with the WeeStrom but would like to update to a bike with modern safety features like ABS and traction control?
Sure but be aware that the vibration may bother you, the 650 is so smooth and has very little vibration, but this is a lot more. You may want to test ride one first and if it doesn't bother you then YES!
@NothingToProve Thanks! I'll see if I can arrange a test ride. My nearest dealership has one but it's not prepped for the road and they are reluctant to get it ready for just one potentially interested customer, unfortunately.
No. I've had my 650 XT for 4 years and it is wonderfully smooth at about 70mph. It does vibrate at higher speeds that I don't normally cruise at though.
My GSX8S has some annoying vibrations in the pegs above 75mph. And those pegs have no rubber. Everything else is good. It’s got 6k mile, I’m sure the vibrations are going no where. I plan to sell it. But actually it feels amazingly smooth compared to my ‘24 Klr 650 😂
Yea, vibs are ok on a naked bike because it's a naked, kind of expect raw performance and vibration just comes along with it. But on an ADV bike, that's where I thought that Suzuki made a mistake, clam it down a little with a bigger counter balancer and which in turn will give it more torque but less hp but on a ADV torque is king. Thanks for giving us your ownership experience! Scott
that bike is awesome all around and I don't think it has lots of vibrations. BUT the windscreen is terrible. I had it as a loaner for a day and the gusts that hit my head from 50kph were very annoying and even close to giving me headache.
Hi Scott, can you comment on this bike versus the very well vetted 650 Vstrom? Especially highway travel? Sounds like the 800 may be more vibey than the 650 at speed. Both are still available for sale new here in the US.
My buddy has a 650 with tons of miles he’s put on it and he loves it. He also loves the mileage over 50 MPG but he does say it’s not fun going over 75 mph because of the vibration and buzz. I think it’s the design of some of the smaller motors. Your local dealer should give you a half-day test ride if you ask nicely.
Simply VStrom DL 800 (without "re" or "se"). Great looking motorcycle. This is bike is... commuter. Not tourer, not adv. Would be great in this role if not weight, is more comfortable (for taller people) and not this anoying high frequency vibrations. Vibrations are terrible - starts at 5000. Suzuki artificially expanded its offer. DL 800 and DL 800 DE should be just one, same motorcycle - without the same flaws on both bikes. The vast majority of DL 800 buyers would prefer the comfort of the DL 800 DE
I’m just a bit confused how a bike that you’d have a hard time riding more than 30 min to an hour because of vibration can be in your top 5 and a recommended buy? I’m not hating on the review or anything like that but as I said just somewhat confused…🤷🏻♂️
Very good bike for the money, with this price I prefer it than a Chinese one. Cons are weight, look (it's ugly, Suzuki will take the award of ugliness), wind protection.
Ungly and with annoying vibrations...such a shame for this strong motor.i m glad that chineese invation,will force japanese for better and cheaper bikes
Suzuki is greedy just like honda with the Transalp for not adding cruise control. And they wonder why they are having financial issues. People are buying 790 /890 adventures and bmw f800 / 900 just for that reason. Already have Ride by wire, all they have to do was add a switch.
I've put 3,600 miles on my 800 RE since purchasing it in Feb 24. I never felt vibrations in the pegs or grips. The front brake lever is buzzy. That could be a distraction, but I don't cover the front brake while touring at speed. Overall, I love the bike. It's a great package for this price point.
4000 km on the clock now. Re version. It is getting better day by day. Vibration is still there but I can barely feel it. Reduced so much after first maintenance. It is not kind of a vibration that makes your hands or foot go numb. High speed stability is perfect compared to my tenere, It still pulls like a horse where the juice of tenere ends. Good review 🫡
Did you try offroad with re?
Kudos in giving a nod to suzuki for making a road AND dirt version of their bikes. Both the 800 and 1050. 👍🏼 The road versions get little mention by reviewers.
I have a 2015 wee-strom DL650. I am 5ft9in, 32 inseam. Can go 85 mph highway all day long. No rubber foot pegs. No vibration. Love this bike and its mpg. Take it on Arizona Forest roads 30% of the time.
(vstrom and versys) 650 are reliable,
Inexpensive,reliable bikes.That's Suzuki.What more could you ask for?
Cruise control and heated seats to make them true touring bikes.
@@simulacrae
I never had a heated seat,but that would be nice.I hardly ever use my cruise control.
@@travelinben1966 Cruise control is a life saver when going long distances, my had cramps up and there’s nothing you can do about except for stopping.
@@simulacrae
Sure,I get it.I usually don't ride more than 150 miles at a clip,then I have to stop anyway.
Inexpensive????? Come on have you ever bought some parts to see how "inexpesive" is!
Just completed 2500klms in the Alps with 45 litre topbox & 65 litre dry bag wonderful seat very comfortable riding position on a wet autobahn the bike got a little floaty 😅 while crossing banding with TC on & Off excellent motorcycle love your reviews
Thanks Scott for your review! The parallel engine with its torque is a peach. Vibrations do reduce over time. I would chose this over my current 8S, but it wasn’t released at the time & im extremely happy with the 8S set up for light touring.
Thanks Steve! How are the vibs going? Do they get less the more miles you put on it, or are they the same?
Your camera/technology skills keep improving all the time. Great review on this particular machine!
Thx again for the great review. I’ve already shortlisted the 800RE and if Honda next year isn’t gonna make an update on the NC750X then the Suzuki will be my Nr1 choice. Mostly riding in town and a bit Autobahn.
I am in the same dilemma. I haven't ride them but I seated on both. The 120mm suspension travel of ncx looked bad and even if I install an aftermarket fork damper/rear shock, I am not sure how better would be in deep potheholes. The Honda is smaller in volume and feels easier to maneuver but the steering seemed to turn more in Suzuki.
I have the 800DE. I watched your video on your experience on the autobahn and purchased the tall windscreen (the one on the 800 RE) & a aftermarket wind deflector. It cuts down the buffeting quite a bit. I don't get much vibration in the bars, and only a little on the pegs towards the edge when going 130km+. Excellent videos, Scott. Greetings from Newfoundland Canada 🇨🇦 😊
Thanks for the review. I got mine yesterday and I am enjoying it very much.
Thank you! Please give us your opinion on the vibration on the highway. Seems to be something that most are concerned with.
Thanks,
Scott
@@NothingToProve still in the run in period, it will be a week before I take it on the highway but as soon as I do I will provide information
Congratulations brother! That’s my next bike in blue! Let us know about the vibrations and remember to ride safely! 😊
@@Alfra1324 thank you. It's more fun than I expected. I got the green. I never knew I needed a quick shifter
@@NothingToProve I find the vibes manageable. I have yet to do more than an hour on the bike as I use it as my daily but it's very well behaved in the city and it's nice on the freeway. Yes there are some vibes but I find them manageable
I tried one of these along with the DE and the 650 vstrom. The vibes you mention put me off it, I much preferred the engine in the 650 which was smoother. Other issues owners seem to have are the poor headlight and most look to change the screen as you mention. I was willing to overlook the dubious looks of the bike as I was hoping it would be a great all round utilitarian machine, which it is - apart from the vibrations which start at 5000rpm.
Thank you for one more honest and very helpful review !
You list of bikes is awesome!
Thank you for your work.
You know, the 800DE weighs 230kg, but it feels like 200kg. The low center of gravity is incredible! It's easier to pick up the 800DE from the ground than the T7.
Great review there , I actually have have this bike and haven’t noticed the vibrations at all,, but I’m coming from old air head BMWs and moto guzzi,s so to me it’s bliss ,,
Thanks for the review 👍🥂🥲🙋🏻♂️🕺
I had a 2009 Suzuki V-Strom 650 .it was a very good touring bike for the "price" , I would still recommend it" , The 800 seems to hit the sweet spot between the 650 and 1050"
I really like that you put into perspective the price vs the quality of the bike. It is important. Many journalists always refer to the top equipment therefore you end with bikes above 16 K Euro...even more....and afterwards we are surprised that the average age of bikers is increasing in Europe. Important to have such bike where cheap is good ! Nothing to prove no ? 😉It is always a pleasure watching you. Congrats for your videos.👏
Looks like great value for money. 👍
Thanks for a great review.
This bike has been number one on the list to replace my ole 2003 V-Strom 1000, with the Honda Transalp being second, I just don’t need the off road ability of the Honda or the Suzuki DE and really want to stay away from the tube tires of those two bikes.
My current bike is still great but is getting a little long in the tooth, as am I, so I am looking for a bit smaller, lighter bike with a few modern bits, especially ABS.
After watching your review I will be asking for some highway miles on my demo ride to check out the vibes, yours is the first I’ve watched that has had that concern, so thank you for the heads up.
Sure hope it’s not a deal breaker as I’ve come to really appreciate my old Suzuki for its reliability and fun factor at a fairly low cost and have felt this could be the bike that will fit my needs.
I found the viberation at highway speed annoying too... I've been assured that fades off after 1,500 miles on the clock... Which sounds a bit weird but hopeful!
Fingers crossed as I took the chance and bought it.
Its amazing how many people don't seem to mention the high speed vibes, they are absolutely daft on a bike you're supposed to sit on at motorway speeds for long periods!
@@Booneville2024 the new Tiger900 is smooth like butter with its triple... Absolutely flies faster than an adventure bike has any right to!
I decided the Triumph was too nice to ride to work (street parking London) and just get stolen though. Hopefully thiefs know about the vibes and leave the 800 alone lol.
How are you getting on with it? Are the vibrations an issue?
Not as weird as you might think. Many engines are a little stiff and vibraty when they are new, but once they get a few thousand miles under the belt they tend to "settle in" and have less vibrations.
If this bike ends up being anything like my GSX 8S it will get smoother with more miles. After 2000 mi. my 8S (with solid alloy pegs) is very smooth up to 70 mph and again after 80 but even in the 70 - 80 range wind blast is more annoying than vibes on my naked bike.
I've ridden the 800RE, and totally agree in this bike you really feel the vibration, there is high frequency tingle. I think an hour on this at 70 to 85 is awful 30 minutes was my maximum and my right hand was going numb
Yea, for me it was about 15mins....
This engine high vibrations turns right leg into jelly
I rode the GSX8S for an hour and then tried Vstrom 800 RE i gotta say i literally didnt feel vibrations from the vstrom even at 6th gear 130 kmh the 8S with just metal footpegs was insane way too much for me. Didn't have any issue with the vstrom though
I have a 2023 DE and there is no noticeable vibration . It does not seem to happen on every bike.
@@Booneville2024 That 800, should handle those cruising speeds no problem, my Honda NC750 DCT, would trundle along at those speeds no problem
I bought 650 xt a month ago. I was considering this also, but like the look of 650 xt more and for price difference I have gear up the bike with all touring and protection accessories.
One of main reason choosing 650 over 800 is exactly what you mention in form of vibrations (for now) will see what else in future and opposite to that 650 is well calibrated well polished engine for over a 20 years now.
So, I skipped 800 for 4-5 years until they polish new engine and close up refinement gap between the two.
Anyway nice review like always.
Cheers.
Agree with your comments I can roll off to 30 mph in top gear with wife and luggage and roll on again pulling away again.Coming on 40000 miles now and motor same as day I bought it. It’s been as far as Nordcap Norway from Scotland and high Atlas Mountains in Morocco.
My gs BMW friends always talking about tft screen issues and call backs.
The only negative I’d say on 650 is the brakes with pillion luggage as not the best.
On my 3rd 650
@@mariusanderson358 that’s the only complaint I have also, when riding alone it is acceptable, but loaded with passenger and luggage you often have to use your rear brake all together for heavy braking. This bike with well calibrated brembo brakes or nissin would be magnificent bike but considering the price performance ratio and reliability it is not far from that.
The vibrations would be my only real concern with this bike if you are satisfied with the looks. Everything else seems really good.
I do own 800RE for 3 months now. My one came with heated grips, centre stand, belly pan and hand guards fitted by Suzuki garage. Bought myself Givi AirFlow aftermarket screen, Givi crash bars and Puig Beam 2.0 fog lights for better visibility, as tiny headlamp doesn't make you visible on the road.
So far I have done 1600km or 1000 miles on it, mostly in the narrow, mountain roads. Couple of times I was able to speed up to 140km/h and couldn't feel any vibrations, I would say that the higher speed you have, the less vibrations you can feel.
Quick shifter works perfect, I have noticed, that in the mountains I don't have to use brakes, as quick shifter does all the job. Bike has plenty of torque and low centre of gravity.
Sitting position is almost identical as my previous bike - Honda VFR1200X, but is 80kg lighter. Overall I am very happy with the purchase and enjoy riding this bike
There's nothing like 800RE. It is DL 800. Engine vibrates as hell - high frequency that starts at 5000 revs. So no not tell us "it does not vibrate". QS sometimes works, sometimes does not (mosty does NOT work - looks like specific hardware adjustment is required).
@@podunkman2709 I have to disagree with you all the way. Maybe you are oversensitive to vibrations or do not know how to use quick shifter
I would think that most vibrations disappear after a while. My experience tells me that it takes around 10-15 000km. Gradually!
And if this would be in my garage, I would ditch the rear end. Tailtidy and off with those rails and brackets. And a new endcan. I know the engine is a peach. I tried the 8S and I almost bought one. Thank you!
Good point on vibration issue. Pretty often it also depends on what boots you’re wearing.
@@richardhretczak536 True!
What kind of urban legend it is? 😅
@@richardhretczak536😂😂
I remember the days when I checked out the V-Strom and didn't like the vibrations and the overall feel. I ended up buying a 750 GS (my first GS), and although it had a modest look and performance, riding it felt much better.
It's funny now how we have this 800re. The 800de and loads of other bikes the gsx8s. The faired version. And things like the triumph 660 daytona rs660. When bmw had the F800R F800GS F700GS (also a 800cc) F800S. Did all this 16 years ago with near 90hp for the F800R and F800S F800GT
@@chrishart8548
Exactly. It's like fashion: everything old becomes new again, just with a bit more horsepower and style. Nostalgia on wheels!
Nice review thank you .. just bought one last week, found no big vibration at 75 mph ..which for touring in the United States is about all you need to do (or can do legally anyway). Brakes are outstanding as is the overall handling. Did buy the bigger windshield however.
Suzuki's road oriented model whose main goal should be touring, and most people who buy it will want to cross many kilometers on it, has noticeable vibrations on casual highway cruising speed... That's a deal breaker in my book.
Of course I'd travel most of the time away from the highway, but surely i want to have a nice experience when I actually am.
Transalp no.1 in the middle adventure category, in my book.
Big plus for Suzuki is remote preload adjuster. 👍
Yeah I thought it was weird he give it such a glowing recommendation when the primary reason people would buy the bike it's.... bad at? If I wanted something I could do short highway jaunts on there are much more fun, affordable, and better looking bikes. It should at the very least be comfortable on the highway.
Remote preload, quick shifter, 19” front and tubeless tires…worth more for me than vibration on Hwy which I avoid anyway.
@@richardhretczak536 I agree with you on those points. Suzuki has fitted nice stuff in there.
Just subscribed! What is your top 5 mids then? I was excited about this until you had the freeway vibes, my commute is half freeway. Multi V2S, 890SMT or Transalp still best?
Just picked up an 800DE Adventure and loving it so far. Need to decide on an aftermarket windshield from either MRA or National Cycle.
Love it thanks for the review i just bought it ❤
The 800s look fun but for me the main thing they’ve done is make the 1050 look better for me. You get cruise control, a nicer engine and an actual V. Not much more when you look around for leftovers or lightly used ones either.
So true!
Scott,if you can remember,which of the two you enjoied more,this or the transalp?
Vibration seems to be hit and miss from the testers and journalists I've watched. Doesn't mean the same things to the every person, obviously, but it's worth noting. I'm wondering if it has something to do with engine tuning. The GSX-8S/R bikes have said to be very smooth at mid-higher RPM and suddenly the V-Strom vibrates. It's got a different exhaust system and potentially from bike to bike, the throttlebody vacuum balance could be off slightly and other issues causing the engine to go out of balance and cause sympathetic frequencies through the chassis. Wondering if tuning would eliminate that issue or reduce it significantly.
I had a new 2011 FZ1 Yamaha at one time that I put a full system exhaust on, got the ECU flashed with a quality tune, adjusted the TPS, and the vibration on that bike went down significantly..... at least 80%.
Honestly it can vary from bike to bike, the demo RE I rode had some, they got progressively worse above 4.5 k revs but much less of a problem than the noise and buffeting from the screen. The one I bought seems smoother after 30 miles than the demo bike and will only get better from here in.
@@neilhaughey6869 All the same engines (8S/8R/DE). All the same inherent mechanical design. If the buzz varies that much between everything, its the tuning, not the rotating mass. Lean operation induces vibration. Passing emissions is often a set of fuel variables in a spreadsheet in the ECU. Regulations requires a specific emissions level at specific engine RPM when these things are tested. Often that's exactly where people say buzz sets in. Get them tuned and it goes away (and you don't need to change a single hard part for tuning).
@@exothermal.sprocket Probably also the difference between 95 octane e10 and 98+ e5. I never put the e10 stuff in my bikes.
@exothermal.sprocket Just remembered, I had the dealer fit ultimateaddons heated grips from new, I wonder if that is damping the vibes a bit 🤔.
@@neilhaughey6869 Like I said, emissions regs are passed with the engine running at a specific RPM in a government testing facility. Lean and hot passes emissions. It also induces vibration. It's a complex discussion about homogeneous fuel mix and combustion stability, but there's two ways to create vibration and that is to either have a rotating mass that's inherently imbalanced or to have a unstable combustion process which happens out on the fringes of lean burn condition.
If you run more ethanol, you'll run even more lean due to the higher volume of ethanol to air ratio necessary for stable combustion. Motorcycle computers are not set up like autos, which adjust a/f based on 10,000 feet altitude, massive swings in temps, and fuel types. Motorcycles are much more simple in complexity with EFI.
Hello,
Thanks for the presentation, I really like the bike, especially in black. I'm just a little afraid of engine vibration. Maybe they will improve on it next year.
I test rode this bike and the new tiger 900 gt pro. The suzuki is less vibey at idle and low speeds or low load, but worse at motorway speeds. Both way less vibes than the moto guzzi v7 I am used to riding. Depends what you need, this is a brilliant country roads bike for 100 kph 60 mph roads.
i do like middleweight adventure bikes as if you can counter steer around corners you can perplex middleweight sports bike riders.
Did you experience vibes with the 21" front tire version? That's a deal breaker if they all suffer from that. I rode the snot out of a 650 'Strom back in the day. It's a bummer Suzuki (for understandable bean counter reasons) ditched the v-twin configuration.
Considering your critisizm of the unpleasant vibrations through the handlebars, seat and footpegs I'm surprised you failed to mention that in your very positive verdict.
It's still a very good bike and for the money, one has to accept some shortcomings, no bike is perfect.
@@NothingToProve True...I have read several comments from people who own the Suzuki 800 who suggest that the vibes diminish significantly over time. Others say that vibes aren't an issue at all which was my own experience when I test ride the 800DE.
Muchas gracias por los subtitulos en español.
Muy buen video.
Estaría genial más pruebas de scooters y maxiscooters.
Un saludo enorme desde Zaragoza (España) 👍🏻👍🏻✌🏻👏🏻👏🏻🙋🏻
great review...was considering this given the lower seat height but vibes at highway speed is an absolute deal-breaker
In the presentation of this bike in france,no one jurnalist speak about vibrations.i wonder why....
I have no sponsors, so I'm brutally honest & unbiased. Can't say the same for those "journalists".
? Could the vibration you felt at high speed be from the tires?
Did you drop to a lower gear to rule that out?
Thanks for you info.
I found a cruise con for it and now I might get one.
All at the same time, motorcycling appeals to many senses. Unless hubris drives our decisions, why play down appealing to one’s sense of frugality?
I was very intrigued by this review and then I went on the Suzuki webpage for my country to find out it doesn't have cruise control. That's an absolute deal breaker for me on a modern throttle by wire road bike today. It's odd because the 1050 does have cruise. Other then that it looked good for the price.
Most, if not all, middleweight ADV bikes don't have it, except for BMW/KTM/Triumph but you will pay a lot more for those bikes.
Nice review. I notice there was 190km on the TFT dashboard. Do you think or know if the vibrations will reduce when the bike is run in?
Yes, that is what a lot of guys say but then they also say that they could just be getting used to the vibes too. So...who knows really.
That Suzuki 800 Vstrom (Road version) appears to be a great motorcycle!!! But, based on your experience, it's let down by excessive vibes, hopefully after more time/ miles on the clock it will smooth out some?
the power of excel
Its around 50 lbs heavier than the naked version. What do you attribute the extra weight to? Bigger fuel tank?
I’m surprised with the final verdict considering how bad the vibrations were on the freeway.
Just don't take it on the highway, simple 😊
@@NothingToProve it’s not that simple though is it? It’s a big enough bike to do thousands of miles and inevitably this bike would be used for touring, as you said many times in your review. To recommend a bike as highly that has to stay off the highway makes no sense. Plenty of its competition are fine up to 100mph on the highway. No real excuse for that amount of vibes. It killed S1000XR gen 1 sales…
Its ‘on the road’ price is low for a reason. If Suzuki added a few of the other options that people would like to see (heated grips, cruise control, hand guards, adjustable screen, the O.T.R. price would reflect it and probably put into a price bracket that people might start looking at other motorcycles.
Man....if only Suzuki would do tubeless rims. I've had a 650 V-strom and a 1000. But I think my next bike will be a Norden.
Would you recommend this bike for a 1st gen DL650 owner who is generally very satisfied with the WeeStrom but would like to update to a bike with modern safety features like ABS and traction control?
Sure but be aware that the vibration may bother you, the 650 is so smooth and has very little vibration, but this is a lot more. You may want to test ride one first and if it doesn't bother you then YES!
@NothingToProve Thanks! I'll see if I can arrange a test ride. My nearest dealership has one but it's not prepped for the road and they are reluctant to get it ready for just one potentially interested customer, unfortunately.
@@RichBensen No problem :)
In that case, just see if you can start it up and just sit on it and feel the vibration, it's way more than the SV...IMHO.
Cruise control?
That’s the only thing missing…
Viridiancruise, $309
Good question, if anyone knows, does the 650 V Strom have similar vibration at highway speeds?
No. I've had my 650 XT for 4 years and it is wonderfully smooth at about 70mph. It does vibrate at higher speeds that I don't normally cruise at though.
Hi. Can you tell me what helmet you wear? Thank.
Are you using premium gas (which Suzuki recommends)? … Have you tried running it on regular? If so, any impact on performance?
Super 95 all the time 👍
How would you compare this to Triumph's Tiger 850 Sport and 660 models?
I'd take the Tiger over this, no question but the Tiger is a little bit more money too...so 🤷♂️
My GSX8S has some annoying vibrations in the pegs above 75mph. And those pegs have no rubber. Everything else is good. It’s got 6k mile, I’m sure the vibrations are going no where. I plan to sell it. But actually it feels amazingly smooth compared to my ‘24 Klr 650 😂
Yea, vibs are ok on a naked bike because it's a naked, kind of expect raw performance and vibration just comes along with it. But on an ADV bike, that's where I thought that Suzuki made a mistake, clam it down a little with a bigger counter balancer and which in turn will give it more torque but less hp but on a ADV torque is king.
Thanks for giving us your ownership experience! Scott
that bike is awesome all around and I don't think it has lots of vibrations. BUT the windscreen is terrible. I had it as a loaner for a day and the gusts that hit my head from 50kph were very annoying and even close to giving me headache.
À lot of buffetting is caused by helmets though
Cheap? Idk about that, but definitely ressonable.
Doesn’t the engine get hot on the leg/knee area?
I didn't notice it at all.
Thanx 🖐️
Hi Scott, can you comment on this bike versus the very well vetted 650 Vstrom? Especially highway travel? Sounds like the 800 may be more vibey than the 650 at speed. Both are still available for sale new here in the US.
My buddy has a 650 with tons of miles he’s put on it and he loves it. He also loves the mileage over 50 MPG but he does say it’s not fun going over 75 mph because of the vibration and buzz. I think it’s the design of some of the smaller motors. Your local dealer should give you a half-day test ride if you ask nicely.
Transalp or this?
What actual fuel economy did you get from it?
Never rode any motorcycle? Difference is evident
@@podunkman2709 never
Simply VStrom DL 800 (without "re" or "se"). Great looking motorcycle. This is bike is... commuter. Not tourer, not adv. Would be great in this role if not weight, is more comfortable (for taller people) and not this anoying high frequency vibrations. Vibrations are terrible - starts at 5000.
Suzuki artificially expanded its offer. DL 800 and DL 800 DE should be just one, same motorcycle - without the same flaws on both bikes. The vast majority of DL 800 buyers would prefer the comfort of the DL 800 DE
I’m just a bit confused how a bike that you’d have a hard time riding more than 30 min to an hour because of vibration can be in your top 5 and a recommended buy?
I’m not hating on the review or anything like that but as I said just somewhat confused…🤷🏻♂️
30mins on the highway. Everywhere else is fine...that's how.
My 650 vstrom gen 3 had vibes at 5200 rpm motorway speed so I put rubber washers behind the foot peg plates problem solved.
Hmm, nice idea!
Overall Better than Tiger 850 ?
Na, I wouldn't go that far 😊
Vibes may be caused with fully synthetic oil that is so slippery the bores take ages to bed in.
Pretty bike except headlight IMHO. I really dislike it 😅
The previous version of V-strom was way uglier.
@@netkongen close race IMO, at least headlight.. Rest looked fine in prev, altho it's nicer now
@@RaAlbythe dash on the older bike looks awful when they are side by side.
@@chrishart8548 yeah, it was probably newer changed since the first model
@radoje.albijanic it started with twin headlights they looked OK later they had a very bulbus stacked halogen headlight it looked awful
Very good bike for the money, with this price I prefer it than a Chinese one. Cons are weight, look (it's ugly, Suzuki will take the award of ugliness), wind protection.
Looks just like the NEW R1300GS…
That’s a weird looking BMW 😂
At least, this one is reliable 😂
New rule. You can't call it touring if it has no cruise control.
None of the bikes in this price range have CC.
Cheap? depends on your wallet😅 That vibration could be a deal breaker.
Ungly and with annoying vibrations...such a shame for this strong motor.i m glad that chineese invation,will force japanese for better and cheaper bikes
Looks great! This raw style. But vibrations are terrible. And heavy as hell, cramped legs.
engine over heat, not reliable for long dist. trips...consumption is a bit higher...
versys 650 vstrom 650 are bullet proof...
Suzuki is greedy just like honda with the Transalp for not adding cruise control. And they wonder why they are having financial issues. People are buying 790 /890 adventures and bmw f800 / 900 just for that reason. Already have Ride by wire, all they have to do was add a switch.
Too heavy...