Suzuki V Strom 650, 2008 - Test Ride & Detailed Review
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 15 เม.ย. 2019
- How good is the old Suzuki V-Strom 650?
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I was nicely surprised how good is this motorcycle. In fact, I never had the chance to ride one of these before. Yes, it is not the adventure machine I need, but it is a very good and practical bike! The engine is 650cc V Twin and it delivers 66 H.P. The weight is 220kg, but actually, you cannot feel it once start riding. The bike very well balanced and worked perfectly on the twisty roads I had in Gran Canaria. Martin the owner of Canary Motorcycle Tours also confirmed all of my words. With few words this is one very good all round motorcycle.
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Proud owner for 15 years of an 650.
135000 km and keep going...!!!
Enjoy your rides!
Wow. I loved it too testing it in France.
Is it ok for 1.94 height?
A taller windshield and you'll be fine.
I'm 1.90
@@mhtsorodas thank you. What about the tiger 800?
I’ve had my 2006 660 since 2009, and fell in love with the easy handling, fun engine, and comfort. 2022, and I still love this bike!
Like I said on your facebook review. In over 30 years biking the DL650 was one of my best bikes. Very economical on fuel, tires and chains. Its let down only by cheap suspension and it needs a taller screen, however the standard screen can be raised. The mirrors are ugly but the best mirrors on any motorbike.. I'm on a BMW R1200GS now, but I'm very seriously considering going back to a Vstrom for its amazing economy.
Agree that it is very practical and reliable motorcycle.
LOL, same here. V-Strom 650 for years, changed to 1200GS but the heart is still with the Suzuki and also thinking about the downgrade every now and then.
@@motorcycleadventures yet you stick with the Yamaha? Any particular reasons? Looks like you're in the Canary Islands. Not a job; a vacation! Thanks.
Martin's riding Skills are superb. His lines are perfect. Respect
Very true!
The lines are so safe (wide entry)! Turning points are always right! Professional!
It was а pleasure to observe his technique. Great rider-respect!
RoSPA rider?
Was thinking the same, perfect.
I did 15000km trip last year to Norway on V Strom 2007 650 and didn't have any issues with it during all 3 months of travel
It is a solid and reliable bike.
Have done Norway a few times it’s just so beautiful.
I'm on my third vstrom since 2008. I currently own a 2008 650 . I've rode it in all kinds of weather. It never fails to operate.
Had one for 60000 km. 100% reliable. Mainly European tours and a great bike with a passenger. Her ladyship preferred it to any other bike we've travelled on. Big luggage capacity too.
Very underrated bike.
Prefer my tenere but in some ways this is a better bike.
Happy travels
Agree
I have the 2018 DL650XT and I love it. Suspension not perfect but for normal dirt and gravel roads it's fine. The front brakes were very weak, but I upgraded them with Nissin 4-pots and steel brake lines, and now they're perfect. The only thing really lacking IMHO is it could use about 5 more centimeters/2" of ground clearance for the Topas (speed bumps) in Mexico. Just finished a 7 week trip from up here near Seattle to Mexico and had a great time on this bike. 70HP now, ABS, and traction control.
Good and reliable machine!
@@motorcycleadventures Oh ya, and one more thing I did was upgrade the front sprocket from 15T to 16T. Very slightly less acceleration, but it dropped the RPMs down by 300 at cruise.
@@motorcycleadventures And also, VERY IMPORTANT TO ME: Tubeless Spokes!!!
Very useful, thank you
These bikes have, surprisingly, just come onto my radar and this test certainly answered some of my questions
Glad I could help!
I'm going to ride my V-Strom till it dies... or until I do... I'm only 34 so either way, it's going to take a while! Fantastic video! I enjoy your videos a great deal, thank you for sharing as always!
You are welcome anytime!
I have dl650k8 since May 2008. It has 163000km. I use it every single day since I bought it in the city and in small or bigger trips (not abroad unfortunately). Here in Greece this specific model is may be the most common bike! There are thousands of dl650 riders. In all those years my bike had some issues but I guess it is somehow logical considering the use I am doing. Great to see you review it!! All the best from Greece! The roads I see you’ve ridden in grand canaries are very much like our island roads.
Thank you Michael!
Same expérience for on my 2017 V strom 650 XT. A very good bike, all the power and the confort you need on a motorbike. It's very frugal, with its 450 km of autonomy. All the user I know say it's a reliable bike as well, it can last 200000 km with an appropriate service.
the mirrors are just so amazing, that even as a viewer I can see who is right back at the bike.
Thanks for the video. It makes a good complement to your previous test ride of the more recent V-Strom in Berlin and its suburb highways. Because I was wanting to replace my bike, I recently tested a bunch of mid-to-big size trail bikes, and I found the V-Strom 650 XT the most confident inspiring one. In general, bikers tend to say their bikes is the best one, but surprisingly, the often replace their bike, which is contradictory. V-Strom owners also say they love their bike but it must be true because they actually put a consistent mileage on it. This Grand Canary tourism trip seems much less adventurous than your previous travels, but it is still interesting and attractive, especially because Martin had this real motorcycle passion and understanding so well cultivated by British citizens. Thumbs up !
Thanks for taking the time Bernard!
I still have my 2011 V strom 650 , and I never sold him . I agree 100% with you Pavel what you said abouth this motorcycle
Thanks for watching!
Same same, bought my wee new 2010, still got it , lots of klm later it's as good as the day I bought her.
Very nice informative video with excellent scenery once again. Thank you my friend 👍
My pleasure!
I chose a Versys 650 over the Strom because I do more city riding, but my riding experience on the Kawi is almost identical to Martin's for his Suzi. Great balance, easy to ride, good on fuel. Biggest differences are a bigger front wheel on the Strom, and a couple inches higher suspension. Put 50/50 tires on a Versys, it'll go wherever the Strom will go.
That said, I'd be happy with a Suzuki V-strom 650 any day. They are more nimble than they look, and that engine is legendary.
Thanks for taking the time!
I've owned both an SV650, DL650 and an Er6 (same engine, frame etc as versys) and I much prefer the Suzukis over Kawasaki. The build quality is way better on suzi, all plastics are of much higher quality. The controls feel better and the Kawa parallell twin is a very buzzy engine. Looking at the specs, they are very similar. But they are very very different in the flesh. Both are however good and economical bikes. I prefer Suzuki, they just feel less cheaply made.
Look like hell tho lol
Hi and thanks for this review. I'm an owner of 2014 DL650 and I love it. I first had an BMW F800GS and once you get used to less power you don't miss the BMW at all. More simple, more comfortable and more pleasant to ride on the road; ah! and if you put a good skidplate and ride carefully you can can get further than you think in the dirt !!!
Thanks for taking the time!
I have had two V-Strom 650s (one 2012, from new, one 2014 from 4000 km, demo). As a shortie, I lowered them. As a new rider (only got my Ls in 2010), I found it handled better and was far easier to ride than my Kawasaki Ninja 250 (in Australia, we're limited on bikes to ride until we have a full licence).
I clocked up 60 000 km in less than three years until I wrote it off on a sandy desert road (my misjudgement, not the bike's fault). I've clocked up over 30 000 km in three years on my second.
I love it to ride and, despite lowering it, I don't have a sump guard and have never collected anything (I ride sealed, gravel, dirt and, occasionally, sand).
To me, it's not 100% in any area, but it is 85% in EVERY area.
Agree
G'day Doug,a passionate account of your 2 stroms.I've got the '17650xt which I call the beak.You're right they're not a ducati or a ktm but they cover all bases.Ok they're abit top heavy especially with a full tank(which I try to avoid.)But I love the bloody thing cos it does the job with a comfort (after I softened up the seat.)
Aynı nc750x dct bi yani
I'm riding a super tenere and I still miss the Vstrom, honestly for the money is an amazing motorcycle thanks for the review.
My pleasure!
Is a great motorcycle, I love it, Excellent review, Im thinking in getting me the 650 thanks this video top it up. 😊👍🏼
You are welcome anytime!
I also had a 2008 wee, flat black for 60,000km it was great....that motor is sweet.
True, the motor is really great!
Excellent Video, especially good from the two points of view. No nonsense (:
Found you from the Amazon promotion of your second book "THE NEXT LEVEL OF ADVENTURES. "
Keep the wheels and the film rolling!
Greetings from Australia,Thank you both for your amazing review.I have this model with Madstad bracket and also high Givi screen and ABS.Also have the original screen.I am 5'10" and I prefer the Higher screen.The rear brake does take some getting used to with the ABS but I fully agree with both your assessments of this bike.Very informative review.
Thx. It was a very useful review for me.
You are welcome anytime!
Pavel I told already you got a magical way to describe things. Well done 👌😎
Thanks, man!
Your ideas and explain clearly everything osm bro thanks .
You are welcome anytime!
Excellent bike, i own the 2010 model, rided 14 days all around the balkans last September, very comfortable at riding big distances, economic although I travelled with passenger and three cases, very good cornering and brakes,and you have the power when needed! Cheap service and in general no problems at all! A real value for money bike! Very nice video! Excellent info , thanks!
You are welcome anytime!
@@motorcycleadventures i really like your videos my friend, have to admit that you helped me a lot with your tips for my first journey ! I hope some day to visit all this places you've been to 🙂 ride safe !
I've outfitted my 2008 V to more off road use, Shinko 805/804 tires, progressive fork springs, 14 gear in front. It's still not a KLR650 off road, but it is very doable. I love this bike, I'm 6'2" 235 lbs. Plus the engine is amazing in that it's bullet proof. Every time I ride it's like the first time all over, just a fun bike to ride.
I agree that it is a great bike.
I agree with you about the traditional clocks. I am sure I will get used to the digital ones eventually but I feel that You just have to glance at 2 dial to get all the info you need. I also like the square vstrom mirrors as I never got used to the angular NC750X mirrors. Good honest review from you both.
Thanks!
When I eventually replace my Strom, the dash will be what I miss the most. Analog gauges, as mentioned, but the whole "classic" layout of it too.
Love your vids man
Thanks!
Awesome that you cover the V-Strom 650. I picked up a brand new one 7 months ago, prepared it for traveling (suspension, bags, extra fuel filter etc..) and and drove it 14000km from United States to Costa Rica. Can't think of a better bike. Sure a KTM would probably have been more fun while i drove through Baja California, and a BMW would have been more comfortable on the long stretches in southern mexico. But there are no KTM or BMW dealers in the djungels of Honduras. If you or Martin would like to chat about it contact me.
Thanks for taking the time!
Thanks for he review!
After 70MKm on my DL659 2011, some remarks. Not really an "exiting" bike, but impossible to get bored. It invites to be wise, not to take risks. Ugly front bulky sides, but awesome front look of an owl, with very efficient double H4. Front fork brace helps a lot against lateral wind gust and a little in general handling. Installing electric relays on front lights harness is clever, main connector tends to burn under load after some years otherwise. Upper than I'd wished center of gravity is not an issue as you get rapidly used to her way of liking corners. Don't systematically fill her tank up if your weekly commute doesn't require 22L. Carving a lower opening in the original windshield, separating its bottom a little further from the front of the bike and placing it at its upper position definitively solved an annoying buffeting (I'm 6'). Installing the exact same mirrors from Kawasaki model benefited rear viewing as their stems are 1 inch longer. Installing a Gipro gear indicator made me stop wondering if I'm in 5th or 6th, as they are pretty close around 50mph. The Givi rear rack alone totally protects the wide plastic fairing every time a parking car tilts your 400Lb DL on the ground when leaving its spot ("I love NY"!). Not always your handlebar, nor your front blinker, though. Switching to better front springs/valve emulator and rear shock now, mostly for the sake of my back. The little V-Strom has her very particular way of developing a relationship with its owner, with her understated calm and proven efficiency, possible lack of power but not of courage or determination, you happily feel the quiet "Wee" is worthy of your trust. And your pride.
I'm a mostly happy pilot of a 2008 DL650, a little surprised that these guys talk up the handling and the power so much. IMO they fall into the "good enough" category along with the brakes. Also not too hot on the on-off throttle at start, though it's fine for the rest of the range. Really like the stability though, and the stock headlights are outstanding. LOVE the dash, and I was beginning to think that my preference for analog gauges was just another of my weirdities until I heard him shout out for them and subsequently read all the comments agreeing about that. Note that V-Stroms went to digital speedos in the next generation (2013?).
The advantage of analog is you don't actually have to READ the gauge, just perceive the position of the needle to know you are in the ballpark. A great example of this is an analog dial type wristwatch that has been styled to have no numbers on the watch dial. It takes a little getting used to, but you can in fact still tell the time to a close approximation. And for the motorcycle, especially in conditions of poor visibility, that can be an important difference.
Digital, on the other hand, you have to look directly at and Read. And the angle of the sun and attendant reflections and/or glare are far more likely to interfere with that.
Doesn't anyone dislike the fact that the valve maintenance is so hard to get to, being the v-twin design as well as if you have to make changes, remove the cams and replace the shims?? The Honda NC750X is much simpler to access and to adjust!
I agree, and shamefully I put it off until 45,000 miles... I'm lucky, it was just a bit out of spec. I have a feeling that many owners neglect to do the shim job on time because it is such a bear and we're too busy to wrench and too frugal to pay to have the job done.
My wife's '09 DL650 will be crossing in Mexico tomorrow from Guatemala on our return trip to the US. She rode it down a year ago to Panama from Phoenix. She loves it. Only thing it really could use could be a true Cruise control and a better set of boxes then the Givi cases. She does just fine over the Mex Topes (tumelos further south). A different sprocket ratio could help with starting from stop and slow maneuvers (suggestions appreciated). She is at heart a fair weather rider, but major kudos to her as if I go, she goes. Still has OEM tires, but could use some thing that handles bad roads (as in rock, dirt or even some sand), but still does well on asphalt. Just dreaming I guess. Again, thanks guys for the review.
You are welcome anytime!
Owned this exact bike for nine trouble free years! Rented one in Milan and toured the Alps. “Wee”-strom quietly does it all👍🏼
Agree
I have a 2018 XT model and I love it. It handles beautifully and I prefer it to my Triumph Bonneville T120. Good review Pavlin. Thanks
My pleasure Niki!
I also have the2018 standard model in white, I love the bike especially the ergonomics and handling. The negatives are paint finish and increasing vibration as the revs get to fast cruising speeds.
Brilliant review, many thanks
You are welcome anytime!
Have to agree it’s a lovely bike to own . Had my 2005 from new being 6’4” I felt the seat was too low but swapped with a 1000 strom owner of a shorter height who was looking for a lower seat , we made contact on a Vstrom owners website . Never got on with the screen even at its highest and got a Madtad bracket and a Cee Bailey screen , which was taller . These work perfectly together and I get no buffeting. Fitted a fork brace which tightened up the front end a bit and a stiffer rear spring with the existing shock. Get over 60 mpg as I don’t tend to wring it’s neck so 250 to 300 miles are possible on a tank. Have toured France and Spain with my wife and luggage and with the remote preload adjuster wound up at the back could barely notice any difference in performance and handling. Also fitted Hel braided brake hoses on the front which sharpened up that area a little . I’ve done around 75k miles and had the valves checked twice with no adjustment necessary and changed the chain and sprockets once a Loobman manual chain oiler probably helps with that and had to replace the Cush bearing 5 years ago , other than that I’ve had no other issues than routine maintenance. Change the oil and filter once a year and clean the K & N air filter once every couple of years Have put an aftermarket SS end can on for a bit more huskiness and les weight .New bikes come and go and I briefly flirt with the idea of changing but realise I’d be mad as the Vstrom suits my needs perfectly . It’s plenty fast and torquey enough . Adore it as you can probably tell from this love letter ! Glad you liked it too .
Top seller bike in Hellas 👍👍 a true legend this engine
True
Geia sou Pano
Excellent review think this will be my next bike
Good!
What a view, what a view. I am jealous. Lucky Pavlin. 😍
As always I have been very lucky!
Motorcycle Adventures where is this place sir
Nice job guys. I love my 09 and yes it is a vastly underated bike. It is, the Toyota Camry of bikes, not exciting but very capable and boringly reliable. I'll probably buy another when it is time to replace.
VStrom and NC750 riding together.. what a beautiful sight
My brother in law has one of some years ago, he use for commuting in Rome, I tried it, perfect for city or road travel.
Agree
got myself a 05 650 yesterday its done under 4000 miles cost 35000 euros , the build quality is amazing can't wait to put some miles on it
Cool!
nice review !!
Thanks!
Nice review! I got 2012 Vstrom 650 a couple months ago, looking forward to putting some miles on it now that it's warming up. I test rode a NC700x, the handling is very interesting with the lower fuel tank. I liked it, but would definitely take getting used to. Good point about your first bike being a mistake, I bought an SV650 last year, I love it but it's just not set up for long rides.
Martin might want to consider putting foam covers on the grips, I found they did a good job of absorbing the vibration from the motor, and the extra circumference seemed to fit my hands better.
Thanks for taking the time Russell!
V-Strom 650 is really perfect motorbike especially with Givi Airflow windscreen. Version from 2012 is even better than this one, but look a little bit worse (in my opinion). Front and rear suspension adjustable including damping at the rear suspension. You did not look under the seat. There are tons of free space. I kept there: set of keys, tire repair kit, first aid kit, full set of alan key, zip stripes, round flashing emergency light, multitool and some other stuff. Riding economically range even 600 km with one tank of fuel. And first of all this perfect balance, a motorcycle driven by thought. You think to turn left and it is turning left, you think about turning right it turns right. Had two of them and was fully satisfied. Africa is more demanding machine.
Agree that it is very good bike.
Exactly right “ the most underestimated bike out there “ so many people take a blind eye to
It and pay double for other bikes, all they’ve done is missed a gem of a bike: and the new model is even better
Agree
Hi Pavlin ,2 years ago i bought my Suzuki V-Strom 2010 and i rode from Exeter to Burgas and comeback no problem at all. it is great bike, i love it! i just change tyres ,sprocket and chain and thats all, saying that -off road ...i am not sure about it but any road just ride alone ..great review safe ride.
Thanks!
I own the same bike. At first it was scary off road on gravel. felt like it was going to slip out from under me.. The I discovered lowering tire pressure to 16 lbs for off road. what a difference. Don't forget to pressure back up for the pavement.
Thanks for reviewing the Suzuki DL650 Vstrom! I'm currently on my second Vstrom, sold my 2005 and bought the 2018 Vstrom XT - it's more amazing than my 2005! I've been riding for 55 years and have ridden most every type of motorcycle but I find the older I get the more I prefer a lighter weight bike with upright relaxed seating position so I sold my Honda VFR and my 2005 Vstrom and bought the new one! Not going back anytime soon!
Enjoy your trips!
How is the new version better than than original?
I purchased a 2015 model new in 2017. I have zero complaints other than the seat for long trips, and it needs longer legs for the highway. Both can be corrected. Very enjoyable engine torque and offroad manners.
Totally agree
I own this same bike, it is super worthy economically and potentially. The gears are well projected to keep cruise speed. Since I don’t take dirty roads frequently it’s perfect for my trips. And finally it’s a good bike for short people. I’m only 1.64 m and feel super good on it!
Agree
I've got a 2010 DL650 and they are indeed amazing bikes to ride - so easy to ride and very forgiving! They're a very understated bike, to be sure, but very comfortable and very reliable. I've done 40k mi so far, and I'm loving it every day. Riding it is like being with an old friend :) It's VERY comfortable for pillions.
Mine has a sweet spot at 90mph. This model has the distinctive head lights which Suzuki should've kept. New models look like every other bike now :(
You could never appreciate this bike if it was your first bike, but you'd probably never want to get another one.
Agree
Thanks. After 5 years no bike. This is my next bike choice.
Best of luck!
V-Strom 650 is an incredible bike for so many reasons. Some more “fashionable” riders might say it’s fugly (I don’t agree or think that’s important anyway), some might ask you why you would choose one over everything else out there or why didn’t you get the 1000, but many quietly change their tune when they’ve actually ridden one and many miss them when they let them go. When you’ve sat on one for hundreds of miles, enjoying that lovely third-gear v-twin sweet spot back and fro, you’re smiling, you just want to go further and you’ve still not been to the petrol station, you’ll get it 😉 Another great video Pavlin (and Martin) thanks for sharing 👍
Thanks for taking the time!
Thank you both for the review!
I have exactly the same - 2008, no ABS. I prefere it that way for the reason you noted.
Just wanted to say I'm 160 cm high, and I ride it on soft position of the rear suspention. I am able to control it, it feels good and I don't have the tall people problem with the wind screen. Infact - I get so wind protected, that I annoys me. :-D Especially in summer. It feels like you're in a car with the windows down.
Thanks for adding Dessy!
Всичко най!
Very easy to make a gsxr 1000 screen fit for summer.
I run a double bubble on mine.
Works well for me.
👍👍👍
Took mine all over Europe. Best decision I ever made. Givi aeroflow windscreen is a must.
Good!
I didn't know how good is this bike, now I'm owning it 2009, and I think it's gonna be very very very long time my only bike. Fantastic in every way!!!
Where is this beautiful road?
Gran Canaria
Very nice video. Useful information for me. Thanks you. Bruno
Glad it was helpful!
Excellent review, Pavlin. Thank you very much. At 5'8", though, I am surprised that Martin can flat foot both feet. The seat height for that year and model is 32.3 inches. Curious if he lowered the bike or the seat. And his arm extension to the bars, while seated, could use some elbow bend for better control and comfort. Bar risers can help with that. Thanks, again, to both Pavlin and Martin for a very informative and entertaining series of vids. It ranks among Pavlin's very best, IMO.
Thanks for taking the time again! The bike was on not leveled gravel, that's why he cannot touch the ground properly.
@@motorcycleadventures As for physics vs personal feeling, tall people generally feel very comfortable on tall bikes. I'm a few inches taller than you and love tall bikes. No surprise that 6' Pavlin feels more comfortable on a relatively tall Vstrom 650. :)
Agree
Not lowered, Im overweight and push the suspension down haha
I am 176 cm and I have the '19 650 Strom XT that has a 835 mm seat (that would be 32.8 smth) and if I push a bit I can flat foot both feet. And that's with standard seat and stock preload adjustment (dead center on the knob). I am also not very heavy, about 87 kilos in full gear so yeah, it works. For shorter riders there is also the option of a lower seat, 815 mm I think and from 2017 onwards, the seat design is narrower, so even easier to plant the feet. To be honest though, I might have a slightly longer inseam for my height, at 82 cm (32.3 inch).
I also have a 2008 dl650 and just love it
I told you a long time ago how amazing the Vstrom is . I’ve got over 100,000 ks on mine it’s a 2009. To tell you the truth I wouldn’t have anything else. I’ve had lots if different bikes in the past . I’ve tried the 1000 Vstrom and prefer the 650. Ride safe. 🇨🇦🇨🇦👍
It is a great road bike.
Tom, I have a 2017 XT 650. Have done 20500km since new. I am 76 yo and find it very easy to ride I love mine. I met a married couple at a break stop. Both were riding 1000 V Stroms. Prior to the 1000 they both had VStrom 650's.
They both agreed they prefer the 650 and are sorry they got rid of them. They are serious travellers covering a lot of km each year.
Murray Charters 👍🇨🇦 right on Thanks. I just turned 78 and still riding my 650 Vstrom. Ride safe brother.
Good on you Tom. You spur me on. I live in Brisbane Australia. Be great if you were somewhere near we could have a ride together.
I have been riding on road for 40 years, have an 2004 650dl. Great reliable , economic bike. Lovely motor. Put a fork brace on if you do lots of 80mph bends, recently changed the forks to progressive springs as its getting on now. Would never sell.fantastic all rounder, maybe the 1000 if you are two up alot.(and a bit portly) ;)
Great!
My 2006 improved immeasurably by adding a fork brace, HH sintered brake pads, madstad windscreen adjustable mount, saddlemen seat, taller ATV steel moto handlebar, crash guard/skid plate, centerstand, and side cases& top box. A true SUV motorcycle! I’ve ridden newer bikes yet always say, ‘my vstrom still holds up’
Now own a 2018 thou , brilliant machine had it 2 years , better at 2up .
Thank you guys. I just bought a 2009 v strom 650 for just under £3,000. Let’s hope that it will do the job for me of treating me well as my first big bike.
Have fun!
Hello Pavlin. Very nice review with good information. Any chance I can use some parts of your footages to create a sample video for training purposes? Your friend Martin (I suppose it is him riding in front) shows a real solid and safe riding position at various moments. Thanks in advance and best of wishes!
Yes, no problem. You can use it as longer you give me and Martin credit for that.
Great review. Thank you! Are you planning to do any review on any of the the Honda Transalps by any chance?
As soon I have the chance!
I have a Vstrom 650dl 2009, I love that bike!! Its maintenance cost is reasonable, it is a very reliable bike. I want to try the new Vstrom 1050 2021.
Enjoy it!
👍🇨🇦 His motorcycle channel is excellent thank you for all the great videos!!!!
My pleasure!
After being a GS rider for over 30 years, I recently had chance to ride a mates 650 vstrom.... Wow, this 650 is way too underrated and will do everything and more than my 1200gsa can.
Thanks for sharing!
Great vid Pavlin, I used to own a DL650, very decent bike, does anything you ask from it , including modest offroading. Word of advice though, Martin will have to change its thermostat soon, I noticed the temp bars fluctuate between 2 and 3 bars. Normally when the engine gets up to temp it should stay at 3 bars, dropping to 2 bars shows a thermostat stuck open, common issue with the DL650s.
Okay, thanks for adding it!
Thank you for the advice. Defo changing it shortly before my summer trip. Thanks again, Martin.
So glad you mentioned that. My '07 Wee is new to me as of last week. I had wondered is she were running warm but am now greatly relieved to hear that's the normal range.
I bought a '05 650 Strom in 2010 as a daily commuter. I put 50,000 more miles (~80,000 KM) on it but damaged the gearbox with a bad shift. I keep it for parts because I promptly bought an '06 last year at a bargain price. Love the Strom.. I use it much more often than my '83 CX650 turbo or my KLR650.
Great!
vstrom 650 is the best! mine is 2004 drives like a new bike, after fzr1000,gsxr1100,zxr750,bandit1200,diversion900,pan european 1100 ik like the vstrom best! more hp you dont need on the public roads! thx for the review
My pleasure!
It's a nice bike for paved roads and groomed dirt roads. I disagree a bit on the gravel part one owner mentioned below as it seemed a bit skittish to me with the quick steering and 19 inch front. Agree that I thought the stock front brakes were a bit too weak. Loved the motor but not the ground clearance. It also requires a massive STEEL bash plate to protect that low slung motor over everything from tall speed bumps to just about anything off road. On road you found it nicely balanced, off road on a gnarly trail, well ...not so much can you say HEAVY feeling much more than it actually is. Can't say enough bout that motor tho..one of Suzuki's BEST ever designs and production quality. Keep changing the oil, filter and practice clean,precise shifting and it will likely out live you.
Excellent bike for those not anticipating third world rural road and gnarly terrain work. I thought about getting one, but found in the end i simply couldn't live without a 21 " front, more suspension, and the lighter weight and off road prowess of the yam xt650. That was some time ago, (early 80's :) and she still runs great and has her own special corner of my garage. (I did learn to seriously dislike that stupid carburetor design Yam put on it tho: /) seer
As I said it is very good road bike.
Excellent video gentlemen! A question, is the paint custom or standard for the 08' V'Strom? The OD and Black is awesome!
I cannot say that, better is to ask Martin. His details are in the description below.
One of the best engines/bikes ever made, old versions are the best, the beaked/stacked headlight modern versions 17> are ugly and harder to work on, this model and the next model 12-16 are the best, the 12-16 model had a gear indicator,digital dash setup,preferred by some.
A Givi airflow screen works great on these bikes,adjustable to suit every rider size.
great review.
Thanks for taking the time!
I like the color ! Is it paint or covering ?
Great vid, Pavlin, and great review. I own a 2012 DL650 and I could not love it more. I bought it second hand at a good price from a tough rider who had put a looooot of Km on it (I don't dare say it) and the engine was in perfect shape. The guy had really taken care of it and it run smooth even with that high mileage. It's extremely comfy, easy to ride and to get used to (and to me it is even beautiful!). I was concerned about my hight (6ft2'', too) but it fits so perfectly. I knew it would make the perfect bike for me and for my needs (essentially commuting but ideal for any trip you may come up with, short or long distance). Can't wait to have my first long one with it, I know this bike will last.
Nice to see you're enjoying Spain ;) Love your channel, thanks for sharing all your experience!
Thanks man!
I totally agree, Pavlin! I have exactly the same one, a 2008 DL650. I love it so much and ride it exclusively, on the tight corners on asphalt here in the high jungle and mountains in Ecuador as well as dirt, mud and rocks of country roads.
I'm also 186cm tall and it's such a stable bike, a joy to ride. The one thing I'd like to have on roads is cruise control.
With Mitas E-07 tires, it's very stable on dirt, mud, and very sticky on asphalt corners. My highest speed is 165km/h on a straight.
Hey Josh, I have the same bike. You might try the "GO CRUISE 2" on amazon for about $30 usd. as a cruise control .
@@achurchill7553 Thanks, amigo. I do have the Go Cruise 2, and it's far better for travel.
Hurray! At last you are riding a decent bike! (Yes, I own a V-Strom 650). Best bike I have ever owned (and that's quite a few).
Very good road bike!
@Motorcycle Adventures - your thoughts compared to the Versys? I love the Versys but have always thought the VStrom to be a great bike too
They are very similar, except the 19 Inch front wheel.
Maybe you prefer the Suzuki because of the 19-inch front wheel instead of the 17-inch front wheel on the Honda. 17-inch gives sportier handling on very smooth tarmac, but 19-inch delivers more confidence on less than perfect (normal) roads.
I found the difference quite noticeable when I did a side to side comparison.
Could be...
One of the best all round bikes you can buy !
It is a well proven machine.
very nice bike!
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Firstly Pavel & Martin thank you both for a great review, l also think the 650 v strom is very underestimated especially in comparison to more expensive marquis. The only thing l was a bit concerned about regarding purchase was the weight ,these bikes are up around 220 kilos wet ,did this model feel unbalanced when riding at low speeds ? or when parking for example .
Our pleasure! When you riding is great! Heavy when you need to push it around.
Adrian, I am 76 yo and have a 2017 XT650 . Very easy to ride, very easy handling. I agree it only feels heavy when you have to push it around.
@@murraycharters6102 Such as reversing into the parking bay.
I love my Dl650 2006 reliable easy to ride and very good for travel around sunny Greece
Good bike
What do you recommend for tall riders like is the v-storm good bike ? thanks excellent review
Yes
Nice review !! Keep it up !! When I bought a motorcycle, I was thinking between honda transalp 700 and v-strom , I decided to honda, somehow as if we were made one for another. Could you review the transalp 700?
Greetings from Macedonia !!
I will, when I have this chance.
I’ve done the opposite. I’m now a proud owner of a vstrom 650
love my o7 I don't ubderstand why so underated
Matter of choice!
Pavlin, honest question here.. Why did you say it's not recommended for offroading? Is the suspension that bad? I have a 2007 and just bought a pair of Mitas E07+ tires and intend to go off the paved (and gravel) roads a bit more often.
I just got the bike in Nigeria but the parts are not available
Stock windshield has 3 levels, in movie it is on lowest position, if you set it on higher position it fit very good for me - 187cm
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what size is your Revit jacket L or XL? I think I am similar build to you and thinking about ordering one. thx!
The jacket is 3Xl the pants 2XL. The jacket is a bit tight, the pants are big. Don't order online before you are sure.
VERY cool color on that V-stom 650. Is that a standard color or added later?
I am not sure, ask Martin.
Thank you for the great review! I own a 2004 V-strom 650 and am a tall guy like you. Do you think that it needs bar risers for better comfort?
I am a new rider and can't really say by myself.
Thanks!
If you feel comfortable no, you don't need.
I am 2 meters tall. 12 years with vstrom 650, now in my second vstrom
I have used handlebar risers with 2.5 cm of elevators you will notice much more comfort. good luck
Hi, I have a 2007 DL 650 V Strom for the 4ht season already, and I can confirm everything this video concluded. I do my own maintenance and mods, and I can tell you it's a very easy and ergonomic bike to work on. Speaking of handlebar risers, I am a big, tall guy, 190cm/6.2' and I changed my original handlebar with an aluminium one, tapered (therefore stiffer and which vibrates close to zero) over a 50mm risers/adapters from Moose Racing, that go from the original 22mm diameter to the new thick 28 mm. The difference is gorgeous. I can sit really upright now, my arms are parallel to the road, with less fatigue when traveling longer distances, and I can even ride standing up on gravel roads, or just relax my butt after a couple of hours of riding. Also, due to my height and new position, I raised the windshield at the maximum possible position from the factory settings, and I've put an additional wind deflector from MRA. A small one, but adjustable. It works wonders in this setting. It solved the wind problem completely and now I have a nice bubble of silence around my helmet when riding at highway speeds. Ah, and the handling changed after raising the handlebar, and because it's new geometry (the ends are more straight /less sweep, kind of like a mountain bike one). Now it's more precise in corners at low speed in the city, during the daily commute. So yeah, you have a million aftermarket mods that can be done to this bike, to adjust its geometry to your specific needs. Enjoy it! For me is a happy marriage ;)
When you come to Australia you can borrow mine.
Thanks Greg, but I already have bike for Australia!
One more practicable issue: There are 2 low beam lights and 2 high beam lights!
There are 2 normal H4-Lights. This sounds oldfashioned, but it is better than having 1 H7, like the actual V-Strom 650 (from 2017) and V-Strom 1000 (from 2013). If you drive in the darkness (or darkness and rain) with 2 H4 you can continue driving if 1 bulb is defect.
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