Suzuki V-Strom 1000cc vs. 650cc review
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 พ.ค. 2017
- If you are looking for a adventure bike at a good price the V-strom from Suzuki is a fine machine. The question is though do you go for the 1000cc or the 650cc? are they the same bike with just a power difference? ...in short no not at all and yes at the same time! watch to find out my thoughts!
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I've owned both and I give the nod to the 650 for better economy, lower cost, and smoother engine. Either way, you're riding one of the best values in motorcycling: durability, versatility, performance, sportiness, COMFOFT, and just plain FUN! V-Stroms ROCK!
I'm planning to buy a 650 XT how good is the suspension for some jumps, and whats is the deepest it can go through water and finally are the brakes reliable?
I think you have similar thoughts to me !! Bit of mud and dirt and not just street !!
It's no dirt bike, but it's pretty competent for mild off-roading. I've seen some videos where the bike is half under water and still chugging through. At 460/520 lbs, they're among the lightest adv bikes, but you're not going to get much height on your jumps. They're best kept on dry fire roads or hard-packed gravel roads; putting on a set of knobbies increases their capabilities. 80/20! Watch nutnfancy's review of his DL1000 in the Utah desert. th-cam.com/video/pULTs4jSiKA/w-d-xo.html
Absolutly agree...as a commuter in the 650 are better than a dl1000, it runs cheaper in fuel economy and the engien are smoother. On long trips fully packed l do miss some horsepower but it vil still take you to the end of the world and back...that said..l have old 04 dl650 and l know the new one are better..
I just love mye old girl
@@toby7504 You will always like the one you are on at the moment, but one is better for short runninging around and one is better for longer trips, especially if loaded up. If you are going to load it up and go long, the the 1000....if you won't load it up and rarely go long, then the 650 really is a star.
A terrific, down-to-earth real life comparison of the two V's. Personally I was back and forth between the two and this video really helped me settle on the DL650. The real life first-person perspective shown in this review gives viewers a narrated vantage point, as if you are right there riding the machine. I thoroughly enjoyed watching this and found it helpful and informative. Thanks for putting in the effort to make this.
+Daniel Balfour thanks dude glad you liked it. That's exactly what I'm aiming for with my reviews.
The 650 is much more fit for off road
@@curtisbarker9272 both are UNFIT for any kind of offroad, its purely onroad touring machine
I have had my 650 for about 4 years now. do I like it? well I have put 94,000 miles on it. :) I think I might.
Hi Rev - are you servicing yourself?
This comparison has withstood the test of time; worth the watch if you’re deciding between the two ‘Stroms. After having purchased three new 650 ‘Stroms (‘09, ‘12, ‘15) with a combined odometer reading a tad under 200 000 kilometers, yesterday I came close to buying a new 1000cc ‘Strom. It was a great deal, and is a great bike. The only problem was, I rode my 650 to and from the demo ride and that sealed it for me. As far as V-Stroms go, the 650 is a jewel . . . and a keeper.
Just bought a 04 VStrom 1000. Loving it. Stole it for $2600 with 5700 miles on it. It’s super clean. Great job on this comparison.
Hi I got a similar offer on a 1000. This would be my first bike. I'm 50+ year old, 6ft tall. Would you recommend it? Thanks!
Fuckin thief! 😂
Got 05 dl1000 for around 4500usd, almost perfect condition, 35kkm👍
Ehh those prices will never return....
@@quirogan best touring bike for the money hands down. Though varadero is even better most people say
Haha, I love that you couldn't really decide. They both sound like true quality machines. Thanks.
I tip my hat. Good analysis of the strengths of these machines. I've owned an SV650 for almost a decade and it is brilliant but has its limitations. If you're new to riding and want to do day trips/commute? The 650 is it.
If you want to get out of dodge and see the world? 1000 all day. It's all about how you're going to use it. I'd recommend and own both but I'm ready for the 1000cc.
He nailed it though. Thanks for the comparison.
I have a 2007 650 V-Strom.... 91,000 miles and counting.... i'd buy another one tomorrow... Its been great! I've been coast to coast and back and forth to work when there's not snow on the ground (MN, USA)
I have a 2008 wee Strom and have really loved riding it. 68000 miles and I still love it it’s a bit weak for 2 up in hilly terrain but will cruise all day long at legal speeds with two 200 lb riders. It’s a really good bike
Probably the best review i've ever seen - brilliant - Subscribed!!
Love this video!! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year wishing you many years of safe riding.
Thanks and the same to you! 🙂
Love my 2017 V-Strom 650 XT rides like a dream and being short I love the height and the weight of the bike. My previous bike was a BMW G650GS (which I love) but this is way more performance oriented. 1000 is amazing just a little to big for me height. Can't go wrong with a V-Strom. Great video!!
Hi Chris,i have F650Gs and i thinking about Suzi 650 XT.Yes,GS is the perfect bike,but can you wrote me more about comparsion this two bikes? Thanks
650 and 1000 is the same height.
@@importantlookingpirate 😂 ended them all with one sentence 👍
No reason to get smaller engine
Excellent and very honest review. You have a new subscriber. Greetings from Slovenia!
+Ivan Markovic hey thanks and welcome!
I thought that from the name you'd be making shaky vids in 720p! Exceptionally good camera work and quite articulate too. Overall your style of reviewing has got me subscribing mate. Really good work.
At 67 I bought the first motorbike I owned since my twenties a Vstrom 650. It suits me perfectly for general commuting, the occasional gravel road and the camping tours I do around the South Island (New Zealand). Budget was a consideration as was economy, straight line performance wasn’t, comfort was and I dont ride two up. The thought of the performance of a litre bike scares the crap out of me. So for me the 650 is perfect for others as ‘spicy110’ says it is a matter of choosing the rignt bike for YOU. A replacement bike a V-Strom 650 for me every time.
Hey Nick, I am also 67 and first bike since my 20's. As you, I only ride the speed limit. The bike seems a great fit for me also.
I find this video a pleasure to watch. I like his riding style and the good review makes me want one of those 1000cc rides :)
I do love your reviews - them being done on the same roads I use helps! Had the 2005 DL1000 for several years and are looking at getting another in the next month so this vid was most helpful.
I went with the 650 and I’m surprised how much less I’m riding on the expressway and how much more fun I’m having in the twisties.
Thats gay
Finaly a great vidéo to help me choose between these machines, Tanks!
Love the Strom. Best informative test I've seen on TH-cam. Thanks for that, 1000 for me.
I was debating on the 650 as an option for my first 'big' bike after I pass my test, and you've settled me on it. Everything you've said has confirmed it's the bike for me!
I have a '19 650XT, love love love it. Traction control is great (saved my ass when I ran wide in a turn onto gravel). ABS is good. It's pretty fast, can hit nearly 70mph in 1st gear (although you'll probably red line). I'm averageing about 49 miles to the gallon, but I generally ride a gear lower than I can be in (like the feel). You can actually use the higher gears in decently low speeds if you wanna save more gas. I put some tank grips on it, engine guard, top case. It's almost ready for cross country. Not sure why, but only downside to me is I can't find the warning light. I've seen that it's close to the ignition button on most models, but I just don't see it on mine, whatever, minor quip. It feels really good. Good seat, good suspension, comfy.
clarity is excellent on this video fella!
Another good vid 😀
Jonathan Giles
I stumbled upon this video whilst browsing for info on the V-Strom. I try to regularly watch you so it was cool to see you'd done a review on these. I'm actually looking at buying one. Possibly a 2007 as it's within my budget, but I sat on a 2020 model and my goodness it's nice. Was standing on my tippy toes, but well worth it! Haha. Thanks for the awesome review. Was very helpful!
I've got the '19 650XT. Can't flat foot it, but after a few rides, didn't feel the need to flat foot, almost always have my right foot up on the peg, even when stopping/taking off. Love it sooo much.
At around 10 minutes you described the on-off action of my SV650a perfectly.
Great review of both machines. I have the 1000 and just love it. I live in Australia and the distances are covered so easily and comfortably on this bike. Factory cruise control would be great, but there are plenty of after market options out there. Stay upright mate, subscribed.
Big distances suit shaft and cruise. Try MY14 onward Yamaha Super Tenere.
G'day
Finally someone using bike like its supposed to .
Litre all the way 👍
This was invaluable for me, I was going nuts trying to figure out which one to buy. Thanks!!!
Glad I could help!
Great reviews. I'm headed off to my own local dealer to pick up a 2020 650 Adventure model in a couple of hours. Can't wait. You got me thinking that it won't be too long until I put out a change jar to start saving up for the 1000 in a few seasons.
Very good and informative video..
Can you please tell which camera are u using on your helmet??
nice review..what helmet are you wearing? that's pretty sweet.thanks for sharing.take care.
I want to congratulate you for an exceptional presentation. If any ones interested, which I doubt, my choice is the 650, purely because I will be doing the twisties more than highway. Thank you so much. Plus, less fuel, less insurance and less weight. Well done friend.
Thank U ?
The best Bike review, I have seen, ever !Very informative, un biased ,and very genuine ,I believe ! I am a V twin Bike man all my life, just love them with a passion, Suzuki sv650 ,Limited Ed Chiva X tra Rapta injected and Ducati 's, and still find for me nothing gives me the same thrill ?
At 68 I still ride them Ducati St2 and a St3 with Panniers and all !
I have just travelled 440km on a tank of fuel on St3 ,after Valve And Belt service and Replacement !
However, I would like to know How far could one expect to ride on a tank of fuel on VStrom 1000 ,touring on Highways at legal speeds, 110km ?
Thank U, very Enjoyable and valued yr feed back from the review, Thanks again, & Cheers from Australia !
My first bike was a 2006 V-Strom 650. After that I got a K13000 GT. I miss the V-Strom, so flickable in the twisties and easy to maintain. I think if I had to select I would go with the 1000 though. Both motors sounded nice on the videos. Nice job!
Suzuki = the Easiest/ Cheapest machines to wrench on, I've worked on a lot of bikes, Suzuki wins hands down....parts are Cheap and Everywhere, at least Here in the USA. It actually feels like a Mechanic designed the bike, anything can be done on the side of the road. When I gotta wrench on a Kawasaki or Honda, I usually Cringe....they just aren't as friendly in most cases.
Well your comment just took me off the fence between a versys or a vstrom!
Also sweet Rich Piana picture, RIP
@@saberxzero I have been wanting a versys since I got into motorcycling 8 years ago. I got a V-Strom yesterday. I no longer want a versys.
@@WillardTurner Hahahaha see i was still having the debate in my head and Versys was winning right now, i was ready to spend 2k more just to get one.
What made you change so much? Do the look of the v-strom(uglier in my opinion) bother you at all? Dont get afraid and get in the detail my debate has been going on for a month now! I clearly need help haha
@@saberxzero I do like the way versys look much better than the V-Strom. I've never ridden a versys, and I think it would be somewhat similar to v-strom. My issue was pricing. I was able to get a 2003 V-Strom with 30k miles for $2,600. Ive never seen a versys, even the 650, that cheap. Plus, the v-twin power is fun and thumpy. I'm not saying the V-Strom is better, because I honestly have no idea. However, I simply don't want the versys anymore because I'm satisfied with what the V-Strom has to offer. At a 2,000 dollar price difference, I just can't see the versys being with it.
@@WillardTurner Yup that is indeed my dillema. Is the price increase worth the look and slightly faster pace of the Versys.
How is the sound of the v strom? From the youtube videos i've heard it was weird and not so sweet sounding but i am riding a drz400 modded to death with a yoshi exhaust so it sounds pretty mean for a dirtbike and i like that!
Also daaaaamn that does seem like a great freaking price 2600 for a that low mileage is nuts. Did you increase how much you've been riding lately? I'm barely on my drz since it can barely get up to 100 without dying i feel like sucks.
Do you enjoy speeding? And if so is the dr650 able to scratch that itch or does it not do much in that area?
Thanks for the review, bloody ripper. I bought the 1000, I'm a tall fella 6'3, when I sat on it, it felt right. Wife says it's comfy on pillion as well.
No problem 👍
I test drove both as well, but 650 first and 1000 after. My thoughts: Both are solid bikes, but 650 is all you'll ever need. Fast enough for roads, comfy, well balanced, does everything well. 1000 is exactly the same, but with stronger engine, they even look exactly the same now. The only thing to separate them is 650 or 1000 emblem near the seat. To me the answer is simple, if you have more money to spend or really want that extra oomph when you open the throttle, buy 1000. For everybody else 650 is the way to go. Simples!
I've been looking at used dl650s in my area, decent price and it seems like a good first road bike. I'd be mainly using it for commute, camping, and joy rides but I'm not a large man (6' 170lbs) and I think the 1000 would be a tad overkill for me.
I'm 6'2in 270 lbs and I love my 650 I have 35,000 miles on mine and it is great bike, I have ridden the 1000 and and found no need for it for my type of riding. The only off roading I do is hard packed dirt stateland roads but I do cruise at an indicated 75mph when I'm on a four lane highway
You would also think that for 2up touring? I'm about to buy one soon but it's hard to decide also because when considering price of 1000
Cant think of anything relevant that my Vstrom 650 cant do.
Exactly, I got DL 1000 and is to much for every day, in hard traffic. First gear 😒 like a small hammer
Thank you for a great review.Both are great bikes in many ways.My next bike will be a vstrom.
Thanks great review. 👍🏼😄
I went up to see these guys a week or two ago and I was really impressed with them...Nice fella's. In fact, I'm thinking that a 50 odd min run up the A32 to these for a service is better than the 20 min ride into Southampton.
Hi spicy110, first off great vid, second, wondering if you will get a chance to test ride a Kawasaki 2017 Versys 650 and 1000 and let us know your thoughts, I currently ride a SFV650 while I'm learning and its a great bike but like you i am just shy of 6ft4 and the SFV is rather cramped, I am looking to upgrade in the next 4-6 months and the new 2017 V-Strom and Versys has caught my eyes as the best possible options for my style of riding and height, both bikes that will do it all with compromise while not costing a fortune, a bit of twisty on the weekends and commute on the week, maybe a long trip with the Mrs, thanks for the great vid. Jack
Great video im thinking of getting a 16 1000 now i will
loved to watch this. Thx
One of the best reviews of the V-Stroms on TH-cam!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! EXCELLENT JOB!!!!!!!!!
I've used the V-Strom 1000 in Australia, and bought a V-Strom 650 in the U.K. I am not of the "dainty, compact" build; so the main difference I find is that the 650 goes quite a lot further on a tank of fuel. The 1000 of course had more performance, but I felt the extra weight on essentially the same frame was just that bit too much. I find I use a bit more rev's on the 650, but given mostly touring and traffic, no real difference.
1000 is actually very good weight for litre bike, cbf 600 weights pretty much the same.
Liter all the way
You are a fantastic reviewer. I really did find this Informative. Helping me a lot .. thank you!! 🍻😎I'll test ride both but will get the 650 as I'm 5 foot 8 ".. 🤣🤣 as I say a fantastic real life review.
Thank you! 🙂
Don't forget to look at the touring package, like the engine guard and side and top cases.. The bike would be useless without them..
do you change visor when it gets dark or just not ride in the dark just wondering
Thank you for this review! I am trying to make this decision and now it is even harder lol.
I think I just need to ride them back to back like you did.
I have a DRZ400sm which is already a bit of a hooning machine so I am leaning toward the 1000.
However the tank range & regular fuel (and price) of the 650 are very tempting as well!
Arrrgggghhhhh!
Did you make a decision. I'm trying to choose now?
Some offroad dual sport and big vstrom is fantastic combo to have!
Vstrom is amazing for road travel, amazing engine and superbly comfortable.
And im saying that as experienced adv rider
So yes i say 1000 all the way.
Why take lesser engine? Its better to have reserve of power than lack of it lol
Love the V-Strom, always have always will, even the old model.
They are the reason why I wanted to ride motorcycles and I am still very sad that I coudn't get one that fits my requirements.
Ive owned a 2015 V-strom 650 since new very good fun bike out in the hilly country rds near me and for work I also load it right up and go fishing on it ive thought its an underrated machine as but people who own them seem to keep them and there a strong owners group because of that.
As for the height thing there is a peg lower kit for it and also the 1000cc saddle will fit on the 650, on the older models the seat is much taller for the bigger bikes and many shorties and tall rider will aactually swap seats in the owners groups
Great review!!! Now I'm confused on which is my next bike !!! I had a Kawasaki Vulcan 650 many years ago and I had such a blast on it as it was incredibly flickable. Now that I have a larger ST1300 I admit I miss the flickability but the ST1300 has so much power and long distance comfort!! Might have to keep ST1300 and add the V-Strom 650 for fun mountain runs !!! I would welcom opinions on comparison to larger Sports Tourers like my ST1300. I really would like something that could do washboard trails and fire roads comfortably. Maybe putting knobbly tyres on the V-Strom ??
what a great video ! I applaud this thorough test /comparison ..
I had the 2005 dl650 till late last year and fully luggaged with pillion it still performed well...i was going to replace it with a dl1000 or muscle bike ..
Well the xjr 1300 won me over but I have great respect for both the vstroms...
as you said for fun and frollicks 650...for mile munching 1000...
cheers 👍liked and subscribed.😁
Yeah, I'm more of a frolicker than a muncher......
For everything 1000, both are tour bikes
Late to the show, but nice review. I am wanting to get back on a bike and came across a New 2015 650 Vstrom, so been watching all I can to get more info on them for commuting to work mostly, but it at 55mph and 70mph for short distance.
Have you ridden the F700 yet? Curious how you feel the vstroms compare to them. I borrowed an F700 from a friend for about a year and really enjoyed it, then I drove my uncle's vstrom 650 briefly while taking a MCY trip with him in Alaska (and I really loved the vstrom too), curious how you feel they compare. I'm stepping down from my Tiger 1200 - it's too fucking big for me. I thought being a near 300lb guy that it wouldn't be too big - it is. It's only good on the hwy and for using shit-loads of power during heavy accel. My g/f isn't the skinniest either so I'm thinking the 650 might be a bit small compared to the 800, but the vstrom 650 felt plenty peppy when I rode it solo when I got on the gas hard. One thing I loved about the 650 in AK is that it sipped gas - got such good mpg compared to anything else - that's nice when gas stops are few and far between. Main would be hwy with few dirt/gravel roads here and there. I'd like to keep it < 1k cc's.
MrSlowestD16 p
Being 6ft and slightly heavier build and on A2 licence I feel like the 650 would be very good for me, top vid spicy and congrats on 60k!
Scott Sharpe I've got a 2015 650 restricted and I'm 6'2", pretty damn good for me
Scot Wilson hmmm may have to have a test ride thanks!
Scott Sharpe err I doubt anyone has a restricted vstrom for you to test ride unfortunately
@@scotwilson4169 you got bar risers or something or is everything stock?
@@carlosandleon moved on twice since the Vstrom but no it was standard in that respect. Just loaded with all the protection and panniers👍 I had a lot of fun with that bike off road, dropped it twice though and the second time broke some plastics on the fairing on the right hand side. Cost me about £250 in parts and A LOT of time trying to figure out how to take the fairing apart 😅
Fantastic review. I prefer the 650, but I haven’t ridden the heavily updated 1050 and I love the look of it.
I have! I have a review on the 1050
I'm so glad you did this comparison, my local Suzuki dealer only has the 650 for demo and I loved it. Always thought the 1000 would be a little big for me at 5'10" and considering most of the time I would be using it for commuting and country lane blasting I think the 650 will be more than enough.
Big is pro, not con.
Dunno why people use that argument as if big bike is something bad.
Especially in us where roads are huge and you have lot of space everywhere.
Im 180 and 1000 is perfect for me.
Even if you 170 ull still be fine with big one, its not ktm, its very civilized and user friendly machinr
Most excellent video, except for riding on the wrong side of the road. Been looking for a new toy, and this helped. Out grown my KLR 650, and don't like riding my big Harley an more. How is the leg and head room?
I have a 2011 WEE I took it for a run from Cleveland Ohio to the Grand Canyon round trip. 5000 + mls. Its great bike loads of farkles on it. I was thinking about the 2017 models, but I wanted Suzuki to make a 750 / 800 versionn, so I will keep the 2011. I can pick the 650 up too if it ever falls over, dont know if at 75 yrs old I could lift the 1000.
Well done!!! I have a 2011 650 strom,, it’s fine for me,, it would be perfect in 750 800 v twin!! It’s funny how you also mentioned that,,
Does it make sense to get the 650 Vstrom over an older Versys 650? I have a 2013 Versys, and a friend of mine recently bought a 2018 Vstrom 650. I've tried it, and it's really a nice bike. Performance wise, are pretty similar. On the plus side, i think the Vstrom has a comfier ride (altough a worst fork) and it's definitely a more modern bike. Vstrom behaves much better with a passenger, since it's longer, and the Vtwin engine is soooo much smoother than the parallel on my Versys, very little vibrations. Traction control is interestin in wet conditions, but i do not consider it as a plus. Versys is a more sportier, rugged bike, behaves almost like a naked, Vstrom is more travel/commute oriented, and carries weight in a more balanced way.
Watching this I want a 650. But I already have the 1000 and there is no way I'd sell that....
I felt this was a good, accurate reflection on the 1000 (never ridden the 650). I'd just add that I do regular distance touring with my wife and it works just great for that. In fact the Mrs doesn't really want to pillion any of my other bikes.
I owned a 2007 DL1000 for 7 years and loved it, then test rode quite a few other bikes in this genre and was impressed by them all in different ways, but in the end the new V was the best for me, particularly taking into consideration value for money. The new V is as good as the old, but better in every way you'd want.
"The new V is as good as the old, but better in every way you'd want."
Apart from the looks...
@@impact0r true new one looks aweful.
If id buy such new expensive bike id buy 2017 africa twin as a do it all.
Currently have one 640ktm for dual sport and dl1000 for road cruising and everyday comfort
Your not losing anything by owning 1000
Nice vid mate. Quick Q - what mount are you using for the Ghost on the handlebar?
+Draig UK thr drift handle bar mount you can't get them on drifts site 10% off with my code in the description
Nice cheers, just checking it wasn't as funky Chinese ebay job =) See you on the 17th. We're starting to put promos up for it. MotoJoshing has his up, Tinman next I'll have mine after that, should be a fun day!
Ordered, thanks for the discount!
Maybe I missed it, did he say what the rpm's were on the 1000 at 70mph? he mentioned the 650 was at 5k rpm at 70, interested in the difference. My '02 Superhawk is 4k rpm at 70 which is my reference point...
Great idea to do both bikes back to back. As I don't do any interstate trips anymore (Australia) the 650 with a large top box and centrestand would meet my needs.
Yeah go to bed, bikes are too fast for you 😁
Well this was as frustrating as me trying to decide what to go for, the vid was built up for a solid answer then back to square one. I am changing from a longline of super sports (currently a GSXR 750 L6) so for me it is a totally different ball game. I test rode the 2017 Vstrom XT today and loved it from start to finish. I have however thought that the power will be so much nicer in the 1000 but not really needed. I have no big trips planned and my riding will be on normal country roads and only a 40 mile round trip to work. Main worry is having the misses and luggage on the back and it feeling a bit guttless. great video though ;)
I own the 2018 1000 and fucking love it, the XT version. I've taken it on some decent off road and handles it perfectly unless you start doing real sketchy stuff like deep loose gravel, sand or mud.
Nice one spicy
I was planning to get a 650 but I wasn't aware it didn't have a slipper clutch. My previous bike was a KTM Duke 390 and I'm pretty used to downshifting with no regards to rev or clutch control. I'm not sure if I want to lose that.
Also, getting to 70 on 6th gear @5000 RPM sounds bad. My duke was able to reach pretty much exactly the same speed on the same gear and revs. With a 390CC, single-cylinder engine. I don't get how VStrom with 1 more piston and 200CC more volume is getting the same speed.
I think I'll either look into Duke 690 or maybe a BMW 800GS or something. Thanks for the very informative video.
Good video. I assume "nippy" is British for lively or responsive? Would have liked to see which is best on gravel or dirt track.
Yes correct on the nippy. Sadly being demo bikes with a £2000 excess on my head off road is a bit risky.
Peppy 😂🏍️
Spicy, do you know their policy for test rides? Do you have to be over 25 like quite a few other places? Gonna be doing my DAS this month, after 2 years on A2. Are they demo bikes?
+MrMrhughesy totally diffrent for diffrent dealers best to just contact the dealer and ask
Great review. I agree with your comments as I have come to the same conclusion. Basically if you live in an area of open roads then pick the 1000. If you live in the country with lots of hills and Twisties pick the 650 which is such a fun bike to throw around.
Great minds think alike 😉
If you have common sense pick 1000 and use it as intended - touring bike
"there's your answer..and it's not even an answer!" lol, nice review of both bikes, btw local Suzuki dealership said about 75-80% of people who test rode both bikes picked the 650, many stated they were surprised by its relative power to the 1000 .
Same ratio here, i think it's also the price and the insurance, fuel etc.
I remember a journalist (Tony Kirby of Sidetracks magazine in Australia) wrote when first testing the 650 Strom, "If you slapped 1000cc badges on it, you'd still think it goes alright!"
@@spicy110 Apart from providing a more engaging ride (which is enough reason for me to choose it), the 650 has lower costs in purchase, registration, insurance, fuel, tyres, chain and sprockets. More spares available from dismantlers. The extra range from the same sized tank is of huge benefit in time and convenience for me also.
Those are just inexperienced, uninformed riders who think 1000 is some power monster and that they cant handle it.
Or they just can't afford it.
1000 is just objectively better.
Majority is very often wrong
I have Gen 1 DL1000 just love the darn thing sporty feel on the twisties, can be taken on fire roads and gravel roads with confidence. So cheap to buy second hand.
Cheap? Well i guess compared to 950adv its cheap.
Bit taking it offroad? Come on, you have 10cm ground clearance and bare exhaust at the bottom, its a road bike, not adv
Great review! I'm 6'1" and the 650 didnt feel too small (though I might go with tall seat and bar risers), but at 6'5", you're lucky to fit on anything :)
at that height 650 is perfect size for you. I am 5'11"
Don't forget the substantial difference in insurance fees and miles per gallon, as well as no need for premium fuel, all in favor of the 650. That being said I own a 1000 and I love it!
gerloczyek it's not that different is it?
245 mls. and still 2 squares on my fuel gauge. "650 weeStrom"
Can't answer it accurately as I haven't ridden the 650. I used to have a Transalp (600 cc) back in the day, and the 1000 is a way better motorcycle overall. Like 20 -30 years worth of innovation better. Having said that if I was to go around the world, I would pick something smaller, simpler and cheaper, like the Transalp or the 650 or KLR.
gerloczyek i have 650 and am getting 59 mpg at the min riding a commute can go down to 50 when riding for fun. 1000 did 35mpg when on test ride for me lol. im 6ft5 20st so could do better figures for more slender peeps lol
gerloczyek I see the compression for both the 650 and 1000 are very similar . 11.2 and 11.5 if I remember. Can anyone explain to me why the 1000 needs premium and 650 can go with regular when both have almost exactly the same compression? I live in South America. Fuel is here is crap.
Question, is the V-Strom 650 a valid choice for a highwa (long trip) starter bike?
Yes to all. Unless you are taking a pillion and loads of luggage then you might want the 1000. But! The 650 is perfectly capable of doing it and many do. As for a starter bike yer as long as you can control your self and don't try to run before you walk.
l bought a 1000 purely for the pillion factor, great video mate.
A fiend of mine owns the 650, he's a pretty heavy guy. Mountain riding with luggage and passenger - absolutely no problem .
Everyone has their own preference. I had both the SV650 and the SV1000. When I decided I wanted a V-Strom there was only one option for me...1000 all day long. My bike is a hobby and not a daily commuter so I don't place any emphasis on fuel economy or running costs. I ride my bike for the thrill and I'm happy to pay a little bit extra for the experience. My 2015 DL1000 Desert Edition still produces over 50mpg and I couldn't care less about the cost. If it was delivering 30mpg I'd still choose it.
Exactly
Good review, though!
1000 all the way - unless you're a penny pincher. I put almost 20k miles on a 650 and now have over 20k miles on big V. Loved the 650 when i had it, but could never go back now. Besides more power, the 1K has better suspension, brakes, ergos, and handling. Get the 650 for saving pennies on gas.
+mcragosta yer it's surprising how diffrent they are! But both good in their own ways.
I test rode both and chose the 650. I guess it depends on what you're using it for and where. I live in Colorado. The twisties and fire roads just felt so much better on the 650. I could easily see the 1000 as a wonderful tourer.
I’ve done a lot of research comparing the 1000 and 650 and found this video to be the most useful in its assessment of the character of each bike as well as the circumstances in which one might choose one over the other. I put my order in on a new 650 XTA today based on my height (5’10”), the fact that I drive mostly on my own and my preferred venue for driving is winding country highways. My last bike was a bmw r1200GS - a lovely engineered machine but quite a big machine. I’m missing the ‘carving ski’ element that I think the 650 will offer - I thought long and hard about the 1000 (and don’t think you can make a mistake in either choice...) but ultimately decided that ‘less may be more’ and flingability is a nice feature. Thank you for the excellent set of perspectives that a buyer mulls over...
@Mojo I never would have thought that this could descend into a pissing contest!
Get the 1000 for wasting pennies on purchase, fuel, registration, insurance, tyres, chains, sprockets and sessions with a psychologist.
I put the straight street tires on my 650
The Metalar next tire
They r great best I ever rode
What a premonition! ..suggesting a “V-Strom 800” - and 5 years later.. Yes. Though, I’m hanging on to my ‘21 Wee-strom 650 XT ADV!
I have ridden the new one too! 🙂 th-cam.com/video/4Pmb4jS-c44/w-d-xo.htmlsi=uy7QAsKlCtk9-VHA
I love my 2015 DL650, truly an excellent bike, it will cruise all day at 80 mph, goes into 90 mph with no problem, very comfortable, reliable, great gas mileage, etc. I tested a 1000 bike and found I didn't need the extra power at all.
+Moto Rider 473 I do agree, but add luggage and a second person and now the 1000 has a place.
spicy110 With a pillion I can see the need for the 1000. The 650 does just fine loaded with metal panniers and camping gear for a two week trip.
Translation: i couldn't afford 1000 so now will create some arguments to defend my "choice" :)
Great video - am thinking of the 650 as an alternative to my MT07 - looking for something more comfortable on longer rides. The thing that concerns me is the service intervals which seem to be every 3500 miles. Now I get changing oil more frequently - makes sense and I do on my bike - but if I have to take to the shop every 3.5k to maintain the warranty that's going to end up expensive...Tracer 700 and Kawasaki Versys are every 6000 I believe...
3.5 miles for a change of oil only
Yeah what's up with that !
Excellent comparison, thanks! My wife and I are in our 50s and i currently have a Suzi GSX S750. Wife has a HD Street 500. We are looking for a bike more comfortable for 2 up than these we have. Not really touring but rides of max 200km. 400km round trip. I am not very tall. About 5 foot 7. Many reviews recommend either this 650 or 1000 for an easy 2 up bike. What you think or will it be better looking at a cruiser style? Cheers
These sorts of bikes are great 2 up but if you are not very tall holding up the bike with 2 on requires a good footing. I would say try one out they are normally happy to let you test ride 2 up. Cruisers are a totally different riding feel i find so i think there is more to that question than just pillion taking capabilities. 🙂
Both great bikes, but the 1000 has a lower seat height. I am same height as you and I am tippy toes on the 1000. Balls of feet on the 650. Lighter so easier to manage also.
Yeah next year I will have to try and do the MOT earlier since now everyone is riding but I can't
I'm 6-2 and weigh 275 and have ridden my 2014 vstrom 650 43,000 trouble free miles and I love it. It's comfortable with more than enough real world power, It's a keeper. I also have a 2002 Kawasaki 1500 drifter. It rides totally different. I wouldn't sell either one. Love them both.
There no such thing as enough power.
I have 1000 vtrom 100hp, i wouldn't say no to having 160+ hp
Or in other words: do i lack power?
No. Do i need more power? Lol ofc not.
Do i want more power? Fuck yeah!
If you can afford the 1000 over the 650, just do it. There are absolutely no negatives with have more torque. Also, what you don't notice at first is that the 1000 has diff suspension, more fairings, more design features, etc... At first glance they look identical, but take a closer look and you'll find that you do actually get more than just a bigger displacement. Either way, Vstroms are amazing.
Finally some common sense thank you!
Especially for first gen 1000 is better because prices are the same
I ride the new 650. I had the same problem chosing one. I chose for the lower costs. I hired the 1000 a few times and i noticed that it eats tires because of the high torque. But they are both great bikes.
Eat tires 😂
Ownership bias....
Great review Spicy; the 650XT would be my choice. Friendlier & more 'useable' than the 1000, but, like you say, there isn't much between 'em... 👍🏻👌🏻
Yeah keep repeating heard bs about usability.
Ownership bias says hello.
1000 is objectively better bike
I'd be interested to know what gear you wear, gloves, trousers, jacket, jus because it's so rare to find a vlogger almost my height!
+Nick Rijke already done! th-cam.com/video/2DihHEn3gsI/w-d-xo.html
Should the 650 have handguards? I wonder if the XT version with spoked wheels would make the 650 feel a bit more lively.
No, the spoked wheels are just a fashion accessory. An easy way for Suzuki to extract a further $1000 AUD @ point of sale....
SUBSCRIBED!!
Welcome!
you should do daily observation and post it every week
Has anyone tried to carry a pillion on the 650? What was the experiance?
i own a 650 2018 yellow one...... just the best bike i have ever owned.... i m in love
spoked rims?
Own a DL650 rode around OZ 2up with the wife didn't have a problem sitting on 110klms all day😊
Nice!
That was a nice scenic ride spicy?
I settled on the Suzuki V-Strom 650 to truly adventure tour out west. It seems silly to have a super powerful, super heavy bike loaded with all manner of camping gear and expect to off road with any ability. If it falls over, I can pick it up without a flinch.
It's easy to insure, gets awesome fuel economy, it's reliable as can be, and easy to purchase. The BMW R1200GSA I thought I wanted will have to wait until the 650 says otherwise. If I want a screamingly fast pavement pounder, I'll use my BMW K1600B for that!
The copium is really strong with this one 😂
The 650 is more than enough to go long distance on, they have crossed Canada and done Labrador ( Labrador has one road across it and very few gas stops a ADV dream ) and when crossing Labrador your are fully loaded extra gas and most carry spare tires, and camping equipment. When visiting Newfoundland I met 2 who just came across Labrador one on a 650 V-Strom and the other on a larger KTM and the guy on the KTM said if he were to do it a gain he would want the 650 V-strom .
I do not know why people want the over size ADV other than the Cool Factor of having a large bike or to go flying down the major hi ways & if you like Major hi ways get a cruiser that is what they are made for.
Think you should have ridden them in reverse order. Had a 2013 650 and have a 2016 1000. The 650 is electric bike smooth and very liveable. Fabulous economy. The 1000 is incredibly torquey - so you can go higher geared and cruise. Also the 1000 is better handling, less top-heavy feeling at slow speed. I have 2 upped both on multi day many thousand mile trips. The 650 is great below 70, but runs out of oomph uphill two up when passing. The 1000 is the better tourer/ 650 is perhaps the better commuter. Yes the 1000s have a slipper.
As a commuter, I'm kinda missing the (fuel) economy and general costs aspect, not to mention the price difference. It is a deal breaker for some of us to whom a GS or a Multistrada is not an option...
im 6ft5 and completely agree with your reviews. I bought the 650 with hand guards. i just couldnt justify £60 a month extra for the 1000 before insurance etc. but both bikes are great. good vid
+John Mcmeekin thanks gald you agree 👍
That's why so many more 650s - its cheaper.
And then by ownership bias they defend online why its "better" 😂
Damn online advices you can never trust people