Love it. The rear brake sucks through!! Love the underappreciated throttle assist. It helps the bikes not shut down . I can be on 6 th gear @30kmph and the bike won't shut down. So , I don't need to change gears much. Cops don't notice it as well. Looks like a common bike in the crowd. At the price it is a steal deal
It got stolen? No wonder I couldn't find the next episode. We bought one bike each about a fortnight ago, and had the dealership install the crash bars, the Suzuki pegs, and heated grips. At home we added a radiator guard, and are buying a B&B sump guard to go on, moved the pegs to the lowest- and rear-mos position. Tyres...we'll wait until we get some use out of the stock ones before doing anything there. Barkbusters going on, and looking into the SW Motech gear lever. We went with some MotoDry soft luggage tank bags, side bags and a bag across the back. Thanks for the inspiration! From Australia.
I reckon the Shinko Adv tyre could be a great bet on this bike! All sound like awesome choices. It'll be an awesome bike for Aussie dirt roads and exploring :)
Recommend the Michellin Anakee adventure tyre for your next re-shod mate. Great for the road and pretty good on hard packed roads. I have them on my big Vee.
Most of the time I disagree with your judgments and/or reviews but I keep on watching (and like) your videos if else because you really seem honest on your POV, which again I often do not share but I believe is intellectually sound. 👍🏻
I bought my 650xt in 2021 for use on/off road (gravel). I currently have on her 10 000kms all on tar, she is just too pretty to take on dirt roads. I thought about getting her offroad ready but the new 800 is out soon so I'll give that a test ride and if I prefer it, I may sell the 650 and buy it instead. I do love that v-twin though so it will be difficult to let it go.. what an incredible ride.
Wednesday August 12th, 2020 saw my second Wee (2012) hit 100 000 kilometers. Aside from two trips around North America it also went from the tundra of northern Canada to the jungles of Central America - a few farkles but zero performance modifications. The only issue Strom #2 had was a leaky fork seal. The last I heard, Strom #1 (2009) has well over 100 000 kilometers on it but, sadly, we’ve lost touch - after how it was treated in Mexico I think it ran away from home. My third ‘Strom (2015) only has 47 000 kilometers on it so it’s hardly broken in. I’ve been lucky to have had quite a few motorcycles over the last fifty years, and still own other bikes. But “for the buck” there’s little better than the trusty V-Strom 650.
I own a 2019 650xt Vstrom & have changed the sump guard for an aluminium one, changed the footpegs, added barkbusters to replace the suzuki plastic ones and added a pair of bar risers. The info in this video is invaluable and I will certainly be looking into the accessories that you have fitted to your bike. Great video and very informative 👍.
It's a pity I can only give one "thumb up". I've actually lost all hope on ever getting to see Ep. 2 but here it is and it's been worth the wait. So much better than regular motorcycle reviews, so much more information and details. I'm currently on a lookout to buy a Vstrom 650 soon and I really appreciate your work guys!
@@BrakeMagazine Can't wait to see that! :) I have one question though, I noticed that you didn't change the windscreen in any way, not even added a deflector. I've only had one test ride on this motorcycle and I immediately noticed (apart form the seating position which you addressed) that I'd like to improve the wind protection for the longer 120-140kph travelling. Although I have to admit I didn't have time to fiddle with the different screen positions. Perhaps I'm a bit too sensitive on this topic but I hate the buffeting and wind noise, it kind of spoils the fun for me on longer trips. I read through lots of the forums and on the older version of this bike Givi AirFlow was recommended by most of the riders but on this newer model it Givi AF seems to have lots of issues and I was hoping that you could perhaps give some information about it. I'm 180cm tall by the way. Will be grateful for any advices! :)
Great review after owning my v-strom for 3 years l also feel this is a awesome bike with great engine ,exhaust note especially as I fitted an akrapovic exhaust ,extremely fuel efficient and it is was a bargain price compared to other in this segment. Buy one you will love it!!
@@BrakeMagazine I hope you gain many more subscribers as your reviews and ability to describe what a bike does and how it feels is second to none,too many professional journalists stick to facts which anyone can read online or ex races who just wannabe race.keep up the fantastic review.regards from a 10year old italjet kid turned to teenager motocrosser then sportsbike rider now 48 year old adventure bike lover
Excellent video! The VStrom 650 is a fantastic value machine, at 6’1” with 34” inseam I found it a bit cramped in stock configuration. A leftover 2017 or used Africa Twin is about the same price and more comfortable for tall riders.
First off very happy that you picked up where you left off. I like many others we’re excited to see where you took the Strom and if it was worth the money cans effort. At the beginning of this I was left thinking your goal was to change this amazing inexpensive world tour bike into something it was never meant to be. A Tenere 700 is the bike you were wanting it to be. I was thrilled that as you pushed the little Vstrom you found your way back to what makes this bike amazing.... it’s a simple well sorted bike. After all of your mods it’s still just a great bike that fits you and your needs better than the box stock bike. But I would say with good rubber and some bark buster and real skid plate the little Strom will take you anywhere in the world and home safely. And yes I’m biased I have 3 Strom’s in 145k miles combined I have had the stator go bad on a DL1000. After a few valve checks I have just stopped checking they just don’t change. The newest one a 2019 650Xt I will check at 15k just because.
I ride a first generation V-Strom, and like you, I've learned to enjoy what it does well... while having patience with those area's where it's lacking. No doubt I could get a bike that would be smoother, better handling, and maybe even better looking.... if I were willing to spend two or three times more money. I love my wee-Strom !!!
40 000km, within 1 year of ownership, on my 2017 XT and similar riding scenarios. Not a single problem. That's why it is my 13th V Strom (11 of them 650cc).
Bar sweep... I hate swept bars but see your point with the Strom. I run a 1988 DR750 and travel on it. I found that a trials bend was all I could live with and this is with a huge homebrew riser. We all have such different needs when it comes to bikes and the riding we do. I love a spaced out riding position and I am only 5'11, My other bike is a CCM 644 which feels like a pitbike compared to the DR750.
Suzuki haven't got serious enough about either the 650 or the1050, a 21inch front wheel, more ground clearance, stiffer fork springs, preload adjusters on forks, a switch to a in sump oil filter, a bashplate, serrated footpegs, correct handlebars, all things achieve able at minimal cost by the factory, the engines and frames paid for themselves years ago.
And for goodness sake’s, find a way to route the vulnerable exhaust header from directly underneath the engine. It kills the ground clearance, which is already questionable.
@@davidsmith7201 I've always owned big powerful bikes. And I've heard so many people say the same thing as you about their V strom 650's. The size of them would suit me as I'm 5,9 in height. I'm just wondering if I would miss the power and quality suspension you get in higher end bikes.
Well done indeed. Waiting for this; it confirms my feelings about my XT. Replaced the footpegs and sump guard immediately. Was thinking about suspension, so this is a timely video! Many thanks.
You really gave me some insight on some important issues. Bought a 2020 650 adventure and was looking at the long list of bank account draining goodies I could have bought. I had it all wrong for sure since my first goal was to fix the suspension. Thanks for the words of wisdom
I have the M1 model regular because I use every day almost in the twisting roads of north west of Spain, 🇪🇦 Mediterranean sea. I owned Sports bikes near 200hp and never have in mind the trail bikes, but some time ago drove the second generation model and Surprised me how well the bike goes in any situation. The engine all we know it's a jewel. Then after recently tried some 400cc scooters and see what the 💩 eco regulations are made to the punch of this engines, I saw this V-strom in the dealer with cases and was a great option for a daily ride. The engine works great en every situation (don't think you will go faster that a R1 😛) but It's an engine that you can control entirely, it's not over your abilities if you have some experience in the motorcycle world Good video and concussions 👍🏼
None of these handlebar links work, and if they do I can’t see any specs in the link to know what it is I’m ordering. Any chance you can provide relevant specs? To wit, Sweep: 19° Width: ??? Height: ??? I’d prefer not to have to add longer cables, or even get creative with the routing, and you’ve already got it solved. I realize I’m late to the party here, but any help would be much appreciated.
Finally! I lost hope pt 2 will ever come out and than this happens😊 First, you did an awesome job! It seems that you did nit rush this and invested a lot of effort into finding the best (budget) adventure recipe for this (budget) bike. As a V-Strom 650 xt owner, i agree and have made similar mods and setup. Only thing I would add to the list is changing the brake pads because oem ones are really dead. EBC double H sintered brake pads work great imo. Thank you for coming through with this project bike. What is the next one? Certain Yamaha? 😏
Great review, did you see project weestrom 7.5 on Stormtrooper.. 7.5 inches front and rear suspension travel and some more ground clearance.. want to do that one, when taking my Weestrom to Mongolia.. But after listening to you..mm.. on My strom I raised the rear..with dogbones 3/4 inch.. makes it even more agile..fantastic in the twisties..
Excellent review, as always. Thanks, Llel. At 67 years oId and having sold my BMW R100 GSPD last week (too heavy finally) I find this little V-Strom perfect for all the reasons you say at the end; and, like most ordinary riders, I ride on the road most of the time; but this bike's ability to handle light gravel trails makes it perfect for adventure touring. Couple of things I like on mine: PivotPegz footrests (I know you don't, but I love them; boots never slip on them); Avon Trailrider tyres - fabulous on road and in the wet -- developed in the UK for wet, greasy roads, work everywhere and ok for the 5% of my riding that I do on light trails. Thanks again.
Good job guys. I have a 2014 Vee 1000, fully kitted out, and I have just got a 2015 Vstrom DL650. Now I'll probably piss the wife off by kitting this one out! It's a boy thing. Right?? Great bike in every way that it's big brother is, except a fair bit lighter. I have the footpeg lowering kit on the way, and I will be having extra memory foam put into the seat as I'm 6'2 with long legs. Thanks again guys.Greetings and salutations from Oz +subbed.
Coming from first Gen 1K,You are completely true when saying that only its rider will appreciate it.. The Vstrom is no doubt is neglected one,.. But It's best budget Tourer dual adventure motorcycle..
Excellent video. I appreciate the balanced comments about the bike and your own experiences with various parts and modifications. I have a 2017 and I think you've summarized the bike's abilities and limits very fairly and accurately. Subscribed.
Hi, anything about the ground clearance and shocks, if you wanna go off road or gravel, shouldn't change the ground clearance on this bike? I own a 2010 dl650 al0 really like to see how to improve that part?
Kinda. The ground clearance is low, but it depends on what you're doing. You could easily spend £10k on this bike to make it way better off-road, but then you might as well buy a T7 and keep the change. It's fine as is for gravel riding. :)
RE panniers, I use Enduristan ands happy with them. Ye they are fiddle but given most adventure bikes now journey between hotels people could really just strap a suitcase on it.
i put some money in my hands and modified the suspension by hessler. So i have longer front and back suspension and i have more groundclearance. I also have chosen the andy straps soft bag solution. So far i am happy with both. For me they were worth the money and should fit the bike for the next big journeys. I thing the v strom 650 is worth its money. I just did the modifications for my long term trips. Love the bike so far. thx for your video!
@@BrakeMagazine As you mentioned in your Video, the orginal suspension is fine enough for the most situations you usually put the V Strom in, but i found it more energy consuming then necessary. With the new modfication, it is much easier to maneuver the bike through bumpy paved and unpaved roads and i dont have to take care so much because of a limited groundclearance. The suspensions reacts much faster and more precise then with the stock suspension. I am pretty sure i can do all the things with it like i did with my old kawasaki KLE. It will never be a Yamaha T7 but now i think it is a very good, comfortable and reliable machine which brings me safely anywere in the world which is connected with a road dispite its conditon. because of Covid 19 i dont know, when i can make the ultimate test. Sorry for my bad Engish and Greetings!
The link for the Suzuki footpegs just leads to the generic page for the Suzuki V-strom 650XT, there's nothing about the black footpegs on there? Can you give me a SPECIFIC link to where I can get the black Suzuki footpegs from...?
Il looking to get my self the Flexxbar setup on my Vstrom 1000XT. You got the 19 degree adventure ones but what height did yoou chose and do they hit the dash in full turn or they clear everything perfectly?
Nice to see the follow-up review. I think the sensible updates made are spot on and if spending extra money, I'd opt for additional rider training to get the most out of the (and any) machine.
Really interesting :) I've got a 650xt did a 600 mile day the other week to Scotland n back in Stock form + a screen n as a road bike it's brilliant road bike interesting to see what you changed thanks for sharing :)
Very interesting, nice that you didn't just throw money at it. To me the main limiting factor on the bike is suspension travel, I take mine on some pretty rough tracks and it's just a matter of taking your time.
Excellent review, I am sorry that the bike got stolen. I bought the same model in 2019, love her, and I am thinking of doing some short easy off-road paths, dry, no mud. I am not sure of what tyres to use, good for asphalt, not much noise on it and safe for off-road. I´ve looked on Continental TKC-70 rocks, but not sure yet. Any advice or recommendation? Thanks !!!
Nice bike. I have the 19xt and love it. Would you do a review on the 1050xt. Love to see how you feel about the larger engine etc. regards from Long Island NY
Thumbs up overall, but I don't entirely understand why your argument on suspension. There is quite a leap from no suspension mods to swapping forks or upgrading to ohlins or something. A fork spring set is about 100 USD, and considering the stock spring rate is appropriate for a 160 lb person, I think it would be worth while. I have an '18 XT and I have bottomed countless times on that large rock I didnt quite see. 🤘😁🤘
Well done! My 2 cents, and that's probably about how much it's worth... Progressive suspension is very cheap to add, 100 dollars or so. If I got a new V-Strom, it would be the first upgrade that I would do! It really changes the handling on and off road imho. You are a much more exp rider than me so maybe there are issues with mine that I'm not aware of. It's really the only thing different about my wife's bike and my bike and being able go back and forth between the two, my wife's feels like it only belongs on the road and mine feels like it's always searching for back road to take! Just sharing my exp. Awesome video! Love the channel! Keep up the awesome content!!!
Thanks for commenting! I did consider doing it. As you say, it's only a cheap mod. Glad to to hear it works! The main reason I didn't try it was because I thought it might make the rebound on the forks quicker a bit uncontrollable, but it might force it handle better by doing so. :)
Great Vid, Cosmo do a peg lowering kit and seat raising kit for the 650. In 6.2 and still found comfort an issue with these but they are well made products.
@@BrakeMagazine yeah I don't want to mess the ergos not even a bit but just change the handlebar the stock one looks very boxy and a slight bit forward so I want a bar with good shape just 1cm sweep towards me
400 quid on handlebars & 120 quid on a gear lever but won't spend money on suspension!? I changed the rear shock to a Wilbers & put correct springs for my weight in fork & it completely changed the bike on & off road. 50 quid pair of Pro Tapers sorted the bars out.
I wrecked my vstrom on a speed bump one block away from my house. now I am getting a tenere. before that it was kinda a okay bike but it got stuck too many times and just didn't fit my wrecking style.
Es una motocicleta muy hermosa, con las modificaciones realizadas mantiene un aspecto sobrio y funcional, cabe resaltar que está más hermosa, saludos desde Quito - Ecuador.
He "lowered the front" by letting the forks protrude 3mm extra through the clamp that holds them, they would typically be completely flush. This is a common "mod" on older V-stroms that had a slightly different rear shock, and it's also common to do this to retain the right balance for people that lower the rear end if they want to reach the ground easier.
@@tuanoful The rear can be lifted, but the front is tougher and without that it would be tipped forward, and probably to a much further extent than the 3mm lowering in the vid. You'd get the clearance but your handling would be overly sensitive unless you found a way to raise the front as well.
How involved was the cable routing for the new handlebars? I'm guessing with the +1" extensions and the wider swept bars you needed extensions of clutch, throttle and brake? Did you make custom cables or buy a kit?
Oh, and suspension: standard fork springs awful; progressive ones much improve front end but lift it, so dropped forks 2mm through yokes to restore light turning. Madstad screen from USA for perfect wind protection. Motobriiz wind powered chain oiler. Givi hard luggage. Sheepskins for my ass as no gel seats available. Perfect little solo tourer. Light pillions only!
The reach comments interest me. I'm 5'9" and have a '21 650XT and feel like I'm reaching out a bit, it makes u turns a challenge. Do you think up and back risers would help? Great video btw.
Out of curiosity, why did you pick v strom 650xt as your project bike? Why not versys 650 or tiger 800 etc? BTW, I really like your explanations on changes you've done on the bike.. Good review of the bike.. Sorry to hear about the first bike got stolen
Great video. Interesting the conclusion you came to with the suspension. Think that is the case on a lot of more budget oriented bikes. I like the look of those Flex handlebars. Do you think it would be worth fitting them to a GSA for off-road riding? If so which variant would you recommend?
I have Flexx bars on my DR650 Suzuki and am impressed with them due to the polymer inserts which absorbs shock & vibration well. They come with various density inserts so you can adjust the flex as required. However, having also owned a GS 1200 (liquid cooled), I found nothing wrong with the stock bars.😁
Great video, I was so stoked to see it pop up! I have a 2018 XT myself and have done some mods for more off-road riding. Great bike. Something I have been thinking about doing next is raising the front fender for more mud clearance. Llewellyn, did you think about doing this and would you? If not, any particular reason why not? Cheers mate!
Hey, Only because it never presented as a problem. We rode in sticky conditions a little, but most of wales is sloppy with a rocky base. Honestly, if I got the V-Strom near mud like that i'd be a bit worried about getting out alive 😂
The ‘Strom is for commuting, weekend touring, motorcycle camping, exploring roads less travelled etc.. If you want to tackle the gnarliest goat trails after riding a 100 miles of tarmac to get there, then get a DR650.
Thanks for the great vid !! Was waiting for this. Interesting fork and preload setup. I am struggling to get my setup correctly due to a lack of knowledge. What will be a good setup for 70kg rider. Currently rear preload is on the 2nd ring and forks on 3rd ring as per standerd manual setting. Forks also std in Clamping plate, not lowered. Enjoyed the vid👍
I have always been interested in this bike . I am doing a lot of very very bumpy back roads and 30% dirt roads sometimes washed out gravel .Not too technical stuff but harder on a true road bike.. I have a nice simple Triumph Street Scrambler and love the thing . It has put up with a lot of back country abuse .. .. How would you compare the V STROM 650 to the base 900 Tiger or GT as far as suspention and wieght . I know 250 cc different and mayve 30 HP . Since the V STOM is a road bias bike I would find the comparison to the Base or GT Tiger interesting over the $18K Rally ... Thanks for the great clip .. Yours Guy
I haven't ridden the new 900, but the older one was probably not dissimilar. The Triumph was quicker and has a bit more tech going on and from the depths of my memory, had pretty good suspension on the road.
@@BrakeMagazine If the Coved thing gets out of the way our New England Triumph dealers may get in a few 900 Tigers ..I will be interested to see if the base model has better chops on the back roads than what I have ..Also the T 700 Yamamha . All the best , G
it's basically to allow you to ride quicker without need to put the bike on the edge of the tyre. Riding on the edge of an adventure tyre is a recipe to crash on the road, so hanging off a touch help pull the bike around the corner and keep the bike more upright.
@@BrakeMagazine no need to remove all adds, you have to make a living 😉 Just don't put so many in one video. Like I said, very informative video. Keep making great content like this 👍
I am very amused when I hear that motorcyclists from England are coming to România or other Est-Europe country for a few days ride and they are afraid that their motorcycle will be stolen :))
Brake Magazine... The Suzuki retail for just under 300 dollars but I see the Motech are a more reasonable $170. And you preferred them. So all the better.
Moral of this story; "If it ain't broke, don't fix it!"
And don't buy inexpensive bike and try to make it expensive. Then buy expensive with those features instead
Love it. The rear brake sucks through!! Love the underappreciated throttle assist. It helps the bikes not shut down . I can be on 6 th gear @30kmph and the bike won't shut down. So , I don't need to change gears much. Cops don't notice it as well. Looks like a common bike in the crowd. At the price it is a steal deal
It got stolen? No wonder I couldn't find the next episode. We bought one bike each about a fortnight ago, and had the dealership install the crash bars, the Suzuki pegs, and heated grips. At home we added a radiator guard, and are buying a B&B sump guard to go on, moved the pegs to the lowest- and rear-mos position. Tyres...we'll wait until we get some use out of the stock ones before doing anything there. Barkbusters going on, and looking into the SW Motech gear lever. We went with some MotoDry soft luggage tank bags, side bags and a bag across the back. Thanks for the inspiration! From Australia.
I reckon the Shinko Adv tyre could be a great bet on this bike!
All sound like awesome choices. It'll be an awesome bike for Aussie dirt roads and exploring :)
Congrats on the purchase! If your not already on the austrom Facebook group you should jump on. Heaps of info available and very friendly people
Recommend the Michellin Anakee adventure tyre for your next re-shod mate. Great for the road and pretty good on hard packed roads. I have them on my big Vee.
Most of the time I disagree with your judgments and/or reviews but I keep on watching (and like) your videos if else because you really seem honest on your POV, which again I often do not share but I believe is intellectually sound. 👍🏻
I appreciate that!
I bought my 650xt in 2021 for use on/off road (gravel). I currently have on her 10 000kms all on tar, she is just too pretty to take on dirt roads. I thought about getting her offroad ready but the new 800 is out soon so I'll give that a test ride and if I prefer it, I may sell the 650 and buy it instead. I do love that v-twin though so it will be difficult to let it go.. what an incredible ride.
Wednesday August 12th, 2020 saw my second Wee (2012) hit 100 000 kilometers. Aside from two trips around North America it also went from the tundra of northern Canada to the jungles of Central America - a few farkles but zero performance modifications. The only issue Strom #2 had was a leaky fork seal. The last I heard, Strom #1 (2009) has well over 100 000 kilometers on it but, sadly, we’ve lost touch - after how it was treated in Mexico I think it ran away from home. My third ‘Strom (2015) only has 47 000 kilometers on it so it’s hardly broken in. I’ve been lucky to have had quite a few motorcycles over the last fifty years, and still own other bikes. But “for the buck” there’s little better than the trusty V-Strom 650.
That's outrageous reliability!
I own a 2019 650xt Vstrom & have changed the sump guard for an aluminium one, changed the footpegs, added barkbusters to replace the suzuki plastic ones and added a pair of bar risers. The info in this video is invaluable and I will certainly be looking into the accessories that you have fitted to your bike. Great video and very informative 👍.
🤙
Glad you liked it Gary!
It's a pity I can only give one "thumb up". I've actually lost all hope on ever getting to see Ep. 2 but here it is and it's been worth the wait. So much better than regular motorcycle reviews, so much more information and details. I'm currently on a lookout to buy a Vstrom 650 soon and I really appreciate your work guys!
Glad you like it! We'll have some more coming soon :D
@@BrakeMagazine Can't wait to see that! :) I have one question though, I noticed that you didn't change the windscreen in any way, not even added a deflector. I've only had one test ride on this motorcycle and I immediately noticed (apart form the seating position which you addressed) that I'd like to improve the wind protection for the longer 120-140kph travelling. Although I have to admit I didn't have time to fiddle with the different screen positions. Perhaps I'm a bit too sensitive on this topic but I hate the buffeting and wind noise, it kind of spoils the fun for me on longer trips. I read through lots of the forums and on the older version of this bike Givi AirFlow was recommended by most of the riders but on this newer model it Givi AF seems to have lots of issues and I was hoping that you could perhaps give some information about it. I'm 180cm tall by the way. Will be grateful for any advices! :)
Great review after owning my v-strom for 3 years l also feel this is a awesome bike with great engine ,exhaust note especially as I fitted an akrapovic exhaust ,extremely fuel efficient and it is was a bargain price compared to other in this segment. Buy one you will love it!!
Good shout on the exhaust. I think it's a bike only an owner can appreciate!
@@BrakeMagazine I hope you gain many more subscribers as your reviews and ability to describe what a bike does and how it feels is second to none,too many professional journalists stick to facts which anyone can read online or ex races who just wannabe race.keep up the fantastic review.regards from a 10year old italjet kid turned to teenager motocrosser then sportsbike rider now 48 year old adventure bike lover
@@BrakeMagazine hi there whats your real world fuel consumption on the strom
Excellent video! The VStrom 650 is a fantastic value machine, at 6’1” with 34” inseam I found it a bit cramped in stock configuration. A leftover 2017 or used Africa Twin is about the same price and more comfortable for tall riders.
You can also get a good high seat from seat concepts :)
Brake Magazine or the tall seat from Suzuki...
Very sorry that the 1st one was stolen. Loved this one too.
Hope you guys enjoyed a lot. I liked watching the video. 👍🏻
Glad you enjoyed!
stopped at second 5 just to insta like and say FINALLY because you delivered, even after so much time :) Now back to the episode ...
Thanks!
First off very happy that you picked up where you left off. I like many others we’re excited to see where you took the Strom and if it was worth the money cans effort. At the beginning of this I was left thinking your goal was to change this amazing inexpensive world tour bike into something it was never meant to be. A Tenere 700 is the bike you were wanting it to be. I was thrilled that as you pushed the little Vstrom you found your way back to what makes this bike amazing.... it’s a simple well sorted bike. After all of your mods it’s still just a great bike that fits you and your needs better than the box stock bike. But I would say with good rubber and some bark buster and real skid plate the little Strom will take you anywhere in the world and home safely. And yes I’m biased I have 3 Strom’s in 145k miles combined I have had the stator go bad on a DL1000. After a few valve checks I have just stopped checking they just don’t change. The newest one a 2019 650Xt I will check at 15k just because.
I ride a first generation V-Strom, and like you, I've learned to enjoy what it does well... while having patience with those area's where it's lacking. No doubt I could get a bike that would be smoother, better handling, and maybe even better looking.... if I were willing to spend two or three times more money. I love my wee-Strom !!!
I put 40,000 miles of rough miles of road and off-road riding on a 2012 V-Strom 650 and it was bullet proof.
Ours has been too. Not even a bolt loose.
40 000km, within 1 year of ownership, on my 2017 XT and similar riding scenarios. Not a single problem. That's why it is my 13th V Strom (11 of them 650cc).
Bar sweep... I hate swept bars but see your point with the Strom. I run a 1988 DR750 and travel on it. I found that a trials bend was all I could live with and this is with a huge homebrew riser. We all have such different needs when it comes to bikes and the riding we do. I love a spaced out riding position and I am only 5'11, My other bike is a CCM 644 which feels like a pitbike compared to the DR750.
Waited almost three years for the pt2 but great work!
Sorry about that. 😅
Suzuki haven't got serious enough about either the 650 or the1050, a 21inch front wheel, more ground clearance, stiffer fork springs, preload adjusters on forks, a switch to a in sump oil filter, a bashplate, serrated footpegs, correct handlebars, all things achieve able at minimal cost by the factory, the engines and frames paid for themselves years ago.
And how many V Strom owners need 21" front wheel?
And for goodness sake’s, find a way to route the vulnerable exhaust header from directly underneath the engine. It kills the ground clearance, which is already questionable.
Thats my dream bike. Hopefully i can get one someday.
You will get one.. 🙏..and Adventureized it
@@zzxx33mh thanks bro!
@@bryan-rt9gm follow your dream, you may get better than you dream off.. Just have good tention.. Lord is Great..
#soloride_zx
After 35years of biking my v-strom is the best bike I've ever owned. Get one you won't regret it.
@@davidsmith7201 I've always owned big powerful bikes. And I've heard so many people say the same thing as you about their V strom 650's. The size of them would suit me as I'm 5,9 in height. I'm just wondering if I would miss the power and quality suspension you get in higher end bikes.
Well done indeed. Waiting for this; it confirms my feelings about my XT. Replaced the footpegs and sump guard immediately. Was thinking about suspension, so this is a timely video! Many thanks.
There are some great budget suspension suggestions around if you do wanna do something
@@BrakeMagazine Thanks so much. Where can I find out about them? Regards
@@violjohnwhat did u find out
You really gave me some insight on some important issues. Bought a 2020 650 adventure and was looking at the long list of bank account draining goodies I could have bought. I had it all wrong for sure since my first goal was to fix the suspension. Thanks for the words of wisdom
There seems to also be some great budget solutions in the comments!
I have the M1 model regular because I use every day almost in the twisting roads of north west of Spain, 🇪🇦 Mediterranean sea.
I owned Sports bikes near 200hp and never have in mind the trail bikes, but some time ago drove the second generation model and Surprised me how well the bike goes in any situation.
The engine all we know it's a jewel.
Then after recently tried some 400cc scooters and see what the 💩 eco regulations are made to the punch of this engines, I saw this V-strom in the dealer with cases and was a great option for a daily ride.
The engine works great en every situation (don't think you will go faster that a R1 😛) but It's an engine that you can control entirely, it's not over your abilities if you have some experience in the motorcycle world
Good video and concussions 👍🏼
None of these handlebar links work, and if they do I can’t see any specs in the link to know what it is I’m ordering. Any chance you can provide relevant specs? To wit, Sweep: 19°
Width: ???
Height: ???
I’d prefer not to have to add longer cables, or even get creative with the routing, and you’ve already got it solved.
I realize I’m late to the party here, but any help would be much appreciated.
Finally! I lost hope pt 2 will ever come out and than this happens😊 First, you did an awesome job! It seems that you did nit rush this and invested a lot of effort into finding the best (budget) adventure recipe for this (budget) bike. As a V-Strom 650 xt owner, i agree and have made similar mods and setup. Only thing I would add to the list is changing the brake pads because oem ones are really dead. EBC double H sintered brake pads work great imo. Thank you for coming through with this project bike. What is the next one? Certain Yamaha? 😏
We are doing a dual sport one first and then you may just be right 😏
Great review, did you see project weestrom 7.5 on Stormtrooper.. 7.5 inches front and rear suspension travel and some more ground clearance.. want to do that one, when taking my Weestrom to Mongolia.. But after listening to you..mm.. on My strom I raised the rear..with dogbones 3/4 inch.. makes it even more agile..fantastic in the twisties..
Do you have a link to the project weestrom 7.5 mentioned above?
Excellent review, as always. Thanks, Llel. At 67 years oId and having sold my BMW R100 GSPD last week (too heavy finally) I find this little V-Strom perfect for all the reasons you say at the end; and, like most ordinary riders, I ride on the road most of the time; but this bike's ability to handle light gravel trails makes it perfect for adventure touring. Couple of things I like on mine: PivotPegz footrests (I know you don't, but I love them; boots never slip on them); Avon Trailrider tyres - fabulous on road and in the wet -- developed in the UK for wet, greasy roads, work everywhere and ok for the 5% of my riding that I do on light trails. Thanks again.
The Flexx Bars link in the description is dead. Thanks for the informative video
Cheers. I'll get that fixed.
@@BrakeMagazine Link in description still not working. I found the bars here...fasstco.com/products/flexx-handlebar-landing-page
Hay, brilliant. Got another one.
Great vid lads (and ladets)
Glad you enjoyed it
If you still have this bike and plan to do more with it. Add a front fork brace. It's a popular mod. Plenty about it on the v-strom forums.
Good job guys. I have a 2014 Vee 1000, fully kitted out, and I have just got a 2015 Vstrom DL650. Now I'll probably piss the wife off by kitting this one out! It's a boy thing. Right?? Great bike in every way that it's big brother is, except a fair bit lighter. I have the footpeg lowering kit on the way, and I will be having extra memory foam put into the seat as I'm 6'2 with long legs. Thanks again guys.Greetings and salutations from Oz +subbed.
Coming from first Gen 1K,You are completely true when saying that only its rider will appreciate it..
The Vstrom is no doubt is neglected one,.. But It's best budget Tourer dual adventure motorcycle..
Excellent video. I appreciate the balanced comments about the bike and your own experiences with various parts and modifications. I have a 2017 and I think you've summarized the bike's abilities and limits very fairly and accurately. Subscribed.
I hope this series dont get postponed.
Hi, anything about the ground clearance and shocks, if you wanna go off road or gravel, shouldn't change the ground clearance on this bike? I own a 2010 dl650 al0 really like to see how to improve that part?
Kinda. The ground clearance is low, but it depends on what you're doing. You could easily spend £10k on this bike to make it way better off-road, but then you might as well buy a T7 and keep the change.
It's fine as is for gravel riding. :)
RE panniers, I use Enduristan ands happy with them. Ye they are fiddle but given most adventure bikes now journey between hotels people could really just strap a suitcase on it.
i put some money in my hands and modified the suspension by hessler. So i have longer front and back suspension and i have more groundclearance. I also have chosen the andy straps soft bag solution. So far i am happy with both. For me they were worth the money and should fit the bike for the next big journeys. I thing the v strom 650 is worth its money. I just did the modifications for my long term trips. Love the bike so far. thx for your video!
We looked at doing this. It's an interesting direction! How do you find the bike now?
@@BrakeMagazine As you mentioned in your Video, the orginal suspension is fine enough for the most situations you usually put the V Strom in, but i found it more energy consuming then necessary. With the new modfication, it is much easier to maneuver the bike through bumpy paved and unpaved roads and i dont have to take care so much because of a limited groundclearance. The suspensions reacts much faster and more precise then with the stock suspension. I am pretty sure i can do all the things with it like i did with my old kawasaki KLE. It will never be a Yamaha T7 but now i think it is a very good, comfortable and reliable machine which brings me safely anywere in the world which is connected with a road dispite its conditon. because of Covid 19 i dont know, when i can make the ultimate test. Sorry for my bad Engish and Greetings!
The link for the Suzuki footpegs just leads to the generic page for the Suzuki V-strom 650XT, there's nothing about the black footpegs on there? Can you give me a SPECIFIC link to where I can get the black Suzuki footpegs from...?
I have a 2022 v-strom and would like the same FLEXX HANDLEBAR ADVENTURE on my
Can you tell me if the height is 68mm, 92mm or 116mm
Il looking to get my self the Flexxbar setup on my Vstrom 1000XT. You got the 19 degree adventure ones but what height did yoou chose and do they hit the dash in full turn or they clear everything perfectly?
Nice to see the follow-up review. I think the sensible updates made are spot on and if spending extra money, I'd opt for additional rider training to get the most out of the (and any) machine.
I totally agree!
hi great video, is it possible do 180 degree U Turn , you know the rear tire slide type .
We did one already :)
@@BrakeMagazine carefully watch again , at 14:18 right :)?
Really interesting :) I've got a 650xt did a 600 mile day the other week to Scotland n back in Stock form + a screen n as a road bike it's brilliant road bike interesting to see what you changed thanks for sharing :)
Very interesting, nice that you didn't just throw money at it.
To me the main limiting factor on the bike is suspension travel, I take mine on some pretty rough tracks and it's just a matter of taking your time.
Exactly. Travel is so important and the strom doesn't have any 🤣
www.dr-big-shop.de/DL650_Fahrwerk_6005.html
Exelente video , sera de mucha ayuda , he comprado mi Vstrom y pronto la tendré , te envió un gran saludo desde Colombia Gracias !!!!!!!!!..🤗🤗🤗
Excellent review, I am sorry that the bike got stolen. I bought the same model in 2019, love her, and I am thinking of doing some short easy off-road paths, dry, no mud. I am not sure of what tyres to use, good for asphalt, not much noise on it and safe for off-road. I´ve looked on Continental TKC-70 rocks, but not sure yet. Any advice or recommendation? Thanks !!!
Nice video; great project. I suggest to V-Strom 650 XT owners : SW-Motech Ion off-road footpegs kit.
Great suggestion!
Nice bike. I have the 19xt and love it. Would you do a review on the 1050xt. Love to see how you feel about the larger engine etc. regards from Long Island NY
Already filmed. Coming in the nexg month!
Thumbs up overall, but I don't entirely understand why your argument on suspension. There is quite a leap from no suspension mods to swapping forks or upgrading to ohlins or something. A fork spring set is about 100 USD, and considering the stock spring rate is appropriate for a 160 lb person, I think it would be worth while. I have an '18 XT and I have bottomed countless times on that large rock I didnt quite see. 🤘😁🤘
Well done. Cost effective. Good looking and functional road/off-road AB. Good luck!
Thanks
Solid iron horse...
Excellent blogger👍👍
Thanks 👍
Well done! My 2 cents, and that's probably about how much it's worth... Progressive suspension is very cheap to add, 100 dollars or so. If I got a new V-Strom, it would be the first upgrade that I would do! It really changes the handling on and off road imho. You are a much more exp rider than me so maybe there are issues with mine that I'm not aware of. It's really the only thing different about my wife's bike and my bike and being able go back and forth between the two, my wife's feels like it only belongs on the road and mine feels like it's always searching for back road to take! Just sharing my exp. Awesome video! Love the channel! Keep up the awesome content!!!
Thanks for commenting! I did consider doing it. As you say, it's only a cheap mod. Glad to to hear it works!
The main reason I didn't try it was because I thought it might make the rebound on the forks quicker a bit uncontrollable, but it might force it handle better by doing so. :)
I do love your honesty with this stuff. 👍
Great Vid, Cosmo do a peg lowering kit and seat raising kit for the 650. In 6.2 and still found comfort an issue with these but they are well made products.
Great shout! I've never heard of them!
Brake Magazine they are a Greek company I have the GPS mount which your more then welcome to for the project bike if you want it.
so what if i want more sport than offroad ? ...i mean will the flex bar work or a normal pro taper or any big bar work ?
Any bar will work. It needs to be quite high and have some sweep to keep the egos okay.
@@BrakeMagazine yeah I don't want to mess the ergos not even a bit but just change the handlebar the stock one looks very boxy and a slight bit forward so I want a bar with good shape just 1cm sweep towards me
400 quid on handlebars & 120 quid on a gear lever but won't spend money on suspension!? I changed the rear shock to a Wilbers & put correct springs for my weight in fork & it completely changed the bike on & off road. 50 quid pair of Pro Tapers sorted the bars out.
We can't get the right Pro Tapers here. I totally agree you don't need the Flexx bars. They were an experiment to see how they worked :)
Amazingly insightful and honest review. Kudos.
Thanks!
Great video, only now do I realise the effort of making these videos after starting to do my own channel. Well done. Enjoy, stay safe!
I wrecked my vstrom on a speed bump one block away from my house. now I am getting a tenere. before that it was kinda a okay bike but it got stuck too many times and just didn't fit my wrecking style.
Wrecking style is right.. way to go man how you wreck a bike on a speed bump?
Great job. Love the detail
i love my vstrom 650xt i have the fourth one now. best bike ever😎
A good video and a well thought out bike thanks for taking the time.
Es una motocicleta muy hermosa, con las modificaciones realizadas mantiene un aspecto sobrio y funcional, cabe resaltar que está más hermosa, saludos desde Quito - Ecuador.
Wht did you do to the front forks? im an ignorant mechanic, but interested in improving suspension
He "lowered the front" by letting the forks protrude 3mm extra through the clamp that holds them, they would typically be completely flush. This is a common "mod" on older V-stroms that had a slightly different rear shock, and it's also common to do this to retain the right balance for people that lower the rear end if they want to reach the ground easier.
@@alcesspectre got it, thanks. I want the oposite. I want higher ground clearance.
@@tuanoful The rear can be lifted, but the front is tougher and without that it would be tipped forward, and probably to a much further extent than the 3mm lowering in the vid. You'd get the clearance but your handling would be overly sensitive unless you found a way to raise the front as well.
@@alcesspectre Yeah, I've read that much. I'm going to keep it as is and maybe next bike will be higher.
As Dean said. perfect explanation.
Very good. I own one and made the same mods. Great bike
Anyone knows a good aftermarket exhaust for DL650 with centre stand fitted?
Great work lads 👍🏻 would of liked a nice walk around though 😬
Glad you liked! Good idea.
Whoa these suzuki footpegs are amazing! Where can I buy them? On the official site there's no trace ):
I'll update the link
Great video! Thanks for that. Too bad the original bike got stolen.
What problem did changing the gear lever solve by the one of SW Motech?
Mostly just that the original was cast and therefore liable to break if caught on ruts. Folding tips a preferred for that reason.
You could have sharpened the footpegs spikes?
That's kinda not the only problem. The little rubber also doesn't compress well either.
How involved was the cable routing for the new handlebars? I'm guessing with the +1" extensions and the wider swept bars you needed extensions of clutch, throttle and brake? Did you make custom cables or buy a kit?
Nope, no changes required 🙂
Oh, and suspension: standard fork springs awful; progressive ones much improve front end but lift it, so dropped forks 2mm through yokes to restore light turning. Madstad screen from USA for perfect wind protection. Motobriiz wind powered chain oiler. Givi hard luggage. Sheepskins for my ass as no gel seats available. Perfect little solo tourer. Light pillions only!
The reach comments interest me. I'm 5'9" and have a '21 650XT and feel like I'm reaching out a bit, it makes u turns a challenge. Do you think up and back risers would help? Great video btw.
They would make it more comfy, but handle worse.
@@BrakeMagazine Ah ok, thanks for the reply.
Out of curiosity, why did you pick v strom 650xt as your project bike? Why not versys 650 or tiger 800 etc? BTW, I really like your explanations on changes you've done on the bike.. Good review of the bike.. Sorry to hear about the first bike got stolen
Suzuki Foot Pegs link does not work
Ok. Now the next bike: modifying the Guzzi V85. 😎
Mmm. I'd love to!
Great video. Interesting the conclusion you came to with the suspension. Think that is the case on a lot of more budget oriented bikes.
I like the look of those Flex handlebars. Do you think it would be worth fitting them to a GSA for off-road riding? If so which variant would you recommend?
I have Flexx bars on my DR650 Suzuki and am impressed with them due to the polymer inserts which absorbs shock & vibration well. They come with various density inserts so you can adjust the flex as required. However, having also owned a GS 1200 (liquid cooled), I found nothing wrong with the stock bars.😁
Great video, I was so stoked to see it pop up! I have a 2018 XT myself and have done some mods for more off-road riding. Great bike. Something I have been thinking about doing next is raising the front fender for more mud clearance. Llewellyn, did you think about doing this and would you? If not, any particular reason why not? Cheers mate!
Hey,
Only because it never presented as a problem. We rode in sticky conditions a little, but most of wales is sloppy with a rocky base. Honestly, if I got the V-Strom near mud like that i'd be a bit worried about getting out alive 😂
Hi ! What are the handguards ??
The ‘Strom is for commuting, weekend touring, motorcycle camping, exploring roads less travelled etc.. If you want to tackle the gnarliest goat trails after riding a 100 miles of tarmac to get there, then get a DR650.
Thanks for the great vid !! Was waiting for this. Interesting fork and preload setup. I am struggling to get my setup correctly due to a lack of knowledge. What will be a good setup for 70kg rider. Currently rear preload is on the 2nd ring and forks on 3rd ring as per standerd manual setting. Forks also std in Clamping plate, not lowered. Enjoyed the vid👍
Would those pegs fit on a 2018 Honda ATAS?
The Motech ones I believe can
A GREAT informative video!!!! Thanks!!!
I have always been interested in this bike . I am doing a lot of very very bumpy back roads and 30% dirt roads sometimes washed out gravel .Not too technical stuff but harder on a true road bike.. I have a nice simple Triumph Street Scrambler and love the thing . It has put up with a lot of back country abuse .. .. How would you compare the V STROM 650 to the base 900 Tiger or GT as far as suspention and wieght . I know 250 cc different and mayve 30 HP . Since the V STOM is a road bias bike I would find the comparison to the Base or GT Tiger interesting over the $18K Rally ... Thanks for the great clip .. Yours Guy
I haven't ridden the new 900, but the older one was probably not dissimilar. The Triumph was quicker and has a bit more tech going on and from the depths of my memory, had pretty good suspension on the road.
@@BrakeMagazine If the Coved thing gets out of the way our New England Triumph dealers may get in a few 900 Tigers ..I will be interested to see if the base model has better chops on the back roads than what I have ..Also the T 700 Yamamha . All the best , G
what bar risers did you eventually use?
www.dirtbikexpress.co.uk/bike_parts/handlebars,_mounts__and__grips/bar_mounts__and__accessories/zeta_universal_ux3_bar_clamps?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIm4Hnrtaw6wIVDeztCh15aAlKEAQYAiABEgKaHvD_BwE
@@BrakeMagazine thank you!!!
Que marca de defensas laterales me recomiendas ? Tengo una V strom XT 650
SW Motech, Outback Motortek, o Mastech.
Good vid.
So, cut to the chase, in 2020, just buy a T7.
Nope)
still got to spend a lot of money on suspension to make it a dirt bike
Show the bars A vs B
Stolen eh UK sounds about as lovely as Baltimore Maryland and Chicago
It's probably not.
I notice the rider leaning his body into most corners. Is this really necessary? Seems a bit odd.
it's basically to allow you to ride quicker without need to put the bike on the edge of the tyre. Riding on the edge of an adventure tyre is a recipe to crash on the road, so hanging off a touch help pull the bike around the corner and keep the bike more upright.
@@BrakeMagazine great reply. Makes good sense.
フットペグ良いねぇ
Far too many ads. Other than that, very informative video.
Sorry about that! We just put monetisation on. I'll look at taking them out.
@@BrakeMagazine no need to remove all adds, you have to make a living 😉 Just don't put so many in one video. Like I said, very informative video. Keep making great content like this 👍
I only Got 2 ads in Denmark
@@janhjorth965 5 ad breaks with 2 ads per break for me in Canada
Yeah, I noticed that too. Too many interruptions. Anyway I liked the video contents.
Dude was the key fob on the stolen bike the tassels from the Chinese team? What a loss lol, I should send you mine for the new bike
It was, but the keys were not stolen so I still have it. It's good luck charm on backpack 😁
I am very amused when I hear that motorcyclists from England are coming to România or other Est-Europe country for a few days ride and they are afraid that their motorcycle will be stolen :))
Amused because it's not true, or amused because you are soon driving a new bike? ;)
@@timogronroos4642
Because îs not true
Need more bike than watching you talk about it !
How dare you keep the V-Strom reasonable! Take this budget bike and spend $20k making it mildly better!
😂
btw, 4 ads in this video, wth
Sorry. I'll take a look at it. We don't get much in the way of ad revenue so I set it to run mid adverts to help.
YT changed their frequency recently and I've seen more of them on a number of channels. Frustrating, but definitely not Brake Magazine's doing.
I love those foot pegs, but 300 dollars is stupid ridiculous!
The Suzuki or Motech ones?
Brake Magazine... The Suzuki retail for just under 300 dollars but I see the Motech are a more reasonable $170. And you preferred them. So all the better.
luggage? put all your stuff in a bag and strap it on the buddyseat. done
Bags that have to stay on the bike are useless for traveling, you need your stuff in the hotel room and in tents.
It’s pretty easy to fit inner bags or quickly remove these.
What a load of faff, just ride it, there’s nothing wrong with the original. Love mine as it is.