I have 35 years of experience with different motorcycles and I rode the Suzuki for 3 months, including many kilometers of heavy off-road. I was very positively surprised by this engine. Off-road I think it's better than my KTM. He also does very well on the road. I think my next bike will be this Suzuki.
Nathan, two videos in one day? You’re working too hard for us! The reason I think your videos are so good (and popular) is that you’re not afraid to ask the questions other reviewers don’t dare ask, or that they are incapable of formulating. Obviously FAR too big a bike for me, but I’m interested in seeing you on the lanes on this beast. Thanks for being Nathan!! Les
I think the Japanese are still of the opinion there is brand loyalty - we build it you buy it... I can't think of a worse buy than a heavy bike with tubes and no centre stand - even more so if it is biased to road touring. You'd have to be loyal to buy - another refreshing introspective on this type of bike. Thankyou you are a breath of fresh air in a fugg of TH-camrs who are scared of telling it how it is or asking the pertinent questions for fear of not getting another press bike. We arn't daft we can see the bias in their reporting and 'findings'. Keep ploughing that furrow of honest review in the lanes and off the bikes.
since I already have a WR450, I wanted a second 2-cylinder motorcycle, but with good off-road (I ride TET) and the ability to travel several hundred kilometers on asphalt. After test drives, I chose 800de. I drive it very well off-road, it's surprisingly agile and the suspension is fantastic. I considered buying a central stand, but decided against it so that it wouldn't bother me when off-roading. Tubeless wheels, in off-road (Balkans) if you bend the rim, can end your trip. Tubes, no problem. I've always had a KTM, a Honda, a Yamaha and this time I chose a Suzuki.
Have you ridden the 800DE? I'll bet not. You didn't say what your ride is or the type of riding you do. This is my first new Suzuki. Not a loyalty buy. I have an Africa Twin AS. The DE just might be a better compromise for an ADV bike. And that is what ADV bikes are, a compromise. It feels lighter off-road than the AT, and it is, but the AT's reputation of a great bike??
Really? Keep riding your mz250 then 😂.... Or, go to your local dealership and at least try experiencing a new bike before posting badly formed opinions on them.
Since I have a WR450, I wanted to buy a T7 as an ADV. I actually ride offroad, also adv (TET), so the motorcycle's capabilities were important to me. After testing the T7, I was devastated, it has such a high center of gravity that I found it difficult to drive off-road. Africa Twin is the same, a heavy, boring block. I tested the KTM Adventure 890 S (the R version is too expensive and not comfortable on the road). Yes, the center of gravity was low, but the WP apex suspension with a travel of 200 mm in off-road conditions worked really badly (2023, so with full adjustment, it did not help).... And I did a test ride of 800de (at first I ruled it out because it was heavy in spec). I was surprised at how it drives off-road, how well the suspension works, but above all, how light and agile it feels (much better than the T7!!!). Suspension travel is 220, the same at the rear and only 1 cm less at the front than DesertX. The medium ground clearance means that the center of gravity is not so high and it handles very well on more difficult terrain and at lower speeds. Additionally, unlike the 890R (very good in off-road but uncomfortable on the road), the 800de combines good and easy off-road driving with a very comfortable seat and comfortable travel on the road (a larger windshield was purchased...yes). In my opinion, this is the perfect motorcycle with which you can ride 1500 km, for example to the Balkans, and do TET there. Its more reliable than the KTM, more comfortable for longer journeys than the T7 and much cheaper than the wonderful DesertX
@@PetterIvarsson Why surprised? Just look at it. It's obvious even on pictures, that it is continuation of XT660Z which was just continuation of 90's bikes era which were top heavy.
I went from a T7 to a 800DE last year. The T7 always felt a bit tall and tippy to me, even if it got me places I thought my skills weren't equal too. The 800 is so much more planted and stable feeling, and has a vastly better throttle setup then the T7 or the modern RBW Hondas I've tried. Plus it has a fully adjustable and rebuildable suspension that's better set up out of the box then the T7s for the average UK/US rider. Should it be 20lbs lighter and have cruise? Maybe!
Just watched your Triumph 400 review(s) before watching this, and first impression was how HUGE this VStrom looked with you stood next to it. Backs up your theory of more fun on lighter bikes, and definitely mine now I'm getting older and anticipating being more feeble.
As a VStrom 650 owner with the experience of around 20,000 road / touring miles under my belt, I actually think the DE is aimed at the wrong country. I would have thought it was ideal for the gravel roads of America, Australia and Scandinavia... not the naggery little mud and rock lanes found in England and Wales. That said, one of the VStrom forum members, who is very experienced offroad has tried one and loves it. I'll be interested to see what you think of it Nathan. I am also not convinced about the RE. I went to Motorcycle Live to see it and although it's very.... Suzuki, I just don't think it has enough of anything to pull me away from my 650, which for me, is just about a perfect touring bike, and I have done long days on mine, including an unplanned 700 mile day!
Fabulous motor. Much better than Transalp as much more grunt where you need it . But you’re right about it being a misfit. The cheaper RE is better for the road but still needs cruise .
Saw this at motorcycle live and shes a big un. I found it very intimidating and bikes are getting ridiculously heavy now. The transalp so felt so much friendlier and gave a feeeling that you would get along just fine. The ironic thing is most people won't even go off road with alot of these bikes.. So a bike this style, 30kg lighher,shorter travel and much lower seat height would be a better propect but thats just my opinion..
I bought an 800de after years of GS's ,800 tiger 1200 explorer's, 900 tiger ,and I love it. I'm not saying that just because I own one ,if I'd made a mistake in my purchase and found the bike wanting for the type of use I put it to I'd certainly let you know. Fair enough ,I'm not in the first flush of youth and I've been motorcycling for half a century and be most unlikely push the bike to its limits now it is a really nice all rounder. Oh, I did ride the transalp back to back with the 800de, the Honda was just a bit too Honda for me........
I test rode the Transalp and the 800DE back to back, expecting to love the Transalp. I have a V-Strom 650 XT and loved the smoothness of the V-twin but having greenlaned it a bit, felt I needed something with better suspension. To my surprise the V-Strom felt no heavier when riding it and the engine is a peach. Especially if you like low end torque. The Transalp engine is excellent but more suited to road riders who like to ride at the top of the rev range IMHO. Both were great bikes but the Strom was smoother, much better suspension and just felt more premium to me. I rode both round town... along dual carriage way and along some dirt track. Those were my impressions. I am seriously considering buying one. Looking forward to your thoughts on it.
We do roughly 12-14000 miles a year, all year round, mostly B roads, lanes and off road covering North and Mid Wales where we live, in fact we have just got in from a 120 mile run over the Berwyn mountain range and we only ever see bikes like that parked outside roadside cafes, spotlessly clean with loads of touring gear fitted. The only time they go off road is when they turn into their drive.
Fancy shoes. I probably would have gone with this bike with a more limited budget. I bought a 1290 R instead. Agree about the cruise and wheels. For me, it's more reliable than the 890 platform and probably better range than a transalp.
Hi Nathan. A couple of points... These have been selling really well since they came in last summer and have received stunning reviews. I own a few different bikes and bought one new in July 23 and have to say that as an all rounder it's a fantastic ride - so I hope you enjoy its superb engine and ride/suspension. And no, I won't be using it for Green Laning either, I have a husaberg and a crm for that, but I do use it as my go to fave bike. It's just an absolute blast to ride. Try it. Hope you like it! Nick.
Hi Nathan, looking forward to see what you think after a few rides. I’ve ridden one a few times and I think it’s a fantastic bike but that’s just my opinion. Not sure I’m ready to change from my dreary Vstrom 650, I just love it too much :-) Cheers
This bike looks like it was designed for the dirt/gravel forest roads of the western U.S. I think it looks great and look forward to your future content.
I had a go of one at a Suzuki demo day in the summer, really great to ride on the road but didn't get to take it off-road. I think what you've said about the poor sales might be true as there are some deep discounts on brand new bikes already. I'd have the RE version with tubeless tyres if they're available for a good price in a year or two - I don't need the best bike, just the best I can afford!
I've owned a Mk3 V-Strom 650XT since 2017 and I love it, does everything I need. When Suzuki released the 800 it sparked my interest in an upgrade, but as soon as I read it had tubes my interest disappeared.
Just bought one new at £2k off list, had the Tenere in my sights but the extra bits on the v-strom plus the 7 year warranty tipped me to the Suzuki. Will definitely add a centre stand in time to give me a fighting chance if punctures strike.
As usual I think you hit the nail on the head again! Especially since it’s got a 19” sibling that already has 2 cm more ground clearance than the V-Strom 650… I believe they did mis their mark here. 18” rear and tubeless spoked wheels would have pushed them into their own unique niche. Electronic cruise control alone would have also.
Suzuki will probably reduce the price & offer some deals on these to shift them . If they don’t I reckon they will do what they did with the V Strom 250 DE ,stop bringing them into the U.K. & sell the remaining stock pre registered off cheap . Could end up a bargain for some riders .
It’s 230Kg with a 855mm seat. It was pretty top heavy when I tried one as well. Nice engine but not a V Strom! Too tall, heavy, missing features as you mentioned, tubed spoke rims and no centre stand. Nit a fan of the styling and looks huge when you stand next to it - a 1290SA looks smaller. Much better options out there for either off-roaders or tourers as you say. And the screen adjustment? 😂
TBF nothing has cruise at this price. Transalpine doesn’t have remote preload and is physically small. I’m 6’3’’ don’t go off road and am considering this bike as a comfy big road bike that will be 100% reliable. I also think its worth mentioning that the UK is a TINY motorcycle market and just because something doesn’t sell well here then it doesn’t necessarily mean its a failure for the company as it may sell well in significant markets overseas. The UK is a bit of a snob fest and if it ain’t premium we often don’t buy it - that’s why everyone has a GS to go to the local pub on!
Good points but to be honest I can only go on the perspective I have here in the UK. If other markets view things differently then that's to be expected, tho to be fair up in the Alps I don't expect you'll see many European riders on anything other than bmws. On the Stella alpina it was ktm790s and tenere 700. Which group are buying the VStrom? Neither would be my observation. But maybe they should be? My guzzi v85tt had cruise, as does the 890. Charge more for it if they have to. I think the customer would pay
I have a Vstrom 1050xt which is a great touring & everyday bike & I like the look of the 800 , I'd certainly buy it instead of the transalp. You did a BMW gs310 v Himalayan video many years ago, a few days camping & green laning & thats the kind of trips I imagine people who buy these types of bikes would consider taking them on. People who want a fully usable modern bike & like the idea of a little offroading but can't afford a road bike & separate off road bike.
Almost 3500 miles on my 800de with 25 years riding experience and I couldn't be happier. I bought it because I want a bike that will take care of me on and off road. It's so stable and planted that I've been complimented in my riding group off road, said I did the best out of all of them and had the worst tires (still stockers at the time). I am in the US and live in a rural area with miles and miles of wide open gravel roads to ride. This is the one bike you could ride out of your driveway to your local BRD and back and be comfortable ALL the time. Most other bikes give up too much in one area or the other, but not the 800de.
Brilliant observation, I have a vstrom 10🎉00 and would love to drop to a more middle weight bike if I bother to change at all, looked at the 800 and worked out its an expensive bike which does not tick boxes for me, it should be cheaper to produce than a v twin so why is it so expensive compared to a vstrom 650?
Great bike...I have test ritten one! Winner of the German Alpenmaster by Motorrad journal! But I had the same thoughts as Nathan. Too heavy for offroad, not well enough equiped for touring onroad. So I decided to stay with my old F800GS. But nevertheless great engine, real good suspension, great bike.... BR from Berlin!
You are absolutely right. I have a v85tt, and because i wanted a capable road tourer with cruise control, thats comfortable, and can easily take a speedhump or occasional dirt road. The transalp and this vstrom just dont fit in there
Really interested in this one, an I agree it's not a midweight bike. I absolutely adored my 650xt for what I used it for travel adventure with no geen laning. I'd say I'm a confirmed V Strom fan, had the 1000xt and the Vstrom 650xt 2020 loved really loved the 650xt 600 mile days when no issue. Everything was good like the conventional forks for servicing really good fun vtwin engine punchy sensible seat height etc. Wind protection wasn't the best. I thought about the new 800DE as its £400 quid a year cheaper on the insurance with the usual companies I use than the Transalp. Dads quite taken with the transalp. This year the insurance is gonna be the deciding factor on a few bikes mid 30s, max no claims, clean licence, licence for 14 years or so n good area but near a city n everything is now a fortune. 310gs £600 2021 £4,500 bemoto n bennetts 310gs £729 bennetts new 300 Rally £550 Bennetts (less than I paid on mine) £900 bemoto! Cb500x is the same price as the Rally. Vstrom 800DE is £825 Bennetts £925 Suzuki insurance Transalp new is £1231 Bennetts ouch! Everything has doubled from last year. What is interesting is some of the 1200s are reasonable an less than the 310 on the insurance. More than I was paying for a fireblade new at 22 lol. It's a shame both the transalp an the 800's are tubed I think that was a miss with the 800. For me I'd wished they had updated the 650xt they added all the complexity then didn't add the one thing I fancied on the 650xt when I did my why vstrom ownership review the cruise control which was the only thing I wanted but that brings the added element of tech 🙃 an it's a real miss as you say Nathan taking away the centre stand. I've had 7 Suzukis GSXRs a 1980s gsx750et an the two Vstroms. Itl be interesting to see if they have improved the wheel finish as I know alot had issues with the 650xt spokes. It looks like dad is really leaning towards the Honda Transalp after seeing it an sitting on it the other day + watching the brake mag review. I was suprised at how light it felt to shove around / lean over that seems to be the big difference in most of the reviews I'd read felt featherweight compared to my 1150 lifting it of the stand. I'm happy with the 1150 but fancy something to sit alongside it to go to work on so probs a 310gs or nx500. I'd love to see Suzuki update the DR/DRZ line. As the Suzuki is getting up there price wise which is the problem used to be affordable reliable bikes. This insurance issue is gonna ruin motorcycling in the Uk though as even on my tiny instagram alot of people my age were messaging with similar quotes.
Suspect the RE version will sell better. Pure tourer is a better fit for the Strom. And it's cheaper too. Agree the lack of cruise is mad but then the Transalp lacks it too.
Im a transalp 750 owner and I feel the same about my bike, who is it for? honda also made strange design choices. They go for spoked tubed 21 inch front wheel which screams hardcore offroad, but no skid plate, and a huge lump of your engine sticking out at the bottom. No cruise control, no center stand no real touring options. So its this strange mix of offroad/road. I like my bike but its trying to be two things at once.
I’m definitely interested in this bike. To be clear I’ve not ridden one yet but this is my reasoning. I would buy the T7 but it’s too tall for me and the fact that it is top heavy makes it too much for me off road. The Transalp also interested me but it’s not set up for too much off road, just look at the sump to start with! So the Suzuki, it’s probably not as good on the road as the Honda but probably better than the Yamaha, the Suzuki is probably not as good off road as the Yamaha but better than the Honda so it’s kind of in the middle ground…. I’m happy with the tubes as I can fix a puncture but not a cracked or bent rim, not too bothered about rider aids either, I suppose the only problem I have is the fact it’s about 20kgs heavier then the other two. Very keen to see how you find this bike off road Nathan, may not be great in the mud but up here in North Wales it’s mostly gravel and rocks 😁
My first bike was a 2011 f650gs twin, even tried it for 'big bike friendly' trail, probably wasnt a great idea but it was fun & found the front wheel, same dimensions as the 310gs, an issue. I went to the pyrenees on it, nc500 etc... if I was still in the market for that type of bike this, with apparently a cracking engine giving a bit more performance, should be on the list... but....the f650 had tubeless alloys & a centre stand...i dont care about rider aids... Maybe our UK conditions are a bit too much of a muddy quirk when compared toa larger mainland Europe market? Or maybe Suzuki aiming at middle ground, and missing slightly? Great straight forward chat as always 👍
Yeah just watched a bit. Great content. I think this bit here shows the issue with these bikes. Two people to lift it. For a solo ride, a postie would have sailed through all of that :) th-cam.com/video/noJug455wVs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=lyJtuJrwxJCEMsTU&t=506
@@nathanthepostman For sure! I dropped my 890 Adventure S in the mud last year and it took everything I had to finally pick it up. On dry flat ground not so bad but when you have no footing it’s next to impossible when riding solo… which is 95% of my riding. I bought a Husqvarna FE 501 S for that stuff now. Your point is valid on the postie bike. Unfortunately I need to travel hundreds of miles in a short period of time to get to the riding… but isn’t that always the issue against small lightweight bikes? If we had time… I’m retired and still don’t have the time I want.
@@nathanthepostman I’m anxious to see the new Himalayan and CF Moto. I rode the Kove 450 Rally last Summer at the Giant Loop Rally in Eastern Oregon and it impressed me as to what a sub 500cc motor in the right bike can do. Good things might just be coming our way… and not break the bank.
The vstrom 650 is great but the 800 is as tall and heavy as the 1000 (not 1050) but with less power, now a lightweight 400 twin would be more interesting with 47hp for a2, 90mpg when cruising and cheaper tax plus far easier to handle off road.
Don't be baffled Nathan We in the UK seem to get forgotten when it comes to what we want This is a good honest bike from Suzuki, which once purchased will last you forever But It's far too expensive and sits way down the list of better bikes that are already here Think the Chinese are going to clean up this year as they are giving us good bikes at a reasonable prices
I've got a tubeless cruise control middleweight in this segment...KTM 790 Adventure. Having a great time with it, the 95 HP engine is great fun and very engaging.
@@nathanthepostman I had the 390 last, so direct step up as they'd want me to! Don't think I'd go back now. It's a fair bit better off-road, regardless of the weight...maybe not as a beginner though!
I own the 800DE. Very good and comfortable bike on the street and highway, 80 mph here in the U.S., and really good in the dirt too. I also have the 2019 Africa Twin AS. The DE feels much lighter in the dirt than the AT. Better than the weight numbers would lead you to believe. The ride is plush in the dirt, absorbing the small rocks and rough stuff that wears a rider out, yet the suspension does really well over the harsh terrain. The fully adjustable suspension actually responds to adjustments made. The engine is super torquey in the mid-range where it is needed. Throttle response of the AT vs. the DE? The DE feels as strong as the AT in the mid-range. You might say it has both a luxurious ride and handles great in the dirt. Things I don't like about the 800DE. 1 The exhaust is too quiet and the muffler is heavy! I weighed it at #13. I don't like loud bikes, but this thing is too quiet. That is going to be changed when a reasonably priced exhaust comes out. Akrapovic prices are a$$inigne! $1000! 2 Where's the cruise control? Suzuki really blew it here! Probably would have blown Honda away if it had cruise control on top of the superior suspension of the Suzuki. 3 The silly windscreen. 4 The weight numbers. Where is this weight?... Besides the muffler. The good thing is the weight is low so it doesn't affect the handling too much. For the people that think it's too heavy and too much bike? This is my wife's main bike. 5'9.5" average-built woman, and she's not heavy. She loves it and handles it fine.
It actually looks not that dissimilar to the original V-Strom. I had a 650 V-Strom gen 2 that was a very good long distance bike, get the 1050 if you're two up. Does this have a 270 crank?
this bike is much better than a tenere for on and off road... you always think of the tenere because of its rally looks, but this bike feels lighter, better suspension and better engine than the T7, and i love the hell out of the T7, but this is better... in every way... but looks.
Hmmm, not many Vstrom people I suspect although Brake did a good comparison against the Honda Transalp & seemed to find a place in the market. I can't wait to see a video of you on the Devon byways on that!
They are all lovely capable bikes but taking it down a green lane like you say Nathan you'll be lucky to come out the other side without a substantial plastics bill. One video I watched the guy rode an aprilia Tourag and dropped it, he damaged the screen, dash and other bits and got a £1500 bill.
You've absolutely hit the nail on the head Nathan, Suzuki made two big mistakes with this bike, no cruise control and calling it a V Strom! It should have been a re launch of the DR800 with cruise, I had the pleasure of spending a day with one last year and it's a lovely bike to ride, the engine is fantastic and I would have bought one if it had cruise control! Having it on my 1050xt it's not something I'm prepared to give up, you can ignore the rrp as you can pick up an x demo for £8500 Sorry three mistakes tubed wheels!
One of the problem with the 800 is the availability of the 650 which is much cheaper and a better tourer. Perhaps the RE version will do better. As you know I rode around the world on my 650 and none of the crop of middleweight adventure bikes seem that much better for the price difference.
Strange take, the 800De has taken very well to the market. It might not shift t7 numbers but it's not competing with the t7 at all. The t7 is an enduro bike first. The 800de is a travel adventure bike. You can't use it to go up steep hills but you can ride for 500km before getting to the adventure and not be worn out.
This looks good. I'm a big Suzuki fan. I bet the engine's a good one. But the T7 would be my choice in this category. It looks better. I'm also a big Yamaha fan. Both these bikes need cross-spoke wheels, though. Cruise control: I don't think I'd use it. More of a naked fan now, though, so I'm rambling. Nick
Knowing how frank you are, I'm slightly surprised Suzuki have lent you this! Definitely agree the bike is confused. Had a v-strom 650 for 5 years a little while back. loved that bike and took the 800 for an extended test ride. The engine is fast and slick but lacking character. The road handling is compromised by the suspension travel and 21" front and as you say, it's never going to be used by a serious offroader so why would you choose those drawbacks for a road tourer? The 650 was £6k and felt like a cheeky underdog. It had cast wheels and surprisingly decent road handling. And you could tour on it. The 800 DE is better built, but just a bit of a muddle and playing in an expensive congested part of the market.
I’ve been a dedicated road and track day biker for years and only last year I bought my first adventure bike, reason of choice exciting engine, low seat hight and low centre of gravity, possible light green lane ability, stable twisties bike, tubeless rims, and I feel I’ve got that bike, and it’s not that DE 800 …why! It didn’t tick many boxes if any. I’m sure it’s the right bike for someone out there
I had a mk1 650 Vstrom as an upright commuter/gravel bike after reading a T.W.O. mag article called 'boring bikes to Beligium' 🤣 I think it's still boring- but theres now a load more fun alternatives.
I have a 1050XT V-Strom. Great bike, great looks, cruise control, tubeless tyres and a centre stand.But 250kg heavy and like this one, foot-pegs make feet down a bit awkward. But it is a V-Twin which is in my view the nicest engine for a purely road going bike and this 800 is not a V-Twin so why they called it a V-Strom is bewildering - if it weren’t for the fact that they will probably ditch the V-twins in years to come as emission controls get harder to achieve . But Suzuki build some strong robust engines and at a discount this bike will find homes no doubt.
The VStrom doesn't really stand out in any department. I think that plus the competition is really hotting up in that sector of the market so there are a lot of options for about £1000 either way. I think I'll be buying the Tuareg, just for the better off road ability, but if that wasn't a concern I'd go for the Transalp to get bullet proof Honda reliability and apparently excellent on road manners. I looked at the VStrom and pretty quickly ruled it out.
i have a ktm 790 adventure, i test rode the v strom and its a good bike ,more comfortable than tne 790, good suspension ,smooth engine ,if only it had tubeless wheels and cruise control, i would have bought it , i just dont get why the japanese cant build what riders actually want
Sometimes give the big manufacturers a little too much credit. Honda seem to have a significant section of their design team that couldn't give to shits about user friendliness or wants. Surprising because, like you said, they'd corner the market with a few tweaks or just giving the punters what they want.
I'm astonished that people buy such heavy bikes to use off road, I find it tricky enough to pick up my CRF230f if I go down in a muddy rutted track. Either they are enduro super stars or their version of off road is farmer's stone tracks and forest roads. I cannot imaging how talented you would have to to have got one of these things up Hollinsclough before it was closed. I'd call this bike a tourer, for those that like to cover vast distances on motorways and such like. Here's Hollinsclough for you. th-cam.com/video/eOUCTp4Lzes/w-d-xo.html
I haven’t ridden the Suzuki but have had a Transalp on test ( 2023 Honda Transalp 750 / XL750 Review th-cam.com/video/E5pYKG8Wiuo/w-d-xo.html ) I agree with all you say. If you really do want to go off road the Yamaha or KTM are the obvious choices, I guess you *could* do it on the Honda but I don’t think that’s what it was really designed for. No, the Vstrom and Transalp were designed to be ‘adventure tourers’ in my book, so bopping around the Alps for a couple of weeks rather than the TET. The specs are similar, the Honda doesn’t have cruise or tubeless rims either so why does the Suzuki struggle to sell? My take is that it *should* be the better road bike. The Hornet engine is a blinder but in the Transalp does feel a bit peaky and, from what I read, the Suzook is just a bit more grunty. I think the issue is the Transalp looks smart, especially in white (if not ktm special) whereas the Suzuki looks, frankly dull and a bit of a mess. Critically it’s also lost its USP, the 90 degree v twin and while that shouldn’t really matter, to many, it does. The clincher is that when you open the garage you should look at the bike and go ‘yeah, that looks nice’ and I just don’t think the Suzuki delivers that.
I've always heard good things about the V-Strom, but it's a stupid name, and I think most won't buy it purely on its looks. The Tenere just looks waaay better.
Watch OnTheBackWheel ride his stock 800DE and tell me again it's not a proper off road bike. The 800DE is better overall bike than the TAlp or T7. The T7 is rough on road and the TAlp is next to useless as a true Adventure bike.
It’s mostly the rider on any bike, but the bike has to be capable too, good riders show what’s possible with a bike, I think you mentioned learning to ride off road on the Suzuki, to fair that’s nuts! Everyone should learn on a dirt bike or something like a CRF then if they want to move up with the skills. I don’t really think the Suzuki or any of the mid weight adv bikes are designed for learners. One more point everyone’s definition of off road is different, to me theses mid weight bikes are for general green lanes not the top 20% of lanes that need an enduro bike
@@iangriffiths9930I don't think they're for UK green lanes at all personally. Obviously people will use them in that setting but far better choices for it as we know. But one good rider in oz doesn't make this a good bike off road for the vast majority of riders, I think that was my point.
All fair points but if you are careful with your green lane selection I bet it’s pretty capable. I have a small trail bike that I use mainly for green lanes but I personally wouldn’t travel too far on the road with it, it’s just too small and I’d feel like I was pushing the engine way too much. The new Himalayan will be interesting as there isn’t much choice for an off road capable bike that is also capable of motorway travel.
The last decade has brought nothing really revolutionary to the adventure touring market iMO. The bikes weigh the same, with more electronic gismos that are bound to fail after a few years, but they are no better at anything than say my 2014 Vstrom 1000 adventure can do for me. I don't see any reason to upgrade TBH.
Clown level comment 🤡. My Husqvarna 701 weighs 50kg less than bikes with similar performance, the new WP suspension works exceptionally well even at 100kmh over rocks and lumpy trails ! it has lean sensitive ABS, two engine maps, traction control, and phenomenal new technology in the engine. My R1300GS (available from just under £16000) offers a massive list of standard equipment. It’s faster, more agile and more economical than the much loved R1250GS. I can cover 1000km a day in comfort and reassuring stability and safety. You need to open your bloody eyes sir, if you think bikes haven’t changed in 10 years!
I have 35 years of experience with different motorcycles and I rode the Suzuki for 3 months, including many kilometers of heavy off-road. I was very positively surprised by this engine. Off-road I think it's better than my KTM. He also does very well on the road. I think my next bike will be this Suzuki.
Nathan, two videos in one day? You’re working too hard for us! The reason I think your videos are so good (and popular) is that you’re not afraid to ask the questions other reviewers don’t dare ask, or that they are incapable of formulating. Obviously FAR too big a bike for me, but I’m interested in seeing you on the lanes on this beast. Thanks for being Nathan!! Les
I think the Japanese are still of the opinion there is brand loyalty - we build it you buy it... I can't think of a worse buy than a heavy bike with tubes and no centre stand - even more so if it is biased to road touring. You'd have to be loyal to buy - another refreshing introspective on this type of bike. Thankyou you are a breath of fresh air in a fugg of TH-camrs who are scared of telling it how it is or asking the pertinent questions for fear of not getting another press bike. We arn't daft we can see the bias in their reporting and 'findings'. Keep ploughing that furrow of honest review in the lanes and off the bikes.
Appreciated. Cheers yellow
since I already have a WR450, I wanted a second 2-cylinder motorcycle, but with good off-road (I ride TET) and the ability to travel several hundred kilometers on asphalt. After test drives, I chose 800de. I drive it very well off-road, it's surprisingly agile and the suspension is fantastic. I considered buying a central stand, but decided against it so that it wouldn't bother me when off-roading. Tubeless wheels, in off-road (Balkans) if you bend the rim, can end your trip. Tubes, no problem. I've always had a KTM, a Honda, a Yamaha and this time I chose a Suzuki.
Have you ridden the 800DE? I'll bet not. You didn't say what your ride is or the type of riding you do. This is my first new Suzuki. Not a loyalty buy. I have an Africa Twin AS. The DE just might be a better compromise for an ADV bike. And that is what ADV bikes are, a compromise.
It feels lighter off-road than the AT, and it is, but the AT's reputation of a great bike??
Really? Keep riding your mz250 then 😂.... Or, go to your local dealership and at least try experiencing a new bike before posting badly formed opinions on them.
Genuine Suzuki centre stand was £220 fitted.
Since I have a WR450, I wanted to buy a T7 as an ADV. I actually ride offroad, also adv (TET), so the motorcycle's capabilities were important to me.
After testing the T7, I was devastated, it has such a high center of gravity that I found it difficult to drive off-road.
Africa Twin is the same, a heavy, boring block.
I tested the KTM Adventure 890 S (the R version is too expensive and not comfortable on the road).
Yes, the center of gravity was low, but the WP apex suspension with a travel of 200 mm in off-road conditions worked really badly (2023, so with full adjustment, it did not help)....
And I did a test ride of 800de (at first I ruled it out because it was heavy in spec).
I was surprised at how it drives off-road, how well the suspension works, but above all,
how light and agile it feels (much better than the T7!!!).
Suspension travel is 220, the same at the rear and only 1 cm less at the front than DesertX. The medium ground clearance means that the center of gravity is not so high and it handles very well on more difficult terrain and at lower speeds.
Additionally, unlike the 890R (very good in off-road but uncomfortable on the road), the 800de combines good and easy off-road driving with a very comfortable seat and comfortable travel on the road (a larger windshield was purchased...yes).
In my opinion, this is the perfect motorcycle with which you can ride 1500 km, for example to the Balkans, and do TET there.
Its more reliable than the KTM, more comfortable for longer journeys than the T7 and much cheaper than the wonderful DesertX
Great summary. Thanks for the comment Marcel.
Very good summary! Surprised that the T7 feels more top heavy.
@@PetterIvarsson Why surprised? Just look at it. It's obvious even on pictures, that it is continuation of XT660Z which was just continuation of 90's bikes era which were top heavy.
I went from a T7 to a 800DE last year. The T7 always felt a bit tall and tippy to me, even if it got me places I thought my skills weren't equal too. The 800 is so much more planted and stable feeling, and has a vastly better throttle setup then the T7 or the modern RBW Hondas I've tried. Plus it has a fully adjustable and rebuildable suspension that's better set up out of the box then the T7s for the average UK/US rider.
Should it be 20lbs lighter and have cruise? Maybe!
Replace that muffler, take off the rear pegs and brackets, and replace the battery with a Lithium. That's my plan anyway. It totals close to 20 lbs.
Just watched your Triumph 400 review(s) before watching this, and first impression was how HUGE this VStrom looked with you stood next to it. Backs up your theory of more fun on lighter bikes, and definitely mine now I'm getting older and anticipating being more feeble.
As a VStrom 650 owner with the experience of around 20,000 road / touring miles under my belt, I actually think the DE is aimed at the wrong country. I would have thought it was ideal for the gravel roads of America, Australia and Scandinavia... not the naggery little mud and rock lanes found in England and Wales. That said, one of the VStrom forum members, who is very experienced offroad has tried one and loves it. I'll be interested to see what you think of it Nathan. I am also not convinced about the RE. I went to Motorcycle Live to see it and although it's very.... Suzuki, I just don't think it has enough of anything to pull me away from my 650, which for me, is just about a perfect touring bike, and I have done long days on mine, including an unplanned 700 mile day!
Fabulous motor. Much better than Transalp as much more grunt where you need it . But you’re right about it being a misfit. The cheaper RE is better for the road but still needs cruise .
Saw this at motorcycle live and shes a big un. I found it very intimidating and bikes are getting ridiculously heavy now. The transalp so felt so much friendlier and gave a feeeling that you would get along just fine. The ironic thing is most people won't even go off road with alot of these bikes.. So a bike this style, 30kg lighher,shorter travel and much lower seat height would be a better propect but thats just my opinion..
I bought an 800de after years of GS's ,800 tiger 1200 explorer's, 900 tiger ,and I love it. I'm not saying that just because I own one ,if I'd made a mistake in my purchase and found the bike wanting for the type of use I put it to I'd certainly let you know. Fair enough ,I'm not in the first flush of youth and I've been motorcycling for half a century and be most unlikely push the bike to its limits now it is a really nice all rounder. Oh, I did ride the transalp back to back with the 800de, the Honda was just a bit too Honda for me........
I test rode the Transalp and the 800DE back to back, expecting to love the Transalp.
I have a V-Strom 650 XT and loved the smoothness of the V-twin but having greenlaned it a bit, felt I needed something with better suspension.
To my surprise the V-Strom felt no heavier when riding it and the engine is a peach. Especially if you like low end torque.
The Transalp engine is excellent but more suited to road riders who like to ride at the top of the rev range IMHO.
Both were great bikes but the Strom was smoother, much better suspension and just felt more premium to me.
I rode both round town... along dual carriage way and along some dirt track.
Those were my impressions.
I am seriously considering buying one.
Looking forward to your thoughts on it.
Excellent analysis. Are the manufacturers listening…? Marketing alone can’t make up for the shortfalls.
No I don't think they are
We do roughly 12-14000 miles a year, all year round, mostly B roads, lanes and off road covering North and Mid Wales where we live, in fact we have just got in from a 120 mile run over the Berwyn mountain range and we only ever see bikes like that parked outside roadside cafes, spotlessly clean with loads of touring gear fitted. The only time they go off road is when they turn into their drive.
This video why I subscribe to this channel. Looking forward to your next video on this bike. Cheers
thanks kan
Fancy shoes. I probably would have gone with this bike with a more limited budget. I bought a 1290 R instead. Agree about the cruise and wheels. For me, it's more reliable than the 890 platform and probably better range than a transalp.
Hi Nathan. A couple of points... These have been selling really well since they came in last summer and have received stunning reviews.
I own a few different bikes and bought one new in July 23 and have to say that as an all rounder it's a fantastic ride - so I hope you enjoy its superb engine and ride/suspension. And no, I won't be using it for Green Laning either, I have a husaberg and a crm for that, but I do use it as my go to fave bike.
It's just an absolute blast to ride. Try it. Hope you like it! Nick.
Hi Nathan, looking forward to see what you think after a few rides. I’ve ridden one a few times and I think it’s a fantastic bike but that’s just my opinion. Not sure I’m ready to change from my dreary Vstrom 650, I just love it too much :-) Cheers
This bike looks like it was designed for the dirt/gravel forest roads of the western U.S. I think it looks great and look forward to your future content.
I had a go of one at a Suzuki demo day in the summer, really great to ride on the road but didn't get to take it off-road. I think what you've said about the poor sales might be true as there are some deep discounts on brand new bikes already. I'd have the RE version with tubeless tyres if they're available for a good price in a year or two - I don't need the best bike, just the best I can afford!
I think its for me. Thank you.
I've owned a Mk3 V-Strom 650XT since 2017 and I love it, does everything I need. When Suzuki released the 800 it sparked my interest in an upgrade, but as soon as I read it had tubes my interest disappeared.
Buy the standard version than. I mean, if you don't like tubes, it seems you won't be really offroading the bike anyways.
Just bought one new at £2k off list, had the Tenere in my sights but the extra bits on the v-strom plus the 7 year warranty tipped me to the Suzuki. Will definitely add a centre stand in time to give me a fighting chance if punctures strike.
That's a cracking deal. So £9k ish?
As usual
I think you hit the nail on the head again!
Especially since it’s got a 19” sibling that already has 2 cm more ground clearance than the V-Strom 650…
I believe they did mis their mark here.
18” rear and tubeless spoked wheels would have pushed them into their own unique niche.
Electronic cruise control alone would have also.
Suzuki will probably reduce the price & offer some deals on these to shift them . If they don’t I reckon they will do what they did with the V Strom 250 DE ,stop bringing them into the U.K. & sell the remaining stock pre registered off cheap . Could end up a bargain for some riders .
It’s 230Kg with a 855mm seat. It was pretty top heavy when I tried one as well. Nice engine but not a V Strom! Too tall, heavy, missing features as you mentioned, tubed spoke rims and no centre stand. Nit a fan of the styling and looks huge when you stand next to it - a 1290SA looks smaller. Much better options out there for either off-roaders or tourers as you say. And the screen adjustment? 😂
TBF nothing has cruise at this price. Transalpine doesn’t have remote preload and is physically small. I’m 6’3’’ don’t go off road and am considering this bike as a comfy big road bike that will be 100% reliable. I also think its worth mentioning that the UK is a TINY motorcycle market and just because something doesn’t sell well here then it doesn’t necessarily mean its a failure for the company as it may sell well in significant markets overseas. The UK is a bit of a snob fest and if it ain’t premium we often don’t buy it - that’s why everyone has a GS to go to the local pub on!
Good points but to be honest I can only go on the perspective I have here in the UK. If other markets view things differently then that's to be expected, tho to be fair up in the Alps I don't expect you'll see many European riders on anything other than bmws. On the Stella alpina it was ktm790s and tenere 700. Which group are buying the VStrom? Neither would be my observation. But maybe they should be? My guzzi v85tt had cruise, as does the 890. Charge more for it if they have to. I think the customer would pay
I have a Vstrom 1050xt which is a great touring & everyday bike & I like the look of the 800 , I'd certainly buy it instead of the transalp.
You did a BMW gs310 v Himalayan video many years ago, a few days camping & green laning & thats the kind of trips I imagine people who buy these types of bikes would consider taking them on.
People who want a fully usable modern bike & like the idea of a little offroading but can't afford a road bike & separate off road bike.
Almost 3500 miles on my 800de with 25 years riding experience and I couldn't be happier. I bought it because I want a bike that will take care of me on and off road. It's so stable and planted that I've been complimented in my riding group off road, said I did the best out of all of them and had the worst tires (still stockers at the time).
I am in the US and live in a rural area with miles and miles of wide open gravel roads to ride.
This is the one bike you could ride out of your driveway to your local BRD and back and be comfortable ALL the time. Most other bikes give up too much in one area or the other, but not the 800de.
Thanks Crane. Sound like you live in riding paradise!
Brilliant observation, I have a vstrom 10🎉00 and would love to drop to a more middle weight bike if I bother to change at all, looked at the 800 and worked out its an expensive bike which does not tick boxes for me, it should be cheaper to produce than a v twin so why is it so expensive compared to a vstrom 650?
Looks like a Fray Bentos tin that has been in the fast lane of the A30 for 6 months.
Great bike...I have test ritten one! Winner of the German Alpenmaster by Motorrad journal! But I had the same thoughts as Nathan. Too heavy for offroad, not well enough equiped for touring onroad. So I decided to stay with my old F800GS. But nevertheless great engine, real good suspension, great bike.... BR from Berlin!
You are absolutely right. I have a v85tt, and because i wanted a capable road tourer with cruise control, thats comfortable, and can easily take a speedhump or occasional dirt road. The transalp and this vstrom just dont fit in there
Really interested in this one, an I agree it's not a midweight bike.
I absolutely adored my 650xt for what I used it for travel adventure with no geen laning.
I'd say I'm a confirmed V Strom fan, had the 1000xt and the Vstrom 650xt 2020 loved really loved the 650xt 600 mile days when no issue.
Everything was good like the conventional forks for servicing really good fun vtwin engine punchy sensible seat height etc. Wind protection wasn't the best.
I thought about the new 800DE as its £400 quid a year cheaper on the insurance with the usual companies I use than the Transalp. Dads quite taken with the transalp.
This year the insurance is gonna be the deciding factor on a few bikes mid 30s, max no claims, clean licence, licence for 14 years or so n good area but near a city n everything is now a fortune.
310gs £600 2021 £4,500 bemoto n bennetts
310gs £729 bennetts new
300 Rally £550 Bennetts (less than I paid on mine) £900 bemoto!
Cb500x is the same price as the Rally.
Vstrom 800DE is
£825 Bennetts
£925 Suzuki insurance
Transalp new is £1231 Bennetts ouch!
Everything has doubled from last year.
What is interesting is some of the 1200s are reasonable an less than the 310 on the insurance.
More than I was paying for a fireblade new at 22 lol.
It's a shame both the transalp an the 800's are tubed I think that was a miss with the 800.
For me I'd wished they had updated the 650xt they added all the complexity then didn't add the one thing I fancied on the 650xt when I did my why vstrom ownership review the cruise control which was the only thing I wanted but that brings the added element of tech 🙃 an it's a real miss as you say Nathan taking away the centre stand.
I've had 7 Suzukis GSXRs a 1980s gsx750et an the two Vstroms.
Itl be interesting to see if they have improved the wheel finish as I know alot had issues with the 650xt spokes.
It looks like dad is really leaning towards the Honda Transalp after seeing it an sitting on it the other day + watching the brake mag review. I was suprised at how light it felt to shove around / lean over that seems to be the big difference in most of the reviews I'd read felt featherweight compared to my 1150 lifting it of the stand.
I'm happy with the 1150 but fancy something to sit alongside it to go to work on so probs a 310gs or nx500.
I'd love to see Suzuki update the DR/DRZ line.
As the Suzuki is getting up there price wise which is the problem used to be affordable reliable bikes. This insurance issue is gonna ruin motorcycling in the Uk though as even on my tiny instagram alot of people my age were messaging with similar quotes.
Suspect the RE version will sell better. Pure tourer is a better fit for the Strom. And it's cheaper too. Agree the lack of cruise is mad but then the Transalp lacks it too.
Another opinion of one who has not ridden the DE?
Im a transalp 750 owner and I feel the same about my bike, who is it for? honda also made strange design choices. They go for spoked tubed 21 inch front wheel which screams hardcore offroad, but no skid plate, and a huge lump of your engine sticking out at the bottom. No cruise control, no center stand no real touring options. So its this strange mix of offroad/road. I like my bike but its trying to be two things at once.
I’m definitely interested in this bike. To be clear I’ve not ridden one yet but this is my reasoning.
I would buy the T7 but it’s too tall for me and the fact that it is top heavy makes it too much for me off road. The Transalp also interested me but it’s not set up for too much off road, just look at the sump to start with! So the Suzuki, it’s probably not as good on the road as the Honda but probably better than the Yamaha, the Suzuki is probably not as good off road as the Yamaha but better than the Honda so it’s kind of in the middle ground…. I’m happy with the tubes as I can fix a puncture but not a cracked or bent rim, not too bothered about rider aids either, I suppose the only problem I have is the fact it’s about 20kgs heavier then the other two. Very keen to see how you find this bike off road Nathan, may not be great in the mud but up here in North Wales it’s mostly gravel and rocks 😁
My first bike was a 2011 f650gs twin, even tried it for 'big bike friendly' trail, probably wasnt a great idea but it was fun & found the front wheel, same dimensions as the 310gs, an issue. I went to the pyrenees on it, nc500 etc... if I was still in the market for that type of bike this, with apparently a cracking engine giving a bit more performance, should be on the list... but....the f650 had tubeless alloys & a centre stand...i dont care about rider aids...
Maybe our UK conditions are a bit too much of a muddy quirk when compared toa larger mainland Europe market? Or maybe Suzuki aiming at middle ground, and missing slightly?
Great straight forward chat as always 👍
Down in Australia, Curtis from "On the Back Wheel" really puts his VStrom 800 DE through the paces.
Yeah just watched a bit. Great content. I think this bit here shows the issue with these bikes. Two people to lift it. For a solo ride, a postie would have sailed through all of that :)
th-cam.com/video/noJug455wVs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=lyJtuJrwxJCEMsTU&t=506
@@nathanthepostman For sure! I dropped my 890 Adventure S in the mud last year and it took everything I had to finally pick it up.
On dry flat ground not so bad but when you have no footing it’s next to impossible when riding solo… which is 95% of my riding.
I bought a Husqvarna FE 501 S for that stuff now.
Your point is valid on the postie bike. Unfortunately I need to travel hundreds of miles in a short period of time to get to the riding… but isn’t that always the issue against small lightweight bikes? If we had time… I’m retired and still don’t have the time I want.
@@pinkiewerewolfsomething like a new Himalayan 452 or cf moto 450mt perhaps?
@@nathanthepostman I’m anxious to see the new Himalayan and CF Moto.
I rode the Kove 450 Rally last Summer at the Giant Loop Rally in Eastern Oregon and it impressed me as to what a sub 500cc motor in the right bike can do.
Good things might just be coming our way… and not break the bank.
The vstrom 650 is great but the 800 is as tall and heavy as the 1000 (not 1050) but with less power, now a lightweight 400 twin would be more interesting with 47hp for a2, 90mpg when cruising and cheaper tax plus far easier to handle off road.
I wouldn’t buy it simply because of the way it looks. It would have to be light and very special to overcome that obstacle.
Don't be baffled Nathan
We in the UK seem to get forgotten when it comes to what we want
This is a good honest bike from Suzuki, which once purchased will last you forever
But
It's far too expensive and sits way down the list of better bikes that are already here
Think the Chinese are going to clean up this year as they are giving us good bikes at a reasonable prices
Wise words young fella.
I've got a tubeless cruise control middleweight in this segment...KTM 790 Adventure. Having a great time with it, the 95 HP engine is great fun and very engaging.
Sounds like a great option that
@@nathanthepostman I had the 390 last, so direct step up as they'd want me to! Don't think I'd go back now. It's a fair bit better off-road, regardless of the weight...maybe not as a beginner though!
I own the 800DE. Very good and comfortable bike on the street and highway, 80 mph here in the U.S., and really good in the dirt too.
I also have the 2019 Africa Twin AS. The DE feels much lighter in the dirt than the AT. Better than the weight numbers would lead you to believe. The ride is plush in the dirt, absorbing the small rocks and rough stuff that wears a rider out, yet the suspension does really well over the harsh terrain. The fully adjustable suspension actually responds to adjustments made.
The engine is super torquey in the mid-range where it is needed. Throttle response of the AT vs. the DE? The DE feels as strong as the AT in the mid-range.
You might say it has both a luxurious ride and handles great in the dirt.
Things I don't like about the 800DE.
1 The exhaust is too quiet and the muffler is heavy! I weighed it at #13. I don't like loud bikes, but this thing is too quiet. That is going to be changed when a reasonably priced exhaust comes out. Akrapovic prices are a$$inigne! $1000!
2 Where's the cruise control? Suzuki really blew it here! Probably would have blown Honda away if it had cruise control on top of the superior suspension of the Suzuki.
3 The silly windscreen.
4 The weight numbers. Where is this weight?... Besides the muffler. The good thing is the weight is low so it doesn't affect the handling too much.
For the people that think it's too heavy and too much bike? This is my wife's main bike. 5'9.5" average-built woman, and she's not heavy. She loves it and handles it fine.
Really appreciate that Dwayne. Glad you're both enjoying the bike
It actually looks not that dissimilar to the original V-Strom. I had a 650 V-Strom gen 2 that was a very good long distance bike, get the 1050 if you're two up. Does this have a 270 crank?
this bike is much better than a tenere for on and off road... you always think of the tenere because of its rally looks, but this bike feels lighter, better suspension and better engine than the T7, and i love the hell out of the T7, but this is better... in every way... but looks.
I like it
The exhaust on my tractor unit is smaller & more aesthetically pleasing than the one on that thing.
Hmmm, not many Vstrom people I suspect although Brake did a good comparison against the Honda Transalp & seemed to find a place in the market. I can't wait to see a video of you on the Devon byways on that!
th-cam.com/video/EVO6uBzw-5A/w-d-xo.html&pp=ygUOYnJha2UgbWFnYXppbmU%3D
They are all lovely capable bikes but taking it down a green lane like you say Nathan you'll be lucky to come out the other side without a substantial plastics bill. One video I watched the guy rode an aprilia Tourag and dropped it, he damaged the screen, dash and other bits and got a £1500 bill.
You've absolutely hit the nail on the head Nathan, Suzuki made two big mistakes with this bike, no cruise control and calling it a V Strom! It should have been a re launch of the DR800 with cruise, I had the pleasure of spending a day with one last year and it's a lovely bike to ride, the engine is fantastic and I would have bought one if it had cruise control! Having it on my 1050xt it's not something I'm prepared to give up, you can ignore the rrp as you can pick up an x demo for £8500 Sorry three mistakes tubed wheels!
All bikes have cruise control ,it’s called the rider .
You could fit a throttle lock, such as an Atlas or Kaoko, easily enough.
One of the problem with the 800 is the availability of the 650 which is much cheaper and a better tourer. Perhaps the RE version will do better. As you know I rode around the world on my 650 and none of the crop of middleweight adventure bikes seem that much better for the price difference.
Strange take, the 800De has taken very well to the market. It might not shift t7 numbers but it's not competing with the t7 at all. The t7 is an enduro bike first. The 800de is a travel adventure bike. You can't use it to go up steep hills but you can ride for 500km before getting to the adventure and not be worn out.
Then that's great. You've just helped answer the question I asked in the video.
This looks good. I'm a big Suzuki fan. I bet the engine's a good one. But the T7 would be my choice in this category. It looks better. I'm also a big Yamaha fan. Both these bikes need cross-spoke wheels, though. Cruise control: I don't think I'd use it. More of a naked fan now, though, so I'm rambling. Nick
Knowing how frank you are, I'm slightly surprised Suzuki have lent you this! Definitely agree the bike is confused. Had a v-strom 650 for 5 years a little while back. loved that bike and took the 800 for an extended test ride.
The engine is fast and slick but lacking character. The road handling is compromised by the suspension travel and 21" front and as you say, it's never going to be used by a serious offroader so why would you choose those drawbacks for a road tourer?
The 650 was £6k and felt like a cheeky underdog. It had cast wheels and surprisingly decent road handling. And you could tour on it. The 800 DE is better built, but just a bit of a muddle and playing in an expensive congested part of the market.
Is the Vstrom 250sx available in the UK? I'd be interested in your opinion on the 250.
No unfortunately I don't think we're getting it.
I’ve been a dedicated road and track day biker for years and only last year I bought my first adventure bike, reason of choice exciting engine, low seat hight and low centre of gravity, possible light green lane ability, stable twisties bike, tubeless rims, and I feel I’ve got that bike, and it’s not that DE 800 …why! It didn’t tick many boxes if any. I’m sure it’s the right bike for someone out there
I had a mk1 650 Vstrom as an upright commuter/gravel bike after reading a T.W.O. mag article called 'boring bikes to Beligium' 🤣 I think it's still boring- but theres now a load more fun alternatives.
Super👌👌👌👌
I found the 800 to be top heavy. The foot pegs are just right for hitting your ankles. For the price a tiger 850 is much better.
Suzuki made a mistake not calling it DR 800 instead of Vstrom 800 DE. The name VStrom should have been reserved only for the 19" front wheel versions.
I have a 1050XT V-Strom. Great bike, great looks, cruise control, tubeless tyres and a centre stand.But 250kg heavy and like this one, foot-pegs make feet down a bit awkward. But it is a V-Twin which is in my view the nicest engine for a purely road going bike and this 800 is not a V-Twin so why they called it a V-Strom is bewildering - if it weren’t for the fact that they will probably ditch the V-twins in years to come as emission controls get harder to achieve . But Suzuki build some strong robust engines and at a discount this bike will find homes no doubt.
The VStrom doesn't really stand out in any department. I think that plus the competition is really hotting up in that sector of the market so there are a lot of options for about £1000 either way. I think I'll be buying the Tuareg, just for the better off road ability, but if that wasn't a concern I'd go for the Transalp to get bullet proof Honda reliability and apparently excellent on road manners. I looked at the VStrom and pretty quickly ruled it out.
because you haven't ridden it off-road
i have a ktm 790 adventure, i test rode the v strom and its a good bike ,more comfortable than tne 790, good suspension ,smooth engine ,if only it had tubeless wheels and cruise control, i would have bought it , i just dont get why the japanese cant build what riders actually want
Made for us Australian's mate riding them flat out in gods country that the answer
Sometimes give the big manufacturers a little too much credit. Honda seem to have a significant section of their design team that couldn't give to shits about user friendliness or wants.
Surprising because, like you said, they'd corner the market with a few tweaks or just giving the punters what they want.
Are they safety crocs dude 🤔😉
Of course.
Interesting 🤔
I'm astonished that people buy such heavy bikes to use off road, I find it tricky enough to pick up my CRF230f if I go down in a muddy rutted track. Either they are enduro super stars or their version of off road is farmer's stone tracks and forest roads. I cannot imaging how talented you would have to to have got one of these things up Hollinsclough before it was closed. I'd call this bike a tourer, for those that like to cover vast distances on motorways and such like. Here's Hollinsclough for you. th-cam.com/video/eOUCTp4Lzes/w-d-xo.html
Aprilia Tuareg 660 has it all, offroad capable, cruise control and much lighter..
When did a 800cc bike, over 220kg and almost 100bhp become middleweight? If 250/300’s are lightweight then what are 400’s, 500’s and 600’s?
I agree. It's not a term I think is correct but seems to have been the one applied to this class
Wasn’t accusing you of using it. I was just making the point engine sizes are getting bigger and 800/900’s are now middleweight. Crazy times
Oh yeah totally. I didn't take it that way. It is mad because engine aside it's as big as a 1000-1200 bike. @@chrishall734
Low ground clearance doesnt help it at all in this category
Chelsea tractor ? Capture some of the market sector for trail bike look a likes.
Just saw a DJEBEL graphics pack on Moto-Station. Maybe niche starting to fill.
If you haven't shrunk Nathan then that is a big lump of bike😂
th-cam.com/video/PpqyH-VXoxw/w-d-xo.html&si=oAgZsBWfROmeVQJW
Just one of the “on the back wheel“ clips detailing the DE800
I haven’t ridden the Suzuki but have had a Transalp on test ( 2023 Honda Transalp 750 / XL750 Review
th-cam.com/video/E5pYKG8Wiuo/w-d-xo.html ) I agree with all you say. If you really do want to go off road the Yamaha or KTM are the obvious choices, I guess you *could* do it on the Honda but I don’t think that’s what it was really designed for.
No, the Vstrom and Transalp were designed to be ‘adventure tourers’ in my book, so bopping around the Alps for a couple of weeks rather than the TET.
The specs are similar, the Honda doesn’t have cruise or tubeless rims either so why does the Suzuki struggle to sell? My take is that it *should* be the better road bike. The Hornet engine is a blinder but in the Transalp does feel a bit peaky and, from what I read, the Suzook is just a bit more grunty. I think the issue is the Transalp looks smart, especially in white (if not ktm special) whereas the Suzuki looks, frankly dull and a bit of a mess. Critically it’s also lost its USP, the 90 degree v twin and while that shouldn’t really matter, to many, it does.
The clincher is that when you open the garage you should look at the bike and go ‘yeah, that looks nice’ and I just don’t think the Suzuki delivers that.
I've always heard good things about the V-Strom, but it's a stupid name, and I think most won't buy it purely on its looks. The Tenere just looks waaay better.
Watch OnTheBackWheel ride his stock 800DE and tell me again it's not a proper off road bike. The 800DE is better overall bike than the TAlp or T7. The T7 is rough on road and the TAlp is next to useless as a true Adventure bike.
Yeah agreed, in the right hands any bike can shine.
It’s mostly the rider on any bike, but the bike has to be capable too, good riders show what’s possible with a bike, I think you mentioned learning to ride off road on the Suzuki, to fair that’s nuts! Everyone should learn on a dirt bike or something like a CRF then if they want to move up with the skills. I don’t really think the Suzuki or any of the mid weight adv bikes are designed for learners. One more point everyone’s definition of off road is different, to me theses mid weight bikes are for general green lanes not the top 20% of lanes that need an enduro bike
@@iangriffiths9930I don't think they're for UK green lanes at all personally. Obviously people will use them in that setting but far better choices for it as we know. But one good rider in oz doesn't make this a good bike off road for the vast majority of riders, I think that was my point.
All fair points but if you are careful with your green lane selection I bet it’s pretty capable. I have a small trail bike that I use mainly for green lanes but I personally wouldn’t travel too far on the road with it, it’s just too small and I’d feel like I was pushing the engine way too much. The new Himalayan will be interesting as there isn’t much choice for an off road capable bike that is also capable of motorway travel.
Look at the exhaust on it! Suzuki hire some designers. Who is it for? Blind riders obviously
Either that is a very big bike or you have shrunk! It does nothing for me, but then none of these size of bikes do.
Met a bloke recently on his bright yellow, new v-strom 250 & he was raving about it. Suzuki should loan you one of those...
Japanese are falling behind!
I think the looks put people off.
Makes you look tiny...and your bigger than me...
Personally I think it's a awful looking bike, would be enough to put me off.
The last decade has brought nothing really revolutionary to the adventure touring market iMO. The bikes weigh the same, with more electronic gismos that are bound to fail after a few years, but they are no better at anything than say my 2014 Vstrom 1000 adventure can do for me. I don't see any reason to upgrade TBH.
Clown level comment 🤡.
My Husqvarna 701 weighs 50kg less than bikes with similar performance, the new WP suspension works exceptionally well even at 100kmh over rocks and lumpy trails ! it has lean sensitive ABS, two engine maps, traction control, and phenomenal new technology in the engine.
My R1300GS (available from just under £16000) offers a massive list of standard equipment. It’s faster, more agile and more economical than the much loved R1250GS. I can cover 1000km a day in comfort and reassuring stability and safety.
You need to open your bloody eyes sir, if you think bikes haven’t changed in 10 years!
Croqs? Seriously?
suzuki failed with this bike.also with the road version.so dull.too bad...
It looks a bit bland .
Strange video. You keep saying I "think". That means absolutely nothing. Why don't you talk about actual sales instead of what you think?