2021 Suzuki V-Strom 650 Review | When Smaller is Better
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 9 มิ.ย. 2024
- In a crowded field of adventure bikes, can the V-Strom 650, with roots going back to 2004, still stay relevant? What type of rider is this bike for? Why are people so loyal to it when there are other choices? How does it do on the highway, and in the dirt? Where are the limits? And how does it compare to other bikes in this price or size range? Model in the test is the XT Adventure, MSRP $10,449 USD.
Is the v-strom 650 a better choice than the more expensive v-strom 1050? I give my two cents.
00:00 Intro
01:58 Models / Pricing
02:57 Features & Specs
08:51 Street Ride
16:19 Off Road Ride
22:35 LIkes
24:31 Dislikes
26:50 Competitors
30:28 Final Thoughts
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1050 looks gorgeous
More time reviews better!
Love your videos and I want to support them the best I can. How long do I need to watch the ad’s for you to get “credit” for them?
Wowwwww cool bumblebee beemer, man! Wait... wtf? Hehehh I have a 04' wee-strom since 05', but c'mon man!
the best 650cc
Here’s my testimonial: Since 2009 I’ve bought three new Wee Strom’s; collectively - over tundra and through jungles - they’ve withstood over 270 000 hard kilometers and all three are still running. I bought my first ‘Strom as an overreaction to my Beemer’s wonky and very expensive issues, never thought I’d respect the Wee - then, that little V-twin stole my heart. The reliability is higher, and the cost of ownership is far lower on the three ‘Stroms than my other bikes. That said, I do wish Suzuki would produce a more expensive special edition Wee with upgraded brakes, suspension, lights (I’ll do the exhaust); until they do that, I’ll postpone buying another. Over fifty years of riding, the V-Strom remains one of my favorite motorcycles and, I’d argue, one of the best “real world” motorcycles ever produced.
awesome thank you so much for posting. great real world info.
I have 2 V-Stroms a bought new 2005 650, and a used 06 1000. Great bikes, my history is in off road with a varied type of early day's racing. I will age out (almost 67) before these bikes wear out.Lets see, 55 years riding and yes it would be great for an upgraded version. You sir nailed it! My BMW sits!
and I agree, with over 30 years of experience, never thought this smaller bike would resonate with me, but it did big time.. and if you take it a bit slower, it does fine on adventures, also because of the smoothness of the engine, its a big advantage, so forgiving..
@Jay Bee The lack of dealer network in the states was one of the factors in my not going with Triumph for an ADV bike. Only recently, I've started learning of build issues and kinda lousy support from Triumph.
@Jay Bee As a Harley & Kawasaki owner I understand your dilemma. Forums and social media outlets are filled with denial of issues.
If something is known, it should have already been addressed by the company or dealer.
It powers up the level of frustration when the company releases a new & improved model and doesn't address those known issues. Thats just greed, incompetence, or negligence.
The v Strom 650 is not a off road bike this is a commuter motorcycle and one of the best bike in the market , I have a 2009 now and a 2017 honestly this bike is the best bike ever rode on my life, good in fuel, comfortable, good power, good on insurance, very reliable, good price, never break down, honestly I can't ask for better bike. Thank Suzuki and please no make any change this bike is perfect hands down.
I came from a DR650, which was my first bike (at 52 years old) to a 2020 Wee Adventure and I think your points are exactly on point. The 'Strom is designed as an inexpensive bike that can do most things adequately well, but it's not a "market leader" in any specific category. One thing you didn't mention that's also great about the Wee Strom is its legendary reliability - this thing is as reliable as an anvil. If TH-cam is to be believed, I seem to be the only person in the US who can only have one motorcycle (at a time), and the 'Strom let's me do *everything* I got into motorcycles for: laying down slab miles on long trips comfortably, riding forest roads, *cruising* "twisties" - and it still handles OK when packed for a trip so it's a great moto-camping companion that won't leave you stranded.
For awhile I was kicking myself because I didn't wait for the T7 to come out -- that looks like an *amazing* bike. But then I realized that, as you pointed out, I am not a hardcore dirt rider and I honestly don't get off-road more than 4-5 times per year. Once I accepted my *actual* riding parameters, I realized the 'Strom is perfect for me.
does it gulp oil at highway speeds? my 08 KLR does. for that reason i want to get rid of it.
It hasn't ever needed an oil "top off" between changes. So far it doesn't appear to burn a measurable amount of oil.
Can I get ur email?
Please
Totally agree with everything in this review in particular that the 650 is the better bike.Sunce 2002 I have had 9 vstroms 4 dl 1000 and 5 dl650 and have never had a problem with any of them
I have a 2015 Vstrom 650 and love this bike, I’m averaging 63 mpg she handles on and off road to my liking, I’m 60 years young and have a blast on this bike, do quite a bit of moto camping carries all my gear with ease, takes me on and off road with no problems, I’m. Not stump jumping,but we get in the back woods. Yup, a great bike !
Don't worry about your videos being too short or too long and don't try to adapt too much! Your videos are my favourite motorcycle videos and are always great!
I agree! Don't try to chase susbscribers. Do your thing. Do it with passion and your enthusiasm will attract the people you want anyway. The others can go elsewhere.
You have to remember that the V-Strom isn't really meant to go off road and over here in Europe it's regarded as a touring / everyday commuting bike , its popular here because of the large tank and great fuel consumption allied to good handling and bulletproof reliability .
I agree.It's about 90 road & 10 off.
Makes sense
@@coconuciferanuts339 Tell my brother that! He takes his through REALLY gnarly southern ca sand rock strewn trails.....BONE STOCK....30k MILES and going strong
At this point just buy the SV650... you can put bags on that, too.
@@nigelwolfe6150 Sounds like your bro.is a good,strong rider.I'm abit of a light-weight myself & after a few spills don't want any more scratches on me '17,650xt.Still getting over sprained ankle.Cheers Nigel.Den.
After watching tons of videos yours convinced me that the Strom was the best for me. Last week I bought a used 17,000 mile 2015 adventure model that looks like new. I’m in heaven! I don’t know why people insist on riding these like they’re a sport bike in the videos. it’s a great basic all around do everything bike that’s so comfortable.
I bought mine almost 2 yrs ago, and with Suzuki's incentives I got it out the door for 7,500 USD (base model). I have dropped it a few times in the mountains without guards and the plastics only have a few scraps, for character. It's awesome in the twisties, gets great MPG (58), though this has fallen on windy days on the interstate to as low as 42. The buffeting is an issue, most just get an extender. I love the styling of the 1050, and the extra speed would be nice but at circa 50% higher cost, lower MPG, more weight and only about a 10 mph top end increase--I just can't see it as the better buy for a solo rider. What I really love about his bike, besides the v twin, is that if I wreck it or it gets stolen or some other disaster--it's not the end of the world. The economic component of motorcycling is one thing that attracted me, and the V Strom is fabulous in that regard: it ain't a GS, or a boat, so buy that premium beer and steak at the restaurant you just journeyed to, because you deserve it!
thanks for sharing that is an awesome price
Now that's a V-Strom attitude earned ! Stay safe have fun!
"so buy that premium beer and steak at the restaurant you just journeyed to, because you deserve it!" - well said! Wait... no beer... can't drink and ride! Gonna have a bigger steak! :D
I have a 2020 650 Vstrom XT adventure and my wife has the 2019 XT Touring. We love the bikes. We like to go camping and the pannier capacity on the XT adventure is great. I don't use the bike for much off road stuff because its not fun to pick it up and clearly never intended for rough off road. I have a DR 650 for some of that. In my opinion it seems, that at some time in the recent past, somebody convinced the public that adventure meant serious off-roading and single track riding. That just isn't true. It makes no sense to expect the Vstrom to perform off road like the T-7 There are lots of lighter, more agile bikes for that. You do excellent reviews and I appreciate your videos a lot. Keep up the good work.
Thanks and agreed!
I purchased my V-Strom 650 this year, after riding the SV650X for four years. This bike almost runs by itself. It's so smooth and comfortable, you could ride ist all day long. Although I still keep my SV650X, for longer rides and bike holidays, the V-Strom is always my first choice. I tested the Triumph Tiger Sport 660 in May and was rather disappointed. It took me almost two minutes to find the neutral, however the dealer offered it for the same price as the V-Strom, I decided for the V-Strom. 20 Years of experience vs first production year, easy choice.
The DL650 was my introduction to adventure bikes. What a great bike! Suzuki did a fantastic job on this motorcycle.
For some reason the Japanese bikes have a penchant for undersprung suspension. I put new springs in my V-strom and a Racetech gold valve kit and it made the bike 100% better.
I own a 2020 V-Strom 650 Adventure that I have ridden 13,XXX mile. Previous bike BMW R1200GS Adventure. I switched to the V-Strom because the BMW was getting too big and heavy for me to handle at almost 70 years old.
I find the V-Strom a joy to ride, easy on road and good on forest service roads. You just need to know your limitations.
This past weekend I attended a BMW Campout, the V-Strom gets lots of attention. We're a bunch of old guys.
I find compared to BMW the Suzuki is cheap to own. Burn regular gasoline, oil filters compared to BMW are cheap, lower cost insurance.
I am sure in the near future many of my riding buddies will down size.
Well said
I have been using the most varied types of motorcycles since I was very young and I am 60 years old.
I believe this is one of the few bikes that came closest to perfection. Legendary, iconic
Now this is a review.
No hyper acting kids.
Straight to the point.
Informative and simple.
Perfect.
Long or short video, for as long as you cover every details of a unit, it’s good. I rarely find these kind of videos. Thanks man!
This is one of the best reviews I’ve seen on any bike. The video was concise (even at 34 min) and provided all the information a prospective buyer would need. I bought the VStrom 1000XT Adventure about 18 months ago and really like it (heavier rider). I did change a number of things (skid plate, pegs, mirror extenders, windscreen, bars up and back). I don’t do much off pavement riding but felt the extra protection was mandatory. In hindsight, with a review like you provided, I probably would have been just as pleased with the 650 version. The only real negative I have found with the 1000 is poor fuel economy with the luggage installed and interstate speeds.
I have a 2019 1000xt Adventure. What skid plate and bar risers did you go with?
I'm in the market for both, don't want to change cables and hoses. I just hit 5k miles and noticed my fuel mileage has increased a bit from 41 to43 mpg.
@@elitetileandstone roxspeedfx.com/collections/adv-dual-sport-dirt-bike-handlebar-risers/products/1-1-4-block-offset-risers-for-7-8-or-1-1-8-handlebar These risers worked without changing any cables. Installed them “backwards” to move the handlebars closer to me. This also raised them but not as much as if installed in the “forward” direction. For me personally, this made a huge difference on my lower back as that I don’t have to lean as far forward.
@@elitetileandstone www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/sw-motech-skid-plate-suzuki-v-strom-1000-2014-2016?sku_id=1018466 I have a 2019 VStrom 1000XT Adventure. This skid plate was easy to install and worked with the OEM crash bars which I believe are actually made by SW Motech also.
@@elitetileandstone Your fuel mileage is interesting. When on backroads where speed is typically less than 60 mph, I get 50 mpg even with luggage installed. During interstate riding at speeds between 70-80 mph I have gotten as low as 35 mpg with luggage installed depending on wind conditions and as high as 40 mpg. Without luggage installed on the interstate I get 42-44 mpg. I have about 4500 miles on my bike.
The soft bags will be better. The hard bagd is swuare on the wind basically a windsoc
I had a 2005 V-Strom 650. My experience largely agrees with your review. I rode it all over the Western US. Death Valley. The Burr Trail. Titus Canyon. Toroweap. I rode it to work every day. Great on the highway. I could drag the foot pegs. Surprisingly good on dirt roads. With a good skid plate and tires, it will surprise you with where it can go.
Fuel range is great on the V-Strom 650. Mine could go about 250 miles on a tank of gas. New ones should be approaching 300 miles.
I rarely ran out of power with the 650 engine. Typically happened at high altitude with the bike loaded down on a highway. New V-Stroms are probably better.
Replacing the stock fork springs with Progressive springs made washboard roads noticeably better.
You need a good skid plate to go off road. Just riding off a curb can scrape the skid plate.
A friend has my V-Strom now. It recently hit 90,000 miles. Still looks and runs good. At about 75,000 miles it started needing some care: new starter, new clutch, new brake rotors.
In a word: tough.
My wife and I rode my 2013 V Strom 650 around the world in 2018. We did 43,000 miles and had no issues with reliability.
Was it comfortable on your butts and back? Aftermarket seats?
This was a well done review that covered quite a lot of material in a well organized fashion. I'm considering buying this bike used because it ticks off a lot of the boxes in what I want. Fuel injection, liquid cooled, ABS, highway capable, reasonable priced used for a late 2000s w/abs to 2012 (first gen2) model. I like that you took this off road and showed its limitations with stockshocks. I like that you showed it at highway speed on road. So this was helpful for me in evaluating the bike before I start really shopping. Thank you and good luck with your channel.
I ride a 2009 Vstrom 650 and love it. It's a fantastic bike. Closing in on 110k miles!
This is so far the best Vee review I think. Every characteristic aspect is discussed with a realistic & informative approach. Off-road / on-road test, deep review of suspensions, motor characteristics, reliability, ground clearance, price/performance-value.
Thanks a lot.
Thanks
I have a 2005 DL650 and it just passed 90,000 miles with normal maintenance, i thrash it quite a bit but it doesn’t burn a drop of oil and is boring reliable, love it. planing on taking it to Yellowstone later this year.
Very balanced review. I prefer my vstrom to the Tiger I had before; it’s not a better bike, it just suits my needs better. I agree with just about everything you said, especially the handle bars being not quite right. I replaced the windscreen with an improved givi, as well as putting on decent foot pegs and a genuine baseplate. I also put on a Leo Vince can which gave me a wee bit more power and a whole lot of sound. It’s reliable, easy, fun and at 66 I don’t need to keep up with anything. Thanks for the good work. Subscribed!
Wow...one of the best reviews I have seen by far. Thorough, yet to the point! I have a 2019 650 DL and love it so far but you are right, there are limitations for sure. As you mentioned however, If you look at the whole package and consider the versatility, reliability/maintenance, and the price, this bike is so hard to beat. Add to that the fact that parts are everywhere and affordable you really can't lose on the weestrom. Cheers!
Great review for a bike I love. I just completed a 1900 mile trip on a 2019 650 XT through the twisties of northern Idaho and over two dirt mountain passes, Skalkaho in the Sapphires and Red Rock in the Centennial mountains. The bike will go anywhere you'd take a rental car. Adjusting the sag gives you the confidence to carve through corners, loaded for touring, without leaving chicken strips on the back tire. As for passing while loaded up? You can make a 3 hop no problem. It's not recommended but we all do it. I'm 6'-3" 175 lbs. I put on: Mosko 80L bags; the Puig Touring Screen to eliminate buffeting and no bugs hit my visor; lowered the pegs 1/2" with SM Motech to get grip for standing; put on a sheep skin "Butt Saver" from Sickafus to make things more comfortable. No problem keeping up the GS 1250 and Multistrada on the ride. Any short comings the bike may have are beyond my skill level. If you only get one bike this is a good one.
Most thorough review of the 650 that I've seen! Thank you! I purchased the same bike about two months ago and there were few detailed reviews and now I know that i made a great decision and it's the right bike...for me! Now If I could just get comfortable on the seat after 90 mins it would be perfect!
What an absolute comprehensive video! I have been lately looking out for an in-depth reviews on the Vstrom 650XT and couldn’t get any reliable ones that could help me understand the bike better, until today.
This bike has my heart and is definitely my next upgrade from my current Royal Enfield C500.
Glad I stumble across your channel Ian! Thanks for this amazing review on the Suzuki Vstrom 650XT! 🤘🏽
I don't remember other reviewers doing full panic stops. That's a good original element to review. Also, I really liked your suspension travel camera view.
Thanks
Thanks for a no-nonsense, objective review. I've watched this twice and it really helps me understand the ADV candidates and selection issues that I need to consider before buying my next bike... Soon! Good job. You are there best thing too come along since MCN magazine!
This review helped me in my decision and I ended up buying a 2021 VStrom 650. Really happy with it as a daily commuter.
Your reviews are getting better with each video and are perfectly fine in the current format. I prefer a more detailed version. Each section is time stamped so people can go to section of interest if needed. Well done and thanks for the time taken to put these videos together.
Thanks!
2015 loaded DL is what I bought new in 2015. Added heated grips, lift and set-back bar risers, Twisted Throttle skid pan integrate to the OEM plastic engine guard, 12V power port, shock sox. All the other goodies from crash bars, adjustable windscreen with the deflector (ZERO BUFFETING) upgraded seat, black Suzuki labelled aluminum panniers and tail box, brush guards etc. included with the designated DL650 AX/EXPL with ABS.
The best thing on two wheels.
Coming from an big, heavy and old Fj1200, this bike gave me a boost in mc riding. Enjoy the bike a lot, and for me its perfect for cruising around on twisted roads here in Norway. Have mounted on centerstand and brackets for extending the original windscreen, works quite good for me (180 cm). Best review I've seen so far!!
Great stuff as always.
Please keep the long review format since it's more informative.
In early videos you always mentioned measurements in metric sizes as well. For the European viewers that was nice, since that imperial old school stuff just went out of fashion over here 😉
Love your content and the fact that you are very thorough in your reviews... and you have a natural, and low key approach. It separates you from a lot of the other TH-camrs out there who can be very shouty and tiresome in the long run.
All the best
Thanks
Your analysis is really good. I learnt a lot not only about the Vstrom, but also the competition.
Hi Jan! Your reviews are great, don't limit yourself in time please. You are one of the best reviewers, thanks for your work!
Fantastic review...one of the most honest, thorough and all around informative reviews I’ve watched, regardless of bike. I own a ‘15 Strom 650 and it’s been reliable, capable and a blast to ride. 13K miles later and I highly recommend it.
Thanks
Excellent review. You covered everything in detail using plain easily understood language, and telling us your views and experience. No gloss or bs and no ax to grind. Well done!
Thanks
Thanks for the great review! Very clear! It will maybe be my next bike, so its good to hear and see the pro's and con's explained in a nice and clear way. Keep up the good work!
thanks
I just bought an SV-650 and for the first time experienced this engine. I'm loving it. Its so smooth, yet so characterful and even the stock exhaust sounds great. You can run it very quietly at low RPM, but also make it rev and let it roar. I can really see this as a great ADV bike engine.
thanks for sharing and today i was made my choice after watch your review. I was spend almost 1 month to decide either Versys 650 or CB500x. But today i was get my VStrom 650. 🤗 ...
Congratulations. I was in exactly the same situation and after many evaluations and considerations I bought the V-Strom. I bought the Black With Blue. 2024. In Brazil it is more powerful and with more . torque
I am new to riding and shopped around and rode alot alot of bikes. I ended up with 2017 Strom 650 and I absolutely love it!
That was a very helpful review. I sat on the VSTROM 1050 and 800 DE models at the motorcycle show, and didn't like the inability to flatfoot them. I am seriously considering this bike, and your review here is helping me along.
No surprise that the lighter Vstrom 650 is better offroad than Vstrom 1000. This is true with any manufacturer. I very rarely go off road and so the Vstrom 1000 is an excellent all arounder for me, with better brakes and acceleration than the 650. Nice review as always.
I am a recent subscriber, but I will be a loyal one, as I enjoy your content & presentation. Here in rural Western Franklin County, Massachusetts I've been riding for the last 12 years with a group of retired guys called "The Hells' Elders" as one of their kids calls us. I've met 18 of them in my early association, but due to attrition, our numbers are dwindling. Several of them went through the Nuclear Navy Sub Corps in the '60's & were placed in Nuke Plants after their discharge from the Service. They seem to be dying from cancer or mesothelioma, but nobody will blame the Service or their job environment for their demise as they all have tasty retirement pensions. My point is that several of the members have, among other brands, 650 & 1,000 cc V-Stroms as their primary rides. My Road Capitan has over 146,000 miles on his 650 with no engine work so far. He's been around the Country twice & has bagged about all of the contiguous U.S. States. On one trip he logged 26 States in 21 days, 12 National Parks & 9,100 miles on the same synthetic engine oil. That bike just keeps logging smooth miles. As I mentioned in a previous vid, my sport tourer is the 2008 Suzuki GSF1250/S Bandit, which I love more every time that I ride it. I've done 3 trips with a group of six in the past, averaging 11 days & 3,000 miles. That is about my personal limitation for extended trips. I don't have the attention span to be in the saddle for more than 12 hours per day, although I did an 18 hour day on one trip down South on the Outer Banks. I didn't put my head on a pillow until 1:30am the next day, as we traversed the entire island & had to turn around & travel back North to find motel vacancies that day in September. It was like the height of vacation season, even though schools were back in session. I'm 72 now, but that happened about 8 years ago.
Respect ! :)
Love your videos first of all. I have a 2017 vstrom 650 and love it. I bought it new and have been on the fence of maybe getting something bigger but when I get on this thing it does everything I want it to do and more. I have had many adventures on this this bike and am now planning on keeping it for many more. bigger is not always better... cheers.
Great review of a great bike....Totally agree about your take on the T7: definitely the right choice for off road. The V Strom is fantastic for an all around commuter, tourer, etc.....
Great review, matches my experiences with Gen1 DL650s. I've logged over 150,000 miles on two DL650 bikes (new 2006 and used 2005). Rode the 2020 DL650 XT Adv and 2020 DL1050XT, and found they are still great bikes, but not too far removed from my Gen1. In the end I decided to just keep my current 2005 for another 50,000 miles and troll for good deals on an a used DL650XT. I loved the ride of the Tiger 800XC, and do like the idea of the T700. But I like to take 9 day trips into Canada and around the Eastern half of the USA. For what I do the DL650 is the perfect bike. Out west or doing more 2up than just a ride out to dinner I would probably change over the the DL1050XT. Since my wife rides her own DL650, our touring is solo, and the 650cc is near perfect with camping gear in Givi luggage. Literally I'm a happy camper on my Wee.
Great job. I like the longer reviews. Love the great info.
Would you buy a V-Strom 650 in 2021 despite the competition? Let me know below!
I have bought a 2009 dl650A, I am not a new bike buyer. I think given the fact these bikes are virtually unchanged since the first gen means I can't see the point. Personally I prefer to spend the difference addressing some the few problems you've highlighted in your review, the lack of bottom engine protection, soft suspension , better pegs and some heated grips. That motor is simply amazing, so tractable, so smooth it gives me a smile every time I take it out. Thank you for your reviews, I prefer your longer format but in either case your methodical attention to detail really grabs me.
I did bought a 2021 V-Strom 650 XT Adventure back in April and yes it is an awesome machine. I got it because of a friend, he actually told me about an "underdog bike that does not get the attention it deserved"....well he was talking about the V-Strom....
i got this bike (V-Strom 650Xt 2018) because i think it is a great all around bike maybe underrated. It's not offroad oriented as yamaha T7 or ktm 790 are (they're different beasts) it cost less and It will perform better in road trip with passenger.I did some offroad tracks with my V-strom 650xt and i think at the right speed it is doable. For an all around bike with passenger too.. i think this bike is a perfect do it all bike..
Yes, I would. I used one for a week’s tour in Italy / Slovenia. It was so easy and comfortable to use
Bought a new Suzuki 650 Vstrom in 2020, sold my 2011 Kawa 650 KLR. I like doing 90% street and around 10% off road. KLR is more geared to off road but at very least 50/50. I missed not having a 6 th gear and the V twin Suzuki gave me twice the hp (69 vs 35). So far it’s a great bike. Only thing I probably need to do is raise the handlebars maybe an inch for more comfortable stand up riding. Here in TX standing up in the hot months (May thru Sept) is so needed to help cool off.
I bought my 650 V-Strom, Adventure Model, as reviewed, in May 2019 (2018 model). Just about to turn 10,000 km. Almost no off-road, just highway and back roads.
When I bought it, I had a higher high seat fitted and lower pegs. (I'm 6' 2", and riding the standard model leaves me with knee and leg pain after 30 minutes.)
Excellent review. FYI, my two previous bikes were a Suzuki Bandit 1,200S and a BMW F650GS. I think the V-Strom gives me the best of both those bikes.
Thanks for an interesting video.
I enjoy your work. You and fort9 have me interested in bikes again. I just bought a low mile vstrom 650 used. I wish you much success. Carry on.
I really appreciate your reviews. They are accurate, informative, comprehensive and truthful. I do like the length of them as well. I have a 2019 DL 650XT and like it very much. I definitely agree with all your comments and opinions based on your experiences and they parallel my own exactly. Please keep up the good work. The 650 V Twin punches way above its weigh. This motorcycle may not be 'glamorous' as a GS or 'impressive' like a Multistrada, and it certainly has its faults and limitations, like any motorcycle, but overall, it is a lot more than it might seem to be in many ways. It is undeniably fun to ride, bulletproof reliable, reasonably capable, economical to buy and maintain, very frugal with fuel, and just plain very easy to live with. For some, that is enough.
Love the time labels! Really handy for zooming into the section of video I want.. pros/cons!
I'm on my 4th WeeStrom, an '18 yellow one and have only been in 65 countries riding full-time over the past 12 years until Covid stuck me here in Ecuador. I like your review and look forward to others.
Another great video! you’re so thorough and you cover all the important stuff and you move at a nice pace👍
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great review. Thank you very much. I have the 2020 V-Strom 650 XT and agree 100% with the points you make. I also appreciate the perspective you bring based on your significantly greater offload experiance compared to mine.
Glad it was helpful!
Great and totally spot on review. I have a 2014 version and not much has really changed. One thing I tell all my V Strom riding friends to do is to lower the pegs with the Adventure Tech kit, which makes a huge difference, especially if you have long legs. The other thing you noted about the harsh off road ride......lose the stock tires as soon as possible! The feel like rocks on sharper hits, even just going into parking lots or driveways. I thought there was something wrong with my forks until I changed the tires. And add a real skidplate. These things make it nearly a perfect do it all bike.
Your channel is a diamond! I have the DL 650 2004 here in Iceland. I have gone far and wide in the highlands here and the bike has been great in very challenging situations. No breakdowns and such a ton of fun for almost no money! Just one video in my channel, from one of my highland trips 😆
Still got my ‘09 wee. Your review explains my bike apart from the electronics. Super reliable and willing worker. I’m just about to embark on a 3000k return trip into the Aussie outback. I have come to expect 0 issues from the wee. Puts the expensive brethren into perspective. Keep the shiny side up and all is well.
Excellent review...your final evaluation of the bike was really spot on!!!
You always hit the nail on the head with you reviews.
an excellent, thorough, balanced, realistic, professional review with nothing missed and no time wasted (a rarity on youTube). thank you... I am most certain that a 650 V-Strom will be my next bike.
Glad it was helpful!
Wonderful video! You’ve answered a lot of questions that I’ve had running around in my mind! I found this video an almost game changer in what I was thinking of buying, to, in reality, what is actually practical for what I truly need from a bike! Cheers 🍻
Glad it was helpful!
Great video.
I have had two Vstroms in two years and I am really happy.
I bought last year a Vstrom 250 and it was a great bike and after a year I sold it and bought a Vstrom 650.
Here is my take:
PROS:
1. I know the design is subjective but for me the design is pretty cool.
2. The engine, reliable, smooth and bulletproof engine. It has lots of torque and the power delivery is lineal so its really easy to ride.
3. Value, you get a lot of bike for a good price.
4. Easy maintenance.
5. Great handling and low seat.
6. Love the dash!!! Old school, big analogue tachometer that it is easy to read....I prefer this hybrid analogue / Lcd dash over a TFT anyday.
7. Balanced all around bike.
8. ABS and Traction Control.
9. Easy to use controls.
CONS:
1. You cannot turn Off the Abs.
2. It does not have LED headlight neither DRLs.
3. Engine too exposed.
4. That the windshield could be easier to rise/lower it.
Rivals:
1. Kawasaki Versys 650: great bike, more road oriented, and a little bit more expensive that the Vstrom.
2. Honda NC 750 X: great all around bike like the Vstrom, available with DCT transmission, good torque but lower power, also more expensive that the Vstrom
3 CF Moto 650 MT: a poor's man Kawasaki Versys almost clone, cool design, cheaper that the Vstrom, road oriented bike.
Thanks for reading....hope it helps.
Ride safe.
well said!
An excellent review. I've just come across your channel and this is the first of your videos I've watched. I like your precise, no BS style! Subscribed.
Thank you for this review. Had no idea this bike existed!
Well done and realistic review...Absolutely great machine with some off road limitations as described.
Hands down best review I’ve seen on this motorcycle. I’m a cruiser rider and own a Harley-Davidson Heritage Classic that I love but am looking for a lower cost and lighter weight 2nd bike that’s just different from the Heritage. I’ve owned Suzukis before and have been happy with their reliability and comfort. This looks like it fits the bill. Thanks again for the detailed review.
Great review, exact shortcomings I identified after driving mine. Lowered the pegs, moved the bars back one inch, got a better seat and Givi Airflo. Just a great , reliable partner, especially if you plan on touring at normal speeds on two lane roads.
In Canada , a 2017 base model could be had for $5300 USD in 2018 with a 5 year warranty. Great deal. The Horn is useless
Great review.
There's a relatively quick way to turn off the ABS that I can confirm works on my 2019:
First: Make sure ABS is on: Start the bike and ride it forward (usually about 15-20 feet) until the ABS light goes off. This indicates that the ABS controller is calibrated and working.
Second: "Spoof" the ABS controller: Without shutting the bike off, pop it up on the center-stand, kick it into 2nd gear, release the clutch, and roll the back wheel past an indicated 10mph or so until the ABS light turns back on. (This usually takes a few seconds.) You have now "confused" the ABS controller and it will remain off until you shut the bike off and restart it.
Great comprehensive review...thanks from a New Zealand viewer...
Thank you for your honest and thorough review. I an considering buying a 659 adventure and this video was very helpful.
I really like the review, even though I am not interested in this bike I get a very good feel about it from your thoughts and comparisons to other bikes as well. I look forward to more bike reviews. Thank you😊
I like your longer reviews ..very informative and to the point so you can cover pretty much everything and they do not seem 30 minutes long... they flow well... love my 1st gen Vstrom 650 .. I like the amount of ground clearance and suspension, it keeps me in check speed wise off road as to not hurt myself too bad when I do go down (often!...LOL)
Thanks
Excellent review, comprehensive and honest !
Great review as always. Thanks!
Your review is spot on. I'm on my third V-strom (#1 gave to Son, #2 could not bring into Ecuador)...love this bike. It is NOT an off-road adventure bike...I wish Suzuki would stop with the "Adventure" marketing. V-strom is a great road bike, all-day comfort (with a Sargent seat), beautiful engine, handles wonderfully, great reliability, not a ton of expensive bells & whistles, very affordable to maintain, huge dealer and shop network, and does good dirt roads well. Get the base model, set it up the way you want it, and you're good to go. Spend time on this bike and you'll love it.
Good review. I have the same bike and dropped the foot controls 1 inch (online aftermarket kit) which makes it better for 6 foot 2 rider, also bar back risers. Great bike, plenty if power for real world riding and two up is very comfy. Love this bike and will keep it for a long time!
Thanks for the info!
New to adventure bikes, I'm a street rider with my 00 flht, appreciate your time and effort to bring us your videos and reviews, hang loose see you lathas brah stay safe and safe travels 👍🤙✌👊
great review, precise, nailed the positives and negatives of the bike but then again I am biased since I have a 2019 one :). Personally I like longer reviews, as long as they contain relevant information and aren't long just for the sake of it. Maybe if something seems too long, make a two or even three parter ?
Good vid. Had previously written you off as just another paid-for reviewer, though this was a great showing of this bike. I have more respect now for your knowledge and ability to translate the specs and performance into how it works in the real world.
The Vstrom may be the unicorn.
Thanks, mate. I love your reviews.
thanks
I used to ride a '83 Suzuki GS550ESE and it looks ljke the Vstrom shares real similar ergonomics. I loved that lil bike it was so much fun. I have really liked the idea of the Vstrom ever since it first came out. I've asked many riders how they like them and have never gotten a complaint. I used to take my bike offroad so this would be a cream puff for me. Just wish i wasnt handicapped now. I like the Honda DCT adventure bikes cause i might be able to still ride one of them. Thanks for the review and the pretty roads to see.
6:26 love when you throw up comparison charts like this. I often pause to consider the different bikes. great review thanks
I own one, and I have to say, that's a very accurate review. Good job.
I would 100% recommend this bike to anyone on a budget or anyone that doesn't want to break the bank.
Thanks
It seems to be a popular summary of the v-strom,it's ok cos it won't break the bank.Another words it's chep!I paid $13k aussies to put my '17,650xt on the road & as far as I'm concerned it was worth every cent.Ok Suzuki are not Bmw or Ducati but guess what they perform as good!
Thanks. A no nonsense factual report ,I am waiting for my 650 delivery asap.
Great reveiw right there. From my observation, your videos are always well articulated, balanced and honest. Am yet to get to the big bikes. I ride a Chinese TRK502, looking to upgrade to v-strom. The passanger part and suspension is what seems like a let down abit but still I guess it would be an upgrade from what I have now.
For the riding I do it seems perfect, could be my next bike. Excellent review again, you hit the important points .
Very informative and enjoyable even though I'm not in the market for one, I'm just waiting for the Lottery to come in so I can get a BMW gs, Thanks for making the time to make these videos.
Excellent review. I ride and tour on a DR650 and from the start gravitated towards a vstrom. Love love my DR and have set up to suit but I think I’ll add a vstrom to the stable to enable some two up touring with my wife. Very helpful review
Good review sir.. watching from Kuantan, Pahang MALAYSIA😀👍
Great review, you nailed it. I had a 2009 and I see some points have not changed.
I installed peg lowering plate, moved the handle bars 1” higher, 1” back, for a Marstad windshield.
It was great as a first bike for me. No crazy acceleration, easy to cruise, powerful enough for long trips with full paniers. Not the best, but 75% at all.
Glad it helped
Hey, brand new V Strom rider here. This was a great video, I appreciate your candid review. Thanks!
Agreed that for off roading the VStrom is not as capable as the Tenere 700 but I took the VStrom 650XT to Moab and with some Anakee Wild tires, It is still a very capable bike on the trails, yes you have to be careful with the ground clearance but beside that, this bike rocks.
Another good review. Half hour reviews are good. You know what you are talking about. I have a Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT 2020. Was good seeing a review on the V-Strom 650. Would be good to have the metric equivalent to imperial. Keep the good work up.
thanks
Another great video! I bought a new 2017 Vstrom 650XT and absolutely LOVE it. I'm 6'3" and 210 lbs and had the same issues you mentioned - bars too far forward and seat to peg measure is too short. Solution: 2 inch Rox pivoting bar risers and lowering pegs. Also added cleated metal pegs, T-Rex crash bars and skid plate. I stand a lot and wanted wider foot pegs and needed taller bars and lower pegs for my back when standing. I've now added Givi hard luggage and like them also. Buffeting: I added a Givi Airflow windshield - stopped about 85% of the buffeting - would be more if I were shorter. What you said about the intuitive handling and decent power have me hooked on this model (I'm 73 and don't ride very aggressively anyway). I've only owned a few bikes and still ride a Husaberg FE390, a Kawasaki Versys X300 and now the Vstrom 650XT. The Strom is by far my favorite bike I've owned or ridden.Very comfortable as you mentioned. Great power for a 500 lb 650! It''s perfect for this 73 year old geezer. -StromGeezer
Great comments about the v-strom.I've also got the '17 xt. Thought about getting another but why when this bike does it all.
really good content man i like the detailed reviews so if it makes the vid longer that's fine.
but really good content
Awesome review like always. You can disconnect the ABS for off road….Put the bike on center stand, start an go in 2 nd gear ….after a while, the bike will detect and problem and will disable ABS ( unfortunately TC too ) it will be back to normal on the next crank.