My 2017 has been flawless and is my favorite bike ever! For this mid-size class of ADV bike, it couldn't be better. Added luggage, a Give Airflow adjustable wind screen and a few things to make it fit me better (6'3" and 215 lbs) like lowered, wider foot pegs, 2 inch pivoting Rox Risers, engine bars (T-Rex brand) etc.. Incredibly comfortable for any length ride and handles like a dream. Suzuki hit a home run with this one. Thanks for the vid!
I traded into a 2011 VStrom 650 back in March/23. My street bike experiences are VStar 1100, FZ1 and an FJR1300 that I traded for the 650. This 650 is just a blast to ride. It's tame enough for a new rider, but still has plenty of juice for an experienced rider. It's easy to maneuver in a parking lot and it'll cruise all day long at 80mph. The seat is comfortable for high mileage days. The 650 is approx 180lbs lighter than the FJR and has 1/2 the HP and that's fine and dandy with me. The FJR is a rocket powered turbo locomotive space ship missile and at 64 yrs old I decided that I didn't need that temptation. Too many times I accepted challenges on the road that, due to my willingness to take on challenges, could've ended badly. I'm no longer young and decided to no longer be dumb! Thinking of getting a WeeStrom? Do it! Once you learn the engine's character you'll love it.
Totally agree, I'm 62 and just downsized from a 2021 R1250RT to a 2023 V-Strom 650. On paper half the bike in terms of BHP and price tag but I've had much more fun on the Strom on the Scottish twisty back roads and now I don't have to worry about the BMW main dealer invoices. Cheers!
Hey@@GJS-live I'm 65 yrs old and looking to downsize my daily rider 2013 1200rt. How is the wind and weather protection. I guess I'm spoiled and don't want to give up the comforts the rt provides, but she gets heavy at the end of the day. You don't miss your rt? Does the vstrom feel significantly lighter? Thanks
I have owned two 650's I used both for commuting and did loads of miles on them and a 1000 which took my wife and I to Lake Garda fully loaded. The V Strom is a seriously underrated bike.
My 2019 with Hoglights LED headlamp unit is an incredible bike. I also added a Sellerie comfort seat on it that makes a 500miles stint so easy. Changed the screen to a Givi Airflow to combat the buffeting and I have no intention of upgrading whatsoever. Hoping to hit 100,000 miles. 14000 miles last year without one single problem. Love it ❤️
@@GJS-live it seems to affect people differently. You should test ride one. I just done 3000 miles with mine last week on a euro tour with the airflow, defo better than the original screen but hasn’t entirely cured it.
Couldn't have said it better. Had a '17 and now have a '22 650 Adventure. This bike is a blast and dependable as hell. The new pstrom will never have a following like this bike. No complaints or problems with either, except in 30k miles the low beam burnt out on the 1st one. The only gripe is the seat cover is a little plain looking. And I do think these are handsome machines.They can keep the pstrom.
Can you please give a reason for updating and the advantages (hopefully) of the newer bike? “I’ve owned a 2011 for 5 weeks now. I’ve done quite a few miles on it and am happy, mostly. I’d like it lighter. I think the front suspension is average at best. Love ❤️ love ❤️ love ❤️ the engine. Really like the fuel economy and range. Hated the windshield buffeting so removed it, best thing I ever did.
I've been thinking about buying one of these off and on for some time now. My first bike was an '01 SV650 and it was a fantastic bike for all of the reasons you mentioned; great powerband, lots of character, simple and easy to ride. I haven't owned a motorcycle in 12 years now and crave a more upright riding position now, along with the ability to tackle dirt roads. This was an excellent review, you've given me something to think about!
I love mine. My mods are New Russell seat, Givi windscreen, lowered footpegs, bigger horn, handlebars up one inch, back one inch, heated grips, extra lights, front fork springs, CBR600RR front brake calipers. Done.... point it somewhere far away , and you will love getting there. Extremely comfortable, great fuel economy, regular gas.BTW, I love the instrument panel, because of how well it works. I appreciate the functional, straightforward design of it.
V2 is what makes a Vstrom a Vstrom ! Great fuel mileage, reliability, tubeless tires, lots of aftermarket suport, great build quality, still made in Japan , ect !
Need an Allen key to adjust windshield 5 min procedure. I replaced rear shock added throttle lock and centrestand.Handguards standard in Australia but put Oxford heated grips on and full luggage (panniers,topbox) 2022 model and incredible machine.Reside rural area so long distance always and put a lambswool seat cover on which comes with rain protector.
@@gmmotomedia Thanks so much for responding! Glad to hear it's bearable. I currently ride an SV650 and wind buffeting is insane on that at speeds over 60 mph, especially at 70 mph or higher. I don't want to change the naked sport bike's look and feel, but I had to do something about it so I bought Suzuki's OEM Meter Visor and it has helped so much but still not perfect. I am looking to purchase a 2023 V-Strom primarily for commuting and touring (no off-roading) and wondered if wind buffeting is an issue with such a small windscreen. But glad to hear it's bearable. Cheers!
I have an Interceptor INT650 and a Scram. I looked at the VStrom 650 a few years ago and am thinking about one again. Ionly ride on road, but a mixture of back lanes, faster main roads and some dual+ roads. Curious as to how you found the VStrom compared to the INT650? Very different bikes, but in some respects there are similarities. I'd hate to get rid of the INT, or the Scram - which I suspect also has a lot of similarities in it's back road abilities.
You'll find that the V Strom is a lot more torquey and versatile for touring solo or two up. A much better overall bike for the purpose but lacks of the looks and character of the INT 🤩
Since my last posting I've had a 2014 VStrom 650 now for a couple of months. Still got the Interceptor and the Scram. Love all three for different reasons. And all three make me wonder why I've ridden 900 and above machines for the last 35 years!
I recently bought a 2011 after a long break from riding. I can find no fault with the brakes! Just getting back into riding I had to on occasion stop very quickly due to not paying attention to how fast I was catching up the the car in front of me. The brakes work extremely well! 😁
Suzuki tends to be a bit caution with their service intervals so for most cases you shouldn't need this check. The inlet valve gap should be between certain parameters, it's a routine check when the bike gets serviced.
DEAR SIR,WILL IT REMAIN IN THE MARKET WHEN 700DE IS BEING TESTED,? TO REPLACE 650XT.I NEED YOUT GUIDANCE ..I TRUST YOU SINCERELY AND BELIEVE YOUR EXPERINCE EXTREMELY ..REGARDS..I SUBSCRIBE,LIKE AND WISH YOUR YOU,YOUR CHALLEL GREAT SUCCESS
Thanks! As from the last conference they held - Suzuki was really inclined to keep their V-Twin lineup in the V Strom range so the 650 will sit along side the new 800. Hope that helps 👍
I actually like the bike I just don't like that one single pipe that comes out of the head and goes under the bike I think it looks goofy all by itself like that that's just my opinion, but I heard this year they're coming out with the parallel-twin motor I can't wait to see that
Sure there a decent bike , but the styling and the way the engine sits with it All exposed, the out of date clocks , the headlight . Iam currently looking for an adventure bike and this isn't on my list as a 650 or 1050, sadly..
The styling is excellent. Had a GS1200. Now that's a weird looking bike with tons of mechanical problems. That's why i sold it. Don't belittle it, unless you've owned one.
I'm kinda in agreement about the looks. I prefer the previous gen. I do however like the instrumentation a lot. It might look dated, but the functionality is excellent.Perfect Tach.
My 2017 has been flawless and is my favorite bike ever! For this mid-size class of ADV bike, it couldn't be better. Added luggage, a Give Airflow adjustable wind screen and a few things to make it fit me better (6'3" and 215 lbs) like lowered, wider foot pegs, 2 inch pivoting Rox Risers, engine bars (T-Rex brand) etc.. Incredibly comfortable for any length ride and handles like a dream. Suzuki hit a home run with this one. Thanks for the vid!
I traded into a 2011 VStrom 650 back in March/23. My street bike experiences are VStar 1100, FZ1 and an FJR1300 that I traded for the 650. This 650 is just a blast to ride. It's tame enough for a new rider, but still has plenty of juice for an experienced rider. It's easy to maneuver in a parking lot and it'll cruise all day long at 80mph. The seat is comfortable for high mileage days. The 650 is approx 180lbs lighter than the FJR and has 1/2 the HP and that's fine and dandy with me. The FJR is a rocket powered turbo locomotive space ship missile and at 64 yrs old I decided that I didn't need that temptation. Too many times I accepted challenges on the road that, due to my willingness to take on challenges, could've ended badly. I'm no longer young and decided to no longer be dumb! Thinking of getting a WeeStrom? Do it! Once you learn the engine's character you'll love it.
Totally agree, I'm 62 and just downsized from a 2021 R1250RT to a 2023 V-Strom 650. On paper half the bike in terms of BHP and price tag but I've had much more fun on the Strom on the Scottish twisty back roads and now I don't have to worry about the BMW main dealer invoices. Cheers!
Hey@@GJS-live I'm 65 yrs old and looking to downsize my daily rider 2013 1200rt. How is the wind and weather protection. I guess I'm spoiled and don't want to give up the comforts the rt provides, but she gets heavy at the end of the day. You don't miss your rt? Does the vstrom feel significantly lighter? Thanks
I have owned two 650's I used both for commuting and did loads of miles on them and a 1000 which took my wife and I to Lake Garda fully loaded. The V Strom is a seriously underrated bike.
Underrated? It’s the 3rd best selling Suzuki model…
My 2019 with Hoglights LED headlamp unit is an incredible bike. I also added a Sellerie comfort seat on it that makes a 500miles stint so easy. Changed the screen to a Givi Airflow to combat the buffeting and I have no intention of upgrading whatsoever. Hoping to hit 100,000 miles. 14000 miles last year without one single problem. Love it ❤️
I’m the same John, I put 14000 on mine too in it’s first year.
Hi, did the Airflow screen cure the buffeting? Thinking of getting Strom but hate buffeting. Cheers
@@GJS-live it seems to affect people differently. You should test ride one. I just done 3000 miles with mine last week on a euro tour with the airflow, defo better than the original screen but hasn’t entirely cured it.
@@GJS-live absolutely did, perfect screen for it.
2019 XT with lowered foot controls, high-seat, Givi wind shield, 1 inch bar rinse and now perfect for me at 6’3’ - fabulous bike and good review
Did you get a factory high seat or aftermarket. From who?
In 2018 I rode two up around the world on my V Strom. 43,000 miles and no issues.
Couldn't have said it better. Had a '17 and now have a '22 650 Adventure. This bike is a blast and dependable as hell. The new pstrom will never have a following like this bike. No complaints or problems with either, except in 30k miles the low beam burnt out on the 1st one. The only gripe is the seat cover is a little plain looking. And I do think these are handsome machines.They can keep the pstrom.
Can you please give a reason for updating and the advantages (hopefully) of the newer bike? “I’ve owned a 2011 for 5 weeks now. I’ve done quite a few miles on it and am happy, mostly. I’d like it lighter. I think the front suspension is average at best. Love ❤️ love ❤️ love ❤️ the engine. Really like the fuel economy and range. Hated the windshield buffeting so removed it, best thing I ever did.
I've been thinking about buying one of these off and on for some time now. My first bike was an '01 SV650 and it was a fantastic bike for all of the reasons you mentioned; great powerband, lots of character, simple and easy to ride. I haven't owned a motorcycle in 12 years now and crave a more upright riding position now, along with the ability to tackle dirt roads. This was an excellent review, you've given me something to think about!
I love mine. My mods are New Russell seat, Givi windscreen, lowered footpegs, bigger horn, handlebars up one inch, back one inch, heated grips, extra lights, front fork springs, CBR600RR front brake calipers. Done.... point it somewhere far away , and you will love getting there. Extremely comfortable, great fuel economy, regular gas.BTW, I love the instrument panel, because of how well it works. I appreciate the functional, straightforward design of it.
Were you able to just re-route the cables etc, when raising the bars or did you need longer ones?
Had mine nearly a year, love it. Only thing I’ve added is an ash tray and an air freshener….
V2 is what makes a Vstrom a Vstrom ! Great fuel mileage, reliability, tubeless tires, lots of aftermarket suport, great build quality, still made in Japan , ect !
I installed MC Cruise electronic speed control on my 2020 V-Strom 650. The cruise control makes long days in the staddle more enjoyable.
YOU explain so nicely,honestly, judiciously, brilliantly..I Love to watch the video again and again and again and again 💗💗❤❤
Oh thank you very much!
Thank you for your inspirational attitude motivation to buy one
Need an Allen key to adjust windshield 5 min procedure. I replaced rear shock added throttle lock and centrestand.Handguards standard in Australia but put Oxford heated grips on and full luggage (panniers,topbox) 2022 model and incredible machine.Reside rural area so long distance always and put a lambswool seat cover on which comes with rain protector.
Excellent video, thanx!! Do you think the bike is beginner friendly or maybe to much as first bike!? ✌️
Thanks! I think it's perfect for beginners given you're ridden a small displacement bike before 👍
A legend.
THANK YOU SIR FOR YOUR GUIDANCE ,I HAVE 250SX,I WANT TO UPGRADE IT TO 650 XT..KINDLY KEEP ME INSPIRED AND WELL GUIDED
I have a 2020 VStrom DL650. Puchased New. I keep looking but I can't find anything to beat it. Guess that I am going to keep it.
Thanks for the video! Did you experience any wind buffeting?
Yes there is but it's bearable 👍
@@gmmotomedia Thanks so much for responding! Glad to hear it's bearable. I currently ride an SV650 and wind buffeting is insane on that at speeds over 60 mph, especially at 70 mph or higher. I don't want to change the naked sport bike's look and feel, but I had to do something about it so I bought Suzuki's OEM Meter Visor and it has helped so much but still not perfect. I am looking to purchase a 2023 V-Strom primarily for commuting and touring (no off-roading) and wondered if wind buffeting is an issue with such a small windscreen. But glad to hear it's bearable. Cheers!
The V Strom 650 seems like a 2nd Gen SV650. What’s the primary difference?
The 2nd gen Vstrom is the best of them all.
It is so easy to adjust the windscreen, I had to say it. You get out a tool at home and do it once. That "need" for a fix is silly.
I have an Interceptor INT650 and a Scram. I looked at the VStrom 650 a few years ago and am thinking about one again. Ionly ride on road, but a mixture of back lanes, faster main roads and some dual+ roads.
Curious as to how you found the VStrom compared to the INT650? Very different bikes, but in some respects there are similarities. I'd hate to get rid of the INT, or the Scram - which I suspect also has a lot of similarities in it's back road abilities.
You'll find that the V Strom is a lot more torquey and versatile for touring solo or two up. A much better overall bike for the purpose but lacks of the looks and character of the INT 🤩
I have the vstrom and the interceptor. Vstrom all day long. No contest there.
Since my last posting I've had a 2014 VStrom 650 now for a couple of months. Still got the Interceptor and the Scram. Love all three for different reasons. And all three make me wonder why I've ridden 900 and above machines for the last 35 years!
Well done!
Thank you!
In the USA this bike got traction control on the 2017 model, are you just now getting this feature?
Same here, in Eu
Awesome bike 🚲. I want to see ABS on and off feature.
What about brakes. Are they strong enough?
I recently bought a 2011 after a long break from riding. I can find no fault with the brakes! Just getting back into riding I had to on occasion stop very quickly due to not paying attention to how fast I was catching up the the car in front of me. The brakes work extremely well! 😁
What are the valve adjustment intervals?
Suzuki tends to be a bit caution with their service intervals so for most cases you shouldn't need this check. The inlet valve gap should be between certain parameters, it's a routine check when the bike gets serviced.
15k mile intervals stated in the owner’s manual.
Damn they still cone with a40 tires?
My 2018 came with a40 tires, bridgestone has released the a41 already
At 18,000 km I switched to Michelin Anakee 3s (2019)- got about 26,000 km on them before putting another set on (2022).
Gen.3 so same as 2017 model except for decor.
Truth and reality is it's still the best.. please suggest
It depends on what you will use your bike for but it's definitely still one of the best middleweight adventure tourers on the market
DEAR SIR,WILL IT REMAIN IN THE MARKET WHEN 700DE IS BEING TESTED,? TO REPLACE 650XT.I NEED YOUT GUIDANCE ..I TRUST YOU SINCERELY AND BELIEVE YOUR EXPERINCE EXTREMELY ..REGARDS..I SUBSCRIBE,LIKE AND WISH YOUR YOU,YOUR CHALLEL GREAT SUCCESS
Thanks! As from the last conference they held - Suzuki was really inclined to keep their V-Twin lineup in the V Strom range so the 650 will sit along side the new 800. Hope that helps 👍
Sorry you had to get a screw driver. You only had to do it once.
Alguém poderia me abençoar com essa moto ,estou com 59 anos e sonho ter uma máquina dessa mas as configurações financeira não me permite 😮
I actually like the bike I just don't like that one single pipe that comes out of the head and goes under the bike I think it looks goofy all by itself like that that's just my opinion, but I heard this year they're coming out with the parallel-twin motor I can't wait to see that
Aluminium 😉
This was less of an experienced review and more of a recital of the specs and features.
Sure there a decent bike , but the styling and the way the engine sits with it All exposed, the out of date clocks , the headlight . Iam currently looking for an adventure bike and this isn't on my list as a 650 or 1050, sadly..
It'll never let you down though.
The styling is excellent. Had a GS1200. Now that's a weird looking bike with tons of mechanical problems. That's why i sold it. Don't belittle it, unless you've owned one.
I'm kinda in agreement about the looks. I prefer the previous gen. I do however like the instrumentation a lot. It might look dated, but the functionality is excellent.Perfect Tach.
I suggest the 650 be dropped from the line.
Put cruse on the 800de,
Job Done!
No, drop the 800, its ugly!
@@stevebakermediaand HEAVY
@@stevebakermedia Totally agree. Love 3rd gen DL 650's!
@@stevebakermedia Vstrom 800 = Tiger 800, F 850 GS..