2012 Suzuki V-Strom 650

The Team at Expedition Portal takes the Suzuki V-Strom 650 on an grueling test in the Bradshaw Mountains.

[@mixflip]

This video and the comments on it really helped me. Thanks for this. I thought I wanted a KLR 650 but Im seriously looking at the Vstrom now.

[@steventaylor3884]

this review was one of the reasons I chose to buy a v strom after passing bike test at age 53. Fantastic revew and equally fantastic do it all bike.

[@i61w]

steven taylor, couldn't agree more.

[@HumGuitar]

How does the v strom do on the highway with prolonged stretches at 70 mph?

[@johnyoung3511]

@@HumGuitar I've put 35k onto mine. Bulletproof. Will happily bimble along at 80mph all day. Took the wife to Venice and over the Stelvio. Piece of cake to ride.

[@HumGuitar]

@@johnyoung3511 Thanks man. That's good to know. I don't think I"ll ever make it to Stelvio. The Appalachian Mountain chain is where I'll spend most of my time riding (I climbed Mount Washington in New Hampshire as a young boy on foot a long time ago, and I'd like to take my wife up the auto road on a motorcycle), although I'd like to take a trip out to the Rockies some time. I personally see no reason to ever go faster than 80 mph, unless one wants to die.

[@johnyoung3511]

@@HumGuitar My sister is near Roanoke and we drove quite a bit of the Blueridge Parkway this spring (2018), in a car sadly. A great biking road, but a 50mph restriction and endless double yellow lines make it a bit pedestrian. We did the Southwest on a mate's borrowed BMW 1600GT (Reno - Grand Canyon - Death Valley - Reno) whilst we were over. Only one criticism of the VStrom design and that is you need to keep your eyes on the brakes, especially if 2-up. I'm considering braided lines and just maybe replacing the 2-pot calipers. Bikes are a wee bit more dangerous than cars. In the UK we are less than 1% of the traffic but account for over 30% of the fatals, so take it easy out there :-)

[@themonkeykingkaiser]

Hey man I just wanted to let you know that I watched this video a few years ago and I've had my sights set on the vstrom ever since. Tomorrow (6/9/2016) I go to pick up my 2016 vstrom 650 abs!!! Thanks man!

[@fa6529]

Hello m8! Any pros and cons? Surprisingly enough I found the riding position like pushing me forward..

[@themonkeykingkaiser]

fa6529 Pros: Rides smoothly, very comfortable, lots of room, quiet, stable, great acceleration (upgraded from a 230), awesome Cons: Slightly tall for me (30' leg seam) but not too bad, kind of heavy but you get used to it Overall A+, would not want a different bike

[@fa6529]

Great thanks!

[@cider999]

The best v-strom 650 review, I've ever found.

[@marcvb5087]

Great review !!! I have put some 5000 miles on my 2013 and totally share these findings. It's a great bike and after riding a number of 'bigger' bikes this lightweight gives me back the feel of freedom. The Electra is collecting dust since I bought the Strom... What a relief to hear the engine sound instead of crap music on this video: thanks !

[@geoffchausse4119]

I own one and I absolutely Love it. The engine doesn't perform like a 650, I'd probably dare to say more like an 800. I know it does really well on the street but how much better do you think it would've done with off road tires?

[@rjstockman]

Yep, Love mine, Thanks for the review!

[@johnnyViDeO]

Good review! Could this be the best motorcycle in the world, taking into account value, performance, comfort, reliability, and versatility?

[@marcvanbael]

+johnny mars I had BMW GS, Kawa GTR, Buell, Guzzi, etc... still have also HD Electra but... this easy, light, polyvalent Strom is the best bike I have !

[@BlueRidgeKat1]

It can go off road to some degree, but it's really just a sport touring motorcycle with a upright, comfortable, Adventure bike riding position and that's what 95% of it's owners are going to to do with it anyway. Some years of the 650 even have a decal on the side that says "Adventure Sport Tourer". I have 77,000 miles (123,000 kms) on my 2012 and these things just keep going and going.

[@4Borings]

Nice video! Great info and excellent photography.

[@fedswithful]

Great audio, really good, blow MCN away, thank you

[@xBeauGaming]

Thanks for making this video, I'm in the market for a new bike and loving this for the practicality.

[@giovannim5101]

Very good review you hit it on the spot i have a 2013 vstrom 650 with 31000 miles and love it . just change oil and routine maintenance and GO...... DEPENDABLE .....

[@ExpeditionPortal]

Thanks Giovanni. So glad you are enjoying the VStrom!

[@thormusique]

Excellent review that touches on all the points I've been thinking about. Thanks!

[@randyreek]

I agree - the V-Strom is a blast to ride! I added the skid plate before ever going off the pavement, though.

[@themonkeykingkaiser]

Man your review video is so awesome I keep coming back again and again to watch it. I hope you don't mind if I refer to your video in a blog I'm writing about the top motorcycles in each class?

[@MENSFORTHHILL99]

shave?

[@themonkeykingkaiser]

This video was super extremely helpful. Thank you so much! I've never had a bike and I'm looking to get my first bike. I've been eyeing this bike for a while. I'm still saving up to get it but I think I'm decided on this one. Thanks again for the awesome and extensive video review!

[@timbo11]

Did you get it? Cause I consider buying the Vstrom 650 as my first bike as well.

[@themonkeykingkaiser]

Timothy Todd Not yet. I'll be getting it this summer. I'm still wanting the Vstrom 650 but slightly torn on the 1000 as well

[@johnyoung3511]

@@themonkeykingkaiser TBH I've ridden both and have owned a 650 for the past 7 years. The 1000 IMHO is for crossing continents whereas the 650 is lighter, flickable and easier in traffic. When mates come I have no fear in throwing them the keys - its so easy to ride. Not so my 954 Fireblade ...

[@UncleWally3]

I rode my '09 to places it wasn't meant to go, for over 60 000 km's - from the Trans Lab-highway to Baja, etc. Boy, after riding a Beemer for years, was I surprised. I bought another 2012 'Strom and a have stated another love affair. Is it the best bike out there? No. However, for the money - and after more than 40 years of riding - the V-Strom is the best bike for the buck. And for most riders riding where most riders ride, it's one of the best bikes regardless of cost.

[@Adam-qw7kc]

Nice vid, I'm thinking about getting one. +10 for the TAD gear too.

[@ppger44]

I want a woods camping bike that I can carry water, extra fuel, food, tent and extra clothing . I weigh 265# at 5'11". I haven't ridden my 250 Yamaha Enduro for 32 years as a teenager. Would this bike be better for me wanting to get back into dual sport than a Kawasaki KLR-650? My local dealer is pushing me to get the V-Strom, but, I'm looking at price too. I'm fat, but, agile.

[@MarkusReese]

I should add to myself. I Started on vintage sport and cafe racer style. So me thinking I am now proportionate, might not be.... Second, I do have one concern on the Vstrom 650 that the larger 1000 doesnt have. Oil filter on 650 is right up front behind rear tire. There is an option front valence that does offer some coverage. The 650 seems to have better offroad options all the same. Love those Aluminium Panniers.

[@Paul49myspace]

My Street Cruiser has been a V-Star Classic 1100 and it has given me a very safe and comfortable ride since 2003. The KLR has just been added to my riding stable. And new rides are in the works.(Tame ones at 1st) Shopping for the add ons. Again thanks for the thoughts. T.C

[@metzidis]

Very cool video. Great presentation and really informative.

[@snarfblat2k]

ABS in dirt is sorta counter-productive. Since dirt is loose, ABS trying to work on dirt equals no brakes at all. Fortunately, you can buy a wiring harness to let you easily wire in an ABS "off" switch. It's all plug-n-play. Google "Eastern Beaver" and "V-Strom" and you'll find it.

[@neighborator]

A couple questions... What kind (brand) of skid plate is that? and how's the quality of the panniers and crash bars? I'm looking into getting into one of these but I'm not interested in something that can't take some sort of mild beating.

[@williamwilson6499]

I'm in my second season of riding a 2012 DL650A. It's mostly a street bike with ability to take off road but not serious off road. I've taken it down fire roads in forests, gravel roads, and dirt roads full of ruts without problem but guys who like to hop logs and bounce off of rocks would not use a bike like this. I wanted a travel bike that is comfortable on highways but can be taken for a bit of adventure off road...it works beautifully for that type of riding.

[@nickbenfell4327]

Every one talks about the vulnerability of the oil filter but I have NEVER EVER heard of someone damaging one.

[@ralphcantrell3214]

My friend did 3 months ago. We were on a smooth but rather steep and rocky Appalachian forest road 14 miles from pavement. My DL650 had a metal skid plate and his had none. Apparently, either a loose, potato-sized rock or a good-sized stick kicked up and absolutely TOTALED his oil filter. It was crushed into an almost unrecognizable blob and had a pencil-sized hole in it. It wasn't fun. We were only going about 20 MPH. It's a miracle it didn't damage the engine where the filter screws on. Do yourself a favor and get a good skid plate or stay on the pavement.

[@geoffchausse4119]

Fuel mileage I rode back from Daytona to Jacksonville (full gear) and burned 1/4 tank. AMAZING! that's over 100 miles! The brakes are only weak on dirt at high speed.

[@ppger44]

Where did you get the skid plate to protect the oil filter?

[@Paul49myspace]

Some great pointers Scott. Water clearance and traction with stock tires was very helpful. Tuff job is to decide for me will be type of rider I want to be, more trail 60/40. If its going to be 60 trail or 60 road? I figure so far a KLR 650 would be the better of the two for the trail. But if 40% of use is trail V-Strom would be the one to go with. Shock travel was another great point to bring up. Thanks for your thoughts! Still trying to decide!!!

[@mrjamrol]

Nice piece! Thank you for posting- keep 'em coming!

[@olafee1]

Thanks for your great review. I would add that the Trailwings are great for regular dirt roads (maybe not advanced) and are also great for pavement so actually I think they are a good fit for the motorcycle (and maybe its price as well)...

[@zzxx33mh]

v.good review and straight forward..thnx Scott.. thinking to get my first Adventure bike..and confused between new KLR or used 2013 VStrom with 7k on odd.

[@McGyver777ATGMAIL]

The KLR are for people who like to visit the dealer for repairs. The V Strom is for people who like to visit the world.

[@nickbenfell4327]

You will never regret buying the Vstrom.

[@dulayasaennok6725]

I have a carbureted 2002 SV650s. For highway riding (6,500rpm ~65-70mph), I get about 50mpg. So the range of my SV is just over 200 miles. Now, the V-strom has a bigger tank and is fuel injected. It only needs 57mpg to reach 300 miles range. Even though I don't own a V-strom, I believe it can easily get 300miles range.

[@ianmcginnigle8059]

Great review ! Lots of unnecessary accessories available but I agree with with skid plate !

[@troschul]

Yes i love my 650 v-strom 2012 mod. ..;-)

[@accountvideos]

fantastic review. good stuff. thank you.

[@williamwilson6499]

I agree with the comments concerning the width of the bags...seem to keep banging the edges of the bags. My other bike is a VT1100C Shadow and my 54 year old brain doesn't seem to keep up with the changes in width when I get on the Wee Strom. But it is a great bike and I look forward to my first long distance trip.

[@MarkusReese]

Hola, I am actually considering a v-strom as my number 1 pick currently for a bike this yes, with number 2 being the tiger 800. Anyways, I am 6'4 and in my initial tests, I am good on it. I remember back when the V-strom was first being shown at bike shows a decade, I fell in love with it then, but wasn't up for getting an adventure bike at the time. It sits high, and there is a "Tall" seat available through suzuki. When I do my test rides this spring, I will want to try that to sell.

[@alphacharlie65ms]

Is the side luggage easy to take off.

[@g41thomas]

I hope you do also a review on V1000 too...

[@vdsgw52]

What would your thoughts be between the 650 and the 1000?

[@McGyver777ATGMAIL]

The 1000 is very heavy but can run flat out loaded to heck and back. The 650 is more for a single rider or a rider with a light passenger and some gear. That 1000 is also not a bike you want to drop way out some place, hurt your leg, and not have someone around to help you get it back up. I would think with the proper outfitting and proper rider, the V Strom is extremely reliable and can take you nearly anywhere, but it needs proper decisions made about the type of terrain you will be covering and to be outfitted for that propose. Especially tires and the proper skid plate and even a front fork brace comes to mind.

[@MarkusReese]

My turnoff from the KLR was the carbs. For me, offroading is important, but I wanted mine for touring too. going from my high altitude to the coast, varying temperature etc. Even with modern carbs, I want a bike I don't have to keep tuning for once XD

[@iRideuWatch]

It sounded like he said at the end the fuel range is 300 miles. That is way off. I am lucky if I can get 200 miles. But then I ride the v-strom hard and fast. I get about 35-40 mpg.

[@geoffadam4475]

I love my Dl650A , I've had it on and off road and extremely pleased .. Haven't got the skid plate yet .. A little over 200 bucks for it .. Since I'm on the street most of the time j just carry an extra oil filter in my box just in case .. Hey it's better than nothing right ' the bike is well balanced and easy to ride, also handles a passenger very well. I can't ask for more when it comes to the economy .. I commute to work 30 each way ,, with at least a dozen stop signs and lights.. I decide

[@psynthpriest]

Experienced riders seem to be able to brake faster without ABS. I have a V-strom with ABS, I've never had it engage but I am a very conservative rider and I try to ride within my abilities. Statistically ABS-equipped bikes have fewer accidents since it prevents locking up the tire and going into a slide, the trade off is longer stopping distances. I think the V-Strom feels very safe on the rural gravel/dirt/sand roads and on pavement. That's just my 2 cents though.

[@haboob308]

I am torn between this and the KLR...

[@JRClaybrook1]

Me too. What did you end up with?

[@barneygo2010]

I started back in 2003 with a used 2001 KLR. I’m 5’6” with a 29” inseam. I used lowering links on the KLR 650 and that lowered the bike for me. Lots of fun, but top heavy in the single track. I quite enjoyed the double track. Rode it for 2 years and sold it. Bought a 250 Super Sherpa that was basically a Mini-KLR. Fast forward, after a cruiser, I missed my DS / ADV fun so I looked into the DL650. I bought a 2012 VStrom 650 on June 2012 when I traded in my Honda Vtwin 1100 CT.... 8 years later, I still own my Vstrom and I’m going to replace the worn out factory tires with a set of 90/10 Shinko tires. Other than an annual oil change, I’ve done no other maintenance. I just love this bike. I mostly on the highway/street and the odd dirt road hence the move to a 90/10 set of tires. Totally reliable and starts every time. Still using the original factory battery. Added a set of GIVI side bags since I’m just remaining a few hours from home versus touring the world so the GIVI side bags are great. Bolted an older steel tool box to the rear carrier for a cheap top box that adds character to the bike. All great fun. Life is good. Peace be to journey. Cheers

[@GrapJack]

Can you (or someone reading this) explain more by what he said about how the ABS can make you blow through a corner? Is he saying the bike is not as safe as they would make you think it is?

[@McGyver777ATGMAIL]

ABS pulses the brakes to ensure you do not lock them down and skid or panic brake and cause the bike to fall over. However, on dirt, sometimes you need to lock the rear brake and skid. If you plan on riding dirt a lot you could always pull the fuse, but then again, maybe just driving more carefully and slower with ABS on would make for a safer journey....less likely to panic pull front brake and lock it and drop it. But you could go long on a stop due to the brakes not locking up (by design) with ABS on.

[@crackerinternational]

what a great review.

[@UncleWally3]

I've done thousands of miles off road on a DL650, from the TransLab in Labrador to the circumnavigation of Baja. But good god, never on street tires! Why wouldn't you test it with more appropriate rubber? Also, I love this bike, but the standard suspension is barely adequate. Wonderful bike for the buck -

[@ronfriedman8740]

Great video Scott and extremely helpful. I'm considering either trading in my Roadstar for a V-Strom 650 or just adding it. Regardless, I have no desire to take this bike through the obstacles you successfully navigated, but it's great to know it could.

[@inscrutable2u2]

HIlarious: I had a Road Star and got a KLR 650 for more adventure-style riding. I liked it so much, I traded my Road Star for a new DL 650 A and now have the KLR for sale. The KLR is a wonderful bike but it's more off-road / adventure oriented than I'd like. The V-Strom is smooth, fast, quiet, gets great duel economy and weighs so much less than the Road Star. I loved my Road Star but think that Yamaha missed the mark on several fronts: a smallish gas tank (4.7 gallons), no emergency flashers and 800 pounds.

[@teoshaker]

''In an emergency stopping situation, you can easily blow a corner because the bike won't simply slow down.'' That's a scary statement.

[@McGyver777ATGMAIL]

This isn't the bike's fault This is a misunderstanding of ABS that most riders have but never ridden with it. ABS stops the brakes from locking up and if you come from dirt you kind of expect to be able to lock your brakes at times in order for a panicked stop and you can't do this with ABS so you may blow through a corner long or wide because you are getting all the break you could get without skidding or locking.

[@peterpyke1213]

testing one tomorrow

[@Harty426]

Great! Thank you!

[@Ferni1565]

good review.

[@DasAlbatross]

I got 63 last night 2-up with the wife. I get 75 solo so that's a very doable range.

[@joenviro]

Test rode this at my local Suzuki dealer a month ago. Gave it back after a mere 10 miles because the brakes were RUBBISH! I had to squeeze the front brake with all I had to make it stop! The suspension is budget to say the least, the setup is for street and it is too low and heavy for anything more than a flat gravel road IMHO. The only good thing about the 650Strom is that perky and smooth V-Twin. If you consider 50/50 Adventure touring, get a KLR650, Yamaha XT660Z or BMWs 800GS. The Tiger 800XC is also not bad.....

[@williamwilson6499]

You must have some weak hands. I've never had an issue with braking on my DL650...the brakes work beautifully and efficiently even in an emergency braking at speed. Maybe you don't understand that the front and rear brake are supposed to be used together.

[@iRideuWatch]

You must keep it under 5,000 rpm at all times.

[@jetwind72]

Sir, good review of this bike, thanks.

[@Harty426]

How tall are you? I'm 6'4 and wondering if I'd look proportionate on it. The salesmen have told me I do, but that's coming from a salesman Haha

[@andykearns5997]

Brill I'm having one I'm in the UK got a bmws1000r, but need something easy to ride in all weather's. Just message a bloke looks like I found one 3500 quid 19000 miles Happy days full adventure pack and skid pan

[@ExpeditionPortal]

Congrats on the new purchase!

[@triumph157]

when you want a great bike get a v-strom.

[@jesussanchez6448]

NOT UNDERSTAND A SHIT BECAUSE I DO NOT SPEAK ENGLISH LOL

[@twing21able]

Toilet bike, pig, gee wow , dud bike thumbs down.

[@nickbenfell4327]

But you have never ridden one have you.