2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050 DE | Better Than The Honda Africa Twin?

Welcome to the brand new 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050 DE. The Suzuki V-Strom has been around for a while now, with its trusty V Twin engine. For 2023 Suzuki have massively improved the bike, the new DE model is an adventure bike with a lean towards off road riding.
With similar specifications to Honda's Africa Twin, how does it compare to the Africa Twin and can it even be better then the Honda? I go for a ride and review to see how the new V-Strom 1050 DE compares to the Africa Twin 1100.
#suzukivstrom #vstrom1050 #suzukivstrom1050de
My Patreon Page: / redangrevival
Buy Me A Coffee: www.buymeacoffee.com/redangrevi
FILMING EQUIPMENT:
Drone DJI Mavic Air 2: amzn.to/3tBxXMN
Camera Sony ZV E10: amzn.to/3nerDag
GoPro Hero 10 Black: amzn.to/3FpbXrK
GoPro Hero 7 Black: amzn.to/3AvN8aM
Zoom H1n audio recorder: amzn.to/3GTh5We
Rode Lavalier GO: amzn.to/3CK2JF1
DJI OM 4 - 3-Axis Smartphone Gimbal: amzn.to/3kdIRDj
Sametop Jaws Flex Clamp Mount: amzn.to/2XxlrjP
Sametop Chest Mount Harness: amzn.to/3tRytEG
0:00 Intro
5:02 Dual Carriageway / Motorway
6:53 Riding Style
10:38 Specifications
13:21 The Looks
15:27 Technology
18:02 Conclusion
CODE
WBBUNC2A7QWSVKQC
WYHW63KY056EFXMX

[@johnadams254]

I had one rode it year round in BC Canada and even up to Alaska. Bullet proof, capable ,reliable unfortunately mine was written off after a collision with a deer. Incidentally I rode it to the dealership after the accident with bent forks damaged rotors etc . Testament to Suzuki quality.

[@redangrevival]

That sounds like a fantastic trip 👌 Yup just riding it you can feel the reliability and "sturdiness" shining through!

[@David..]

Suzuki just engineers good stuff that doesn’t have much bullshit in it for reasonable prices. Was helping my neighbor fix his Yamaha r3 the other day and you could tell a lot of stuff was just phoned in and an afterthought whereas my 17 year old SV650 pretty much everything is fairly intuitive and well thought out to work on.

[@redangrevival]

👌 yup they are really well made, and reliable

[@terrellgarren7125]

Exactly. I can do a lot of work on my 1050XT with a couple metric wrenches and hex heads. My H-D requires SAE, metric, Hex, Torx, Phillips, etc. I had to replace the frone fender on my '23 Kawasaki Z900RS. The new fender came without the cable guides on either side. They are riveted onto the old fender. Nice bike but stupid cheap in some places.

[@jmlupoludowicy1239]

Nice one! I personally like the looks. In my opinion the looks of the V-Strom improved tenfold when they got back to the design of the original DR750. Yellow/blue are the only colors allowed for an off-road capable Suzuki by the way! 😜 Cheers, Lupo

[@redangrevival]

Yup its a good looking bike, ideal for an adventure bike style. Yes the more utilitarian look of the DR750 is a nice one. I would definitely get it in Yellow 😁 Nice capable ride. Cheers

[@quentinjackson6015]

I like the purposeful looks and utilitarian approach of the V-Stroms. Such a tried and tested under stressed engine would help any rider set off on a long trip with confidence. I guess the weight might be an issue, but then every motorcycle is a compromise. Thanks for the review. Cheers.

[@redangrevival]

Thanks glad you enjoyed the review 👍 Same it just has such a purposeful and strong look about it. Great proven record of reliability as well. Solid adventure bike. Cheers

[@phildaniels1214]

I like the yellow; it's nice to see a manufacturer do some bold colour options.

[@redangrevival]

Same. Brave option 👌

[@alichamas63]

Great videos man. I had a 2020 VStrom 1000 and loved it until it had some random issue with the exhaust valve, i had to take it back to the dealer around 3 times to fix it. Was disappointed with that since it was a brand new bike and while i was the dealer i decided to sell it and get a second hand R1200GS. Truth be told i liked the character of the VStrom more and found the BMW heavier, soulless, and not as comfortable as i expected. Sold the BMW but now missing riding and eyeing off either the Versys1000 or the Triumph Speedmaster. Thanks for your reviews on both those bikes been very useful.

[@redangrevival]

Thanks so much I appreciate that and really glad you enjoyed the videos 👍 That is interesting to hear that you liked the V Strom more than the GS! I am away working atm and missing riding loads! Riding is fuel for the soul 😁 Cheers

[@duanestiles4821]

Looks like it rides good and sporty looking great job on the vid

[@redangrevival]

Thanks 👍

[@benkelly2190]

Nice review mate. Always liked Suzukis. I guess it’s close to the tiger 9, which is a bogey in the V stroms custard! I think it’s a winner with the V twin engine!

[@redangrevival]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it 👍 It is a really solid adventure bike, the V-Twin really makes the bike imo. Cheers

[@YourFault]

Plan to sell my Africa twin 16 for a 2024-2025 1050. Hope they will continue to improve the model down the line

[@alexmorgan3435]

Nice review. Seems like a bike to definitely try if you are in the market for buying an ADV bike.

[@redangrevival]

Thanks 👍 Absolutely, not one to over look.

[@shaunlayton9814]

Good job 👍

[@allwheeldrive]

I've got an '18 1K XT that is (now) more sport-touring equipped. It is one of those eminently usable bikes that become more attractive and fun to ride over time. Super reliable, and with Road 6s, EBC pads, and progressive springs, it's a really comfortable good handler with more than enough always-accessible power for any street application, including when loaded with luggage and a pillion. Will be taking a hard look at this version and all its updates and upgrades. And this one looks better than my version with that maligned beak!

[@redangrevival]

👍 As you say they are just such great allround road bikes, characterful and accessible power. Also so reliable.

[@ReferenceFidelityComponents]

Personally I don’t see the point of any 250kg plus bike being taken off road. That’s seriously heavy. I prefer the looks of the DE over the road biased version but tubed rims would stop me buying one. I’d opt for the road biased version instead. I like the original no frills 650 so much I’d never sell mine. It sits in the garage with my main steed and still gets a lot of use. Utterly brilliant design and more comfortable than any other bike I’ve owned. Over 20kg lighter than the 1050 and as a friendly easy to ride every day bike, utter perfection, reliable and rugged. Must get to ride the newer one. Suzuki do suspension out of the crate really well set up. Mever had to adjust mine. What pothole? The thing glides over bumps totally unfazed 😂

[@redangrevival]

I agree, it is so heavy to actually take seriously off roading, unless you are a professional! The 650 really is a sweet spot, just love it. So reliable and the engine is great 👍

[@tedsalmon2533]

I for one think this is a very handsome bike. I owned a 650 2019 model and loved that bike. After 3 years I did trade it in for a Triumph Tiger 850 sport mainly because I wanted the triple. I've got to admit the Tiger is fabulous, the most overall fun I've had on any of my motorcycles

[@redangrevival]

I agree, think it is a great looking bike 👍 (especially in yellow!) Fair enough, nice to mix it up every now and then

[@ioandragulescu6063]

am in the same boat as you. 2019 650 XT with a ton of upgrades, including a suprisingly good after market cruise control but after riding the 2023 1050 (non DE) I decided it's time to pull the trigger and upgrade. What blew my mind is how nimble and agile the bigger 1050 feels compared to my 650, plus the extra power, brakes and all the other goodies they fitted on the 2023... the only thing I can complain about is the extra heat the motor generates compared to my 650 but I'll live with that. 4 weeks and impatiently counting :)

[@mickleblance8805]

I just purchased a leftover 2023 1050DE. What a great motorcycle! Home run Suzuki! Mostly underrated, but wow….get a test ride!

[@redangrevival]

Congratulations, they really are solid and great bikes. Enjoy 👍

[@simonchilli2088]

The engines are reportedly bullet proof and I've seen reviews where all the Stroms are called Armageddon bixe! As another viewer posted below I'd go for the road version tho. A good potholer too!

[@redangrevival]

Yes they have a great and proven track record of reliability 👍 I prefer the looks of the DE model, but yes I would also go with the standard model with the 19" front wheel.

[@kwik2008]

Thanks 👍😊

[@majordelays4909]

Appreciative comment.

[@jongofett085]

Would love a review on the Honda cl500, got my test next week and it’s on my radar.

[@redangrevival]

👍 Keep your eyes peeled for next Saturdays video!

[@jongofett085]

@@redangrevival thanks buddy, can’t thank you enough for the content new and old. Been suffering for a while now with mental health and you have got my hyped for something again and as soon as I pass il be travelling somewhere. Thanks buddy keep it coming.

[@Geshmaal]

Probably a slightly better road bike, quite a bit worse off-road. A better choice as an all rounder if you don't want to turn around if you hit a gravel road, but won't be crossing the Sahara. If you are gravel averse then the Honda NT1100 is probably a closer rival than the Africa Twin, and I suspect the NT is better again on the road than the DL.

[@redangrevival]

Exactly 👍 The NT is great for on road, I suppose a comparison of the NT1100 and the standard V-Strom model would be good

[@skyworks1621]

I recived the new regular 2023 Vstrom 1050. I can tell you the bike is really good, 2019 Vstrom engine was a bit more old school Vtwin, new one is more refined also on AC at hgh speed really amazingly stable. I had a new 2022 KTM SAS for a year before it got stolen so my standard is high. Super not crazy performance is not like in KTM but is goes well. I will upgrade to Akrapovic next weel to give it even better sound.

[@redangrevival]

Yes I agree, the new 2023 V-Twin has lost some of its V-Twin character compared to the previous model. The KTM is in a different league of performance!

[@laurentrun6564]

If you want a better sound, go for Delkevic exhaust, and waaaaay cheaper

[@skyworks1621]

@@laurentrun6564 my problem is that Iam obsessed with Akrapovic, this would be my 5th exhaust. I like the looks, quality, brand and sound. And they are from my home country.

[@himmelhollereisefieber5173]

Mega!

[@Kremlin_Brothers]

Hayabusa will always ahead than CBR. Good thing about ATAS is DCT

[@redangrevival]

That true

[@F3udF1st]

Outro reminds me of Patscan's song Chow Beller.

[@kannermw]

😂You got that right. Yellow used to be a color for cabs and is a not a good look for any motorized vehicle

[@ThePalmatron]

Nice machine!

[@Pramix]

What about the very soft front suspension? What do you think about it? Does the front dive deep while braking?

[@redangrevival]

It is not too bad, of course you can feel it compared to shorter travel suspension though

[@thodoris3790]

which turns better,this one or the africa?i love this bike,but if i decidse it,i think i ll go for the 19'' frond.more roadish

[@redangrevival]

I would say this does. However I would also go with the 19" front wheel on the NON DE model 👌

[@monunyabidness5949]

I came here to state the AT is better but I really can't say that as i haven't ridden the Suzuki. However; time for a new jacket mate. Yours reflects the time and history you have together- untold journeys to nowhere and everywhere, weekend jaunts to interesting places and events, daily commuting and all that- but it's starting to look a little dingy. Keep up the good work.

[@redangrevival]

Fair enough, I recommend a ride on the Suzuki 👍 It may surprise you! I know, it is getting really bad now. I have managed to hold out until summer, now I can get ride of it and breakout the summer gear 😁 Cheers

[@dirkdigglertube]

So would you buy it over the crf 1100 at? And the adventure sports, it worth the extra bucks?

[@redangrevival]

It is a really close one! Have to be honest I think I might have the AT, however might live to regret it haha

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

It looks great in those traditional Suzuki colours. Abit heavy. When you get to around 250 kg, it needs to be carried low, like on GSs and even my SCR950.

[@redangrevival]

Agreed it is on the heavier side, however it rides well on the road. I think the AT feels heavier when riding

[@wombal177jim]

cruise control is easy press to switch it on turn throttle to desired speed then with left hand activate it, simple you can switch it on and leave it on till you want to activate it with left hand. very misunderstood bike the vstrom ATB

[@njbification]

I prefer the AT, standard, it’s lower, cheaper, looks better and 26 kg lighter. Owned a v strom for 5 years, a great bike for an all rounder but the AT is better for me

[@redangrevival]

Thats fair enough, and it is a really close one. Just depends on personal preference really 👍

[@jimwms1able]

I that HJC Helmet a RPHA 90s? Is it a quiet helmet?

[@redangrevival]

Yes it is that model. No it’s got quite a bit of wind noise!

[@vstromxt3799]

My next one after my 650 xt 😍...or the 800 DE?

[@redangrevival]

I am yet to ride the 800DE, but it is meant to be a bit of a sweet spot 👌

[@volt8684]

When I test rode this it’s very tall and I struggled to get my leg over😂. At 6’1’ just about flat footed it. I ll stick to my 650 it does everything with aplomb. The best engine and very planted on rough roads. Couldnt live with yellow

[@redangrevival]

Yes it is tall, however the Africa Twin feels a fair bit taller! The 650 is a great platform 👍

[@stastroyepolsky2104]

Nice review, but...ATAS ES forever 👌

[@lancerbiker5263]

Good all around motorcycle it seems. Ever consider off road training school? They may offer a discount for posting. Many all over England... Cheers.

[@redangrevival]

Yup a really solid all around adventure bike 💪 Does what it says on the tin! Yes I have actually, would be great fun and I would need that discount haha Cheers

[@Alexanderpaal67]

At least Suzys got gps bars…. Honda,s not. Is the windscreen adjustable ? Tube tires ? Where is the airfilter & battery located ?

[@redangrevival]

Wind screen is adjustable but needs Alan Key! I believe it is tubed tyre at front and tubeless on the rear.

[@20cent]

No allen key needed, adjustable yes. The "road" version has a higher screen and tubeless front and rear, same on the 2020-2022 XT that had tubeless SPOKE wheels.

[@williamrae9954]

£130 to make the front tubeless (and you've got an emergency tube),fit a K+N,and a Trail de Couvert screen...and an 18" rear rim,to finish the job off?

[@craigcooper8810]

hows the power compared to the 2023 africa twin ?

[@redangrevival]

They have very similar power figures, but I would say the Africa Twin feels a bit faster

[@FlyingPanMan]

I had a 2004 V Strom 1000 with some carbon cans and tuned on a rolling road. Tested an Africa Twin and was underwhelmed by it. Kept the V Strom for several years and only sold due to hip and knee problems forced me to buy a scooter.

[@redangrevival]

I was really surprised by this bike 👍 Great solid ride and often overlooked I feel. There are some brilliant scooters out there, recommend the Honda Forza 750

[@mrspeigle1]

It's a sweet bike, but in the us it's 17k wich is a nice used r1250 or the lower end of a HD pan america and a full 3k more than a new africa twin.

[@redangrevival]

Yup that price tag really puts a downer on it! Shame

[@marksimpson5218]

The 21 inch wheel is always a compromise, if you only do road riding i much prefer the feel of a 17 inch wheel.

[@Geshmaal]

I think 19" is the best compromise here - it is nice having a bigger front wheel if you deal with speed bumps and potholes frequently, which is definitely the case for me in Scotland!

[@redangrevival]

I agree 👍

[@Farangmoto]

Modded 2017 AT any day. Wouldn't touch a new AT, or any new bike with the exception of the T7. Let's see the Suzuki off road, not flower watching.

[@redangrevival]

Fair enough, I can see why!

[@christianmouraux7269]

May be a very capable motorbike, but its look is somehow a deal breaker for me 😉

[@redangrevival]

Yup they are not good looking that’s for sure! Great bike though

[@queenslander954]

Yea maybe .. if only Suzuki didn’t use Stevie Wonder to design the colour scheme.

[@redangrevival]

😂

[@williamrae9954]

Beautiful...SpecSavers yourself? Classic colours ❤

[@David-uc8vw]

250 kgs....

[@williamrae9954]

14kg fuel, and 25kg you can trim...see the specialist off-road V-Strom guys...you could hit 199kg dry if keen enough?

[@sandwaves5642]

I'll consider this bike when : the Cruise Control and the TUBELESS wheels will be there ! Otherwise - no thanks

[@20cent]

The 1050XT has cruise control since 3 years, with the same look as the DE at 95% and 19" front tubeless spoke wheel

[@williamrae9954]

*will spend £14Grand on a bike,won't spend £130 getting the front wheel sealed...get a grip

[@Jungleland33]

This is most certainly not an "off road focused bike". Only a lunatic or a fool would take this off road. It looks like an off road bike, but that's as far as it goes. It's an adventure tourer. End of.

[@redangrevival]

I tend to agree! I would take it on a light gravel track but thats it

[@DashRendar308]

I'd rather compare the Arfica twin to the V-Strom 800, since thats more its weight class.

[@BarnettSpeedSuzukiThou]

Every Suzy is better than a Honda even if it isnt, lol.

[@benkelly2190]

😂😂

[@szaesz8190]

I wish it was the case...😢... When I road the 1050 Vstrom head to head against the AfricaTwin it didn't even come close... not in sound, not in power output... unfortunately... And I say this after a Gsxs1000f and a Busa gen3 in my garage(next to a 2019AfricaTwin).

[@enriquejaimes3368]

I love both suzuki and honda. Currently own a DR650 and after resting the Vstrom 1050, I went for th Africa Twin, it is just sooo much better than the Vstrom and not much difference in price.

[@craigg4246]

Every Suzy is better than a Honda, period!

[@craigg4246]

I have 11,000 miles on my 2023 1050 V-Strom. Not a single thing has gone wrong. Typical Suzuki perfect reliabilty