I found the BEST V-Strom for Touring!

[@joekaiser3033]

Very, very good review ... amazing!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! I’m glad you liked it. Please share it with others who may find it useful

[@NZCycletherapy]

As someone who is in love with the idea of owning a 650 XT, but is also very curious about the capabilities of the 800 DE, I found this video not only incredibly informative…but also incredibly entertaining too! Your delivery and style make it as enjoyable as all the hard work you’ve done in making it so professional looking, great work.

[@RiderXp]

Thank you so much for such a wonderful note. I truly appreciate it. I am also in love with the VStrom 650. I prefer touring so the VStrom 800 RE ( standard in US) was the alternative I wanted to consider. Subsequent to this video, I got the opportunity to ride it. I am still slightly split between the two. The 800 is new, has a cleaner look but the 650 engine character is just unmatched. I’ve been lucky enough to test ride over 90 bikes for these videos and that Suzuki is my absolute favorite one.

[@Ferralyt]

I am the proud owner of a V-Strom 650 that I bought new in 2004, and I’m thrilled to see that it still runs wonderfully. One of the features I particularly appreciate about the 650 is its ability to stay cool in traffic jams, unlike the 1000 version. For me, this is a crucial aspect, especially since I live in a densely populated city filled with cars and trucks. Moreover, the light weight of the V-Strom 650 makes it exceptionally easy to maneuver and push, even when loaded with accessories and luggage. This has become increasingly important over the years, given my age. In short, my V-Strom 650 is the perfect companion for navigating urban traffic while providing excellent comfort and maneuverability.

[@ma2xich145]

I've been riding a vstrom 1050 DE for a few months. I love it, great machine to do absolutely everything. It's my only vehicle, I go on vacation with it, I go groceries with it. This is why reliability is one of my priorities. The biggest advantage is precisely its power, when you are loaded with your luggage in the French Alps, coming out of a curve and following supersport bike while scraping the foot pegs is just enjoyable. The torque and the sound with a mivv exhaust ... too damn good. The weight isn't even noticeable anymore, very well balanced, surprisingly good off road !!

[@RiderXp]

I’m glad you love it. I think it’s a matter of personal preference. For street riding, i personally prefer under 100hp so I can behave myself/avoid temptation. I currently have a XSR900 and it is way too difficult to not be a hooligan on it. I ride a 130hp supersport exclusively at the racetrack, I do not want to even have the option of bringing those shenanigans on the street. A Vstrom 650 is what I would love to actually enjoy the scenery instead of trying to keep up with anyone else or even the thought crossing my mind. That’s how I have survived 100k + miles on 3 different continents in the past 15 yrs.

[@ma2xich145]

@@RiderXp totally agree with you ... i need this extra power sometimes (especially with passenger) but a 650cc would be great 80% of the time. Biggest issue with 650 and 800 cc is that lack of speed regulator ... I also tested big 1200cc like ktm super adventure and i said no. I do not behave like a good citizen on the road with 107hp but with 160hp ... that would be much much worse i cant understand how people can ride that without being a criminal 🤣

[@RiderXp]

@ma2xich145 Haha! We’re definitely on the same page about that. I doubt I’ll ride 2 up frequently, so I think I’ll be fine

[@LooxJJ]

For Around-The-World trip, nothing can beat VStrom 650XT or KLR 650. Trust me, if you can manage to do it, you don't want any other bike. As for cruise control - sure you might need it for the US, Australia or Europe highways...but once you get out of the region, you rarely need it. I used a throttle lock and it did a fine job.

[@RiderXp]

Fair enough. When it comes to endeavors like that, it obviously makes sense to rely on trusted bikes that have been used for such rides multiple times and they swear by it. As for cruise control, it does make sense for highways in larger countries and I only started appreciating it's relevance when I moved here. I've ridden bikes and driven cars all my life without cruise control and never even felt the need for it. But I can see why it's important here in the US and other similar regions. I have tried the throttle lock once and didn't feel comfortable with it and kept feeling I could inadvertently push it when I don't mean to and looked more like a safety risk than a convenience. I do have friends who swear by it though. Thank you for sharing your opinion and insights, that helps me with my understanding and research. Please consider subscribing, I'm working on more frequent content in an attempt to grow my small channel and bring value to more and more people. Cheers!

[@rodneybjornstad9016]

I have had two 650s. Am again shopping. Had thought I’d one day get a 1050. And now I’m looking at 650 again. Really really sweet engine. Two weeks ago ran into a fellow with 176,000 miles on his. Had it been any other bike I doubt he’d have that many. Not just the durability BUT moreover WANTING to ride it that much

[@asanrushid4981]

I had a V-Strom 650 XT 2021 and now I have a V-Strom 1050 XT 2022. V-Strom 1050 is a much, much better bike.

[@davgb7904]

A great review. Thankfully making objective comparisons between capacities and not clouded by the 'need for ccs' or unusable power in a world obsessed by having the biggest machine for no logical reason. I talk as someone whose been there, got to the age to downsize for necessary reasons and realise how much I've been missing by lower capacity, lighter, slightly smaller machines that are more engaging to ride! Only recently acquired an older 650 and now appreciating how it's reputation is SO well deserved. Versatile and underrated, this machine does everything most riders need , a lot of what they want and is uncluttered by things they don't need. The cost difference between a new 650 and a new 800 is enough to make it a very difficult decision - for me, the extra cost only adds unwanted and unnecessary power, weight and features. Where the true comparison comes at the moment is that a new 800 is around three times the price of a pristine, low mileage used 650. That makes the decision easy, until some 800s come onto the used market.

[@RiderXp]

I’m glad you liked the video. Thanks for sharing your perspective. Thankfully, for various reasons, I ended up climbing the cc ladder in gradual steps - 150, 250, 650, 600 & 900. I still haven’t been able to convince myself for the need or logic for a 1000 or about cc motorcycle in any class (street, sport, offroad or touring). I’m actually glad that a lot of people are realizing that. So far, as far as street bikes are concerned, i feel like 60-90hp is more than enough power to get around & enjoy the ride without getting in trouble. By the way, i made a video explaining that to beginners. But I feel like you may enjoy watching it : kzbin.info/www/bejne/iWXLgK19o5ahm7ssi=aXiYfoY1eemnI6HM

[@davgb7904]

@@RiderXp I'll go watch that now! (Been riding many years and delivered lots of training, so interested in messages to new riders). Your belief in 60hp-90hp exactly matches my own feelings. I started out in the late 1970s/early 1980s when even the big bikes were struggling to reach 100hp and that was more than enough on public roads. The CB750/4 was more than enough, until we were seduced by the Kawasaki Z1 at about 80bhp (same as the 800DE!), and Laverda's Jota a few under 100 bhp was considered to be (and was) a handful. With the increase in unusable power we just gained more and more weight. Of course, electronics has tamed the massive increase so that now we can use...maybe half of it, provided...we keep the Traction Control and modes switched on! I seem to remember there is an American magazine test measuring the amount of power used on a range of bikes of varying capacity, and for the litre plus, riders barely used more than about 35% of the available in real road conditions. My last bike was a 108bhp machine (Z900RS) and it spent most of the time grumbling to be unleashed. The VStrom 650 I recently bought gets a much better spread of usage across it's range and more fun to ride.

[@RiderXp]

I’m actually amazed that 200hp sportbikes are street legal. I love sportbikes (always have) but 200hp delivered to one wheel does not belong in the hands of a mortal riding them on public streets. Even at the track liter bike riders struggle to keep up with 600s if the track is tight and technical enough. I’ve been thinking about making a video on that topic but i know i’ll ruffle some feathers. I really like the test you mentioned that showed how much power is actually used by riders. I need to look that up and see how they did it. Thanks for sharing the insights. It’s always nice to interact with more experienced riders and share opinions and experiences with them. You have a nice day!

[@lotharhafner9578]

@@davgb7904 I can confirm every word you say. In my biker group, I have the weakest bike (V-Strom 650 2022 model). My fellows ride BMW GS 1250, BMW XR 1000, Z900RS, Yamaha MT 09 and others. But one thing I'm really able to handle is: overtaking. So most of the times, I see my fellow riders in the rear view mirror 🙂

[@kirkrivette6564]

last February, I bought a DL 650 especially to do a tour of the US and Canada and almost exclusively on back roads and gravel....I put on 31,000 km, heavily loaded, without a problem...I burned through 2 sets of tires due to the heat wave this year, and a chain. Other than that, I kept up with my oil changes....I thought I was going to be disappointed with the bike coming from years of riding big American made cruisers.... I was wrong; the more I rode the bike, the more I liked it....I hope it lasts me many more years

[@RiderXp]

Wow! That sounds like an epic trip! Thanks for sharing your experience, this solidifies my belief that the size of the bike isn’t ever a challenge in the hands of a good rider. I prove that frequently at the track, have experienced that on roads for years.

[@blainethurlow5483]

I had a Suzuxi SV1000S, which had the same 90-degree v-twin engine design, but tuned for more horsepower than the v-strom 1050. You should have heard it with Yoshimura exhaust. Pure magic! I would not leave the exhaust stock on any of these three bikes.

[@keithmcknight1223]

1050 sounds best. I love the feel of the 650. 800 seems to be best compromise.

[@tkiblawi1]

Though the 800 DE is a great choice, i still prefer the 650 XT for its v twin engine, tubeless wheels, long range, 19" front wheel size, and its proven reliability.

[@danielben-avraham1539]

I agree, I just dislike the woody woodpecker design. It is the only thing that has stopped me from buying the bike.A big part of ownership experience is having a bike you find attractive. But I agree that it is likely the best bike out there. My two brothers have three Strom's between them and one is the 1050.

[@RiderXp]

@danielben-avraham1539 haha! Agreed! I have bought motorcycles because of their looks on more occasions than one :)

[@jamiehalifax4954]

I'm close to getting a honda trans alp. But I've been noticing the 650 v strom has a cult like following much like my present bike a tw200. Would you take the v strom over the transalp alp. I drive like 40% highway 110 kms.40% secondary roads, 10% dirt roads as fast as possible while still maintaining control and watching diligently for deer.. and speed traps (..lol

[@Geshmaal]

Out of these three I'm most likely to buy the 800DE or RE when there's decent used stock. The 1050 sounds best IMO and cruise control is nice but the bike feels much heavier and it's much more powerful than I need! I've owned a 650 and whilst it is a decent bike I found the front brakes and suspension kind of lacking. I'm 6'3 and 100kg in riding gear so I can flat foot all of these bikes and a suspension upgrade is very noticeable for me!

[@RiderXp]

Thanks for sharing. The 800 indeed is my favorite one too.

[@chrissunde1104]

Once again, you've done a thorough job. Thanks.

[@RiderXp]

Thanks for the kind words. Please share the videos with your friends and help me grow the channel.

[@QuinnBoone]

I bought the 800 de for all around capability, can do fairly well 2 up and imo is a tad better off road than the others....

[@RiderXp]

Thanks for watching the video and sharing your experience.

[@richardhretczak536]

But 800RE better on road, tubeless tires and cheaper. With cruise control it could’ve been the best choice.

[@MrBenHaynes]

IF I bought new, it would be the 800RE BUT my 2009 650 has been so reliable, it will not be replace until it fails. Unlike Mulga Bill (and his bicycle), I will not "turn away the good old horse that has served me many days"!

[@RiderXp]

Even though I don’t own the Vstrom 650 yet, I can 100% understand exactly how you feel. I always have a hard time letting go of my bikes especially because none of them have ever failed on me. I had 3 motorcycles when before I moved to US. If I wasn’t moving the fleet would have grown haha! But on the topic of new, the 800RE (which is just standard here) is really really tempting me. And my XSR900 cannot do what the VStrom was built to do. We’ll see… Thanks for your comment and support Ben. I appreciate it very much. You have a nice rest of your day!

[@Andreas_Cologne]

My 650 was very reliable, too and I didn't want to replace it either (120.000 kilometres ). "Unfortunately" I got the 800 DE to test ride while the 650 was getting serviced. Now I own the 800 and love it.

[@JochenThe1]

VStrom ❤ I really like to ride my 800 DE in the mountains, for the highway I would go for the 1050 DE and in the city go for the 650 so all 3 are good😊 I choose the 800 because I live next to the black Forest 💚

[@lotharhafner9578]

love your competent reviews and interesting comparisons. What you should mention comparing the old (650) and the new (800) V-Strom is the weight. I chose (not surprisingly) the 650, because it is 17kg lighter then the 800. O.k., it hasn't got a blipper, but on a tour I work with short shifting and when I want to go faster, I love to shift. Regarding design, I did not fall in love with it on the first sight. But now, the design to me is unique, retro (love the analogous rev counter) and I like the (how we call it in Germany) "truck rearview mirrors". Because mirrors on a motorbike are meant to show what is behind you, not to look fashionable. I have to mention, that I'm 60+. But, when I want to take a walk (ride) on the wild side, I love to ride my SV650X.

[@RiderXp]

Thank you for the kind words, they mean a lot to me. As for the weight difference between the two, I could certainly perceive the difference since I rode them back to back but the 800 weight difference didn’t feel a significant enough factor that impacted handling outside what I expected it to. Some context here, I am a track rider (recently started racing as well) so to me anything I ever review is heavy. So during my reviews I try not to let the track bias for lightness cloud my review of a touring bike. (I do have touring experience across Asia, Europe and North America) So i try to not overtly criticize a touring bike for being heavy or a cruiser for being slow etc. I can see what you’re saying about the looks. I think how others think it looks is also a factor but as one gains more experience and maturity, vanity starts to matter less and less. I don’t care about autoblippers on street bikes, they’re a gimmick to me. Only practical application is the race track to save 10th of seconds. So overall, 650 is still my favorite bike of all times (over 90+ bikes I’ve reviewed).

[@galaxy.at.youtube]

In Australia, the service intervals for 650XT is 12,000 (at least in y service book it says this). I still do oil change every 6,000 km, but it is just me :)

[@markmason7019]

I personally prefer the 1050 because of the long distance touring that I do.

[@RiderXp]

I respect your preference for the 1050. If I may, I'd love know why do you find the 1050 better suited than and 800 or a 650? Understanding diverse rider preferences would help me make more informed videos for a wider spectrum of riders. Thanks!

[@exothermal.sprocket]

800 would accomplish an extra 10 miles for every gallon used, by comparison. I'd say a larger windscreen would help with wind at highway speeds.

[@DavidKD2050]

I just bought a new 2023 xt 650, (Australia), pick it up in a few days. Proven reliability. Good fuel mileage. I’m not at all interested in the DE but the RE seems to be pretty much perfect. But the engine is gen 1. The pice! So I will hopefully get several years of trouble free riding from my new wee and then we will see what it on the market.

[@Andreas_Cologne]

You're right, but the 800 DE gives you more fun.

[@RiderXp]

Awesome! Congrats! Hope you enjoyed the video, please share with other and help me grow the channel.

[@krampuska0111]

The best choice ! ❤ @hair2050

[@kuladeeluxe]

Good comparison. I like the dash of the 650. Plain, but functional.

[@RiderXp]

Thank you. If you like the dash, then the 650 is the perfect mid segment tourer. Please consider sharing the video with others and help me grow. Cheers!

[@peternap82]

Long story short 105HP for a heavy bike like this that is the bear minimum. A parralel twin is nice but the winner by character and performance is the V-Strom 1050 every day.

[@RiderXp]

Cool! I think having 3 V-Stroms with gradual power jumps is a pretty good strategy on Suzuki's part. They are able to cater to so many different preferences. I personally love to ride small/mid sized motorcycles and ride the hell out of them knowing they make barely half as much power as my racebike. It's like enjoying a toy on public roads :)

[@exothermal.sprocket]

The 800DE is a true 100 horsepower at the crank, with tuning. That's no slouch. Looking at 0-60 times, quarter mile, it's barely less than the 1050. Keep in mind it's much less weight.

[@darkNstormyify]

Love the report, am looking at the older 1000cc you have convinced me the only cruise control is the advanced feature,,I rider the C50/800cc, so the 1000 will be fine, better all round bike,

[@RiderXp]

Cruise control is indeed an important feature for a touring bike. It’s a shame Suzuki chose to not have it on the 800 despite a ride by wire throttle. Eitherway, Vstroms are loved dearly by many for a reason. I’m glad you liked the video. Please share it with others who may find it useful

[@arturmarcio630]

best v strom video ever, thanks

[@RiderXp]

I’m glad you liked it. Please share it with others who may find it helpful.

[@danielben-avraham1539]

I ride my Himalayan in the Andes with it's 45 degree roads and trails. The bike has the power but the 450lb weight with luggage is tiring. I cannot for the life of me imagine enjoying a 550 lb plus bike off road. Many serious off road ADV Indian riders traded in their Himmys for lighter and smaller Japanese bikes. I get it. The biggest bike I would ever buy would be the 650 Strom. I had a Goldwing but prefer something lighter and more economical. But even with a 650 Strom, I would still have a 250cc for the mountains.

[@RiderXp]

I’m with you on that. That’s why, to me, the better use of the Vstroms is touring with occasional dirt trails/fire roads. For proper offroad, there are purpose built bikes which are light and a lot more capable in that terrain. Some have lights and mirrors to make them road legal (For example a Honda CRF300L or Rally)

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Is it ever truly "off road" or are you merely referring to "off pavement"? Everything is a gradient. Roads can be smooth and graded, or full of babyhead boulders and 25% grade. How bad are the "off pavement" roads where you live? The only thing holding back the 800DE are the tires and a slightly soft rear shock. I've seen a competent rider sling the 800DE up the side of a mountain, jumping it, wheel standing up dirt slopes, bouncing over terrain most people use a motocross bike on. It held up just fine.

[@danielben-avraham1539]

​@@exothermal.sprocket The off road I am talking about requires 4 wheel drive, dirt bike, horse or donkey. The "roads" are rocky, muddy, washed out, and at times drop off into thin air from land slides. They are not conducive to high speed and can easily kill you at any speed. The roads or paths often are not square to the mountain but rather sloping off at a 25 degree angle towards a shear drop off with no guardrails. The normal flat incline is 25 degrees, but the roads quickly go into 45 degree declines and inclines. I have an old Nissan Patrol 4WD and have had to keep the truck running in low just to stop in from sliding backwards in the slimy mud during rainy season. Many of the roads were donkey paths used for bringing coffee out of the mountains. Imagine loose rocks the size of coconuts while trying to drop straight down a 45 degree trail. The rocks are placed there by the locals with 4 wheel drives to control the washing out of the roads. Deadly for heavy bikes. I have never seen any ADV bikes on those roads, only 125 trail bikes and 4WD trucks loaded down with produce. The Himmy is extremely capable due to the low end torque, but the weight is extremely tiring. I would love to see an 800DE take on the trails with us. The 800DE has a milder power range than the 650DE, and has a clean smooth power slope at 2000 rpm which makes it better off road, but it is 500lbs. And the weight is killer at slow speeds. I once saw a 650DE trying to climb one of the 45 degree slopes and couldn't do it because his power was too high in the rpm range. And the conditions were far too dangerous for speed so he kept stalling. I had to laugh as I tractored past him up the slope with my wife on the back of our slow Himmy. I remember that day every time the big ADV's blow by me on the highways. I just think to myself, I'd love see you in the mountains.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

@@danielben-avraham1539 Clearly those are the worst trail conditions one could throw at an ATV of 2 or 4 wheels. I know somewhat of what you're talking about as I've spent good deal of time in rugged Rocky Mountain trails, but only by foot or 4x4 ATV. There are trails steep enough and narrow enough that a 4-wheeler cannot work, you only have dirtbikes crawling up the mountain. Low speed handling skills are very lax with many riders, it's not an easy skill to develop. Weight can cause a problem, it makes things more difficult. But the limit of a capable machine is mostly the rider skill, the tires, and the gearing. I've been blown away seeing someone like Pol Tarrés on his T7 leaving motorcross bikes behind in Hard Enduros and moto scramble courses. He also does a good deal of trails type riding with that big bike. Check him out if you've not heard of him, if you're a off road bike fan. Ultimately, there's no such thing as a pure lightweight dirt bike that will also capably run thousands of miles of pavement comfortably at speed. The opposite is also true. There's just a bunch of motorcycles between these two extremes and the skill of a rider can take something much further away from its ideal use.

[@danielben-avraham1539]

@@exothermal.sprocket Ditto on everything you say, but you missed a couple vital things and that is muscular strength and excellent vision. I went through an extended illness and lost about 20lbs of muscle and lost the perfect vision I once had. Now riding these trails is twice as difficult and twice as tiring. Slow riding on a heavy bike is skill, strength, reflex and excellent vision and depth perception. Some things you take for granted and don't think much about until you lose them but I learned a vital lesson and am working to get back to where I was. And I checked out Pol Tarrés on his T700 and he reminds me of Ken Block's drifting in his 1400hp mustang. Nothing like power mixed with skill. The dyno on a vehicle tells me a lot about what to expect on the road and trail. The T700 has a beautiful steady ramp of power from about 1500 rpm which translates to very predictable and manageable power band. It has the same basic ramp shape as the Himalayan with nearly 2x the final hp of my modified engine, and only 50lbs more wet weight. Yea, I think it might be fun in the Andes, I would just be less worried about losing a $4k Himmy over a cliff than a $10k T7 if you know what I mean.

[@swissteam777]

Thanks for the great comparaison. I have been waiting for one like that for a while. I'm still debating between the 800RE and the 1050 (standard). Like you said, the price is not in the same range but the v-twin on the 1050 is still IMO, the best engine money can buy in term of reliability, torque and fun to ride. It also worse to note that if you plan to drive 2 up some time, I think the power on the 1050 would be better overall. Now if I was going purely with a form/function/financial rational mindset, I believe that the 650XT remains the best buck for you $.

[@RiderXp]

You’re welcome! I’m glad you found it helpful. The massive 1037cc 90V twin is definitely engaging without a doubt. My main disconnect with it was the unwieldy front end. It is definitely because of my personal bias in favor of bikes that are lighter and easier in terms of handling that led me to favor the 800 over it. As for needing more power to carry 2 people, I’ve done long rides (several thousand miles) with wife on the back on 25hp & 70hp bikes and never felt that even being a challenge. Granted that was in India where average speeds are lower but even in US context, I cannot see how a 800 could ever struggle with 2 people but it is also based of my extensive experience in riding 2 up and weighing 145lbs. Maybe heavier set riders riding 2 up may impact handling in a noticeable way. You’ve got me thinking about trying two up comparo as well in my future videos. Thanks for the comments and insight. Cheers!

[@richardhretczak536]

To me 800re is definitely better value than 650.

[@swissteam777]

@@richardhretczak536 But boy that 800RE is ugly... lol

[@asanrushid4981]

1050 engine is a legend!

[@mr1bienvenu1]

90 degree V is better than any parallel engine 😊

[@cranedaddy678]

Cool video. If the 650 wasn't so ugly I would have had one a long time ago but I have a 800de now and I'm super happy with it. If I was ever going to stick to the pavement I would really be looking at the 1050.

[@RiderXp]

I’m glad you liked it. I like your choice. I’m probably gonna be fine with the 800 for the pavement as well

[@BreezyRider66]

I miss my 650 gen 2(wee) might have to get another one. I'm 5'7"/70kg and managed fine with it. Lazy low down torquey v-twin character means long distances are not nearly as tiring as some other bikes and it is fast enough to have some fun...

[@ioandragulescu6063]

Interesting... . I upgraded from a 2019 650 XT to a 2023 1050 (regular not DE) and the main reason was that the 1050 felt like a better 650 overall, more power, better brakes, better suspension, feels smaller while I'm on it, especially the cockpit and riding position, aaaand more nimble and easier to maneuver, even on low speeds. You forgot to say (or did I miss it ? ) that the 1050 has a hydraulic slipper clutch. Much easier to pull the lever and no jerkiness if you drop the clutch a bit harder. On steep downhill hairpins on alpine roads, the downshift + autoblipper with the QS is veery useful. Also, where I am (EU) the service interval is 12.000 kms. And it's not overpowered, if you want to feel smth overpowered, try the KTM 1290 adventure with it's 160 HP...

[@RiderXp]

Thanks for sharing your experience. It’s quite interesting how my experience during the test ride was quite different from you. It goes to show that different riders can also perceive handling differently. I have to confess that spending most of my time at the track for the past four years has made me prefer lightness and agility and that could have influenced my perception of it. And I don’t think I mentioned about the hydraulic slipper clutch per se, but it may have been on the comparison screen in the engine and transmission graphics section of the video. Thank you for the feedback, it makes me stay focused and make better videos. Thanks and Happy New Year!

[@ioandragulescu6063]

@@RiderXp what I personally noticed is that one short ride can be totally subjective. It takes a good amount of kilometers with one bike to get a true feel for it. Happy New Year !!

[@RiderXp]

@ioandragulescu6063 Fair point. I am working my way up to the point where i get the luxury of having a bike for a few weeks to review. At the moment I have to make do with however long dealerships are willing to lend me the bikes for. Working on the dream, one video at a time. Thanks for your support.

[@s7edgekat610]

Excellent reviews, have watched them all truly. Thankyou. Can you tell what is your inseam, as 29 inseam I was little less planted and unhappy quit or for daily super stop go red light traffic

[@RiderXp]

Thanks! I’m glad you found them helpful. My inseam is 29” as well. I was wearing a boot with a 1” heal. Generally, I can’t flat foot touring bikes in stock settings, but i’ve learnt to manage them with only one foot down. Although, i agree it does get pretty annoying, even daunting in stop-go traffic. Lowering links or lowered seats may help if it really does bother you.

[@motonawaz]

650 sounds good for sure. Gotta have the cruise control for long distance riding. Great video man! 👍

[@RiderXp]

Thanks! Not enabling cruise control on a bike with ride by wire is not the smartest thing they did. Unfortunately, none of the other manufacturers have it on their bikes in that segment.

[@galaxy.at.youtube]

Well, if you really really want cruise control on 650XT, then aftermarket MCCruise is your choice. It is expensive, though (AU$1200, if I recall it correctly), butworks like a charm.

[@galaxy.at.youtube]

@riderxp, 650 is not ride by wire, by the way. 800DE is, I think.

[@RiderXp]

@galaxy.at.youtube That’s what I said. I liked the cable actuated throttle on the 650 but the ride by wire on the 800 was just as good.

[@galaxy.at.youtube]

@riderxp, I was commenting in line with the thread, which was about cruise control on 650, which is less trivial on 650. Anyway, I think we are in agreement here :)

[@judge831]

Since you rode them, I'd like some on bike footage and some more on the way the feel. I can look up all the specs and electronics easy enough. What I really want to know is how do they FEEL in comparison to each other. Does one feel more nible? Does one have worse vibration? Which seat is most comfortable?

[@RiderXp]

Thanks for the feedback. I tried my best to include commentary about the feel along with the specs. Will try and emphasize more on the feel in future videos.

[@charlesochler5800]

I have never seen 55 mpg on my 650 on the highway. I have also found the mpg clock is wrong if you calculate it miles to gallons used. I average 41-43 mpg. I ride 70 mile round trip to work. But I see little difference in mpg with a pillion

[@justathinker8669]

For your body size 1050 might be big and heavy but for the 6 foot heavy giants who need more power to carry them, especially with passenger, it may be the right choice vs the 650

[@RiderXp]

That’s a fair point!

[@justathinker8669]

@@RiderXp I'm similar size as you and I found it too heavy but the 650 fit me like a glove

[@RiderXp]

Awesome! I’m actually considering getting one for myself. I’ve test ridden 90+ bikes for my review videos and the Vstrom 650 is my favorite one

[@justathinker8669]

@@RiderXp at this point of time 800 might be better option, depending on price difference at your location. Edit: the 800 needs premium fuel vs regular for the 650. So 650 might be better for touring to more remote locations.

[@justathinker8669]

@@RiderXp Surprisingly, the Honda Africa Twin also feels easy to maneuver (vs other bigger bikes) even though it's a bigger bike

[@2910mack]

The older v strom 1000xt weighs the same as the 800de, it would be interesting to compare their riding dynamics since one has the same weight and more power but this is definitely the best comparison so far

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! I was actually really surprised that the new Vstrom 1050 with a 19” wheel handled worse than the 800DE with a 21” wheel. I do have a bias against bikes that are heavier but the difference I felt was very real. Like your idea about the 1000xt vs 800de. Next time I get my hands on them, it may be an interesting comparison. Thanks again, please share the video with others who may find it useful

[@2910mack]

@@RiderXp will definitely share

[@jasgsxr2726]

great review, also I think the on road orientated bikes get tubeless tires and off road 800 tube tires (no plug and go).

[@RiderXp]

Thanks! Yes, that is correct.

[@frankensteinsgarage9632]

Great review. And thank you for including metric measurements. My wallet wants the 650 but i think i would be happier with the 800RE. Slightly better in appearance both external and dash layout. Plus added power is nice. And factory up and down quick shifter. And tbh I run premium fuel on all my bikes so that doesnt bother me. Im never that far from civilisation that i cannot get premium.

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! I’m the same way about premium for my motorcycles. And since I moved to US with such cheap gas, there is no reason to bother with regular. And I do like the RE quite a lot and I think it’ll be perfect for the type of riding i’m looking to do. Thanks again for the kind words, please share the video with others who may find it useful

[@TheCdubbleyoo]

You don't have to mount you phone on the handle bar. You can mount it or another accessory on that bar above the display behind the windscreen.

[@daun123]

Very comprehensive review.. i like it a lot

[@RiderXp]

Thanks! Please share it with others who may find it helpful.

[@bike4137]

great review mate. subscribed .

[@RiderXp]

Thank you & welcome onboard.

[@jonwoodworker]

It's very clear the 800DE is the best all around VStrom.

[@galaxy.at.youtube]

Not to me, I went to purchase 800DE, rode both, and left with 650XT. It is lighter, less top heavy and with a bit of tinkering is much easier to handle off road. :)

[@richardhretczak536]

800re is better for most of the riders. And it comes with tubeless tires. That’s big +.

[@richardhretczak536]

@@galaxy.at.youtubewhy not 800RE?

[@galaxy.at.youtube]

@@richardhretczak536 , no such flavour here, Down Under. We only got 800DE, as far as I can tell.

[@galaxy.at.youtube]

@@richardhretczak536 , 650xt comes with tubeless too :) and is lighter :)

[@GiancarloBenzina]

Suzuki ain’t no morons, they have a great formula for classic receipts. Thus, as the K5, GSXR so is the v-strom 650 a lasting icon (whether you like it or not) and whatever new platform they create, it’s going to be like that, too, better. It’s a budget choice typically.

[@RiderXp]

That is an interesting way to put it. I think most people agree with it whether they like/own Suzukis or not. The reliability and working as desired is consistently undeniable.

[@FrankBonessa]

Had 2 3rd gen dl650's. Traded the '22 xt for a 1050de. To tell you the truth, all around I enjoyed the 650's more. 1050's tranny was clunky, there was a real flat spot in power when accelerating. Handling was ok.the constant cam gear whine was annoying. Didn't keep it long. Traded it for a gsxs1000gt plus in candy daring red. Different animals, but superior in every category, except off road. The 800 is a p strom, not a "V" strom. Don't want one either.

[@RiderXp]

Haha! I love P strom moniker you gave it! Thank you for sharing your experience. No matter what logic I use, I can’t get over the Vstrom 650. That Suzuki 650 engine is my favorite engine in over a 100 bikes I’ve ridden so far.

[@FrankBonessa]

@@RiderXp Totally agree. Even the GSXS1000 engine isn't as sweet. More powerful, but not as forgiving.

[@kenb9064]

This was very helpful

[@RiderXp]

I’m glad. Please consider sharing it with others and help me grow the channel. Thanks!

[@micwell2247]

The exhaust on the V is of either like of dis like.. I guess the length is beneficial in that it is further away so much so you will not hear it, I like a quiet ADV a bike. Changing the exhaust on bikes is messing pretty much with or without it, a performance gettn/being messed up. So I don't/will never change and exhaust and definitely do not want a louder exhaust . Ride a great distances with a loud exhaust note increases you gettn exhausted much quicker because of the noise . Other wise dealing with curb appeal the mortar type tube hanging on the side is not, well....not appealing ... But gettn one and not have the other...quite is most important to me on a long long days on end ADV ride ..

[@wilsonsilva8224]

Hi! Good video. Do you think Suzuki Vstorm 800DE a good choice for drive only asphalt? I'll not use for off road. Just dor daily and for touring. In my country, 800DE is at the same price than 800RE. Or do you think, for only on-road, buy a vstorm 650A? 2000 € cheaper. Thanks for your feedback!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you! I had the same question for myself and here’s how I would look at it. Since I would rarely go offroad, the 19” front wheel with cast alloy wheels and tubeless tires are far more useful and hassle free on the 800RE than the 21” spoked wheels with tubed tires on the 800DE. So RE for that reason is an easy choice. Between the 800 RE & 650, it comes down to whether or not the modern features on the 800 like quickshifter, modern dash and LED lights are important enough for you to spend the extra money. I love the Vstrom 650 but if I’m at it, why not get the latest and stay current over a longer period of time. The slightly more peppy engine is a bonus! Hope this helps.

[@wilsonsilva8224]

@@RiderXp Thank you for your feedback and your quick response. But do you consider bad decision to buy a 800DE for only asphalt drive? I'm not a off-road driver Thank you

[@RiderXp]

@wilsonsilva8224 I wouldn’t call it a bad decision. It is a pretty good bike for asphalt as well and I had a good time riding the DE mostly on highway and around town. I’m just saying the RE is just better suited. I got to test ride the RE a few weeks after this video and liked the slightly better maneuverability because of more appropriate wheels.

[@wilsonsilva8224]

@@RiderXp Thanks! :) I need to think about that.. Because i'm thinking about 800DE or Vstorm 650A. Only for city and highway.

[@heinstein26]

Hello mate. The spoke rims are useless in most cases. Actually a nuisance, since you need to get them trued/balancsed which most people don't know/talk about. I had a DR650 and had to do Truing of Spoke rims every 3-6 months which is a very time consuming process. ALWAYS go for Cast Tubeless Rims if you want trouble free rides. RE is the only bike to be had NOT the DE.

[@67daltonknox]

No cruise control on the 800. What are Suzuki thinking? It would add less than $50 to the price.

[@RiderXp]

Yeah that’s a bit of a disappointment. But then, i realized that none of the other motorcycles in that price segment have it.

[@ren11000]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/oWfMfoanj999bJY&ab_channel=VeridianCruise

[@zardportugal]

Man, the 650 is the better option BY FAR if you will ride alone on the bike.

[@RiderXp]

Honestly i’m still debating between the two. I was very clear about the 650 until i rode the 800. You should try it if you get the opportunity.

[@Geshmaal]

Tbh having owned a 650 and test ridden the 800DE I would rather own the 800, even riding alone. The brakes and suspension are much better than on the 650 and the bike feels more nimble and better balanced despite the additional weight. However my wallet would probably prefer a used 650 or DL1000...

[@zardportugal]

@@Geshmaal I agree BUT is not (to much) expensive to put the 650 with a top suspension. YSS shock and Andreani´s cartridge forks. Once you done it it is easy to pic up the little one.

[@Andreas_Cologne]

No, it's not. I bet you haven't tested the 800 yet.

[@zardportugal]

@@Andreas_CologneHow much do you want to bet?

[@avirupbanerjee3874]

comparing to the versys 650 and the v-storm 800 re, which bike do you think has better cross-wind protection ? which one do you think is better suited for travelling long distance ?

[@RiderXp]

I personally found the 800RE (which I did test ride after this video and will post later in May) to be more engaging to ride but the seat could be more plush for long distance touring Versys is hands down the plushest in the class. I didn’t experience cross winds during my test ride but 800RE did feel pretty stable on the highway. By the looks of it, the VStrom 800 does seem to have smaller fairings than the Versys so it could theoretically be better. Stay tuned for the full video.

[@avirupbanerjee3874]

@@RiderXp Thanks a lot bro. Will be waiting for your review on 800RE. Currently in India I just have the versys 650 on my list and I am waiting for Suzuki to launch the 800RE. Since the 800DE is too tall for me.

[@RiderXp]

Absolutely! Just know that the bike you ride is the most favorite bike of most of the world’s biggest journalists who have access to the best bikes in the world & still they chose the Versys650 for some reason. I personally find myself more excited about the Vstrom 650 relative to the Versys but that’s a matter of personal choice. Thank you for your support, more videos coming… cheers!

[@avirupbanerjee3874]

@@RiderXp Yes true. The v-storm 650 got discontinued here in India so no choice other than waiting for the 800RE. Well I would have gone for the Versys 650 but after watching numerous reviews on the v-storm 800 I thought of waiting 😅. Thanks for sharing your guidance, will be waiting for your video on it✌ .

[@volt8684]

Price, performance, dependability 650 every time

[@RiderXp]

Price and dependability - Agreed a 100%. Performance is a bit subjective, I am biased in favor of the 650 but I have to accept that the 800 does bring something pretty close and interesting to the table. The dash on the 650 isn't my favorite thing but it's a matter of heart I still love the 650 quite a lot. My head says I should buy 800 for a lot of practical reasons, but my heart can't forget the feeling I had when I was on the Vstrom 650 giggling like a 5 year old!

[@mr1bienvenu1]

Without the V engine it's just a Strom 😁

[@RiderXp]

😂

[@vinayanandvp6731]

Hello, do you see any chance that 650 get relaunched in India? I did all my research before going to the showroom and they said it is discontinued..

[@RiderXp]

Unfortunately I do not have any information about the 650 returning to India but the 800 seems to be headed that way. You can still find used 650s, although a little hard to come by and have high resale value.

[@vinayanandvp6731]

@@RiderXp I usually prefer new over preowned. Hope it get coexisted with v650

[@RiderXp]

Fair point. I’m the same way. But it is very very difficult to break the Vstrom 650. There’s a reason it’s been called ‘bulletproof’ for 2 decades now!

[@francescomarranzino6963]

I prefer 650!

[@RiderXp]

I keep going back and forth between 650 & 800.

[@christostsikouridis7674]

..you can leave the 650 aside….and compare the rest of the vstrom family…the winner is the 650 anyways!!

[@jamiehalifax4954]

Would you rather the 650 v strom or a honda transalp?

[@christostsikouridis7674]

@@jamiehalifax4954 i never liked the transalp or the africa twin… 650 all the way!!!

[@eduardom3209]

Which engine vibrated less in low and high rpms? And which engine felt more responsive and refined for you?

[@RiderXp]

The 650 felt more responsive (my personal preference for cable actuated throttles may be influencing that perception), the 800 felt smoother relative to the 650.

[@eduardom3209]

@@RiderXp wow i didn't think tlan inline 270 degree could feel smoother than a v-twin, but the electronic throttle on the 800 is a deal breaker for me, electronic throttles are very dangerous for motorcycles where you need precision

[@RiderXp]

Yup! That’s why I’m not a fan. Most new/modern riders may not even be able to tell the difference and then enabling electronics becomes easier so I can see the reason for popularity from a manufacturer’s standpoint

[@eduardom3209]

@@RiderXp i don't think anyone likes an eletrônica throttle, it just straight up sucks. Manufacturers use it because if you chop the throttle too quickly on a cable actuated cable there's still some unburnt fuel left behind the throttle body, that changes the air fuel ratio and increases emissions, and it's cheaper to use an electronic throttle than having a bigger catalyser, it's unfortunate but saves a few bucks

[@wasdwasd12321]

650 sounds best for sure

[@prateeksharma2360]

Any chance of 800 DE coming to India soon...??...what can be the expected price...??

[@RiderXp]

It is expected to be launched in India, I’m just not sure about the actual dates. I know some media outlets are speculating about the timeframe & price, but honestly that’s all that is - just speculation. Although, I wouldn’t be surprised if the pricing is very similar to the Vstrom 650 like all the other geographies. If they do manage a 9-10L price point, it may be pretty successful because an 800cc may still be justifiable at that price range given current taxes and inflation.

[@cpuuk]

I didn't like the 650 at all, found it underpowered. Never tried the 800. 1050 I put 29K miles on mine... awesome bike, if a tad cumbersome (heavy feel).

[@RiderXp]

Fair enough! We all want different things. For me street riding is about enjoying the scenery and rider community camaraderie, the middleweight segment feels perfect to me in all styles of bikes. When I feel the need for power and speed, I go to the track to scratch that itch with my race prepped ZX6R so I don't feel the need for it on public roads. Here's a video if you like the fast life: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rafOnX-ph9Z1facsi=MDKCCkBAeY_nTjBr

[@whatsgoingon71]

1:06 FortNine intro...

[@RiderXp]

haha! He's way more entertaining, but I'm humbled by the compliment.

[@krampuska0111]

Nem kell túl lihegni ! A 650 legenda, megbízható és pont elég.

[@varun2250]

Can you please clarify if the 800 DE needs premium fuel or not?

[@RiderXp]

Suzuki does recommend Octane 90+ in the US. These bikes do come with anti knock, you may need to check for your region. Sometimes manufacturers do tune bikes differently for different regions.

[@varun2250]

@@RiderXp Thank you.

[@bseidem5112]

Subscribed, good vid, just need fun factor.

[@RiderXp]

Thank you and welcome onboard. I am working on the fun factor aspect of it. Need to find the right balance. Your feedback is absolutely appreciated and means a lot to me. Cheers!

[@alphajed7700]

Do it now!

[@charlesscottkelly]

If its down to price the 650 is a miles better deal

[@RiderXp]

Sure is.

[@kevinwheatley1097]

The 650 V twin sounds better and I ride a GSX 8R.

[@tahoehiker]

Any heat issues with the 800?

[@RiderXp]

Slight. It’s not horrible, but i could perceive it for sure. I should’ve mentioned that in the video. Thanks for the question, I need to add that to my list of things to cover in my comparisons.

[@MudFarmers]

I (22 1050 xt adv owner)like the contents of your review but presentation-You flash through pictures etc too fast man,please slow down!!!

[@RiderXp]

Thank you for the feedback, I appreciate it. Am working on pacing a bit better now. Also planning to upload all those comparative infographics on a website in the near future.

[@FrancoisTX1974]

650 XT does not have skid plate

[@fuglbird]

In 2024 the V-Strom is much more interesting.

[@RiderXp]

it is indeed.

[@JayBee-cr8jm]

LED headlights are NOT an upgrade. I personally hate the headlight on my 800DE and I am not alone. The power is good. The pattern is, like all LED's, utterly terrible.

[@gimlet61cotswoldlad38]

Sorry to say, after watching this video, I now feel my brain has been through a washing machine. Speaking so fast and the information slides disappearing from the screen so quickly that it was difficult to keep up.

[@RiderXp]

Thank you for taking the time to share the feedback. I have been working on the rate of speech and graphics screen timing. I have been getting better but your comment indicates I need to do better. I truly appreciate the feedback, it helps me constantly improve and is highly valuable to me. As a work around, may I suggest watching it at 0.75x speed on the KZbin player in case you feel the information may be helpful if it was at a slower pace. Thanks again.

[@brunoanselmi384]

Sicuramente meglio il motore della V strom 650 io ho fatto circa 70.000 km senza mai avere nessun problema. L'unica cosa negativa è rimasta l'estetica ormai datata vecchia. Se aggiornano l'estetica ne venderebbero molto di più della nuova anonima 800 uguale a tanti suoi competitor senza anima e personalità !

[@verbalwidget7267]

The biggest thing the V650 is lacking is USD forks and better brakes. The V650 has old style mirrors but that is an easy fix, what is not an easy or cheap fix it the 1980's non-cartridge conventional forks and brakes. I hope the Vstrom 650 either goes away forever into the hall of shame or gets the updated suspension of the V800RE. The V650 is such a pathetic excuse of a Vstrom.

[@asanrushid4981]

Suspension and brakes are by far the weakest points

[@clintwestwood3043]

It's probably just me but i couldn't digest the information, everything too fast.

[@RiderXp]

I do try and deliver a lot of information in a short amount of time since most people seem to prefer that. But I am aware the pace may be too fast sometimes and I’m still working on finding a balance. For the existing video I can only suggest watching it at 0.75x speed in the youtube player.

[@whyme4476]

Aaaand you didn’t even pick one wow

[@RiderXp]

I really like Vstrom 800 but at the moment, the channel isn’t making enough money to justify a new bike purchase.

[@whyme4476]

@@RiderXp I’m getting a bike soon. Wife approved. Haha. So I’m considering the 800 or 1050. Never liked the 650. So I was hoping you made a decision. I’ll probably go 800DE

[@RiderXp]

Oh it’s the 800 for sure if i had the money

[@josephcaniones4629]

just got a 2021 1050xt brand new with a discount got it over the 800de and 650xt the best decision I ever made COMING from a gsa 1250 and moto guzzi 85tt

[@RiderXp]

Interesting. What difference do you feel on the Vstrom 1050XT compared to the GSA1250?

[@josephcaniones4629]

@@RiderXp service costs parts availability everyday driveability and smoother engine a do it all bike for adventure touring.

[@RiderXp]

@josephcaniones4629 Makes sense. Thanks for sharing.

[@josephcaniones4629]

@@RiderXp thanks brother! and one more thing vstrom 1050xt can cruise comfortably at speeds of 180 kmh upwards to 205 kmh

[@RiderXp]

It’s definitely got the motor for it. And having cruise control for long stretches is such a convince. It’s almost unfair they didn’t give it to the 800 even with ride by wire.

[@gizzyguzzi]

I don't care what it looks like, I don't care about cell phone mounts. How does it work in gravel and offroad? Oh? you didn't even do that?

[@RiderXp]

No, this was not an offroad review & I did make that clear in the video.

[@gizzyguzzi]

@@RiderXp you made it clear HALFWAY IN!!

[@RiderXp]

Gotcha lol

[@trevorlonewolf6406]

Always put a decent pipe on it and get rid of the rubbish Cat