I HATE The VSTROM 800DE | Can You Help?

#Suzuki #Vstrom800 #EICMA #EICMA2022 #VSTROMINATION
I'm disappointed in Suzuki's all-new VStrom 800DE that was released at EICMA, but I think you can help. I have an offer for the KZbin audience. I don't think they can refuse.
Suzuki concept art by oberdanbezzi.a...
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[@Birdynmnm]

Interesting to read all the negative vibes on the new upcoming VStrom 800 back then before the launch. As it turned out now that it arrived, reviews are overwhelming positive. On road and On the dirt. And the engine turns out to be a really wonderful machine. I tried it it and it’s just that good and apparently the do-all class leader some say. Try it and prepare to get surprised folks

[@ws8080]

The only negative comment I see from other reviewers are the lack of cruise control, which seems like a niggling little thing to me.

[@Birdynmnm]

@@ws8080 the cruise-control, I Can understand why some are disappointed it’s left out, that is a mistake Suzuki made for sure. Most in this thread are complaining about the weight, and apparently the 20kgs are a dealbreaker for the 650 fans. It is also a bit on the heavy side, on the paper, although it feels much lighter with a low center of gravity when driving it… Suzuki went with a steel frame, not aluminum, and a separate back frame. It was probably chosen for durability reasons, but weighs in some more. After all, the 800 is supposed to be living a more punishing life like speeding over rocks, giant holes, logs and what not, like a KTM 890 adventure R

[@BERZERKERSV4]

Yeah.. glowing reviews on the lack of cruse control, center stand and non adjustable windscreen with out tools… yup you told us..

[@F3udF1st]

​@@BERZERKERSV4At least you can get center stand as an option as opposed to cruise control.

[@CrossRoadPhoto]

I saw it at the dealer. Sat on it. Bought it. I think it is gorgeous. It's a whole new machine. I'm with you about Suzuki since I was a kid. But, sadly didn't get to ride as much. I can now.

[@shira_yone]

When everyone else are going for the modern look, taking another route might actually be a smart idea. This and Ducati Desert X really evoke the "good old times" vibe and I think it works.

[@MagicAyrtonforever]

The transalp is a bit ugly and a bit lame looking from the front - The Suzuki is heavy and has an old fashioned looking frame. Imo Honda should have done a better job with the headlight and front end, a quickshifter and cruise control, people would have paid £10,500.

[@snoopythedog3266]

They're dirt bikes to use on the road, the v Strom is a road bike that can be run up a trail

[@armadilllo]

I just bought a DR650 and built it how I wanted it. I'll take lighter and dependable over HP any day. Don't need electronic crap other than a GPS, LEDs and a charging port. Best ADV bike ever.

[@koejoe]

Fair game. And congrats. I miss riding the 08 Klr. There are some amazing custom dr650 set ups and I think It’s underrated in this day and age.

[@chucklesthefireguy5356]

electronics save lives...

[@armadilllo]

@@chucklesthefireguy5356 yeah, they make you walk or slow down to 20 when in limp mode.

[@MagicAyrtonforever]

Although it's not perfect you won't get me to part with my 1100cc Africa Twin, although I do 90% on road adventures.

[@arc001]

My DR has done 60000ks without a fault. I've circled back to the DR after 4 years of trying other bikes. The DR is my goto bike for anything really.

[@repetitivemotion]

Nothing wrong with the Suzuki Beak. To me I like it better than the new crop of bug bike front ends. I like Suzuki too, I ride a 2007 DRZ400S and a 2014 VStrom 1000 adv. Suzuki usually goes conservative with their designs and keeps the price down

[@WaitWhatsMyName]

I was looking at a used 2014. I think they look great. Any issues so far?

[@stevebaker7937]

So you haven't ridden one but have a strong opinion? Pass.

[@jbeezostl]

the vstrom is basically the tenere 700 but it weighs more, has more power and more tech. if the weight isnt an issue for you then the Suzuki is the better buy.

[@mizushima76]

I was 100% agree with your criticism and then... I tested it and it's an incredible motorbike. It's fun, comfortable and the engine is simply amazing. So amazing infact that I started to like its look too. The lack of cruise control, tubeless tyres and a very annoying wind noise (even with the touring screen) are the only downsides that are still preventing me to buy it. #vstromination

[@BornAGoon]

thats good to hear your test hope to get one soon

[@marceliszp4803]

@@BornAGoon I also tested it a few days ago. I plan to buy a second bike next to my hardenduro 450. On paper, the 800de was the least interesting, because of the weight it seemed to me even worse than the Transalp. Tests showed something quite different. It feels and lifts much lighter than the T700 (which I couldn't lift in the mud). At slow speeds it is very agile. On asphalt it is not as aggressive as the 890s, but surprisingly off-road it rides much better than the 890 adventure S. This suspension works really well. I was planning to buy 890s because the T7 with its high center of gravity is stressful. 890s (possibly 790s from 2023) has a low center of gravity. But the 800de has a very similar weight feel but the suspension works way better than 890s. In addition, a quickshifter included in the price and Japanese reliability. The only minus for me is the lack of tubeless rims. (wind protection is easy to change)

[@bobbydill6388]

I also own two 1989 Honda Transalps (for about 28 years now). Great bikes, but in need of a much needed update. Honda did just that. I'm on the top of the list for the first one that arrives. As for everyone that keep going on about the Yamaha T7 Tenere, if you think it's the best bike, then quit talking and go buy one. I keep hearing things like there are none around. I checked, there are about 80 of them on cycle trader all over the country. I found several of them within a short distance from where I live at retail price. So go buy one. All of these bikes have their good and bad points. They also have a place and a use. Buy what works for you. I would only ask that you a least wait for them to arrive, try them out and then be more informed of what they have to offer. Bottom line, life is short, just get out there and ride.

[@edsonroadmoto]

Solid advice 😮

[@insatiable_mind]

I looked for an old Transalp six months ago and didn’t any for sale in any condition within 500 miles, so I bought one of the many used KLR’s near me in great condition and low miles and I’m very happy. I’m more likely to buy an old TransAlp than a new one. I just like the look.

[@davidcolinfisher1034]

"everyone" you say, is going on about the T7. Everyone...sounds like an exaggeration. I agree, there is no such thing as a best bike, and it is nauseating to filter through all these ridiculous videos. You speak so knowledgeably about the T7, and its availability, but where I live in Canada, you can't get one unless you stand in line, we are not talking about used, and crashed silly by beginners and then flogged on the used market, Your generalizations need to be tamed in a little bit. Particularly the just get out and ride closing, well it kind of matters what you ride, not any bike will do, they are dangerous after all and careful considerations do have to be made, with the choice.

[@bobbydill6388]

@@davidcolinfisher1034 I have always believed that everyone is allowed to have an opinion. I have been riding for a little over 56 years on too many different styles of motorcycles and miles to try to count. I know I have well over 100,000 miles on my Transalps alone. I have ridden all over the USA and into your beautiful country. People usually fall into two camps. Those who ride and those who talk about it. All bikes have a purpose and will get you from point A and B. A lot of people think way too much into this. The bottom line is, I stand by what I say. Good luck will your search. If you will excuse me, I'm going for a ride.

[@BERZERKERSV4]

The latest Transalp looks like it is marketed toward S.E Asian markets…looks like the swarms of bikes littering the streets of Saigon…no sale..

[@vtownjester]

It might not be a Tenere slayer, but imho Suzuki really put together a great, well thought out bike and didn't just slap a 21" front wheel on. The bolt on subframe and adjustable Showa suspension front and back alone, could sway me from the T700. Honda's Transalp underwhelmed even the most die hard fan boys, while Suzuki took everybody by surprise on probably half of Honda's budget. The weight, yeah, it's there... That's the one thing that's got me somewhat apprehensive. Looks are subjective, but it's a bike that grows on you. Can't wait to see it in the flesh and take it for a testride. #vstromination

[@budharvey5873]

The last Suzuki I owned was a GT185 naked bike from the 70's. Being unfamiliar with its dual sport/dirt bike designs to me it vastly outshines the other bikes in its class. I love the retro front beak. 😍

[@BornAGoon]

I miss my old Suzukies

[@Vstromxt]

My first bike was a 76 GT185. I got first my 16th bd. I wanted a dirt bike but I rode the bike on dirt. Through creeks,farm fields,woods great bike.

[@benjy288]

If you can, get a dr650, cheap, simple, reliable, light weight, tractor like torque, very capable off road, goes well once you do the airbox, carb and exhaust mods, can easily cruise at 130kmh, plenty of aftermarket parts to turn it into an adventure bike like a big tank and windscreen, a bike made in 96 is still suzuki's best all rounder, even today.

[@ronwoudenberg2294]

I too have preferred Suzuki and I too have been a number of years without one. Today it is a Triumph Tiger 1050 and a Buell Ulysses along with my Honda XR650. So, the Vstrom 800DE has my attention. The dealer network is far better than Aprilia and the Honda is not a Suzuki. Yet, the t700 from Yamaha still has my attention. At 65 + years with 55 of them in a motorcycle saddle, I have to admit that it would be interesting to see what you can actually do with the 800DE. So, #VSTROMINATION!

[@BERZERKERSV4]

As good as the Aprilia is.. the harsh reality is the complete and total lack of a dealer network…. momma Aprilia states 77 dealers in the USA….if you conduct your due diligence , 20+ of those “dealerships” at scooters only….no sale

[@jonwoodworker]

Considering the 3; PStrom, T7, and Transalp, I thinks Susuki did great considering I thought they were dead and out of business. Also remember that weight is wet and the PStrom has a larger tank. So the weight gap isn't as bad as it seems. More torque equals more fun with more range. On paper the Suzuki has better suspension and if in real world it is a better suspension, then Susuki will be the better bike to have for the purposes of the three. I don't buy ADV bikes for dirt, I have an XC250 and a DR650 for that. I look at the middle weight class as commuters that I can take on a weekend adventure in the mountains on less technical paths. And kudos to Susuki for adding a premium skid plate and some other quality options. Honda makes you pay for substandard upgrades. Honda makes the best quality bike but there ad ons are garbage. My DR650 is the best motorcycle ever made but I am NOT a Susuki fan at all. However, if the PStrom is $10k and the suspension is good, I will be choosing the Yellow brand...but not a yellow one, I hate yellow...lol

[@keithquinn5624]

Exactly, these heavy adventure bikes are not meant or good for proper offroad adventures, they’re good for really light and easy offroad but mainly road… that’s why the dr650 is the best all around bike ever made… you can go everywhere on road, where any street bike can go, but then go places these can’t go off-road. Had a small adventure versys 300x that was surprisingly good offroad, nothing like the dr650 but better than any of these heavier bikes. If I did want a adventure bike I wouldn’t pick one of these, I’d pickup a used vstrom650 for cheap, but my dr650 can do everything and more than these adventure bikes can do so I’d get something totally different, like a sport bike.

[@DungNguyen-fj2wp]

Ride on amigos with gs1200 went to cinnamon pass Colorado passed many river bed with no problem. P-storm will do it with no problem. People will appreciate that 50lb because on the long freeway, the winds will blow and be more steady on heavier bikes

[@danielm6507]

It's a V Strom. The old motor was not a V twin but an L twin. Don't get so hung up on the naming, it's just a brand

[@repetitivemotion]

You say the DR650 is the best bike ever made but then you that you are not a fan of Suzuki? That makes no sense. DRZ400S is the best bike ever made, BTW😊

[@keithquinn5624]

@@repetitivemotion never said that lol

[@user-gw8nw1vz7n]

I bought this bike in May. The grey version. It is great looking, versatile, comfortable, and affordable bike. I have ZERO complaints. Ride the bike.

[@ComfyDadShoes]

It’s getting stunning reviews by non-corporate KZbinrs

[@jacobthorns5776]

09 vstrom 650 owner; love the bike but want a more modern bike to replace it. want a suzuki. here is what i DO NOT LIKE about the new 800 1. no cruise control..WHY>??, 2: tubed tires on a street bike...WHY?? 3; 21" front wheel on a bike mostly for touring when a 19 will do it all...make a 21" for a bike to compete with the tenere or Africa twin or make it an optional package. 4: headlights only because they are not bright enough from what I hear about them. 5; ADJUSTABLE WINDSHIELD WITHOUT TOOLS FOR THE LOVE OF PETE!!! How hard is that to do?? LOVE the rest of the bike!

[@PentagonalAntiprism]

#Vstromination, do it man! Speaking of an interesting angle, what do you think about the compression ratio and high octane fuel availability in remote areas? I really want this bike to do well so I când retire my 2004 DL650...

[@BD-ww7go]

Do it

[@TheDacane]

From reviews it seems that suzuki built an 800cc africa twin, and Honda built a 750 vstrom. Ive moved on from big adventure bikes, but the 800 looks gorgeous and different, the transalp looks like the africa twin you bought off wish. I think from your past you want an adventure bike that looks like a tall sport bike, and dont like the dual sport look in your tall sport bike. The 800 is not a competitor for a tenere, aprillia or KTM. What it does do really well is finally step up to fill a niche closer to a 850gs, tiger and africa twin. The kind of bike that is mostly a road bike, but is surprisingly easy to ride off road. The previous Vstroms were basically sport tourers, like the trans alp they are super fun on road, and really sketchy on any kind of offroad.

[@reywel7]

just for me this new v-strom design is sick and perfect for an adventure bike, that concept design you've shown looks more like a dirt bike.

[@repetitivemotion]

I agree. I like the beak better than the bug bike front end.

[@ericcoppola]

been riding the DE for about a year and it is so amazing for on road and off road. they did an amazing job. It did take about 700 miles to fully get used to the bike but after that its INCREDIBLE... off road it handles so good, you have to have good tires but the riding position standing is spot on for me. On road its great. If the GSXR and the RMZ had a baby it would be the DE !!! 🙂 super sweet ride !!!

[@1gewehr]

#Vstromination. The 800 DE less 50 pounds and with Cruise Control would be an easy best in class. Especially if they could keep it close to $10K. I love the idea! Show Suzuki what they should have had! My 2011 650A just rolled past 68,000 miles and is still going strong.

[@1001CP]

Im still loving my 14 Vee. Pretty low tech, good ABS and brakes with a comf seat. I really switched it more towards dirt over the years I had it and it never disappoints. The low end torques with a gearing change is amazing and a ditch digger. Playing with the suspension, more crash pro and removing that factory suitcase 25ib can for a light little thing makes a difference. No 21" wheel for it yet that doesnt cost more than the bike, but there will be. It has a super tough bash plate that has moved more dirt/rock that most bulldozers. It is not a scalpel off road-it is a sledgehammer and either moved obstructions or slides over them. You just have to keep the throttle on and trust it. After 50yrs of riding it does what I want and that is what I asked for at a great price then(8thou). AND I can throw another gear change on in minutes and run the hwys coast to coast. Its not perfect and not a DS but it will get me where ADV bikes can go. It takes some tweaks to make it happen but its economical ones. Im a bigger guy too and it is just somewhere under 500lbs now at the light end of the ADV big bike weights. It is super reliable and just keeps going.The 800 CAN be a great bike with tweaks and I am sure you will make a fun, reliable machine my friend. Cant wait to see it! I had a 650 before so know what a great bike they are also. Ride what ya go and have fun. Stay safe my friends.

[@tomtourand4531]

As a loyal Suzuki rider, I have been saying the exact same thing. If you go back to the early 90's DR 350, it was the closest thing to a street legal dirt bike you could get! Then KTM came up with the EXC line and took all their market share and Suzuki has never really stepped up with anything with such deep roots in dirt. I am very interested in what you develop with this bike and will be watching closely. #VSTROMINATION

[@BornAGoon]

Thanks for sharing

[@JohnSmith-ef8nr]

The DR350 was proper Duel sport bike, that engine was so reliable and fun.

[@welditmick]

I think you forget that - Street legal 'dirt bikes' have been around for years before that - IT,PE,CRM,XT to name just a few.

[@repetitivemotion]

What about DR650 and DRZ400S? They run great in the single track and on the Highway. All for less than $7,000

[@malikknows3510]

I love these videos and enjoy your commentary 75 vs 35% of the time! 100% with you on cruise control. But I think what's at issue here is what counts as an adventure bike? High mileage on- and off-road, is my definition. This makes the lack of cruise control a mystery, yet supports the rest of this Suzuki well. The Suzuki may be a bit better on road, but that bias will not hurt it with 80% of adventure riders. That seat looks like the most comfortable in the class. Your off-road bias may be showing here a bit, Mr. Goon. Few ADV riders do anything more than double track, and they buy a dual purpose bike if they need more.

[@rilke_roca]

I agree with every point you are making. Suzuki has once again just missed a good opportunity to deliver something really exciting. I wish they at least refresh their DR650 as Kawa did with the KLR. I support your idea #vestromination all the way.

[@BornAGoon]

I dont know what is wrong with them totally could have scored

[@xnihilo1044]

As a former owner of a DR and KLR, I can tell you the main problem: vibration at sustain speed. You simply can't get away from it on a thumper. As much as I loved those bikes (the DR was the winner for several reasons), it's just really uncomfortable at highway speeds for more than an hour. The manufacturers have the right idea with a parallel twin.

[@rilke_roca]

@@xnihilo1044 yeah, I know what you mean, I own a DR and I'm selling it because of the bad touring experience. It rips offroad, but since I do need to do a lot of highway to get there, at the end of the day it's just too annoying. I'm thinking on getting a KTM 790 adv R instead.... Just a bit scared about reliability though.😅

[@robsonenduro3316]

agreed, new v-strom disappoints same as transalp.

[@BornAGoon]

They let us down

[@gabeg8417]

I agree with your opinion, a great bike but a missed opportunity. They could have made the Tuareg/Tenere slayer and instead made what is likely a more affordable (and likely better) BMW F850 GS Adventure. #vstromination

[@fireteam_]

It doesn't have cruise control according to any of the press material. No bike without cruise can dethrone the 750/850 GS, Tuareg, or 890 ADV. It has throttle by wire so they can do it, but I'm not doing 300 mile days without cruise control. Also tubed tires on a bike that even OP says is 75-25 on/offroad at best is a joke. The 650 has tubeless spoked wheels, why can't the 800?

[@shira_yone]

@@fireteam_ to make it cheaper stock than the competition I guess

[@condorgull]

I love the DR BIG throw back! Missed the mark in this review!!

[@snupermoto723]

I like it and think it's gonna sell well.

[@BornAGoon]

It will sell thats for sure

[@nilanjannandi4713]

Looks are subjective , Transalp 700 looks utterly ugly to me, where tenere 700 and aprilla feels like someone chopped their nose , Vstrom is an absolute beauty ❤

[@davidwestbrook1856]

#vstromination. Totally agree. Love my 650 but really hoping for something lighter and more capable in the South African bush

[@BornAGoon]

lets do it

[@gasdive]

650XT rider here. It's a swing and a miss. Needed exhaust routed so it doesn't get squashed Protected oil filter Tool free air filter change Flatter seat so you can move around on 20 hour rides Either 19/17 or 21/18 (like pick one!) not 21/17 which makes matched tyres in the back of nowhere impossible. Tapered bars Both tubes or both tubeless, am I really going to carry two tyre repair kits? Better designed footpegs Last, but most importantly, cruise control.

[@teling2134]

#vestromination, just do it. or give me a drz 400/ 500 with 6 gears

[@BornAGoon]

It must be done

[@murlyn2]

Mmmmmm, a DRZ 500, with 6 gears. I’m all in!

[@JCRecline]

DRZ 450, 6 speeds, fuel injection, upside-down fork, and aluminum frame would be a very sweet bike. Too bad Suzuki won't build it!

[@Nashville_Delinquent]

Got a 800 a couple months ago. I didn't want the de, but it was 2500 under msrp. And I honestly am blown away. The quality of it blows my old t7 out of the water. I'm very happy with it... no its not gonna do all the stuff pol tarres does on his t7. But I have a feeling 99.7% of t7 owners don't do what he does on it.

[@jimh2061]

These 500lb adventure bikes are not meant to be doing single track. The only people that are truely capable of doing that on a monster size bike are people that grew up eacing motocross as kid. Most ordinary folks will only do a little gravel or dirt road. To me this Vstrom is what im looking for. Comfort and ability to easily to the highways and backroads with a nice upright seating position. Maybe the occasional gravel roads.

[@allwheeldrive]

Your ranting is understandable, but you aren't thinking any differently than just about any other rider. When you start to get familiar with ANY bike, there are always things that can be "improved". It's clear you haven't spent thousands of miles on, say, a 2018+ V1K. Or on any gen Hayabusa. Or spent years with a GSXr, or...you get the point. Their bikes don't slap you in the head, but slowly reveal where Suzuki's efforts were put to make a bike a REAL-WORLD daily companion. Honda has a similar reputation. I'd say at this point in motorbike history, there are really no bad choices, and that the subjective and/or individual-need reasons to purchase have become important. I'm sure you'll find things to do on the new V that will be of benefit, but you might also miss the reveal of the overall benefit of their wholesale approach to a consumer product that increasingly endears their owners for many years (V owners ride the shit out of their bikes).

[@embracethesuck1041]

The point on ABS is right on the money. There must be a reason manufacturers aren't doing it, but I'd even be happy if it was a reasonably priced add-on option. They've implemented all the hard things to do it, why not complete the job?

[@MusicalMemeology]

I agree Suzuki needs to hire better designers. I’d prefer they either go retro or future not this kind of boring in between.

[@BornAGoon]

Suzuki has got lazy

[@vityaz5063]

I ride a V-Strom 650 ABS from 2013.Would love to see somthing hot you will make out of the V-Strom 800 DE. VSTROMINATION!

[@hmbseesaw]

You are so spot on!!!!!!!!!! I finally had to give up on Zuki. They are always great with the motor. 20 years late on design. VStromination!!!!!!!!!!

[@Blockbuster2033]

This bike being as heavy as an Africa Twin is the real problem. And the Africa Twin has cruise control. Why not just get the Africa Twin at this point?

[@BornAGoon]

Thanks for watching and commenting I appreciate it

[@hair2050]

Just watched two reviews of the bike. Both very positive. It’s still too heavy for me personally but I think it is a good option for many out there.

[@RenoDeano]

Go for it. I have wished and wished that Suzuki would build a Dual Sport to replace my two DR650s (60 K-miles). Suzuki should have updated the DAKAR 800 and put it on the market 12 years ago!

[@sandwaves5642]

YES ! - finally a REALISTIC video ‼☝😀 ..... And why the tubed front wheel on the new V-Strom 1050 ??!! ( a rhetorical Q ).... They could blame the lack of CC on the recuced chip production ( in the world ), but the tubed wheels - what / who do u blame ... ??!! While Yamaha can claim that the T7 is a simplest / most trouble free bike with 42000km between valve checks, which you can take anywhere - what do these 2 - Honda and Suzuki claim ? A good video you've made ‼😀👍

[@Flyright07]

As a long-time Suzuki fan and former corporate staff member at Suzuki Canada, I would very much like to see you take a grinder to the that bike and shave every superfluous ounce off, then bolt on some budget friendly off-road suspension. I shit you not; my screansaver in the office was a stripped V-strom desert sled and there were many who wanted that bike. We often talked about sneaking a press bike into the shop to do exactly what you're proposing. Please take us to the promissed land 🙏 #vstromination

[@HiroNguy]

It is easier riding an underpowered light bike on an interstate than it is to try wrestling an overpowered porker on a gravel trail.

[@HUW-05039]

I really like your criticism. And I totally agree. 800DE has so many "why, Suzuki, why"

[@KapitanPisoar1]

I have a sports naked and a dirt bike. But the idea of ADV bike has been in the back of my head for some time. Especially living in Western Canada with abundance of all sorts of fire roads taking you to some very cool spots. I got to conclusion that if I am getting an ADV I will buy me some 10 year old Vstrom that costs about a third price or even less of the new ADV bike, slap some knobby tires and just head out and explore without having to really care much about the bike and still get to places $15000+ brand new bike would get me.

[@grinder471]

I am with you. Love Suzuki, owner of few Vstroms. But there will always be a small voice in me that says “gosh, similar design ?” … Tenere looks anytime better. Honda is a bit “too clean of a look” for me. But I am a Suzuki person. Damn

[@polaridoo1]

Thankfully for you, the bike you want exists. It's called the Touareg 660. If I want more dirt bike than a T7, I can buy a DR650 or I could buy a KTM 790. For me, the V-strom is sort of the Goldilocks bike. I already own a dirt bike so I don't need my adventure bike to be my dirt bike. Just my two cents.

[@kaybatbat1124]

Agree with you completely. We know what opinions are like(lol), but that front end just isn't attractive to me. It's the Woody Woodpecker ADV bike.

[@beaumas]

Honestly though for all the people who complain that their ADV bikes are more road biased, just remember that most people who get these bike will only ever use them on light gravel roads. For the people that complain that their ADV bike is not off road enough, you should have gotten a wr540f or a klr650 or a crf450 or most of the husqvarna or ktm road registereable dirtbikes.

[@michaelmathews295]

I don't understand why no tubeless tyre rims. They have them on the XTs, it's not like they need to retool. Frustrating.

[@musikerman52]

Just upgraded from v-strom 650 to this 800, and feeling very satisfied. Our roads (Finland) are in poor shape, so the best kind of mc. Working just fine!

[@knightwhite99]

Say what you want about the looks of this bike, but to ride it is to love it! It's an amazing, comfortable, capable motorcycle. It's my 3rd Suzuki, and it's the BEST motorcycle of the 8 total that I have owned so far.

[@randywestrum6416]

Yup, couldn’t agree more. It’s like the creativity train went off the rail…..well quite awhile ago. I waited desperately for years hoping for an upgrade to the DR 650 & DRZ 400. I pulled the trigger and went to Italy for iron because I’m not getting any younger. Was hoping for that elusive unicorn only to find a mule. Keep up the good work.

[@randywestrum6416]

Ops, #VSTROMINATION

[@kkiwi54]

I have a new Vstrom 650 and I like that it's aimed more at road riders than off road. The 800 doesn't interest me because of the 21" front wheel, and the weight

[@Hoodilydaddle]

Suzuki really does have everything they need to be competitive w so many bikes. Examples - No beginner bike. Fuel Inject the GS 500 from bottom bike to top beginner bike. Take the V strom 650 motor and put it into the lazy 650 s40 (Savage) destroy the Kawi Vulcan. And similar thought as yours on the 650 in a Tenere style bike. It's like they have all the best Legos and just won't build it.

[@BornAGoon]

Thanks for watching and commenting I appreciate it

[@chadmckenzie2095]

I'm not seeing the same issues. Complaining about a bike that a person hasn't ridden yet just confuses me lol. T7 is ugly. Top heavy and tall. Almost useless for touring. I applaud suzuki for the work on this bike and I plan on buying one. The T7, Aprilia, and other stub nosed rally bikes didn't get me to the showroom and this 800de is. I think lots will buy it.

[@FernitoAM]

Great video. I agree with you mostly. This suzuki with tubeless wheels (like the 650xt) and cruiser control would have been a best seller. The tubed tyres goes against the 20 years of vstrom history. Dont get that move. Now if the 800 had tubeless and cruise control, would they sell many 1050s? That's probably why and that is unfair to potential buyers

[@nestserau]

What's unfair? If you need tubeless and cruise, go buy a 1050. I'm not paying for that. You somehow think everyone has the same needs/priorities as you. Well, that's not the truth.

[@FernitoAM]

@@nestserau sorry if I offended you. I am only saying that if this is going to replace the 650, they are going against 20 years of their own history that's all. Take it easy mate. I wont buy a 1050 or a 800 as I have a much better offroad bike that suits my needs thanks

[@alphajed7700]

Correction: Honda Transalp design isn't new, it's from their 1986 V Twin version.

[@rivernet62]

I don’t get the love for tubeless. In off road situations, the likelihood that you will be able to plug a hole is slim. We just rode with a guy on a KTM and his rim seal failed. What did we do? We put in a #vstrominating tube!

[@trehanero]

"tube"?????? What is this??? Even my bicycle is tubeless for rock garden's...

[@rivernet62]

@@trehanero sure, I run tubeless on my mtb, to save weight. Not such an issue for ADV.

[@steveelliott5643]

good to see some honest review instead of ingratiating manufacturer

[@xnihilo1044]

Some great points: cruise control weight front-wheel dimensions looks (subjective) Last year I purchased a V-Strom 1050XT Adventure. At 58, it'll keep me happy for the next five years or more. After that, I think the manufactures of the mid-adventure bike segment will address these things. My hope is that Suzi will have it all figured out by the time I'm ready to trade.

[@Panos-xo9rc]

Purchased myself also a marlboro 1050XT last spring and i have to say i am not impressed. It did have to face stiff competition from my 2016 SV650,which i love despite its limitations like lack of air cover and bad seat. At the beggining everything was OK,i broke in the engine,stiffened the suspension a bit,the brakes are superb,the bike is spacious yet easy to handle...BUT,the engine is lethargic below 4000 rpm,the weight too much at 247kg and the transmission too long...Winding mountainous roads are a chore as i have to hunt the rpms constantly,and this is NOT what i am expecting from a V2 in the litre class.I wanted a comfortable allround pony able to flick itself around in these back road scenarios and instead got a highway locomotive able to sit all day long effortlesly at 170 kph...i seriously consider whether i should toss money to fix the bike to my taste,and for what it is SUPPOSED to do ,or sell it and stick with the SV.

[@kannermw]

@@Panos-xo9rc Suzuki changed the cams when launching the 1050 for more top-end at detriment to the predecessor 1000 low-end torque. Who gives a crap about 9 hp if it all comes above 7000 rpm but that's what buyers look at on paper but rarely ever need or use it.

[@kannermw]

I doubt Suzuki will offer cruise unless the other competitors do out of fear of cannibalizing their more profitable liter class bikes

[@rustynail9007]

I actually love the looks of the vstroms, I feel like the classic beak also helps keep mud and other debris off of the rider better than having none at all. It's the price that doesn't get me, and of course it has no cruise control. 21st century and no cruise control

[@nathanbanks7091]

The best bike at EICMA was the AJP PR7 Gold Edition. The same PR7 , but with a cooler color scheme and Ohlins suspension. (But the standard ZF Sachs suspension is really good)

[@druegeme]

my hope would be a road-oriented version with 17 or 19" front, cast tubeless wheels and not-yellow paint.

[@rosslangerak8361]

You're right about the weight. Despite the displacement increase, with the new engine, I would have hoped they could hold the weight of the early V-Strom 650s. However, I have no use for cruise control. I put a Crampbuster on my throttle and I can go hundreds of miles a day with no problem. And then there's the debate between tubed and tubeless tires. I pulled half of a utility knife blade out of the rear tire of my Africa Twin. That was not something that could have been plugged. I replaced the tube, though I could have repaired the tube if I'd been on the road. Any repair beyond plugging a tubeless tire still requires removal from the rim. Tubeless tires require a burst of air to seat the bead. Unless you have an air pump with a decent sized tank, that can be a challenge. There are ways to do it, but at that point the tube is easier. When I had tubeless tires, I took them to the dealer for mounting. Now that I have tubed tires, I do it myself.

[@BornAGoon]

Thanks for sharing

[@organichemone]

I like your Dennis Miller reference at the end of the video. My first new bike was the 85 Quadracer. It was an animal!

[@TerenceKaplan]

Of course the 'strom 800 is a road bike. If you wanted a real off road monster, you'd buy a DR.... :)

[@HAlanJohnson]

My 1st bike was a '83 Suzuki GS650L (shaft drive) . Last year I was looking at the V-Strom 650XT. Held off for the posible TransAlp. Well, I'm not happy with any of the midsize ADV offerings at EICMA. I'm choosing to wait until more YT content is posted on actual riding experience.

[@Killers_rd]

For me it's a great bike I come from KTM 990 and before a Suzuki Vstrom 1000, I usually use it to go to my office and eventually hit the road. I can't find something negative.

[@2radbraunsi864]

Thats all of the reason why i just ordered the brand refurbished new KTM 790 ADV, that got all adventages out of it✌🏻🙌🏻👍👍‼️

[@vezzarn]

Weird question but does anyone know what jacket/pants the guy is wearing at 4:45?

[@matthewbutcher203]

Im a DR rider....i know flame on 😂 ive not ridden the 800 yet but the blue and gold color scheme is a pretty sweet looking unit IMHO, ive not thrown a leg over it because it might follow me home

[@onthebackwheel]

Bought one, it's a good thing. Definitely a bit too heavy, but pretty capable with some decent tyres and the suspension set up

[@20cent]

Nah, as a designer, the Vstrom 800 looks more modern than the Transalp (slightly neo retro, like the DesertX but way, way less spicy) or the T7 (which looks like it was released 10 years ago) , and arguably more futuristic than the Tuareg. Not saying it looks better or would age better though.

[@Speedytrip]

100% agree. Heavier + uglier…puzzling what Suzuki was thinking. I’d Love to see what you could do with it!

[@WaitWhatsMyName]

I like the nose on it, doesnt look like its been fighting MMA for 10 years

[@brianrahuba6919]

You can disable the front abs . Pull the fuse . Simple !

[@stephenwiddick4934]

Totally agree. A completely new engine frame etc, then stopped short. Rather have cruise than a quick shifter. Tubed tyres and no centre stand if you get a puncture in the middle of nowhere. Plus extra tools to do the job. BUT like you I love suzuki. I've had 16 bikes over the years, 12 of which were suzukis. Own 3 bikes at present, Bandit 1200, v strom 1000, enfield scram.

[@donlyle3651]

#vstromination. 100% agree with your critique and your enthusiasm for Suzukis. The new DE 800 has great innards--ground clearance, fork travel, engine--but most people who ride more than 10% of the time offroad will look the other way when they see a wet weight over 500 pounds and tube-type tires. The lack of cruise control on a bike that can do any kind of long riding is a secondary but important irritation. If you could get the DE 800 even down to the 2017's weight of 476 pounds, you'd have a winner. If you could cut the weight, take care of the irritations and sell the mods as a kit, you'd have people lined up at your door.

[@marceliszp4803]

I tested it a few days ago in the field, I have two remarks. About the weight feeling when driving and when lifting it is much lighter than the T700 and second, the suspension is much better than the ktm 890 adventure S #vstrominacja.

[@Richard.Cabeza]

I love my CRF250M. It’s the perfect bike for riding here on short day trips to the mountains and it’s totally capable on dirt roads, farm trails and limited single track. It sucks for long secondary road rides, so I need a bike for that. The Transalp and Vstrom aren’t exciting me. Good luck with your project, not sure you can do all that much to the Vstrom.

[@Dschinghiss]

I actually like the design, mostly. Also, I think they are not trying to compete with the Tenere. They are trying to compete with the GS 800.

[@falchiherve2024]

I love this 800....gonna buy it for real

[@PepperGeorge]

I don't feel confident when cruising on a highway in a bike that's under 500lb, it just doesn't feel planted. I think Suzuki are on a right track here, that weight is helping for long distance touring. Nobody takes these bikes off road anyway, T7 is better off road, but it sucks where most people are using it 95% of the time - the highway. Leave Suzuki weight alone.

[@scottyq66]

I test rode the 800 yesterday and am very impressed. I will be buying one. Am very interested to see and follow #vstromination go hard brother, very cool post mate..

[@martyn_g]

If it was around 200kg wet, I’d be interested. The fact that a Tiger 900 Rally and base Africa Twin is of similar weight, annoys the crap out of me..

[@baduridgeback4926]

#VSTROMINATION ‘Bring it on’. Of all >25 bikes I owned 5 were Suzi, all great looks, functional and reliable. I tuned my (2005, carburated, no electron gadgets) KTM 950 Adv S down weight to 440lbs and up specs for the mostly sandy/muddy conditions in my region. As a big guy 6’4 and 290lbs (full ready race outfit) I never bothered too much about weight below the buttocks. Weight is relative, combination frame stiffness, suspension & dosable power are the way to go.

[@BornAGoon]

We must build it

[@baduridgeback4926]

I check that❤

[@greyfisher3897]

Hate is a strong word, and strongly out of place in a motorcycle shootout video. Notice how he hasn't actually ridden one. Its all theoretical. Having actually ridden one on a test ride, using my T7 to get to the dealer for direct comparison....I was talking to the salesman about how to add this bike to my stable....not a trade....as I have always loved Suzuki....raced (and won) on PE175, then a DRZE400 for 20 years of dual sport riding, the DE800 came out a few years after my T7 purchase, and I am glad because having to make the choice between the two would have been very very difficult....

[@kraventhearcher]

I have to agree with most of your points. The factory dumps this poor styling and milksop bikes on us and wonders why we don't buy. Everyone trades the wee strom around dirt cheap because it sounds good and is reliable. People trade it away because it's boring and an old man bike. The main critiques were about power and styling since the wee strom was new. Instead of adding more power to the V engine they went and did a me too p-twin, dropping one of the great features (the 90* twin noise) most agreed was a gold star point of the bike. We got more fugly plastic in garish colors, as if for years the critiques of "you don't have to make it ugly and cheap* weren't a steady stream. If they were going to do ride by wire for bike modes and whatnot, they should have done cruise AND power windscreen standard. Those two things would have nestled it right in with the top competitors. They also would have been a minor addition to costing out the bike. OR go back to throttle cable, no modes, and manual windscreen adjustment, to be a more basic no frills bike true to the strom name they've established. We all know it's the store brand GS or the KTM mom says we have at home. I don't think you can cut enough off this thing to make that work. I'd save my money and time, and do a better channel promo bike.

[@BornAGoon]

Thank you for watching and commenting

[@212driller]

All I want is a 400-500cc rally style dual sport with long maintenance intervals and decent suspension. The Japanese manufacturers are missing out big time here. I think the problem is these companies are unwilling to go into untested waters. Success is found by taking risks not playing it safe Suzuki.

[@BornAGoon]

I havent changed the oil on my 450RL in 2k miles

[@doc650adventures]

You did a really good job laying out the issues with the T-Strom 800DE. It is not even a V-Twin! I too am a loyal Suzuki owner who sometimes wonders what they are thinking when they release new bikes. Latest for me is a 2022 V-Strom 1050XT Adventure. Great bike for travel mostly on road and very mild off-road stuff. The cruise control makes a huge difference on longer stretches of travel on the road. I hope you are able to configure your 800 you are going to buy to suit your needs. I think the 800 is a great bike but as you mentioned, there are things they could have done better. Suzuki does have some great promotional video though! Cheers!

[@BornAGoon]

Hopefully I will build this Vstrom better

[@doc650adventures]

@@BornAGoon I am betting you will!

[@rivernet62]

We’ve been calling it a P-Strom in our house 😅

[@doc650adventures]

@@rivernet62 HaHaHa! That is funny right there! Good one!🤣

[@verbalwidget7267]

@@doc650adventures I know this old man in AZ who builds and improves DR650’s like nobody else! Ha-ha take care DOC650.

[@skylerlovell1780]

No, we totally understand your frustration. Suzuki has a cool platform here, but clearly they missed the mark and are resting hardcore on their laurels. I mean c'mon, any company who's factory dirt bike still has a kick start is purposefully living in the past. #VSTROMINATION

[@asherlito3801]

Totally agree I love Suzuki I own three. Suzuki could be the dominator if they did a few things. The drz If it had 6 gears I believe would have been that unicorn. The SV650 could have beaten the FZ-07 if the gladius never happened and if they fixed the oil starvation issue on wheelies. And like you said they could have made the t7 before Yamaha. If Suzuki did the first two, they would have so much more cash flow to invest in racing again or more risky but rewarding models.

[@BornAGoon]

I dont understand this company anymore

[@JohnSmith-ef8nr]

The 6 speed DR350 was that unicorn.

[@asherlito3801]

@@JohnSmith-ef8nr I love the dr350 lightweight 6 speeds reliable, I would have preferred dual overhead cams like the drz or xr400, but I Def will pick one up someday.

[@Blockbuster2033]

The oil starvation on wheelies is a myth. I specifically talked to the owner of a stunting school that was using SV 650 bikes as their schooling bikes. I asked what they did about the oil starvation problem to use these bikes as stunt bikes. He said: "What starvation problem? These are stock, you can ride a ten mile wheelie on these and there is nothing that will happen to them."

[@asherlito3801]

@@Blockbuster2033 well the myth killed Suzuki's chance at further dominating

[@cranedaddy678]

Hindsight is 20/20 but I think you missed the mark on what Suzuki was going for here. The bike is great, seriously. I appreciate the styling, the electronics are just about right. No cruise is a miss but I never used it anyways.

[@krproton]

I entirely appreciate your video and am astounded by the lengths you have gone to produce such a professional and thorough presentation including support for your conclusions. (Of course this applies to ALL of your videos!) I am in the process of relocating from West Virginia, where I have been enjoying my Ducati Hypermotard 950 SP on the twisty roads, to northern lower Michigan where the terrain is mostly straight and flat. :-( For these conditions, I am selling the Ducati in favor of a middle-weight adventure bike to tour and find some dirt roads/trails to replace the thrills of twisty roads. I have to say, the appearance of the V-Strom 800 is what put it #1 on the list for me (along with all the positive reviews I've watched). The Triumph Tiger 800 Sport is a close second. I guess I'm used to looking at the "beak" of the Hypermotard. Wish me luck and keep up the awesome work on your videos! :-)

[@ThatGermanFella]

Suzuki lost me when I saw the weight and no tubeless tires ...

[@jackwiedemann]

Tires with tubes are way better for offroading. There'll be a version with 19 inch front and tubeless for road use. The weight is really bad tho...

[@ThatGermanFella]

@@jackwiedemann meh I take the convenience of just plugging, the Tuareg says hello!

[@MotoVenturer]

Been riding a 650 Strom since new in 2009 and I've absolutely loved this bike. As I started going more off-road from time to time, I quickly found the limits, but that is also down to the tire trend. Ultimately, I'm going for two bikes, a dual sport and an adventure bike. When I know I'm going off-road, I'll take the dual sport to really enjoy it. When I'm touring and just end up on gravel or forest roads, I need an adventure bike with just enough to get me through. If I'm 90% on tarmac, why 21 inch knobbies?

[@gasman6163]

Will watch with interest (as a Suzuki rider). Regarding the Tiger.... Did you know 70% of all tigers made are still on the road? The rest made it home