Living with the Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT: MCN’s long-term test verdict

[@morley3810]

So, essentially it's what the big V-Strom has always been. Useful, versatile, reliable as a hammer, not terribly exciting, and cheap. But now with some decent electronics, cruise control etc. Well done Suzuki, well done.

[@hunkyleepickle]

@Tyler Braden i would actually rather have a vstrom most of the time. But the sad fact is that the only place that sells suzuki in my area sucks, big time. And while i do most maintenance stuff myself, and it will inevitably be reliable, just the idea of going to that dealer for Suzuki parts or warranty work or any thing at all turns me off. On the flip side, the BMW dealer i deal with is impeccable, and they've treated me like a king for years now, even when i didn't own a BMW for the most part. So i"lll likely drop way way too much money on a 1250gs when i'm looking for a new adv bike, i'd just rather deal with them.

[@morley3810]

@@hunkyleepickle It's a good point. It's the same reason I'll likely not ever buy a Kawasaki locally. I like the bikes but the dealer is comically bad.

[@andrewbozhozr]

@@hunkyleepickle that's something lot of folks don't think about, and that's really important. Good point

[@droptuned83]

@@hunkyleepickle Take note manufacturers, your dealers are really key to your sales. I will only bug off a dealer who has good service and decent attitude.

[@xlthumper]

Except here in Canada its actually quite expensive now. Unfortunately otherwise I would buy it.

[@mikeleonard4871]

I bought a 2019 pre-facelift model brand new with all the luggage and an Yoshi can thrown in for 8.5K. Now thats value! It may be the lowest horsepower bike I have owned for 25 years plus but to say it is not engaging is a bit mean. The power and more importantly the torque are immediately accessible and you can use more of the performance on real roads. If this bike is teaching me anything, it is that you do not need to have 150hp or spend a fortune to have fun on our congested roads.

[@snoopythedog3266]

absolutely!

[@chrisw4215]

My last two bikes - 100hp and 140hp. I didn't feel any difference while riding on the motorway

[@alxx1378]

14 years on a Dl1000. Poor man's adventure bike. Never touched the motor adjusted valves 3 times over 1300000 klm. All included around 9000 euros cost. Bought used for 5 thousand. 93 hp on dyno. 2002 model. What more do you want.

[@koimaster]

I bought my V-Strom 650 new in 2011. I have not had one thing go wrong with it since. The V-Strom is an incredible bike!

[@knotsable]

I dont get this thing where windscreens need to be adjustable while driving ... ive had adventure bikes from multiple brands and ... you fiddle with the screen until you find a setting that works for you, and then you never touch it again ... (well at least in my case)

[@RonaldOsure]

totally agree! not touched mine in years

[@TerenceKaplan]

Yup. Same for suspension. Faff about until you have it where you like it, then never touch again. Electronic suspension would be a waste of money and weight to me.

[@paulnorman8274]

For people who do hustle their gigantic Advs aggressively of road (all four of them), getting the big plastic screen away for particularly tricky and athletic maneuvering no doubt makes sense. I once put a big, highway barndoor screen on a WR250R, and even with my lack of offroad chops and general athleticism, it did get in the way in tighter stuff. Couldn't see over it, limited body English, etc. Nice for covering 1000+ miles of open highway, though.

[@snoopythedog3266]

@@TerenceKaplan and huge cost

[@anibler]

Seriously, these "complaints" are basically just made up. You can't take the seat off quickly to adjust it? You adjust it once to get it where you want and then leave it. Why would you need to change these things daily? I adjusted my 1050XT to where I liked everything over a couple rides when new a year ago and I haven't messed with anything since.

[@curlybill3966]

I’ve got 6000 miles on mine and love it. Long term friend.

[@gregtriumphrat]

Had mine for 20 months. Best bike in years, prefer it to my GSA TE. The engine is an absolute beauty.

[@Matt-hm9uo]

I've got the same bike. Weight for me is not an issue, and it is rock steady on the road, yet really flickable. Power is perfect. I have the screen in the position I want, and now will never change it - so not an issue. Still love the looks. Only niggle is wish the heated grips showed current setting on the screen (and had a bigger button). Overall top bike, happy customer :-)

[@allwheeldrive]

Things to consider with the 1050XT not mentioned. First is reliability. Hit the forums from the early 2000s and it's clear this is a get-on-and-go rig. Early ones had issues now all sussed by the aftermarket. Many owners have kept theirs even as they bought new bikes. Second is related: longevity. This motor, an under-stressed version from the legendary TL1000S/R will *for real* go 200K miles. In this employment it's not a revver, but it's got bags of broadly spaced, very useful torque. I've got a Speed Triple, and an '04 Vee (with all the fixes and updates) that I hop on for anything more than an hour ride I don't see selling anytime soon. The 1050 is for the long haul, in every sense of the word; highly important to people who use their bikes daily - like they should be.

[@snoopythedog3266]

Don't understand 100hp not being enough for an adventure bike? Where are you riding and how's your skills for that. Are the twats driving BMW's now riding bikes?? I thought they bought Harleys??

[@deanroberts2021]

Agree completely it's a great all rounder & everyday bike , I do worry when a magazine test rider says a 100bhp 1000cc bike is "Boring" bikers who have been riding for years will dismiss this as journalists talk, new riders will think they need a 150hp bike not a boring 100bhp, 2 guys at my last job past their tests with no riding experience 1 got a ninja 600 one got a gsxr750 as first bikes both quit within 3 months 1 admitting the gsxr "scarred the s##t out of him. Bike journalists are more advertisers than honest reviewers

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

@@deanroberts2021 A spot on comment. Really.

[@petermccallum7023]

I've got an 04 vee that ive had for 5 yeats and put 36000 miles on that still puts a smile on my face, especially with twin black widow silencers that could wake the dead.

[@Solo_adv]

The more reviews I watch of this bike the more I like it. thank you

[@snoopythedog3266]

Got a 650 V Strom which is heaps for me, tons of power for what I need and mainly I'm on roads. Bulletproof. Sometimes I don't know what guys want, I meet quite a bunch of BMW guys with much bigger more expensive bikes...I'm sure there's an advantage but so far haven't seen it, I cruise with them easily ....maybe doing the Dakar. The problem if you want one 2nd hand the Strom hold their price really well because they're bulletproof and really well liked by their owners

[@chamade166]

It’s about the total experience, not just keeping up with certain bikes. At the end you get what you pay for, Vstrom owners get too defensive. I’ve owned both bikes.

[@jeeves6490]

​@@chamade166 Maintenance and repair is part of the 'experience' and I can't afford the full BMW 'experience' I've been lucky enough to have friends tell me of the cost of their experience, they may have just had bad luck, but I'd prefer not to pay the cost of bad luck.

[@teneretraveller8980]

A no nonsense bike from Suzuki. Loved my 650. Shame this bike seems to be overbooked. Intelligent review, thank you.

[@pavelmullo2326]

In Finland Suzuki DL 1050 XT is around 19k euros where basic GS is 25k euros and as far as I know pretty much no one is buying GS in standard, I think the real price gets closer to 30k euros after all bells and whistles. Pretty much the same story with Multistrada and KTM. Yamaha Tracer 900GT is almost in the same price range with Suzuki but it is matter of taste which you prefer. It is all about the preferences which path to take by choosing more advanced bike and pay for it or take the cheaper bike instead and put the difference in money in traveling and courses etc. At least in my country it seems that Suzuki and the rest Japanese bikes are not dropping in price as dramatically as the rest brands are. Once you get KTM or BMW it is better to keep it for 5 years or more otherwise you will face a huge price drop.

[@deanroberts2021]

I've got one of these & two things I really want to ask 1050xt reviewers are How often do you adjust the seat ? I adjusted mine once tried it in low found it too low & adjusted it to high & it's stayed there all the time but reviewers always complain I could understand if two riders were sharing it ? & same goes for the screen tried it in a few positions then left it on high.

[@ekimandersom4478]

yes, i was thinking the same.

[@bnolsen]

Reviewers tend to run the bike for a few hours or days so they complain about this week stuff. They are reviewing, not owning the bikes.

[@michaelhayward7572]

Great review, i like the guy's style and knowledge. I'm not a big adv fan, but always liked the Stroms as unpretentious workhorses with a bulletproof reputation capable of collosal miles. This version is a looker imo too.

[@Roy_Godiksen]

I Love this "Post it's" review method MCN does lately. I'm going to use that myself for my reviews. 💖💖💖👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@victorherrero4790]

Nice review. The Vstrom keeps being the same old sturdy, reliable, jack of all trades bike full of value but NOW with electronics. In the big adv bike the Suzuki hits the sweet spot for the segment, does not stand out at anything but it does not do anything wrong either. This Vstrom are the rational buy.

[@chamade166]

Until you test ride it back to back with the GS like I did. Then it becomes very hard not to want to switch.

[@javiermm5860]

Fantastic review, thank you. In Barcelona we have tons of adv bikes, but hardly seen a 1050...to me it is a good bike, reliable....but too dull

[@ChargerE49VC]

Great real world review & like your honest point right at the end. At my age, I'm not into the 'Fun & sexy' stuff (Well, not for transportation anyway). I want something I know I can jump on, twist the key on & get going day, month, year in and year out. Also, the pleasant thought of not having to acquire a $272 special tool just to twist the spark plugs to exactly 189 degrees like on the Ubber Euro machines, & being able to change oil on my own without sacrificing a months pay cheque appeals a great deal.

[@spoiley62]

from an owner..2018 VS 1000xt...6k miles..value pricing..chk..quality build..chk..handles great (flickable..)..chk..braking..fantastic..chk..range ..very good..275 on a tank chk..hydrolic clutch..easy smooth..chk..slipper clutch..rev match..nice..chk ..guage package..lots of info..chk..seat super comfy..chk..rear rack..value..chk..best of all..V twin motor..low end grunt..usable power..all in all I rate this bike fairly high.. ride one..see what I'm sayin..downside is this..same for all others in this class..ITS NOT A DIRTBIKE..at 500 lbs..mild fire road..ok..bout it....anywho..my 2 cents :0)

[@TommyAngelo1337]

Hey someone who bothers to adjust the suspension on their review bike. So many people review bikes and complain that the suspension is too soft or hard despite it not being preset for their weight.

[@MotherFarquhar]

The thing that makes a motorcycle exciting is how dangerously you ride it... The Strom is a world beater... If you were equipping an Army you'd buy these...

[@robsonenduro3316]

I thought KLR 650 :)

[@philipjames3526]

Props for the location of the USB. My street triple, under the rear seat. No overly useful when the phone is being used as gps on the handlebars

[@ratsausage]

The yellow/blue 1050XT brings back my 80's yearnings for the TS250X when as a poor student at the time I could only stretch to a GP100. The gold rims look amazing new but I'd be worried about wet Scottish roads wrecking them early doors. Anyone got one with the gold rims please chip in your feelings about the cosmetics staying good. I think it's an amazing big machine with a great look and fab engine reliability, might yet get one...

[@SWTrailsAndWheels]

Amazing, real world details that you will not find anywhere else.

[@yellperlapper]

I was surprised by your comment it's not much fun to ride. I've done 18000 KLM on mine and I love riding this bike. It handles extremely well when cornering and you can feel the 6 Point Axis IMU stabilise the bike on long sweeping bends. I found the original tyres performed really well although the rear had to be changed at 12000 KLM and the front still going at 18000. I did replace the tyre with the original and I feel they are safe and give great grip. I did change out the screen for a Givi two piece screen and it's miles ahead of the original screen that didn't give much protection and was noisy. With the new screen I can ride with my visor up and I can adjust the screen height whilst sitting on the bike. Even though is only 107 hp this bike gets up and moves and can give you a very spirited ride..

[@nickharker6299]

If you look at the odometer he had only covered about 350 miles on it so wouldn’t consider that a long term review? I’ve had mine a month and put 750 miles on. 350 is a couple of days riding. Some of the opinions shared may change with longer to get to know the bike?

[@syedshow811]

Hopefully the 650 will also have this design one day

[@robinroma6285]

In Europe this bike retails for the equivalent of £12500, which is a huge jump. I haven't seen a single V Strom in Italy since it's release. Goes to show how dependent manufacturers are on world trade deals.

[@efeasible707]

too the point review with great info. Wish it had mentioned the reliability and longevity of the bike. These bikes have a reputation for being bullet proof even when used as a daily bike. Would love to see more on how it is to tour on one. Agility? Braking? Comfort? Offroad vs road capabilities but otherwise a good (and short) review.

[@robertbates1079]

Best brakes on any bike I've ridden too, assuming they the same on the older thou. And don't forget reliability and servicing costs come into it too if you ve not been given one for free to hammer about on. Also about 10k cheaper than a specced out gs.🤔

[@Nick-dz4ml]

Best brakes? What have you ridden in comparison? Loads of 20yo bikes that brake a lot better

[@garrball9205]

Great Review. Thank you very much! I just sold my 09 Strom which I LOVED. WANT Cruise Control... (and easier air filter change) Thanks again.

[@martiniv8924]

Dr Big looks, it’s far better looking in my opinion than the bird like shapes of most modern suzuk’s 👍🏻😎

[@handsfree1000]

Heated grips should be standard in the UK. Overall I think the Vstrom is my favourite bike.

[@MrBenHaynes]

Factory heated grips are hideously expensive. Oxford Hot Grips are a third of the price and work just as well.

[@antonioveritas]

A young couple named Lavi and Ollie are currently riding one of these bikes around the world in an attempt to get a Guinness world record. If you want to check them out their channel is called Lavi and Ollie!

[@davidhardstaff8110]

Simple straight forward review, well presented. A little spoiled if you think you get all the bells and whistles at that price though. Does what it does though.

[@fazerjohn]

A very refreshing honest review, critical without being prejudiced, and right on so many points. £300 for heated grips? What a rip off. And more praise for mentioning a pillion, as since my wife retired about 75% of my journeys are 2-up, and so few testers bother to mention pillion accommodation. Is it roomy enough? How hard to get on & off? How high are the pillion pegs? These are a deal breaker for us.

[@marcusgeorge1825]

A nice honest review! Thank you! 👍😎🇦🇺

[@johna6968]

It would be a bigger pain faffing around with a C spanner on the rear shock.

[@actstuntcam]

I love the hydraulic adjusters. They are super easy. Riders are so useless and lazy now. No wonder motorcycles are becoming so crap.

[@Sunrazor]

I disagree. It's one of the most fun bikes to ride I have tried. Why? Well partly because the engine sound and the way it pulls, partly because the weight is just gone on a twisty road and partly because it so damn pretty.

[@VinayKumar-db4qz]

I really like the look of this bike.

[@derrickmurphy9859]

I'm on my second super tenere but I was originally a big suzuki fan .Had a 2018 v strom for a month or 2 and I did think the foot pegs were a wee bit high compared to the super 10 which ment I had tight stiff knees after 100 or 150 mile and had to had to stretch my legs regularly.Super 10 was definitely more comfortable but heavier!but definitely the v strom 1000 or 1050s are great machines and good value.

[@1stMrSceptical]

I bought a new DL650XT in 2015 it's exiting enough for this ancient geezer. Cruising about (60-70mph) I had 74 MPG. The bike was full loaded even came with center stand and Sat nag, cost about eight & half grand, it wieghs in at 214K naked, wot not to like. As for speed It will chuff away all day at 80 MPH. Who needs to go fast I aint getting paid to race, we all get there in the end, but I get to the destination with clean underpant and licence intact.

[@NoWay-xu1ie]

I have a 2018 vstrom 1000XT. At 5'10 the ratcheting wind screen works good for me. And when going slow on a hot day I move it to the back position . Something I added was a Givi mud guard it keeps a lot off dirt off the chain. And I like the Givi crash bars, they help protect the tank. I rode the HD Pan america and loved that engine. But really 100 hp Suzuki will get me a ticket at any time.

[@donnyazoff980]

Great review mate, I really enjoyed it (even though no trains went past 🙂) !

[@mihaimihai9254]

Hi! Thanks for sharing! I think it is a decent motorcycle at a very decent price. I also like the thing that it has spoked rims and tubless tires in standard! It would be definitely on my list if I were about to change my actual motorcycle.

[@morioritysresponse2287]

I've had a blast on mine and you can lug it around loaded up with no issues. change out the tires and a couple other minor adjustments and the bike is golden. I am disappointed the bike in Canada didn't come with heated grips or the panniers as the XA (XT) model. I like it and don't need the image of I own a beemer to have a good time riding.

[@sandyroadking]

Best review till date.. Direct to the untold , should have been told info..

[@stuartosborn4785]

How many riding modes do you need FFS ! ?......none would suit most people I think . Your review was thorough albeit a bit unnecessarily whingey

[@jaudicedbrow]

More of this guy, please. Nice review.

[@tylermegehe]

V-Stroms are like swiss army knives. They can do just about anything with really no complaints at the end of the day.

[@lightweightbaby7959]

No, you’re talking about BMW GS, the v stroms can’t off-road

[@semajohn]

Looks like the handle for the screen is the wrong way round and why it's difficult to use. Try unclamping, turn anticlockwise 180° and reclamp. That will loosen the clamp by a smidge and put it the right way round.

[@Jay-bw3fl]

Excellent review. Quick and To the point. No bs. 💯

[@jimdocherty5494]

I'm on my 3rd Strom and spend about an hour doing all the adjustments to suit me, and that's it. Why would you want to swop everything , ok maybe the screen (10seconds)if its hot. Suspension (30seconds)if i increase the load. Does anyone really spend sleepless nights worrying about this stuff? I suppose i would lose sleep if i was asked for another 4 grand for my bike...

[@snoopythedog3266]

It's this generation...my boy tells me I need a new computer because it takes 4 milli secs longer on my comp than his

[@Fabix24]

@@snoopythedog3266 ok boomer

[@dleebox2268]

I like the screen lock, simple , might be a little tough, but it will last for a while

[@MetrickMetal]

I have a totally customized one of a kind 2018 1050XT which I bought new in Aug 2017, which came out 4 years before the so-called new 2021 1050XT, as I thought since the new 2021 1050XT's engine is the same 1037cc displacement and my 2018's engine I figured that I could also call mine a 1050XT, So I ordered a pair of 1" high 1050XT vinyl decals which I applied to the upper gas tank side covers, and wala I had a 1050XT for $10,85, which is the cost of the two decals.

[@MrDAVIDRACE]

Nice review . A good no frills bike sound and reliable what more could you ask for and yes a lovely v twin engine its a winner from Suzuki.

[@donaldduck9424]

The motorcycel certainly works well. Unfortunately, it's just boring. I rode it for a summer and sold it. Nice honest review by the way

[@momchilyordanov8190]

If the cruise control is unsophisticated and the weight is too much, what does it give me over the 650XT? I would buy that model and save £3300 and 30+ kg

[@henrikforsberg683]

Will the 650 get a styling update to look like this one?

[@momchilyordanov8190]

No idea. Even if it doesn't, I do not see much of a difference. I like the current 650 XT, especially in white with golden rims.

[@andik.4235]

More power, better suspension, better brakes, cruise control. It is worth? That is up to you.

[@paulnorman8274]

A lot more stability loaded down at high speed in gusty crosswind. The 1000/1050 is not a Concours nor FJR for sustained ton-up tumbleweed busting, but it is, perhaps along with the S10, the best of the advs.

[@davidpaul2914]

Thanks for the review, I just brought one new with Suzuki boxes in NZ paid on road 9k pounds which I thought was awesome for the XT model I was going for the Yamaha 1200 tenere but it has gone up now to 13.5k without boxes just too much on my budget in these interesting times. Will give feed back later after my NZ road trips 👍😉

[@ghulammuradi6651]

Hey mate please let me your thoughts as I am looking at one of these and tossing up between 1050xt and 650 model ?

[@philharris5021]

The seat,,,,,,,is it comfortable

[@_Makanko_]

Nice review, i think it would be a great bike for commute and touring but I feel the 650 would even be adequate (and even more affordable, lighter). Sure it's not terribly exciting so I guess it depends on use case.

[@paulnorman8274]

For longer distance, motorway, commuting, it's great. Unless you are big and tall, all the big Advs with 19+s are big and tall bikes in tighter cities and settings. The Vstrom may be the handiest of the bunch, but it's still big. As for "not terribly exciting", it's more exciting than most Advs. Tracers, Multistradas and XRs may be more "exciting", but at the expense of being more frantic all those times when "exciting" is not priority one. Like most Suzukis, it has plenty of headroom for being ridden in manners way more "exciting" than most will venture to. But at the same time, it doesn't sacrifice basic competence, on the altar of feeling like a competition supermoto everywhere you go.

[@snoopythedog3266]

650's fantastic and takes a passenger well. Cruises all day in a comfortable position, this bike is loved by ALL it's owners, motor is bulletproof and you can usually get 2nd hand pannier stuff for it

[@Hooner77]

As the owner of 2017 650 I can confirm it is a great bike. I have done a couple of long trips (3000 + Miles in 7 days) and found it comfortable. Good range, I average 50 to 55 mpg even with the bags on. The fact it runs on regular is a plus. The only time where the power was an issue was running into a 35 mph head wind in Nevada. It was the only time that my sons 1090 adventure burned less fuel.

[@richardevans3813]

One day somebody will teach motorcycle journalists the difference between price & value so that prospective owners can make objective purchasing decisions. If manufacturers sponsored my bikes then I could afford to be choosy too. Having owned & ridden a number of V-Stroms (mainly as second bikes) during the past ten years, they really do take some beating in the" value for money league" .

[@OrangeGenerator]

your comment while trying to make a point, is vague and unfinished.

[@richardevans3813]

@@OrangeGenerator Perhaps it's me but the point I am making is that British motor cycle reviews are generally becoming so superficially subjective in comparison to those posted by foreign journalists. Yes, I do own a 1050 VStrom (used by my stepson) alongside a Triumph Tex 1200 & STRS (both reviewed on your main website) but after 67 bikes (spreadsheet on request) I would love to see how this bike performs "ridden enthusiastically" two up with luggage & learn the comparative ownership costs against other offerings in the same market sector. It's good that you take the time to reply but please try not to be so personal in your replies :- Did I say your report should have been more specific & objective?.

[@richardwitherstone7396]

The price of this means i can afford to buy one and still keep my Busa! Less electronics to go wrong, more likely to want to own it passed the warranty period.

[@anarchyfork2676]

Great review in simplistic easy speak... thanks mate!

[@colincoleman2536]

I dropped my tiger once slipped on spilt diesel at fueling stop, the fact that you have dropped your Suzuki 2 or 3 times would be a concern coupled with the seating position and needing tools to remove the seat would for me be a definite No No. Great video I'm now much the wiser, think I'm going to stick with Triumph although Harley have just got my attention with the Pan American interested to see what the reliability will be like.

[@donnyazoff980]

I own a 2018 V-Strom 1000 and was thinking about a Tiger Sport but am concerned about its reliability. Have you had any issues with your Triumph?

[@colincoleman2536]

@@donnyazoff980 had my tiger for 3 years and travelled 24,500 miles. First service at the dealership and since I have done all the servicing myself. the only one thing that went wrong whilst out on a run was the return spring on the side stand just disappeared I could hear some clanking as it was bouncing on the road beneath me so with that pulled over tried to engage the side stand (thought I had) the the bike just flopped over onto the grass verge. all other work has literally been general maintenance - Tyres - oil - filters - brake pads - brake fluid - drive chain - sproket's. not attempted the valve clearances yet as I don't have a garage. My bike lives outside and gets ridden hard almost abused however I'm quite keen to find out how many miles it will cover before something actually does go wrong.

[@donnyazoff980]

@@colincoleman2536 Thanks for the info. I love Japanese bikes because they are just so reliable but I really like the look and reviews for the 2016 - Tiger Sports. Maybe it’s time to take one for a test ride!

[@colincoleman2536]

@@donnyazoff980 I just went to the local Triumph dealer for a look within 5 minutes was belting of up the road and was imediatley hooked, had me Honda 10 months from new traded that when I returned about an hour later, thought I would have this bike for about a year I'm now in my third season and no sign of getting it gone. Definitely try one then you will know for sure.

[@donnyazoff980]

@@colincoleman2536 there is a Triumph dealer in Sydney and I think you have just talked me into paying them a visit!

[@VStrom2019]

I wish my Suzuki dealer was less than a 4 hour round trip ride away. They would sell a hell of a lot more in this area. Aberdeen is a shithole for bikes, no Suzuki dealer, no Honda dealer. 🤷‍♂️

[@exothermal.sprocket]

So basically, fix the cruise to function in all gears, at all speeds like a car functions. Give the TL1000 engine some actual power: 120 horsepower would be very nice. Make the windscreen adjustable from behind, on the fly. Install heated grips as standard. Put a release latch for the main seat, no tools needed. Reduce weight by about 22 pounds / 10 kg.

[@dougaugustine933]

Great review. I have the same bike and love it. I also softened the front suspension a tiny bit and it made a big difference. Also - I personally find the bike extremely fun to ride including the engine/intake sounds... and this new 1050 version likes to rev. All good stuff.... and it should be extremely reliable over the long term. Question - is that an aftermarket TPMS display mounted in the middle section on the handlebars? If so, which one and would you recommend it? Any other TPMS recommendations? (the only feature I wish this bike had)

[@markb4772]

The electronic display on the bars is for the Scottoiler E-System chain oiler

[@aking610]

Just ordered my 1050 yellow XC Tour.

[@jage6126]

I had 3 new v-strom 1000. 2003, 2005 and 2008. Today, i cant understand how i managed to stand them. No torque, lazy power, reluctant to rev like an old diesel, a hellish turbulence and engine always hunting and surging when driving slow. I tried everything, synced the TBs every week, removed throttle plates and every "fix" i could find on the net. Only thing that helped was to enrich the injection with a yosh-box so it smelled unburnt fuel and became thirsty like a camel. I would today rather walk then to buy another v-strom. The 650 is good though

[@suezix8689]

Nice review. 'Boring' comes in many forms, but I agree with you on that one, and don't see the point of having a bike if it indeed feels boring to me.

[@musguelha14]

If you actually looked at the cruise control buttons you'd see you have to press the minus button for it to go back to the set speed.

[@andrewshore262]

Cruise control is a bit of a let down only works in 4th or above, and you can’t accelerate the bike on the button, so hopeless for 30 zones, and it disengages when you check out some of the information on the screen that really is half arsed. The weight is actually up on my 2018 model, and thats already top heavy at slow speeds what are Suzuki playing at. I was hoping for a lot more on the new Strom, but essentially it’s a redesign of the tuppaware with some updated electronics - and they’ve kicked max torque up the rev range. At least you can alter the screen rake on the older model whilst on the move, but it’s good to hear the stock screen is now much better than before (which was rubbish). The headlight is a plus, the previous model’s muddy yellow output was as dim as ditchwater but the throw was pretty good. I’m not really sure cheap cuts it anymore, who buys a bike outright these days (having said that I did but it was an ex demo on an unbelievably good deal), I just think there’s much better for a bit more on that PCP deal. Great review, honest and informative 👍

[@chrisguenther5788]

I have this bike, and I set the cruise at 50km/h in 4th gear no problem. Loads of power at low rpm's with this bike.

[@jmsmikey]

Las Vegas LOVES your post it reviews!

[@georgep6970]

Hi Jordan Great review, PLEASE HELP I'm in Sydney Australia love the vstrom1050 but also like the new versys 1000 s the SE not in dealers at this stage maybe later. Need some advice, what are your thoughts on the versys 1000 s. The price between vstrom 1050xt and versys 1000 S is only about $ 900. In your opinion which one is better on value for money, longevity, comfort, mechanically, riding with pillion, features, panniers and all the things you mentioned about the vstrom1050. I haven't ridden any of them at this stage so don't know which one would be more comfortable for me as i am 171cm and about 105kgs ( not skinny). Please all you boys that have a vstrom might be a little biased and understandable so, but would like your thoughts as i am in two minds and interested only at the vstrom1050 and versys 1000 S . Cheers

[@marscruz]

Excellent overview Jordan. Don't think this is the bike for me. You gave me a good idea of what Suzuki have done with the V-Strom update.

[@lorcanroche2987]

Very good review, and no stupid music. I love the look of the bike, but it's too heavy. My 04 Strom is significantly older, but lighter.

[@Kwhopperfan]

@@lorcanroche2987 I only found 04 dry weight of 207kg and 2020 wet weight of 247kg. So you factor in a gallon of coolant, a gallon of oil and 6 gallons of fuel and you get another 30kg or so. So I don’t think weight would be a problem, yes a little heavier but who can’t handle 10 or 15 pounds on a machine like this. You either like it or you don’t. 👍🏼

[@zyonsdream]

I’m trading in my Aprilia Tuareg 660 for this 2020 1050XT in yellow. My dealer has one with the cases and it has 15 miles on it. 12k US dollars. Sold!

[@samueljlarson]

I think not being able to mess with the windscreen while riding is considered a safety issue, which Suzuki designed that way on purpose. I want this bike in 650 though!

[@snorman1911]

The Concours is adjustable with a button while you ride, but I wonder, why? Are you really going to need to adjust the windscreen that often?

[@turdferguson5108]

Wow, a long term test with a lot of sticky notes......... but not a word about brakes..... really thorough test....

[@chriskneifl3290]

The brakes have a ton of initial bite and crazy stopping power. I have a 2020 650 XT and test rode a 1050 today. Couldn't believe the difference. The 650's brakes feel mushy in comparison.

[@OrangeGenerator]

Probs means they just do the job well enough not to have a particular note or concern over it.

[@v8berenguer372]

Have Suzuki finally redesigned the clutch basket? ????

[@repetitivemotion]

I love my 2014 1000adv. Only complaint is that the side cases are too small. However, I don’t like the beverage cooler style side cases that Suzuk put on this bike.

[@paulnorman8274]

The "too small" plastic sidecases were a big selling point for me. Combined with the normal, as opposed to currently fashionable wingspan, handlebar width; they let you squeeze through gaps narrower than what you could drive a Miata through. For more, and more useful, higher weight limit, carrying capacity, just get any hoop rack, and a pair of the Magadan soft panniers. They are near as cut and theft resistant as hardbags, top loading with plenty of overload height, and cinch down narrow when lightly packed.

[@repetitivemotion]

@@paulnorman8274 I like hard cases and I want them big enough to hold a helmet. My buddy rides a Multistrada and used to ride MV Agusta and both bikes have nice side cases that hold FF helmets

[@paulnorman8274]

@@repetitivemotion The MV (and Guzzi 85) aside, helmet-width adv sidebags I have seen are too wide for even semi-reliably slipping through traffic. The Versys' cases fit helmets, but are mounted further out than the same cases on the Ninja 1000, which is emblematic of most advs (those midsize Italians excepted). I find it much more convenient to have narrow bags for non-helmet stuff, and a topbox (or better yet, a frunk.... it's a shame that one very much constrains the mechanicals of bikes) ) for the helmet.

[@repetitivemotion]

@@paulnorman8274 we don’t split lanes in the Midwest and I don’t ride the Strom on single-track so the extra width of a sidecases to hold a helmet doesn’t cause an issue. I put on a Givi top case to hold the helmet but I don’t like riding with a top case, unless I’m traveling and need a lot of storage. I guess the answer is that you have to make do with what the manufacturers give you. Now, if I was a designer...

[@michals1108]

Very good review. Honest simple bike which can take from point A to point B.

[@snoopythedog3266]

pretty fast, that's 100hp

[@anibler]

Why would you need to constantly adjust the windscreen and seat height? Once my bikes are set they stay that way for the entire length of my ownership. I'm not getting taller or shorter so why would I need to change those more than the first time?

[@mjpt57]

Thanks for the review. I just bought one, replacing a 2014 DL1000A. What is the device on the handlebar mount? Thanks.

[@fyreblade1262]

I love this bike but hey the vibrations with anything over 5k rpm. My hands and D go numb, never had this issue on any other bike

[@daveplem]

Unless you routinely run the tank dry, can you really judge the accuracy of the range indicator?

[@awanbiru-ride]

Yep, time to trade-in my KTM1050 for this.

[@amico1357]

hello thank you for review it's very nice motorbike

[@orangefuture4910]

Hi. Could you go into a bit more detail about how you mounted the scottoiler . I see it on the headstock there. .cheers

[@salpairadice]

I have the original version and except for the electronics it seems the same. These bikes will hustle and they are bulletproof and frequently come with luggage, but they are not the most engaging motorcycles, just as Jordan says.

[@NBikerPH]

Tall bike. Dropped mine twice. Glad to know I'm not the only one :)

[@wojciechlysiak6359]

The windscreen adjusting handle is not accessible from the driver's position due to safety. You need to stop and hop off your bike to do it.

[@VirusAlert0]

Between xt and 1290 ktm super adventure s.. what would you choose?

[@mattmccarty72]

I think he threw up in his mouth at one point. Fantastic review mate.

[@paulboyle8522]

Could you let me know the make of the front spotlights

[@maximilianoricardoelias1937]

Is a good bike, compared to the unreliable GS aka broken chasis and fork, or Triumph aka electronic issues bike. The Vstrom, is no the most fast bike, but is durable and indestructible bike.

[@chriskneifl3290]

The 1050 is pretty fast, actually.

[@AbhishekTyagi]

Excellent review. How about overall reliability and ease of ownership?

[@aussiesam01]

I don't know if you'll get a reply from MCN, but I've had a 650 VSTROM for 8 years, purchased new, and it is exceptionally reliable and cheap to run. Very easy bike with good handling and power. As he said it is a bot boring, but a good bike.

[@deanroberts2021]

I've got one & used it everyday for commuting in Nottingham it's been an absolute pleasure perfect reliability & ease of use, did need to spend time ACF50ing the bike especially fasteners & bolts & some of the spokes have dulled as they aren't stainless. Overall very happy so far

[@DanDude2905]

What were the original tyres?

[@motorcyclenewsdotcom]

The OE tyres are Bridgestone Battlax Adventure Touring A41. Cheers!

[@kenjikenjikenj]

I got new tires, but things still don't feel like they're gonna be alright

[@Dawie103-9]

To the point - thank you very informative

[@greenambles]

1:34 Ugh...that headlight encompasses everything wrong about Suzuki’s inability to grasp the concept of visual aesthetics. I’d normally just scroll by here but noticed a new (for me at least) reviewer so clicked (nice work btw, I’ll keep watching while you scrubbing in 👍🏻). Suzuki make great performing bikes (did my learning on an SV and loved it) but rarely get the looks right. Flashes of inspiration with the original Katana and VanVan and I loved the GSXR600 SRAD in the 90s...(all views my opinionated own!)