2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE tested on and off-road | MCN Review

#suzuki #vstrom #vstrom800
Assistant Editor, Ben Clarke has been riding the 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE adventure bike. When you're done watching the video, you can read his written review here: www.motorcyclenews.com/bike-r...
We'd love to hear your views so get them down in the comment section!
Find your next bike with the experts at MCN Bikes for Sale: www.motorcyclenews.com/bikes-...
MCN Compare is your one-stop bike insurance shop: www.mcncompare.com/
Check us out on social media:
Facebook: @MotorcycleNews
Twitter: @MCNnews OR @MCNSport
Instagram: @motorcyclenews
Visit the MCN website for all the latest news, reviews, advice and bikes for sale:
www.motorcyclenews.com/​​
Subscribe to get MCN every week, in newspaper or digital format: bit.ly/3rEIjaP

[@jordanjoestar8839]

People mock Suzuki for taking a long time to update, but the truth is every time they update, it's so good that it takes other manufacturers another 3 models to finally match it. Hell, the GSXR1000 still just won MotoGP and piles of Super Stock 1000 races against the absolute best of the best. The 8S will possibly put its competition in a headlock, if they deliver it as well as the SV has been received. I'm sure these models also will stand the test of time, just as all Suzukis do. Absolute gem of a brand. Small team that cares a lot about reliability and dead-simple operation at a competitive price at all times.

[@jeffweier4824]

Well said 👏. Agree wholeheartedly

[@jellomello124]

It's a meh from me. This bike isn't 3 models ahead of the competition. It feels 1 model behind. It weighs too much and in its weight category there are better options

[@a8f235]

GSXR1000 in MotoGP... lol

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Cynics going to cynic. I'm sure they feel smug about their Honda when they see a Suzuki roll by. Suzuki is one of my favorite brands, and I'm glad they are far from over. I'd say they've produced at least a couple of the most legendary and capable bike names/models that have ever existed. In fact, someone took the Gen3 Hayabusa, threw a heap of money at it, and now it has 600 wheel horsepower on E85 spitting flames out the side of a turbo. And its going to be offered by this tuning company in limited quantities with this build with a WARRANTY. Stock wheelbase it's doing low 8-second quarters in this config, and blowing past 200 mph like nothing. H2 what? With the little budget the brand has compared to Kawasaki or Honda, or even Yamaha, Suzuki has done absolutely commendably.

[@st33ldi9ital]

​@@jellomello124 It weighs about the same as others tbh... most are giving you barebones dry weight without all options. Suzuki giving you wet weight fully loaded. (Grip covers, skid plate, quick shift, etc, etc) Once you add it all up and compare, they are all +- 15lbs or so. Bolted subframe might add a hair but that's a feature imo, good for repairs. If you actually offroad a bike then chances are you gonna tweak frame at some point.

[@mmahdim5912]

Suzuki is the best

[@falchiherve2024]

Absolutely

[@murlyn2]

I have had many, still have one, and love them. But I do not think they are the best in updated, cutting edge bikes. Bikes are nor Suzuki’s priority according to Suzuki. Imagine what they could do if they were they’re priority.

[@Ian-bq7gp]

The engines and transmission are great but they do have a few weaknesses in stators and regulator rectifier and finish but no more than honda africa twin for example but the build quality and reliability and longetivity is excellent.

[@dasboot9471]

Su-sucki

[@Adventure_blac]

Ian from big rock moto and a couple Australian review channels are the only ones that seems to think this has actual decent off road chop. It has more travel than the T7 but most reviewers don’t mention that. Ian actually said the suspension is better for off-road than the t7. Claimed he could ride a bit faster. Who’s right??? Ian or everyone else. I trust Ian. His reviews are very thorough.

[@BlackMambo5]

I agree, this bike looks great -- be it on, or, off road. Specs are decent enough for both. And unless you are a hardcore Dakar style off-road enthusiast, i.e. the top 1% Elite off-roaders, then this bike will serve you well enough, and then some!

[@Adventure_blac]

@@BlackMambo5 yeah none of us are the 1%. So ur right. So If he says it’s good off-road then it plenty for most of us

[@BlackMambo5]

​@@Adventure_blac Well said. People these days seem to think that for a bike to be good at off-road it needs to have a specific set of features. Which is kinda pointless as a bike is about as skilled as the rider. I've seen people do off-roading on 100cc commuter bikes! 😂 Most of these bikes are fantastic and you can't go wrong (95% of the time) with either -- be it the Japanese ADVs, or the European ADVs. Thought having used both, I'm slightly biased towards the Japs but yeah, this bike looks fantastic! Hopefully it launches in my country soon! 😁

[@Adventure_blac]

@@BlackMambo5 hope so it looks fantastic in the flesh in the primer and yellow color. Went to a few demos here in the states but it hasn’t been available to ride. Rode the 1050 de though. Very tall and that torque is great

[@travelinben1966]

Agreed.Ian is the most thorough reviewer I've come across,and his final thoughts after a review are extremely helpful.

[@bitterlifes]

Generally speaking i think this is the best ADV bike on midweight segment, without going on details. Overall with this bike you could take trip around the world with not to much headache. This bike could respond to any road challenge, because it seems to be very versatile and reliable bike, which is typically known for this brand! Well done SUZUKI 👍

[@thierryfaquet7405]

If only Suzuki didn't forget cruise control, even as an option... That's a deal breaker for me in the category.

[@bitterlifes]

@@thierryfaquet7405Yesss i agree on this point! I am really curious to know why Suzuki do not offer cruise control on this model, which would be very very good. But unfortunately it is what it is, but still this models will be my favorite for sure.

[@thierryfaquet7405]

@@bitterlifes I'm still leaning toward the Tuareg. Will buy a midsize ADV this summer, still not 100% which one tho. But yeah, suzuki is releasing a bike with a default quickshifter but just forget cruise control. Crazy times.

[@johnkestly4762]

I just bought a new Moto Guzzi V85TT, now that is the best midweight ADV.

[@bitterlifes]

@@thierryfaquet7405 It wouldn't be any mistake to go on Touareg, jus go on it, it is a fantastic midweight adv bike, for me definitely it is better than the Y T7. So for me personally if i decide to buy a bike, Aprilia would be a serious option on midweight segment, of course after Suzuki ore Y T7 explorer.

[@skyworks1621]

Suzuki made huge steps for 2023. All of their bikes in all segments are new or updated.

[@IRQ1Conflict]

DRZ-400S enters the chat.

[@jaywhoisit4863]

I have the 1000. Such an awesome bike from the best manufacturer.

[@6226superhurricane]

"the handlebars have a strange matt finish that'd look right at home on a 90's bike" the owner when he looks at the handlebars that have been shot peened for extra strength will appreciate the finish that reminds them that quality is timeless.

[@Jonathan-L]

3:24 ... 'sounds v-twin like' ... imagine a 90-degree v-twin being 'folded up' to be a parallel twin, but retaining the same firing pulses ... that's where the 270 degree crankpin offset has a role to play. Tractable at low revs, sounds good too.

[@patrickbarnacle4468]

Awesome review, Ben. First time I’ve ever fancied a V-Strom! Enjoyed the comparison to the Teneré too 🤘

[@n.elliott9122]

The sound is absolutely perfect!

[@chadkline4268]

A lot of people are looking for 800DE info 🙂 almost 2K views in the 1st 2 hours of posting this video 😀

[@fcalin21]

So, Tuareg (an older model) has a smoother engine, less weight , better off-road performance , all for the same price. Good job Suzuki!

[@Roberta_Esposito]

exactly 🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹

[@AleksiJoensuu]

I wonder... The new 800 DE seems much better for adventure compared to the old V-Strom 650. But it's also a lot more expensive than the 650 was. And I feel like the 650's success was in being a comfy, reliable all-round bike that was cheap. It was good for a little bit of everything: commuting, touring, even the odd twisty road and so on. If Suzuki doesn't keep the 650 in the lineup, will they still get the customers who are looking for that simple do-it-all, affordable bike? And will there be a Japanese bike for those customers anymore? Or will they either move to the second hand market or to the Chinese alternatives?

[@ws8080]

I think this is why they have stated there are no plans to retire the 650 from the lineup - yet. But if sales of the 650 drop, then off course that will likely change. The GSX750 is a goner and probably should be in comp to the 800 based units. You hit the nail on the head regarding price competition. CFMoto is charging hard.

[@nickb3968]

I rode the 800 and 650 V-Strom back to back last month.....I liked the 650 better even though some of it's equipment is considered "less than" the 800, specifically the lack of USD forks. The 650 motor was superior in almost every way IMO, far more smooth and more broadly spaced/linear in it's torque delivery. The 6-7 rwhp difference wasn't even noticeable. The 650 seat was better, the suspension even if "bargain" seemed more plush, wind protection was better and the narrowness of the bike made it more "flickable". If they uprated the front forks and gave it a TFT screen I'm not sure the extra cost would make it a better bike.

[@trucker-d4161]

Each to their own, but big rock moto kinda contradicts what you say. His short first impression ride, he was saying he thought the suspension was better than his t-7. The guys on MAD seem to really like it also. Did you adjust the suspension? I’m sure you’ve adjusted your t-7.

[@Kingsoupturbo]

Great review, especially compared to a long term test on the Tenere-700. I think it looks really nice, I dig the larger front wheel and longer travel, twin balance shafts is going to be nice to have, 4 cylinder bikes are so smooth, going to a "character-filled" vibrating twin is fun for a little while, but gets tiresome and feels cheap imho quickly. A nice factory muffler that doesn't create stinky exhaust, is quite at low revs and makes fun intake noises at higher revs is perfect, who wants some neighbour-hater 800$ mostly hollow shiny-pipe-slip-on anyways?

[@dutchup353]

Great review and I love that helmet man

[@Roadrash.750]

Being a long term Honda fanboy and I’ve ridden both of these, I wouldn’t even look twice at the Transalp, imo this outclasses it.

[@pigmeal2224]

I'm in the same boat as you. I've heard though that you have to take off the tank to access air filter in Transalp. Sorry - that right there spells dealbreaker to me ... 😢

[@michaelk946]

@@pigmeal2224 You would think Honda would have learned the filter lesson after making the Goldwing air filter a 3 hour job...

[@anthonyrooney6430]

I was very impressed by this review outlining the qualities of the bike very well without hype and positioning it perfectly.

[@williamswanderings3519]

Thanks for the review. I loved my vstrom, but it just didn't quite have enough off-road chops for what I did. This bike might fill that need. The T7 lacks in touring and 2-up comfort, the KTM 890 lacks in touring comfort and reliability, so I think the v-strom fills a gap here between these other great bikes.

[@motorcyclenewsdotcom]

The V-Strom is certainly more capable off road than the old 650, but it's still more like a road bike that can go off road a bit. Maybe an 80/20 split on/off-road.

[@michaelk946]

I am wondering now. I went to the store today and saw this bike. The T7 that they had was sold. I am thinking about this bike now, but maybe go through the first set of tires and get something a little more off road capable. I am a 60/40 street/off road. This might be better 2 up ?

[@mikef3300]

It reminds me of the BMW GS800 a lot. Be great if one of the big name companies could make a twin that came in under 400lbs though.

[@antz148]

Great review, thanks.

[@motorcyclenewsdotcom]

Thanks for watching!

[@NurburgringBikerBlog]

Good video and bike looks great, however the two questions I have you didn't mention in the video, how much power and price? I'd also say the new Transalp is it's biggest competitor/rival for me.

[@michaelk946]

I was just at tge store they wanted 12,500 but I think it could be negotiable or more add on stuff. BTW I wonder if there is aftermarket for this bike?

[@joemiller8444]

Great review! Amazing bike. What is the helmet that you are wearing?

[@anotherpointlessvideo3654]

A beautiful homage to their classic (especially the all Yellow) Dakar race bikes.

[@kenjikenjikenj]

The yellow styling looks right at home in borderlands (the game). I like it personally

[@GB-fo2ce]

Fantastic review! Thanks! I just test rode one but only on road. I was amazed how the weight disappeared while riding it. It seemed very nimble for a bike this size with quick turn in, comparable to my SV650 almost. The mid-range power of the engine is also surprisingly strong. It really made me smile a lot. I think it is an ideal bike for touring, especially on the east coast of the US with terrible road conditions. I am curious whether the more road-oriented V Strom 800RE retains this level of comfort while being even more nimble on the road. Would love to hear if anyone has compared the DE with the RE directly.

[@edsonroadmoto]

Beautiful color livery!🎬

[@paullong1472]

No doubt it's a nice bike, but the vibration in spite of the twin rotating balancers is a head scratcher on a bike that will be used by most users on the road. 230 kg is just too heavy, no cruise control, no tubeless tyres. Suzuki will struggle to sell it, especially against the Transalp. Considering Suzuki spent so long developing this bike, I just don't understand how they signed it off with these issues.

[@rambunctioussoul]

The reviewer admits that, he rode the bike at cruising speeds on the off road 'A' mode, no wonder he felt vibrations. He should have switched to B/C mode on tarmac, he says he did not bother and complains on vibrations. Lazy review, other reviews on this model don't have any vibration complaints.

[@paullong1472]

@rambunctioussoul Bennetts also reported vibration in their review. I'm a Suzuki fan and I'm disappointed because I think they missed an opportunity. Bike is definitely on the heavy side for a middle weight.

[@nestserau]

@@rambunctioussoul Bullshit. A fuel map won't affect vibrations a tiny bit unless it causes pinging! Other reviewers are just glossing over.

[@rambunctioussoul]

@@nestserau Bullshit or horseshit or whatever, the reviewer did not use the recommended riding mode, that's the point. In cars it does make a difference in NVH and I have been driving for years. Before coming to a conclusion, he should have properly tried out all the models, he had 2 full days for testing. All other reviewers clearly mention how the bike behaves in every mode.

[@travisdonaldstanley6420]

They can put those improvements later, it's a long term game of making money.

[@dhruvsaxenadstar]

A great inspiration and hints of the legendary katana if one can observe 😮

[@truth-Hurts375]

I had a DR800...This bike look like the DR800...It was a indestructible beast.....

[@Turco949]

3:45 - Oh my, it did sound like a V-Twin! Nice sound!

[@jedibusiness789]

“You notice the weight when you’re off road and you run out of talent” My chuckle for the day.

[@md8492]

Nice review , thanks really informative. I’m planning on getting one when it’s out. I have a 30in inseam wondering on the seat height. Also could one swap out the rims /tires to tubeless or convert the existing ones ..thanks again 😊

[@nestserau]

You can forget about this bike with your length. Don't be fooled by these reviews. This bike is a pig, a tall pig, and it is way heavier than a 215 kg bike and is just in a different league if compared to 200 kg bikes. Also, when trying this bike at a dealership make sure it's completely fueled, which will add another 20 kg to an already heavy feeling bike.

[@michaelk946]

@@nestserau Valid points. I went today to look at a t7 and saw this one and was giving it some thought , but your comment made me re-think. You may be right !

[@ceva4085]

hey, guys! could you please make a direct comparation between V-Strom 800DE and Tenere 700? Would be great!

[@teddylott]

great review! What in the boot trousers are you wearing? After something with this styling. Thanks

[@motorcyclenewsdotcom]

Alpinestars Tech 7 Enduro Drystar boots - which are excellent. Full review coming soon. The trousers are Richa commuting jobbies that aren't really cut out for this sort of riding but were all I had at the time...

[@Zt3v3]

Competition in this segment is always good. I would like to see more competition in the KTM 690 / DR650 / XR650 realm though. Heavyweight singles are pretty stale and mid seat height options are limited to the DR.

[@imranibnismail]

Cross balancer shaft is a game changer for creature comforts

[@pablochamorrovelasquez3785]

excelente maquina

[@exothermal.sprocket]

So far I've not heard from anyone who's ridden the GSX-8S about any vibration issue. That leave me to believe PROBABLY it has something to do with the exhaust, emissions, or otherwise with the 800DE which is setting a sympathetic vibration issue at higher rpm. Solution? Rip the exhaust off, replace with a full system, ECU flash, and smooth right out. I seriously doubt with all the work Suzuki did with dual counterbalancers and boasting of how smooth this would make a twin, that this buzz is the result of that. Again, I'm only going on what I'm _not_ hearing from the GSX-8S so far, which has an entirely different exhaust system.

[@mermerac9610]

Suzuki needs to do 3 things to have a 5 star bike. 1. Tubeless tires(TPMS) 2. 4 pot radial calipers 3. Cruise control

[@_Makanko_]

Agreed. A bigger screen would be nice as well. Probably a very first mod I would do to the bike, it's tiny.

[@jeffweier4824]

Do any other brands have all the things you cited?

[@mermerac9610]

@@jeffweier4824 KTM 790/890 ADV. If they would have Japanese reliability they would sell like hot cakes. Because they are as close to perfect as you can get in ADV segment.

[@mermerac9610]

@@_Makanko_ the screen is for my taste a perfection. Size preference aside, it is all you need in perfect layout and none of the gimmicks you do not need.

[@_Makanko_]

@@mermerac9610 perhaps misunderstood, I mean the wind screen not the dash screen.

[@tarikadv1980]

Nice 👌🏻💖

[@dgomes265]

They need to offer a road focused model with 19 front 17tear wheels like Triumph. And add cruise. Or Deal breaker for me.

[@richardhretczak536]

Tubeless tires please!

[@Larry_Mott]

I don't know about y'all but i stopped watching at "230 kg's".. That's a solid deal breaker for me. Then again the "offroad" bike i had was a Honda XR600R weighing in at 126'ish.. I know they aren't really compareable but c'mon.. 230 is ridiculous..

[@Marco81323]

At 230 kg it is as heavy as an Africa Twin and between 10 and 25 kg heavier than any of its direct competitors. Yet another touring bike with a 21-inch front wheel and long travel suspension that will never see more than a gravel road.

[@garrycoates2147]

Trying to work out where the extra 20 kgs goes. It's heavier than my old CB750K6!

[@st33ldi9ital]

It weighs about the same as others tbh... most are giving you barebones dry weight without all options. Suzuki giving you wet weight fully loaded. (Grip covers, skid plate, quick shift, etc, etc) Once you add it all up and compare, they are all +- 15lbs or so. Bolted subframe might add a hair but that's a feature imo, good for repairs. If you actually offroad a bike then chances are you gonna tweak frame at some point. Bet it's freak of a muffler adds a lb or two more than others as well. Tubes add a lil weight but once again that's a feature I'd rather have for running with foam core or run flat tubes..

[@Alex75990]

Hi, when are you planning to release your review of the GSX-8S?

[@ragerider6283]

Nice review. Seems like a pretty decent bike, although wondered if you or Suzuki adjusted the suspension to better suit your preferences & if so, essentially was the suspension good enough to do so? Will also be interesting to see if those 5500rpm vibes turn up on the GSX8S launch in April.

[@motorcyclenewsdotcom]

No we left the suspension as it was straight out of the box.

[@ragerider6283]

@@motorcyclenewsdotcom Thanks for clarifying. Hopefully any issues can broadly be dialed out if needs be.

[@thierryfaquet7405]

@@motorcyclenewsdotcom even if offroad ? So when you said that the supsension was too firm in offroad it was without any adjustement ? Quite an important bit of information left out there.

[@garrycoates2147]

@@thierryfaquet7405 Good pick up. Criticizing suspension without adjustment is ignorance. I have never ridden a bike (in 50 years) that could not be improved with suspension adjustment/ tuning.

[@rodneyhull9764]

That heft😮‍💨

[@toltod]

Would be perfect for me if there was cruise control was added to the ride by wire. Unfortunately I have to cross it off my adventure bike list...I really don't want to.

[@kenjikenjikenj]

If they're gonna have ride modes (which requires throttle by wire), it basically only costs switch gear, wiring and a bit of calibration to add cruise control, but it doesn't look like it's got it. That's very unfortunate if true, I didn't see it mentioned in the video

[@nestserau]

If you want to use the cruise control on a tubed tire bike you're fooling yourself. They won't be adding it for safety reasons. This is not the bike you're going to do 100 mph on the highway unless you have a death wish. I know, there are people who will come here and say that have done it and they are fine. But it doesn't mean it's not stupid. This is tubed tires, so 60 mph is your best bet. And no cruise control means you will have a chance to keep the bike in its lane if a tire blows up.

[@fearhand12]

​@@nestserau Can you explain what you mean further? Thanks

[@PP-wz7mp]

​@@nestserau load of bullshit what you said

[@GeordiLaForgery]

Lovely jubbly bike

[@NorCalSaint]

Great looking bike but not sure where it fits when compared to competitors. Off road king has to be the Tuareg or T7... Maybe most comparable to the new Transalp?

[@renatosalles1163]

The only thing i miss are the tubeless tires.

[@MrAndrew1953]

How would you rate the V-strom against the TransAlp?

[@Mar_Tin]

Wonderful as the 650. Seems Suzuki ist ready for new XF and DR. Just half and a bit of the 800.

[@MadChalet]

Not into ADV bikes much but I appreciated your methodical review. I don't recall any comments about wind protection, aside from the deflectors at the grips. Lighting is always something I'm interested ... how does the headlight perform? Could the vibes you mention be effectively shifted to another spot in the rev range with a sprocket change?

[@test40323]

Huh, shouldn't it be golden field of grain under a clear blue sky? Enjoyed the review.

[@victorherrero4790]

Vstrom 800 DE >>>Honda Transalp 750. Great video and great review. The only bad thing is the lacking of cruise control.

[@garrycoates2147]

The Transalp does not have front and rear suspension adjustment. It also has a smaller tank but is lighter with more power.

[@KyriakosSoul]

I am between this and the transalp 750! Help me! Which is better?

[@Geshmaal]

It is crazy that for more money than a Moto Guzzi V85TT, Suzuki are offering a bike that's basically the same weight but doesn't have cruise control or a shaft drive. Is this really worth more than the Guzzi?

[@TurboMatriX333]

I m waiting for a review from Honda Transalp 750.

[@human1513]

Exhaust sounds like a rattly twin. Does the big high muffler impede the size of right side saddle bag?

[@jamesbarratt593]

I test rode a KTM once and that had mad engine vibrations through the pedals. Now you say about vibrations at a certain rev range. That would screw with my brain if its true.

[@eusergiu9975]

Cool

[@rappers5719]

Always fancied one. I do have short legs. It seams a good all rounder. How would you rate the older versions?

[@thierryfaquet7405]

There are no older version. It's a new motor for a new bike.

[@rappers5719]

@@thierryfaquet7405 Thank you. Although, there are older V-Stroms. I know they will be lower tech but, are they any good?

[@mbal4052]

@@rappers5719 heavy, slow plodders but they will go on forever

[@jeffweier4824]

@@rappers5719 They are an exceptionally reliable and long lived bike. There is verifyed example of a 1000cc version on the Stromtrooper forum with well over 400,000 miles (not kilometres) and it only started to use a small amount of oil at 390,000 miles. It's had owners manual recommended maintenance and has only had a new stator and a Werks clutch basket fitted with original clutch plates still in spec. Of course like all bikes it's had the replacement of necessary consumables in that mileage, oil, coolant, tyres, chains, sprockets, batteries etc, but it's still a glowing testament to the reliability of the bike.

[@rappers5719]

@@jeffweier4824 Thanks very much.

[@UncleWally3]

Despite the twin balancers, is the vibration more intrusive than the new Transalp? And, aside from the very common comments about the Suzuki’s vibrations, how do the two two bikes compare?

[@motorcyclenewsdotcom]

We're only riding the Transalp this week and it is a different tester. We'll likely be testing these bikes head-to-head at some point in the year though.

[@rambunctioussoul]

Later in the review, the reviewer admits that, he rode the bike at cruising speeds on the off road 'A' mode, no wonder he felt vibrations. He should have switched to B/C mode on tarmac, he says he did not bother and complains on vibrations. Lazy review.

[@gregorbabic7664]

@@rambunctioussoul Are you implying a different throttle ramp would effect engine vibration? Now that is just silly. Plus. A is the sport mode not an off road mode. Sportier mode in that it has a quicker throttle ramp per angle of twist. This all has nothing to do with the mechanical balance and any natural frequencies of vibration that the engine would have.

[@UncleWally3]

@@rambunctioussoul Perhaps, but every review I’ve watched identifies (not necessarily complains) about the vibrations, especially in light of the twin balancers. Having owned and ridden three new V-Strom’s cumulatively over 200 000 kilometers, I’m a huge Suzuki V-Strom fan, but almost entirely because of the 90° twin which has perfect primary balance. My big concern about the parallel twin is not only because of vibration, but about the character of the engine as a whole.

[@nestserau]

You cannot make a parallel twin as good as an L-twin of the V-Strom. One, two or three balancers. It's just physics. Even KTM uses a V-twin in their Super Adventure. The engine is so good you will want to remove the tank to clean the filter.

[@andrewsmith7367]

This Suzuki vstrom is what Id buy for 2up. Im buying one if the price is right.

[@dougiequick1]

Im thinking it is alteady so heavy why not get the 1050 and actually have full liter class power? I mean unless it is just to save a couple grand?

[@travisdonaldstanley6420]

That and the 800 has way more travel and a 21" front for gravel, sand, and jeep trails. It's should be a little easier to pick up if it takes a nap.

[@Lasergun74]

I see lots of hype online about this new P-Strom (I refuse to call it V-Strom since it’s a parallel), I ‘m curious to try and ride one!

[@danielm6507]

It was never a V twin but an L twin

[@Lasergun74]

@@danielm6507 Not really. First, an L-twin “is” a V90, only mounted with one cylinder horizontal and the other vertical. Second, the V-Strom engine was not even technically an L-twin (like old Ducatis for example) because the front cylinder was not completely horizontal.

[@mbal4052]

The V always stood for Versatile..according to Suzuki 😉

[@Lasergun74]

@@mbal4052 it sounds odd for me, like the electric Porsche Taycan “Turbo”

[@jeffweier4824]

The V Strom 250 has been around for a good while and it's a parallel twin and nobody ever said anything not even the Honda fan boys. Funny that.

[@kittsonic1]

I was hoping that Suzuki would do it better design on this bike.. aggressive look... I do own the V-Strom 2010

[@matthewlindsay4701]

A Ronnie Mac beak and retro Suzuki mx colours…..cool

[@saadstrips6573]

Did you try the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S off-road?

[@Matt-vo1ge]

Awesome that so many road riders will forego the markedly safer tubeless tyre for those 1-2 weeks per year that they may leave the tarmac.

[@TheMarky26]

Does it have cruise control?

[@stuleyland9490]

The thought of using a tubed bike tyre on the road makes me twitch. :)

[@travisdonaldstanley6420]

Folks who tour on the KLR650 and DR650 would laugh at your comment.

[@JohnSmith-ef8nr]

How did suzuki get it to weigh more than a Africa twin 1100?

[@louislopez55]

Why would you want balancer shafts on a 270 degree engine? I don’t know, maybe because they have significant vibration above 70mph?

[@nickclarkuk]

Getting rid of the rubbers on the pegs will eat your boot souls if my motocross boots are anything to go by. But essential off road .

[@hair2050]

You were slow to bring the review out bro 🤷‍♂️😎. Good however 👍. Sadly, as a 650 VStrom owner I am looking for a lighter bike, not heavier. I’ll keep waiting and hoping that someone produces it.

[@eamonnmurphy5039]

Yep, I think I'd be more excited about a new DRZ400 to take on the 300 Rally - fuel injection, a 6th gear, slightly updated dash, could be s huge hit. I have the 650XT, I don't do much offroad (would love to but hard to find), and the weight (and top heavy if much fuel on) is the big downside, the 800 isnt going to fix that, on the contrary... That said it looks a great bike and if changing I'd probably buy it over a 650, just wouldn't expect miracles offroad. Final word, for those who feel the 650/800/1000 are not serious offroad, do you think the same about the GS1250? All are chunky, none are dual sports, I think they're all tourers and gravel roaders and not much else, and theres nothing wrong with that.

[@hair2050]

@@eamonnmurphy5039 background, I’m Australian, 55, in Australia, actually returned august last year after 28 years abroad and 35 years without so much as throwing my leg over a bike, and then only dirt bikes, I was raised on a farm. I was, and discovered still am very capable off-road. I have owned the VStrom for only about 9 weeks, did about 4,000km of mixed riding to get myself up to speed and to learn how to ride a road focused bike. I love the VStrom and it suits my needs as I commute on it. Home is down 400M of rough (but still airborne possibilities) dirt track followed by 2km of dirt roads. So every day is mix riding. My tires are 90-10 road, which I prefer. It’s helped me learn to scrap the pegs and on dirt I’ve learned to ignore the bucking and sliding. Lean it over stick a leg out and moderate with throttle, top side up so far 😎. So to your question. The big Bemers are fantastically balanced bikes and in good hands extremely capable. Do I want one? Nope. Too expensive to buy and maintain and too heavy to go places that I want to go, as is my VStrom. The new 800 is a fantastic bike but is not where I want it to be. I want 600-650 17”-19” 180kg fueled by and ready to go. They will never invest the money to upgrade the DRZ 400 unfortunately. However I completely agree with your wish list of upgrades. At the end of the day it is impossible to achieve the perfect unicorn 🦄 bike, it is possible to get close with a highly modified ktm gasgas or similar 350-500. But big bickies by the time the fat lady has sung and you are not going to be anywhere near as comfortable on-road in comparison to my 12 year old VStrom, so how unicorn is it really? Two bikes are the only solution if you are going to go anywhere near difficult terrain. KZbin videos of guys having trashed their expensive ADV bikes in deep mud, water, and all manner of creative ways to kill a bike are amusing, but just plain stupid if you ask me. There’s no joy in trying to extract bike heavy hunks of metal from the clutches of the wild. So if money is no object I’d buy the VStrom 800 for the commute and the adventure rides, (going away on one on Friday for 3 days), and a 250-350 for bashing around the literally endless bush which starts outside my door.

[@eamonnmurphy5039]

@@hair2050 Yep, agree with you. There's a guy who did 1,000 miles in a day on highways on a 300 Rally (there's a KZbin video), but it can't have been much fun, so the 650/800 for touring. There's a brilliant KZbin video from Mad TV where they do a tour of the Kimberley, v interesting and beautiful. They're on 250/300 dual sports, ideal for that job. Someday I'll buy a light single that will do 100 miles in relative comfort and then will work well on a trail... (where wont be in dread of picking it up repeatedly).... #makeitso 🧚‍♀️😄

[@tigerrider6711]

Everyone: we love the vstrom engine, please put it in a proper adventure chassis. Suzuki 20 years later: we did it. Oh but it’s a parallel twin.

[@deandee8082]

s V strom with in inline? shouldn't it be an I strom?

[@dragoclarke9497]

All those hoses and pipework on the engine make it look very untidy and will be a nightmare to keep clean. Is a centre stand available, if not that's a deal breaker for me.

[@alphajed7700]

Can't wait a proper shootout with that bike vs. Transalp

[@BodybuildingSteve]

The price is hard to swallow when the africa twin a direct price competitor

[@williamrae9954]

3 Suzuki 800DEs here to 2 x Africa Twins... huge price difference... same as a Transalp 700,not an A/T

[@acadenacci]

Mi piacerebbe sapere se scalda, grazie.

[@Greggspies]

Looking like tubed tyres which is disappointing has the bike a QS and CC

[@louislopez55]

It appears Suzuki never could figure out how to make a wind screen that doesn’t cause turbulence, so they just went with a small one and left it to the individual owner and the after market to come up with something.

[@depravedone]

True, I've had a tall Givi windscreen on my DL1000 for ages, and if anything I can't seem to get enough oxygen riding behind it, in contrast the factory screen had me looking like a bobblehead doll and would be worn out after a few hours ride.

[@ceva4085]

is this 800DE engine reliable?

[@JustinDeClemente]

The Gray version makes the bike.

[@mxtone]

Off road division, have they got one anymore 😳

[@june3878]

Tiger 800 xca vs suzuki 800de?

[@silotx]

What will happen if the front wheel inner tube pops while you are touring with high speed?

[@motorcyclenewsdotcom]

The tyre will deflate and you'll probably have an accident. But isn't that true of a tubeless tyre?

[@jeffweier4824]

The same thing that will happen to a T7, a Transalp or most of the other brands that have tube tyres.

[@chadkline4268]

I am tired of these endless comments about tubed tires. They are a lot more reliable if you damage a rim or shred a tire more than a plug can repair.

[@jimperry4420]

@@chadkline4268 And the constant whining about cruise control! If you want cruise, drive your car.

[@mbal4052]

@@jimperry4420 have you owned and toured a lot on a bike with cruise control?

[@frankstocker5475]

Extra kilos & free vibrations, what more could you want.

[@chankarchun7151]

the wind shield seems small..

[@motorcyclenewsdotcom]

Yes it's quite small but it's effective. Some of the taller testers had it adjusted to a higher position (which requires tools).

[@joshlewis5065]

Oh nice, a direct competitor of the Tenere 700

[@DetoxYourSoul]

This bike looks great, but at 230 kg it's way to heavy, fully packed even more... GL

[@dalebridle6826]

230kgs…OMG that’s more than my 2022 Triumph GT Pro…not sure what to say….😂

[@alastairtheduke]

It's a porker

[@garrycoates2147]

Trying to work out where the extra 20 kgs goes. It's heavier than my old CB750K6!

[@kevinnashskitchen3517]

$1,000 USD better than the Tuareg 660?🤔

[@richardhretczak536]

I don’t think so.

[@TravelThailand8]

Cruise control???

[@saulocpp]

V-Strøm, except it is a parallel.

[@luuk341]

Sorry but for a channel like this you'd think they'd know what a 270° crank actually means. "standing beside the road you'd swear it was a pack of V-Twins coming down the road" Ohh geez I wonder why that might be?

[@DashRendar308]

An 1100 Africa Twin is lighter than this bike.