Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT Review!

[@jasonmullin4310]

Great ride! I have a 2018 strom 1000XT. Honestly best bike I've ever owned, and that's saying a lot for a guy that's been through 8 bikes in the last 20 years.

[@paulboyle8522]

Just back from a 2500 mile road trip on the black 1050xt around Ireland and the UK. I upgraded from the 1000xt and the increased price is worth every penny. Love the cruise control and bike handles like a dream. Used all driver modes and TC settings and power delivery is more linear. Used the bike off road around Worthy Farm Glastonbury Festival site and the bike held up well. I’m 6’4” and this bike is brilliant for tall riders, really comfortable and only minimal wind resistance from the standard screen. Relatively low service costs and bulletproof engine make this a really good buy and would definitely recommend this bike.

[@customgadget3385]

Though, this video was made 4 years ago, it properly applies. I just got my V-strom xt, only 3 days ago. Love it. Some people say that it's not that fun or inspiring. Load 'o Tripe. Twisties, town use and motorway, this baby inspires. Off road can't be much worst if not extreme.

[@aeonthailand]

it will never get old. My Vstrom 650 xt too , In Thailand we call Suzuki is mad man brand. Because very few dealers and not so many service point , but when you have it you will love it . I was Honda user and now I have 5 Suzuki bikes

[@cpuuk]

I have the 2018XT, which I've put 22K miles on... I rode this very same bike after you ;-) I 100% agree with everything you said, the 1050 is better than 1000 in every measurable way possible. No longer is the Vstrom boring, that engine is now a revvy peach. Only things I didn't like was the clocks (too small for me), the wind-screen isn't tall enough for 6 footers and the hand-guards are a joke, but I think everyone changes the screen & hand-guards anyway and the clocks would be gotten use to.

[@drewmorg.]

Every video I've seen with this bike everyone is throwing it around like a sportbike. Must be a good sign.

[@florme6494]

I own a Vstrom1000, and a crf250l for my adventures off road. If I wanted one for both I’d be looking at a Africa Twin or T700. But I’d be ashamed if I dropped it. I feel the best compromise is to own both. Vstrom for long distance tours and crf for nearly everything else. Two of the most reliable bikes.

[@ratsausage]

Until you turn the TC off this thing is holding out on you. Took me 2 weeks to realise on mine. I soon got used to the annoying TC light being on it makes a big difference to acceleration.

[@gregtriumphrat]

Just bought one of these. Its absolutely brilliant fun to ride. I've been riding GSA's for several years and yes its down on BHP but in the real world you dont notice it. Down the country lanes of Devon its awesome fun.

[@samiam5326]

Hi greg, congratulations on the new moto. May I ask do you like the new digital speedo? (Is it easy to read? And do you like the digital tacho?) And what are the parameters of the cruise control? (Is there a minimum speed or gear in order to activate it?) Cheers!

[@gregtriumphrat]

Hi Sam, Speedo is fine all the info is there that you need and as it's so low revving v twin the tacho isn't really used but once again everything is easy to read. I use cardo and bluetooth gps so don't require TFT screens. Cruise works around 40mph and from 3rd or 4th gear so good for long road work sections and faster stuff. After riding around on electronic suspension for years I now realise why did I spend all that money the Suzy suspension is superb.

[@samiam5326]

Hi Greg, thank you for taking the time to reply. I can't wait till the V-Strom 1050 gets to Oz. I also found your reflection on your past GSA's electronic suspension interesting too. Cheers and stay safe.

[@inked-96]

So after spending £12000 on my R1200GSA, as nice as it is, for what i use the bigger bike for, 1 or 2 European tours a year, commuting to work all year round and doing the shopping on. I feel the 1050 XT makes more sense to me at a fraction of the cost. So will be trying to get a test ride on the 20-22 XT, should pocket around £4500 after selling my GSA and buying the 1050XT.

[@TheGardenSnake]

Will this work well in the apocalypse? Asking for a friend.

[@happyjalapeno9397]

you should be able to escape those crazed zombies on this quite well.

[@CantEatRS]

Yes just add a ram bar and 2 shot guns.

[@spicy110]

Yes you can get at least 50 toilet rolls on the back!

[@Nightdare]

@@CantEatRS No chainsaw?

[@999silverhk]

No, except Grom 125!! Period

[@shaunstacey4132]

My bike was in the background in the start outside haslemere motorcycles 😊

[@realscience948]

Your 11 seconds of fame....Sorry your bike’s 11 secs of fame!

[@Grumpycat95]

For some reason this bike reminds me of the 80’s , kinda looks like something Robocop would ride lol

[@BlueRidgeKat1]

Agree..... like the looks of the 1000 much better.

[@ams914]

That's the entire purpose of the design. Tribute to 80s Suzuki. I love it.

[@BlueRidgeKat1]

Yea.... I didn't like how they looked in the 80's and sure don't like it 30 years later. Looks old and outdated. Guess that's why their still sitting in the dealer showrooms and it's time for the 2021's to come out.

[@ams914]

@@BlueRidgeKat1 Ouch. I haven't looked at their sales numbers, how do they compare to other manufacturers during the pandemic? I still think they look great, and for the first time I'm interested in a V-Strom. Never was before.

[@BlueRidgeKat1]

@@ams914 Design an all new Adventure bike.... make it look like the 80's and take a gallon away from the fuel tank.... on an Adventure bike?? Suzuki, sorry but that' just insane.

[@michalrybinski3233]

You've mentioned XJ6 and how heavy it is... I just sold mine (which was my first big bike) and got V-Strom 650XT (40 miles daily commute), and only after the first ride I've realised how much lighter and pleasant the ride can be, same with handling it on a driveway and garage... bonkers difference, totally wasn't aware of such thing before!

[@astrobusa]

Great review.... very much from a riders perspective. Stats and facts are great (and can be found anywhere) ... but whats important is that "seat of the pants" feedback, expressed without filter. Your authentic reactions to acceleration, handling, comfort, braking, suspension and various other aspects of the package are exactly what I look for in a review.

[@kwak1k]

My Bandit 1200 sits at 4000rpm at 70mph. It pulls like a train from there. You can't beat big bore torque.👍

[@grren1782]

I'm in love with the styling

[@ragerider6283]

Nice review & first decent one I've seen of this bike. It seems to have been almost completely ignored by the press & has had little or no promotional publicity. I also think the Suzuki's biggest problem is the crop of "middleweight" adventure bikes that have arrived on the scene which seem better, cooler & cheaper. Although when you look at it, a comparitive spec'd up Triumph, BMW or Honda are actually more expensive. I think the Suzuki will be overlooked despite actually seemingly being a very good bike.

[@felixlechat1780]

Im thinking the same

[@NishadAbdulkhader]

Exactly to be more competitive suzuki should bring quick shifter, TFT screen and they should tweak the engine with more punchiness like Africa twin by reducing the weight .then SUZUKI will be the leader in the adventure segment

[@repetitivemotion]

I’ve got a 07 DRZ400S and a 2014 VStrom 1000adv. What great bikes in their specific markets. They may not be the best performing in their classes, but they represent the best value. Combined, I’ve spent a total of $14k US. The DRZ I bought new, the VStrom I bought slightly used.

[@elitetileandstone]

I just purchased a 2019 1000XT Adventure, back in February. While I'm very happy with the bike, I would love to compare it to the new 1050. As with any upgrade, it should ne an improved model. I saved a substantial bit of money on my 2019, which has allowed me to keep my previous bike, a 2014 Versey 650. If I went with the 2020, it would have required selling the Kawasaki. Thanks for another excellent review! Cheers, Rich in Philadelphia

[@suppersready4you]

Great review Thanks Spicy I really like the new 1050, I am considering it I owned 5 GSs, I think this time I gonna go VStrom 😎

[@spicy110]

Got to be worth a test ride the 1050 rides better than the GS I rode but that was about 3 years ago or so, not tried the newer models yet.

[@suppersready4you]

I believe what you say about the GS, the Vstrom looks and from your review it seems that rides great as well I got away from GSs because I think there are great other choices out there like this VS and the AT 2020 The only decision that I have to make now is to sell my FJR 16' which is hard to do because it is one the best bike I ever rode, anyways, I should try to manage to keep it and buy the Suzuki which in today's economy it is not an easy task, well see.... Thanks again for the great review, keep up with the good work 👌

[@disekjoumoer]

All in all, a impressive improvement over the old one and a bike that will last you for years of fun, I think. Excellent value for money as well.

[@kevinmullin9956]

Great review thank you.Loving this bike and seriously thinking about buying it.Can't decide between yellow and orange.I'd like a cast wheel option for the xt.It's essentially a road bike.

[@p.santos6644]

Finally you riding a big bike. Looks great. Thank you for sharing, great video 👍👍👍

[@indobleh]

Considering your formative years riding motorbikes on YT, even mentioning using mirrors still surprises me :) Nice video, bike looks a complete keeper. Spring is here just starting, dry roads !

[@spicy110]

That was the point everyone missed the mirrors on my old bike just didn't work very well. If they work I tend to keep them....apart from the DRZ but I do miss them at times but clearly not enough to put them back on haha.

[@kevinmullin9956]

Great job as usual.Torn between the now way cheaper 1000 and what seems a sillier 1050.RGW and cruise are tempting

[@kevinmullin9956]

Silkier I meant!

[@barryjmarling]

Great looking bike reminds me of a Suzuki 125 I passed my test on in 1988,same colours,great memories.👍🏻

[@2wheeledwillie395]

What a great review! Alot of reviewers like to dismiss the 1050 vstrom, maybe because of its lower price or its looks but you got it spot on 👍 I'm also 6'4" so the size is perfect.. You got a new sub 👍

[@spicy110]

Thank you, you may like my motorcycle reviews playlist.

[@florme6494]

You have become the Vstrom ambassador!

[@kuladeeluxe]

Very nice bike.....I am sticking with my 17' 650 Strom, tweaking it a bit (Better brakes, seat) and happy with it because it will keep my speed down compared to a 1000. As a returning rider in my 60's I don't want to go back to old habits like trying to go faster all the time. Just want to relax, enjoy the handling and drive where the cars aren't. VG review

[@robertbates1079]

Tried one last weekend, really grunty engine I liked, comfy seat and ergonomics, but I wore a peaked lid and whatever position I had screen in my head was buzzing, 5'10. So an aftermarket one would be first thing to buy. I'm spoilt with a wide markstad on my 650 I suppose. Great review.

[@ewooll]

Great review, and you probably made my mind up between the 1050 V strom and Tiger 900. The Suzuki sounds a beauty!

[@spicy110]

I will be reviewing the tiger 900 in the next few weeks 🙂

[@ewooll]

@@spicy110 OK, man, that will be the clincher. Can't wait!

[@gregmatty6393]

Very different bikes. I am going through the same process, apocalypse not withstanding, and the Tiger 900 is quite a bit lighter and though Ive not ridden, will likely have a sportier feels with less low end torque given how much smaller the engine is and that it is a triple. The V-Strom 1050 is, to me, a little bit like an American muscle car and the Tiger 900 a light weight smaller engined sports car. In fact, I don't really think you can compare the two. I'd rather have the V-Strom for touring that is all street with maybe a bit of gravel and the Tiger for anything more off road oriented or sport touring in nature. Guess I need to come up with the money for two bikes.

[@satchitysatch]

Great review, I recently bought the non xt model and I love it, cant believe what you get for the money I paid £8995 for mine from Mickey Oates Motorcycles in Glasgow a great local bike shop.

[@Ace12GA]

Thank you for this. Very comprehensive. I'm riding a Tracer 900 currently, and looking to trade it in for one of these. You covered the big stuff I was really wondering about, mainly the pickup and performance. I had test rode one last year, the 2019 DL1000, and I was really disappointed in the engine, the performance, and most importantly, the electronics. My 2018 Tracer has way better electronics as compared to a 2019 DL1000. This 2020 1050 has a much more comparable electronics package to the Tracer, while being a more adventure touring oriented machine. I'm 6'6", so I totally understand your issues with bikes. The Tracer has been tricky to adapt to me. I previously had a 2011 DL650, which I was able to fit to me perfectly. I miss that comfort; the leg room in particular, as compared to the Tracer. The performance of the CP3 engine though, is amazing. The 2019 DL1000 felt more like my older DL650 in the power department. A little rough, and lacking; lots of torque at low RPM's, but not much get up and go. It's a tough segment to fill, and I realize the Tracer is sport touring, as compared to the 1050 being adventure touring, but they really do overlap.

[@badshotuk72]

looks like the 80's I love it

[@matthagge4792]

Give me a 650 version with these electronics that's a bit lighter than my current 650 XT and I'll buy it on launch day!

[@Destide]

Are we bringing back early 90s colour schemes. I hope so

[@spicy110]

They do have a red and white very much like the Marlborough themed Dr big. I would like to see an updated version of the old colour schemes.

[@TheArcticRider]

Cool review. Thanks for sharing. Love the VStroms

[@elmoomle4565]

Great review. Love the old school 'suzuki yellow'...fantastic.

[@SteveWKk]

Yeahhh.....I bought a Vstrom 650 hoping to do some offroad/trails..... Did it once and never again!! Lol Have a CRF250L now :)

[@itsallabouttheridekeepingi4449]

In Australia probably at least 50% of riders would take there - even soft off roaders “ of road “ , obviously about 20% of them would take them on SNOTTY OFF ROAD . But it is a BIG country with loads of off road and some fantastic off road as well .

[@CandEAdventures]

Love the new looks of this bike! had a 06 dl1000 and loved it but always hated the way it looked. New looks plus those tubless wheels and heated grips are a seller for me.

[@emfl4437]

Excellent review! I am excited about the new V-Strom, even though I have new '18 that I completely enjoy

[@Nikki_Holland]

I’ve got the 650XT and love it. Last August I rode mine 8000km in 3 weeks to the very top of Norway without a single issue. Would I consider the 1000? Probably not I prefer the lighter bike and it does everything I want, although cruise control would be nice. Good review though.

[@TM-jy1xk]

www.mccruise.com/collections/suzuki/products/suzuki-dl650-v-strom-third-generation-from-2017-new-product-featuring-our-compact-electric-servo

[@tuanoful]

I also have the 650 XT. Don't you have issues with road clearance? I keep hitting speed bumbs. So offroad is completely out of the question

[@Nikki_Holland]

JustThaor can’t say I’ve noticed mine bottoming out. Is your suspension on the softest setting?. Mine will never intentionally go off road anyway

[@tuanoful]

@@Nikki_Holland this happens 2 up and/or with luggage. I live in Mexico, speedbumps here are brutal

[@Nikki_Holland]

JustThaor ah ok. Yes perhaps you need to change the suspension. We do have speed bumps here too (quite a lot of them in the Netherlands). But I’m only ever on my own and with luggage and the standard suspension is fine for me.

[@Lifes-a-Commute]

Crikey!! a video that’s not about corona virus,thanks

[@spicy110]

I will not talk about it on social media or here other than a passing comment if its relevant to what I am doing. There is far too many people talking about it who have no place doing so. I don't want to add anything to the noise and possible miss-information.

[@TuonoBen]

Can't wait to pick-up mine....nice report

[@skyworks1621]

Grettings from Vstrom 1000 XT rider. The new one has 15 kg more. I dont know if you can feel that but the less kg the more I like big adventure bikes.

[@paul.vanhout57]

Nice review. Will have to consider this as a potential replacement for my 2012 R1200GS - if it ever wears out😀

[@mctourer5549]

What makes me apprehensive of buying a new bike is starting over with all the accessories!

[@spicy110]

They do deals when you buy a bike if you get all the official kit. Might make it simpler.

[@LouCFur90]

That DR Big review is gunna be sweet.

[@dargar7325]

How was the screen after you upped it after the stop? Love the vids Spicy. Thank you 🙏

[@spicy110]

Basically the same still wind in the face less on my chest.

[@egg250]

Great content in this channel. Honest reviews. Good job 👍🏽

[@conceptcs]

Digging the retro look and color.

[@101steel4]

Now that's a big bike! Been struggling to pass my mod 1 on their tiny bike. Could have done with using that 😂

[@redleadervfr-v4906]

Well done Spicy another great video mate, I’ll be having a look at one of these I’m sure

[@philhunt9297]

Not trying to be critical - I love the look of the newer and older V-Strom and the Versys but I don't understand these major Asian adventure/dual sport motorcycle manufacturers The majority of the Asian market/population aren't 6ft tall and therefore have a shorter inside leg (

[@ThePalmatron]

Great video Spicy!

[@andrewshore262]

Sooooo a few things to consider: I own the the outgoing model would I buy the new one hmmm Biggest turn off spoked wheels, no cast wheels option on the XT they’re only available on the poverty model Max torque slightly less than the out going model and it’s now developed at 6000rpm not 4000 rpm but overall power is up slightly Headlight now LED tick Cruise control tick Updated dashboard - not good enough when compared to the competitors The new electronics package good tick The old bike you can just whack open the throttle and it really motors, the new one lacks a butterfly valve I bet it lacks that immediate punch - I will find out on a test ride. Would I buy one, not at the moment for me I think it’s an opportunity missed, good bike but no cigar

[@andrewshore262]

Jesus H Christ lol

[@1990-t1j]

Good review. Now I must look up your review of the old DR Big. Strange helmet!

[@NattyDreaddy]

Great Review! But, how is the Windscreen? Do it works great at this new Bike??

[@CuriousGoose]

4:24 Moto-Vlog!: A sign of things to come!

[@gremlin2288]

Here have this didn't cost me anything a big old thumbs up........................👍

[@joemann2178]

I really like the look of the Vstrom now.

[@JOHNNY-xj4zz]

Passed cbt yesterday spicey!

[@spicy110]

Congratulations! 🙂👍

[@JOHNNY-xj4zz]

@@spicy110 cheers mate love your vids I'm 38,the feeling of riding is amazing compared to cars

[@angelo1000r]

Love the classics 80’s look!

[@spicy110]

Exactly It seems if you have a fond spot for the older bikes you like it and if you don't its horrible going on the comments. I wouldn't have thought this to be a marmite bike but seems it is. 🙂

[@Leo-dq8et]

Sweet bike. Looking for my next bike and there are too many great options out there now. Making the decision really tough. Going to wait for the Tenere 700 to be available in the states before I make a decision.

[@jaywhoisit4863]

At 13:35 you’re wearing angel wings!

[@spicy110]

How the hell did you see that? (Also yes there is a joke in there 😉);

[@lastminuteles2647]

Nice video and nice bike. Love the retro look but modern ride. Keep em coming 👍

[@tomthompson7400]

it looks more like a gs 1150 than the gs actually does , bit like a lot of cruisers looking more Harley than Harleys do . great video though.

[@MikeDolar1]

now i want one

[@GhostOfGor]

Adjusted the wind screen and didn't comment on whether it made a difference. Maybe it did because you probably didn't feel any wind at all.

[@spicy110]

Opposite didn't notice a difference. But it's a bit unfair for me to comment on that as I am literally taller than 98-99% of the country.

[@kevrenshaw6177]

You lost me with the "heightest remark". I'm the first to know when theres a flood and the last to know when it snows

[@spicy110]

That's a joke right?

[@kevrenshaw6177]

@@spicy110 lol.. yes buddy.. thanks for the review though 😁😂

[@spicy110]

I'm good never knew these days haha

[@gregmatty6393]

On paper the outgoing bike had a huge torque advantage with greater lb/ft at much lower rpm than the new bike. How is the real world difference?

[@ontwo-wheels]

Lovely review.....but im 3years late I guess😊. To be honest, I'm not an offroad rider. I currently have a 500cc bike A2, grossly underpowered and heavy. I wanted to upgrade to the 2020 1050XT but my brother who is also a rider keeps on saying that its too big a bike for daily city commute and suggesting the 2020 650XT is better. Probably I'm over compensating for the current low powered bike experience and want more power. I also don't want a cramped up buke, I'm 6foot so my long legs need some space😂 I also dont want to buy snother bike for the next 6years or so I must get this as right as it can get. I also want to start week trips (400km round trip) with my wife as a pillion passanger probably once a month. Any suggestions?

[@luispedrocosta4346]

Great Review bro. Thanks. Big hug👍

[@thoms5836]

Hey, what helmet are you wearing? Great vid btw!

[@stevenpearson5658]

Great Review. Love the new 1050xt. Have you ever ridden the vfr800x Crossrunner and vfr1200x Crosstourer, I was wondering how they compare? Cheers Steve

[@mickleblade]

And will it dust, rot and fall apart like Suzuki's used to?

[@rickymullane9973]

very nice bike mate

[@grumpsrides42]

Not being picky, but I believe the DR Big is pronounced D R, as in D R Z, not doctor. BTW, was that a camera van parked up on the M3? just after you overtook the lorry? Or am I seeing things? If I get time to rewatch the video, i'll check. Another great video and nice review again Spicy, keep up the good work, really enjoying ALL of your content. Grumps.

[@spicy110]

Yes the "Dr big" was the nick name at the time. Also Yes that was a speed van I saw it going the other way before so knew where it was on the way back. The over take was way before that van you will note the camera change is a edit. I approached and passed the van going 63mph (I just double checked on the head cam video.)

[@grumpsrides42]

@@spicy110 I was just curious about the van, thought you'd spot it if it was a speed van. Cheers Spicy, keep on going, enjoying the videos 👍😁 Grumps Fox

[@peterpyke1213]

itsgot everything i dont need. my 650 is for life

[@Coletrainbaby]

peter pyke ever tour 2 up on the 650? Cross shopping and have only found a handful of owner comparisons on the forums for this between the wee & the 1000.

[@peterpyke1213]

@@Coletrainbaby i was talking about all the electronicsthey are putting on bikes these days.they will become like cars,expensive when it all goes wrong and an idiot light pops up.70 hp is enough for 2 up.the bike has lots of torque

[@Coletrainbaby]

peter pyke thanks! And agreed, fewer components fewer problems. Even my winter driver (2018 wrangler) has no power windows, locks, seats, no a/c. Just less stuff to go wrong post warranty.

[@peterpyke1213]

@@Coletrainbaby my 1998 t4 is the same.been running it for 18 years,few problems and what goes wrong not too expensive to repair

[@Coletrainbaby]

peter pyke simplicity & function is bliss

[@ampm9771]

What Japanese manufacturers basically do is increasing the size of the exhaust can each time new reg kicks in. They keep of selling the bike about a grand or two lets say cheaper than BMW...etc but in reality force their customers to spend over 2k for exhausts that are not hideously large.

[@davidbesant]

I don't ride my (2018) DL1000XT off road. It's a pig to clean anyway without deliberately getting it dirty! Struggle to justify trading it in for the new one though.

[@imankavkani3371]

Hey buddy, do you have a link for the camera that you are using ? :) nice video !

[@spicy110]

Which one? I am using 2 in this video. the one on my head is a Drift and I STRONGLY suggest you don't get a drift. The one on the bars is a insta 360 one x. This is old now so they have made the one x 2 but again I would not advise getting on atm as II am having issues with it. This may change as I try fixes for the insta but yer get a gopro hero 9 or something.

[@terrymoore4208]

It's the same colours as 1991 Suzuki rm 250

[@paulboyle8522]

Cruise control sold it for me. I’m trading in my DL1000 XT for for the 1050. Love the retro look but can’t decide between the yellow or Orange/white. Any advice on what one would have better resale value.

[@petrosmarkantonakis308]

Orange for sure ☺️

[@robertkollath8929]

I am also 6'4" about 280, presently riding a 1000 versys, 2015 .how does the v-strom compare ? Great video, is it worth upgrading?

[@spicy110]

Sadly not ridden Versys so I can't compere.

[@gstarraw869]

Haven’t even watched it yet. I know for certain spicey will mention his size somewhere. I think he might be 6 foot 4 🤦

[@worldhello1234]

@3:25 Yes, but a supermoto is nothing for long distance travel either, hence the V-Strom is more capable offroad than a supermoto is a capable of being a travel bike.

[@spicy110]

Husky 701 is in the middle ground on that one but I see your point.

[@ClassicTVZone]

YEP, i want one

[@TheMilkybarkid69]

l see it has different mirrors. l wonder does this help the buffering and wind noise.

[@daveyt4802]

Can you buy them yet over there? Not found in the USA yet....

[@europebike5668]

Thanks for the video. What helmet camera are you using?

[@spicy110]

Drift 4k do not recommend.

[@europebike5668]

@@spicy110 perfect, thanks for the heads up.

[@R-K61]

Brilliant.

[@michaelbaxter8249]

Hey test the Kawasaki Versys 1000 and compare to this bike. I like your feedback!

[@garykeighley712]

Good video enjoyed it 👍

[@BikerBytes]

Wicked helmet mate 💪

[@swheelman7231]

Nice looking bike, cost comparison to BMW?

[@andrejporedos1513]

almsot half the price :-)

[@BikerBytes]

Tron of the 80s says 👌

[@mikeeger7581]

Finally a big boy bike ! Omg Lol 😂