Suzuki V-Strom 650 Review | Best Adventure Bike Under £9000

[@timothyangus954]

In 2018 I rode 2 up around the world of my V Strom 650. 43,000 miles and no reliability issues.

[@redangrevival]

💪 that is a great testament to the bike! Also what a brilliant trip

[@MTBrider26]

Isn't it rather strange that people spend over twice the money for 150hp+ bikes that are fitted with expensive electronics that have the sole purpose of stopping you from accessing the power you paid for at pretty much anytime other than straight highways and sometimes even then. In my mind the VStrom 650 is a real world bike which allows a savy owner to spend the $10000 saved on actually going touring.

[@redangrevival]

👌👌 Absolutely and very well said! It is such a brilliant motorcycle, at a great price for what it is. I really doesn't need anything else added to it. A fantastic bike that I will definitely recommend to people. Having said that I am looking forward to riding the 1050 version! Cheers

[@roadwarrior8560]

@@redangrevival 1050 is too heavy, lumpy engine, problematic clutch, a lot worse on fuel. will encourage you to speed! wears out tyres and brakes a lot faster. the 650 is all anyone needs, the new 800 seems ideal but there is too much vibration from what I've seen reported.

[@Oscar240z]

People forget - 1991 BMW 1000GS was 60 bhp so considerably less than this 650 and that bike was described as a beast back in the day. As far as I’m aware people’s talent hasn’t improved improved since then and the roads and traffic are worse so…… it seems advertising works wonders when you can convince someone to buy a 136bhp GS today!

[@redangrevival]

This is true, you really don't need much more power than that. However the main point in this topic is that technology has advanced massively, so that modern motorcycles can have huge amounts of power and still be safe to ride.

[@flutalors11]

Thanks for your quick first ride review of the little Strom! IMHO, probably one of the last 650 V Twins but such a brilliant engine. And one of its secret IS to be not exiting... 90deg twin 4 valves naturally well balanced aiming at usable torque, longevity, economy, reliability for a quite smooth ride. It seems boringly aiming at a Niche market, and it is somehow. The DL 650 is smooth mellow and unexciting because her designers chose to 100% guaranty she will ride you there and back home, wherever you go. Just avoid single track trails and serious off-road. Sometime respecting nature is leaving it alone, anyhow. Approaching 88k km on mine, and she goes on proving every day that I do not need a 1000cc.

[@redangrevival]

It is my pleasure, I really enjoyed the ride 👍 WOW 88k km that is a long way! Just proves the great reliability of these bikes. Yes unfortunately it may be the last mid sized V Twin. Overall a surprisingly great bike to ride. Cheers

[@luziosalles324]

One of the best motorcycles ever made. A legend

[@Nikki_Holland]

I have a 2018 650 XT with spoked wheels and I think it’s the only bike you ever need. I took mine to the Nordkapp from my home in Holland a round trip of 8000km and the only thing I had to do was adjust the chain. Very relaxing torquey engine which eats up the miles. Thanks for the review

[@redangrevival]

Thanks and glad you enjoyed the review 👍 WOW that sounds like a brilliant trip! Yup I got the feeling from the bike that it is very reliable and will take you anywhere. Lets hope the new 800de is as good. Cheers

[@PetersJourney]

Just came back from an over three month trip in Morocco, Spain, France and Italy. 15 000km, also Gravel Roads. nothing to complain. The bike is effortless to ride and very reliable. I also went to the Col de Sommeiller and Col du Parpaillon with it. it handled it all. it is a very good travel bike if you avoid single tracks ;) It is indeed also very economical. 3.8 Liters vor 100k was common.

[@redangrevival]

Sounds like an amazing trip 👌 I would love to do a trip like that some day! Glad to hear that the bike did well and was reliable for you. I am looking forward to the new 1050 DE model 😁

[@PetersJourney]

@@redangrevival I hope you can do this trip some day. The 1050DE will be a great bike, I think. But a bit heavy though, if you travel alone.

[@redangrevival]

@@PetersJourney I will 👍 Yes that is a big plus about the 650, nice and light. Thanks

[@garmit61]

The strom 650xt is a great bike. I picked up a really low mileage2020 model for under 6k. My previous 2 bikes were an Aprilia SL1000 and a Benelli Amazonas 1130. The Strom doesn’t have the same aggressive acceleration but the power is all usable and returns 250-300 miles to a tank of juice. I bought some Givi bars to protect the front end. I mounted my slim givi plastic panniers and top box because I don’t like metal boxes. I can flatfoot both feet when stationary and the bike is light enough to manoeuvre pretty easily when the engine is off. I changed the mirrors. The standard ones are excellent but look ugly to my eyes. I’ve bought some preload adjusters for the front forks but not fitted them yet. I really like that you can switch off the pointless traction control and it stays off. There is a way to disable the ABS too. That and a Scottoiler are my spring jobs to do. You can’t go wrong with a VStrom. I love VTwins too which helps and I don’t have the budget for a Ducati and don’t like the look or dimensions of the Multistrada. I can’t see any reason to change the VStrom until the industry stops effing about with hopeless electric bikes, which cost upwards of 20k and run for about 80miles before you have to push the heavy lump to the nearest out of order charging station, and find a proper alternative to petroleum.

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

This is a pure ADV bike with no "fancy" features, but for the purpose it is perfect. The engine is wonderful. I have the SV650 and I can confirm it. Great video mate. You got my like here. Just keep up and drop by. :)

[@redangrevival]

Many thanks 👍 It is a fantastic bike I loved riding it!! Such a great all rounder. Cheers

[@kmb957]

The v twin engine is absolutely fantastic! Best engine in the category.

[@redangrevival]

I am inclined to agree, I just really liked this engine and whole package. I think I would go for the 1050 personally. Great motor 👍

[@doddy7623]

Just started watching the review - it’s not an XT you are riding.

[@redangrevival]

I know my apologies! I was informed it was the XT, I know I should have know otherwise. Sorry for the mis understanding!

[@coconuciferanuts339]

Not that much diff.between xt & standard.Plastic engine cowl,bar hand covers.What else?

[@FilipeSousa20]

Spoked wheels..

[@markcynic808]

​@coconuciferanuts339 Wire spoked wheels, too. It's immediately apparent this isn't an XT. So how anyone could give any credence to a review by someone who didn't know this wasn't an XT is beyond reason.

[@squashed_helmet_face7317]

Like people have previously said it's not a XT. The mistake I made was buying the XT model. It's a brilliant fun bike but the extra you pay for the XT bits are not worth it. I'd rather have the mag wheels over the spoke, they are a pig to clean. The plastic engine guard is only there for show. A proper aluminium sump guard would be miles better. But yes a really good underestimated bike.

[@redangrevival]

Yes apologies for mixing up the models!! I think I agree with you, I would also opt for the standard model and then spec it how I like. Haha I am a bit tired of cleaning spoked wheels as well! A great bike and I hope to test ride the 1050 soon. Cheers

[@clivegoodman1149]

Nice video - glad you like the DL650XT - love mine, no issue keeping up with my mate on his K1600 on normal roads - he leaves me for dead on motorway slip roads but I can catch him within 30 seconds at 70. For the money its the best value on the planet, proper big-bike presence on the road and confirm 65-68mpg when ridden normally, 70+ if I'm careful on the run. As my mate says take away the aircon, cruise control and the other toys its all the bike you need at a THIRD of the cost of his bike!!

[@redangrevival]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed the video 👍 I agree it is such a great bike, I was really impressed with how capable it is and how nice the engine is. Must say I would love to test the 1050 model! For the money the 650 is a great buy. Cheers

[@GeezerWheels]

Great review. I bought a new 650XT 18 months ago - still my favorite bike - would buy it again in a heart beat. FYI: it DOES have riding modes, 1, 2, and Off. One is just a bit intrusive if you might spin the rear wheel, 2 is more aggressive - once had just a bit of troubler from a standing start going uphill on gravel. Simply switched it off and proceeded easily. I CAN get 60mpg (US gallon, so well over 70 UK mpg). Hard to imagine a better bike for a mid-weight ADV. Thanks!

[@redangrevival]

Thanks so much I appreciate it 👍 I agree it is a fantastic middle weight ADV bike, and really enjoyed riding with the V-Twin! A great all round neutral bike. Cheers

[@GeezerWheels]

@@redangrevival BTW, I'm a Scots/Irish (mostly Scot). "Wallace" on one side, "McGinn" on the other. I see you are in the UK - what part? Great head of red hair, like my grandpa Wallace!

[@redangrevival]

@@GeezerWheels I am Somerset, South West UK 👍 My first name is Angus, but I am full English!

[@GeezerWheels]

@@redangrevival Long live the Brits and the Scots, in peace and two-wheeled harmony ;>) Great vids!

[@redangrevival]

@@GeezerWheels 🙌

[@garyburton6833]

Hello there redang, sorry but you weren't riding the XT version of the Vstrom as that has spoked wheels, handguards and a plastic engine guard. I used to own the xt and I bought one fitted with a main stand and a different screen which had the flip up aero spoiler attached. Great workhorse of a bike which I owned for 3 years before trading it in for my tiger 660 sport. I have to agree its not the most exciting bike and its showing its age with regards to the switch gear but it is fun to ride Also I had it fitted with the lower seat as I'm a shortie but it was all day comfortable. Great review and definitely get a test ride on the 1050 xt Vstrom as that has all the bells and whistles regards tech. Ride safe sir cheers. 🙏 👍 👌

[@redangrevival]

Hi Gary, thanks for that 👍 So sorry!! I was informed that it was the XT. I should have done my research better 🥴 I am still learning! Regardless of the model, it is a great motorbike I thoroughly enjoyed it. Very well said it is a great workhorse, I was very impressed with the lovely 650 V-Twin as well. Really looking forward to riding the 1050 asap! Hopefully I will get the right model next time! Cheers and all the best to you.

[@saz123ful]

I'm between vstrom 650 and tiger 660 sport.... what is your opinion from your experience? Has the tiger have the quality and reliability of the vstrom? I want it for everyday use all the year..

[@garyburton6833]

@@saz123ful Hi there, you will enjoy the Vstrom as a commuter and to enjoy at the weekends as I did. It is rather top heavy when you fill its 20 litre tank but that weight disappears when on the move. Just be careful when moving it around as that weight can catch you out if not careful. The bike was reliable and trouble free but it was regularly serviced at my local dealer. This is a great workhorse of the bike world so I suggest you book a test ride on both of the bikes before commiting. Enjoy 😉.

[@saz123ful]

@@garyburton6833 and what are your impressions from the tiger 660 sport?

[@garyburton6833]

@@saz123ful I bought the tiger 660 sport as its a bike of today and now. It has Led lights all round has the tech that I like and its very quick with 80hp. I have the low comfort seat fitted as I'm a shortie and this give bags of confidence when riding and when stopped at lights etc as I can get both feet down. As I said , I suggest a test ride on both bikes to what you prefer, all the best 👍 cheers.

[@donaldmiller7822]

Hi Agree with comments re exposed oil filter and down pipe. I fitted an SW Motech crash bar system and Ravetech alloy skid plate,which mounts to crash bars, not engine casings. Just the job. Traded in a Yam fjr 1300 and haven’t looked back. Great all rounder and regularly achieve 70 to 72 mpg.

[@peterhobbs7609]

Really good review, the panniers are actually aluminium, even though the sound a bit plastically when you tap them, looks a great real world tourer, deffo work a look

[@redangrevival]

Thanks Peter. I appreciate that and really pleased you liked the review. Thats good to know! I thought they where aluminium, they do feel a bit like plastic though. A brilliant all rounder motorcycle, I am really impressed with it 👍 Definitely worth a ride on. I am looking forward to testing the 1050. Cheers

[@crumblymal8479]

Nice ! looks pretty good and much better not to have to much tech for me will take a look at these without doubt . cheers 👌

[@redangrevival]

It really is a great bike, such a fantastic allrounder, I was very surprised by it 👍 Definitely worth a try. Apologies I got the models mixed up!! The model I was riding is actually the standard version, but with the panniers added as extra. The XT version comes with a few more accessories. Cheers

[@jmlupoludowicy1239]

Nice presentation of this motorcycle (once again) and I like this V-Strom, but any bike with "Adventure" in its name or a sticker that says so on its bodywork can’t have its oil filter and its exhaust dangling there for the whole wide world to see… it needs a proper engine guard! 😜 Cheers Angus!

[@doddy7623]

The XT does come with engine and hand guard as well as spoked wheels. This bike is a basic spec with luggage added. The XT doesn’t come with luggage as standard either.

[@redangrevival]

Many thanks, I appreciate it 👌 My apologies I got my research mixed up a bit!! This was actually the standard version but fitted with the panniers etc. I agree I would definitely want a proper engine guard. The XT version does come with the engine guard 👍 Sorry for the wrong info in the video! Cheers

[@redangrevival]

Apologies for the mix up on models!! 👍

[@volt8684]

Owned this and honda nc750x dct. This bike night and day better in every way except fuel. Superb motorcycle

[@swissteam777]

Thanks, mate, for the nice review. After doing zillions of research for my next bike and trying many new one (800DE, Transalp, T7, TT85, Touareg 660 even the new 1050DE), none of them gave me the same comfort and relaxing quality ride that my buddy's 2018 Vstrom 650. Pulling the trigger on a nice 2024 spanking new :-) Also worse to mention that as a 30+ years rider, I can't get used to the ride by wire and all the shenanigans jerky ride mode options and all the silly electronic of today's new bikes... Nothing better than a good old school cable clutch and throttle!

[@redangrevival]

💪

[@johnhill8529]

It’s a Swiss Army knife. It does a lot, but none of it perfectly (although I never tried getting a Boy Scout out of a girl guide with mine) It is however, superb for the price, flexible, comfortable and economical. I rode mine to Athens from Suffolk, rode the NC500, and up to the North Cape,and it never missed a beat, and through 3 years was my commuter when weather was good. If I could justify having another I would, but there’s at least one too many bikes in my garage at the moment.

[@redangrevival]

👌 I absolutely fell in love with this bike! By no means is it the most powerful or best built bike around but it just has something so special about it. Wow you have done some brilliant trips on it 😁 Sounds like a blast, such a great different bike to go touring with. Haha that is the problem with motorbikes, I just want them all! Cheers

[@LionTheHeart]

Another interesting and informative video Angus Look forward to the day you take a trike for a spin Take it easy Cheers

[@redangrevival]

Cheers 👍 Yes that will be an interesting ride! I would love to give the Harley trike ago 😁

[@alastairday8451]

I absolutely love my 2019 650. Off to France for a week on thursday

[@redangrevival]

👌 it is a cracking bike! Looking forward to testing the 1050 soon. Have a great trip and all the best

[@kuladeeluxe]

In Canada, you could get a new 2017 in 2018 for 4200 pounds. There will come a time when people will realise how good the Vstrom tach layout is vs some full LCD screen.

[@djbgatekeeper]

That's not the XT model, the XT has spoked wheels , hand guards and belly pan, I've just bought one. The bike in the review is the standard version with paniers fitted. Great review!

[@redangrevival]

I know, apologies for that 🥴 Can get confusing with models sometimes! Congrats on your new bike and glad you enjoyed the review. Cheers

[@djbgatekeeper]

@@redangrevival No apologies needed, and thanks I'll be picking the bike up 13th July and that will be my garage completely full of bikes 😅 ....ride safe 👍

[@Jarlecritters]

Thx redang for a good review. I like the jacket you are wearing, what is the name of it?

[@redangrevival]

Hi and many thanks, I appreciate it 👍 Glad you liked the review. It a great summer jacket, called the "Merlin Chigwell Light". Cheers

[@2wheeledwillie395]

Great review buddy...vstrom 1050XT next!! Guarantee you'll love it! 👍

[@redangrevival]

Thanks 👍 Was really impressed with the bike!! Such a great all rounder, think the 1050 will be lovely. Cheers

[@volt8684]

Too big tall and heavy

[@jirislavicek9954]

You CAN get a version of DL650 with spoked wheels 👍

[@johnhall4445]

Thanks for the review!

[@redangrevival]

It is my pleasure

[@markmeehan4882]

Great review I just ordered one

[@redangrevival]

Many thanks I appreciate it 👍 Congratulations on your order, its a brilliant bike and sure you will thoroughly enjoy it. Cheers

[@kyotosal]

Great review. Thank you.....Sal : )

[@redangrevival]

Thanks so much Sal, really pleased you enjoyed the review 👍

[@CCitis]

When I decide to give up my Beemer, I’ll probably end up on this or the 1000

[@basselamjad958]

GREAT REVIEW! OF A GREAT BIKE!

[@redangrevival]

Many thanks I appreciate it and glad you enjoyed the review 👍

[@renefeijen5916]

Errr I bought a brand new 650A, it has cast wheels... Is this the A or the XT in the video? Now I come from a 2001 Varadero 1000, so I dont miss any of the modern features, in fact, this one for me IS modern! Injection motor, digital readouts on the dash, traction control, ABS- my goodness, nothing of that on my old Varadero! And the engine is soooo smooth, shifting gears idem dito. Only thing: I find the V Strom not as stable on highway speeds (and up...) as the Varadero 1000. It is a bit wobbly in the left-right direction, To be expected I suppose? And exaggerated by the top case on the back of the bike also I think. But it is sooo easy to handle in the garage, U turns etc.

[@redangrevival]

My apologies it’s the A model!

[@seanfinlayson3943]

It's not a 650XT...? It's the standard 650. No spoked wheels, no hand guards, no plastic 'bash plate'...

[@redangrevival]

Yes, my apologies. My mistake

[@mookie1151]

Would you recommend this bike to a beginner?

[@redangrevival]

It is on the heavier side for a beginner bike, and is quite tall. However I think you would get used to that pretty quickly, and the power is brilliant. Not too much to learn on. Overall not the perfect beginner bike, but definitely doable 👍

[@jkristjanvalk]

This is all nice and fine except that this is not the XT version.

[@redangrevival]

I know, my apologies! I was informed that it was, but I should have done my research better 🥴 Still a great bike though, very much like the 650 model

[@daverice8142]

Hi 650XT is £8,699 + on the road charge and add another £15,90 for the 3 PIECE ALLOY KIT or was that standard 650 with the boxes thrown in for a deal?

[@redangrevival]

Hi Dave, my apologies there was a mix up with the models! I rode the standard 650 £7,999, with the 3 piece alloy kit an extra £1,590. Apologies for the confusion.

[@daverice8142]

No problem, still a good review of the bike. Yes l own a XT, great bike for the money.

[@redangrevival]

@@daverice8142 Cheers

[@victorrsmk2]

sorry but that is not an xt no spoke wheels for a start

[@redangrevival]

Yes I know my apologies. I realised this after the ride

[@MG-Loves-Crypto]

How is it to pickup the bike off-road when its fallen down?

[@redangrevival]

Luckily I did not drop it! But there are for sure worse bikes out there to drop

[@nebarrera]

All these "adventure" bikes are really just touring bikes and thery're good at it but for actual adventures you want a lighter, simpler bikes, check on Itchyboots channel, she rides a CRF300, updated suspension, crash bars and thats it, we guys would do on a 450 but still light and simple.

[@redangrevival]

An amazing channel, I follow her a lot 👌 What brilliant adventures she has! Yes a proper adventure bike the Honda CRF300 (keep it simple).

[@iandunipace]

no bash plate for that spec. cruise control on a motorbike. i must be getting old.

[@redangrevival]

No not really designed for serious off roading! Haha the marvels of modern tech 👍

[@paulferris2493]

No spoke wheels?

[@redangrevival]

Apologies this is not the XT model! This is the more road focused model. My mistake 🥴

[@passionandcommonsense]

This is an amazing machine. What it needs are five things: 1.) Better ground clearance. 2.) 200mm suspension travel front and back. 3.) Cruise control. 4.) ABS that can be switched off on the rear wheel. 5.) And a better face. That headlight assembly is so fugly 🫣 Mine is at 17k kms and I don’t think I have even broken in the engine. It’s good for 200k kms more.

[@redangrevival]

They are solid bikes thats for sure 👍

[@trailblazeratv6306]

These are big bikes. I'd save 5'7'' + and you'd be good to one foot it at stops but you want barely get your balls of the feet on the ground.

[@wuzza1960]

Why on earth waste a shed load of money on something like a GS ?........A nice light economical V Strom will do everything except break your back when you drop it....what more do you need ?

[@redangrevival]

Very true!

[@josepha724]

Excuse me but is not à v-strom xt, it's à sport version !!

[@redangrevival]

I know, my apologies for that! I was told it was the XT model, my fault though

[@roadwarrior8560]

Never rev a cold engine😆

[@MangoMike316]

😁👍👍👍😁

[@redangrevival]

👌👍👌

[@murraycharters6102]

That’s not the XT version

[@redangrevival]

I know! My apologies for that. So many different models etc...

[@trailblazeratv6306]

It'll be sad if they do stop making this motor...

[@redangrevival]

Yup I agree! However I think it may happen

[@veltruski]

Everyone can do a bike review these days it seems. You really need to at least be knowledgeable if not an expert to put information out on the internet, otherwise it defeats the purpose. Unless the purpose of you making these videos is for you to make money and ride more bikes. My honest advice to you is to prepare for each bike you're going to review, it's not hard, just takes a little time. The bar end weights don't help you lean 😂, they're there to lower the vibrations in the handle bars... The bike's handling is affected by other factors. And this bike is not an XT model, you should have known that because now it can negatively impact your channel because you won't be taken seriously. I wish you all the best, stay safe and honest for the benefit of all of us. Cheers!

[@redangrevival]

Hi thanks for the constructive advice 👍 My apologies for the wrong model. I was told it was the XT model, but still I should have known! Trying to build a KZbin channel is not easy! I am currently doing 3 videos a week, which I really enjoy but it is a bit much. I am planning on cutting back to 2 or 1 a week, so that mistakes like this do not creep in. I am by no means an expert on motorcycles, I just like riding them and giving my opinion. I love learning about them and I learn something new every time I review a bike. I hope you can continue to enjoy the channel. All the best.

[@volt8684]

Hey take no notice. I love your channel. Xx no xt does it really matter. Great review😊

[@volt8684]

Get your own expert channel, i really like this guy he’s not an man tester who by the way still make errors

[@YA-kl7ny]

This is not an XT

[@redangrevival]

I now know that, my apologies!

[@Don-lw4cb]

They may be very good bikes but imho its extremely ugly, I also hate the crappy and cheap looking discoloured downpipes and ugly silencer. All these adventire bikes are exceptionally naff to look at , if all bikes looked like these I would have to pack riding in.

[@redangrevival]

I suppose we each have our different tastes. But yes I agree to some extent, adventure bikes are not lookers