Suzuki Vstrom 1000 24,000km Service - Was It Worth It?

The Big Strom went for it's 24,000km service. I'll discuss what they did, what it cost, and whether it was worth it...
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Whether riding enduro or street, The Blue Marble Rider will regularly bring you more than just the cliched “What’s up?” By taking you on a journey, reviewing a product, bike, or even a movie, I’ll try to combine my wit with my enjoyment of photography to bring you a high quality product that I hope conveys the essence of riding with some nuggets of humour, new experiences and, at times, maybe, a hard-learned pearl of wisdom. I ask nothing of you, but the chance to share experiences. Thanks for reading. Please subscribe, share, like and chuckle where appropriate.
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My current motorcyles are:-
2011 Husaberg FE390 Enduro
2014 Suzuki Vstrom 1000 Adventure
2018 Kawasaki Z900RS (YeeeeHaaaa) Ahem. Sorry.
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© These videos are the sole property of the Blue Marble Rider. This video and all associated videos are the sole property of the Blue Marble RIder. Logos, images, photographs, text, and videos cannot be used for commercial purposes without the express permission of the page owner and author. Logos, images, photographs, videos or text are covered by intellectual property rights, and as such cannot be used by others to represent themselves or replicated in any way and used as their own original creation.

[@cheesetouch101]

What really pleased me about this video was what an observant rider you are; constant mirror and shoulder checks. There are so many videos on YT with headcams where the riders barely look around them, they stay looking straight ahead with so little awareness. Thanks!!

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Yes I'm always checking:i simply don't trust cagers. I've no doubt that phones & driving have had an impact (if you excuse the pun) on riders' mortality stats... Cheers.

[@UncleWally3]

I’ve bought three new ‘Stroms (‘09, ‘12, ‘15) and, collectively, put over 180 000 kilometers on them down highways, across tundra and through jungles. They’ve been reasonably flawless. That said, I’ve followed the service intervals (mostly sans dealerships). The cost of ownership for these bikes, relative to other bikes I’ve owned (ahem BMW) is phenomenally low.

[@keyboarddancers7751]

Honest, down to earth and v informative. Like the TMF reference.

[@bradh5613]

As the proud new owner of a 2018 V-Strom 1000 XT I was really happy to find your channel and subscribe. From what I’ve seen so far you have created great, entertaining and useful content, and I appreciate the videos! I hope you don’t get rid of your DL1000 anytime too soon! Cheers!

[@BlueMarbleRider]

No plans to get rid of the trusty Vstrom anytime soon. Cheers and thanks for the feedback.

[@RedlineAlex]

Привет,друг! Спасибо тебе что делишься своим опытом! Я месяц назад купил свой первый байк спустя 30 лет перерыва) И мой выбор пал на V-Strom 1000 2015 С пробегом 17.000км Сейчас уже 20.000км И я планирую сам сделать большое ТО Я слышу как цекочят клапана! Мотор работает с перебоями не стабильно как бы хромате,явно нужен синхрон дроселей! Буду менять масло на синтетику 10W50 Сейчас полусинтетика 5100 Motul У меня сильно гремит карзина сцепления я знал про это и ни чуть не испугался покупки этого прекрасного байка)! Передачи включаются четко,нейтраль ловится бесподобно! Но если ты встал на 3,4 передачи, включить быстро ней траль не получается или я просто не привык еще) В сильную жару при долгом пробеге коробка не совсем начинает себя вести видимо масло не совсем подходит! А так все супер!!! Всех благ тебе, дорогой друг👍👍👍 PS: Я слышу как четко и приятно у тебя работает мотор!!!🤟

[@dimos5422]

in greece the vstroms both 650 and 1000 are the standard bike for the police because greece has bad roads and a fair amount of dust depending on the season really hot in the summer too and despite all that it is normal to see vstroms with over 70.000 kms that have been abused by the riders and still going strong despite that.i myself have a vstrom 650 with 50.000 kms and still going strong

[@sotis1982]

75000 km for me and going well

[@TheBluetoo99]

@@sotis1982135,000 for me and running like new

[@TheCrabbers]

Greetings from Germany, nice to see Vancover Island my uncle lives in Sydney. Picking up my 12year old V strom this weekend. Took me ages to decide if the 650 was fast enough but opted for the 1000 (used prices are about the same) Thanks for posting 😊

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Have fun!

[@luciabaker2045]

Great video. I agree that getting your bike serviced is important if you plan to keep it in tip top shape.

[@cwqrpportable]

Loved your video and your comments, thanks for sharing! I have a similar stable of bikes, perhaps, to you; although my V-Strom 1000 is a 2009. The Z900RS SE is a 2018 and like you, the differences in the behaviour of the two engines is striking. That Kawasaki is so darn smooooth. I can't think of two bikes I'd rather have together in the stable right now. Safe riding .....

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Yes I get lots of stick for having two bikes that are so different - the strommers don't like the z and z ers don't like the strom. At last someone who gets it ;-). Cheers and thanks for the feedback.

[@gregorbabic7664]

@@BlueMarbleRider I got a ride in yesterday on my DL1000A here in Ontario as temps were 15-16C most of the day. Crazy for mid Dec. I love this bike, but I would also love to have something pretty for shorter rides and yesterday I stopped in a dealership and admired the Z900RS. Love it. So want to add this bike to the stable. I totally get why you have these bikes.

[@davelinstead4052]

Calgary Police have now switched over to Vstrom 1000. I had a 2014 Vstrom 1000 and sold it in 2017 when I retired and moved to Ontario. Missed it so much that I just bought a new Vstrom 650 as the 1000 was a bit much for my current location. Love them both leaning towards the 1000 as the better bike and I’ve owned many lol. Good review. Thanks.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Cheers: I had a 650 and loved it, although, I agree the 1000 shades it. Think the strom will be with me for years yet - just too good at everything to let it go.:-)

[@davelinstead4052]

Agreed. The 1000 is a keeper. Just was laughing at your Kawasaki ticket. Too right about that gorgeous bike and riding it within the legal limits. That was also a very big consideration for me when deciding on the 650 however the little bugger can still get me in hot water lol. Cheers. Excellent videos. Love the island.

[@justoneperson]

I know where you got your biked serviced. 😉 My neighbour just picked up a brand new V-strom 1000 last week from the same dealership. I've only seen pics ( not one of those super cool cop ones ) I will see it when I get home. Fun video and some valid facts to think about.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

MTM-DM yes great little dealership - certainly more efficient, courteous and cheaper than the the mega store up our way...and your neighbour has made a great choice. If he’s tall tho-he might have to change the screen to a givi airflow - as the stocker really buffeted me. Cheers hope you’re back on the road soon.

[@fingerscrossed2317]

You can do the most work yourself and bring your bike to dealer to Let check the valves. I think that's also enough for the garantie.

[@oleshotokan]

Loved your video. Tnx a lot 😊

[@MRTPR]

Excellent bike Mate !

[@davidfalgout7304]

HD are not about the machine. Its about a form of religious cornflakes. Sub'd and T-UP! Good job. Keep them coming. I wonder what the Po-Po do about chain maintenance? Maybe they all have automatic oilers?

[@Concorde653]

On the Island I think only the RCMP use Harleys. Victoria used Honda ST1300’s then Victory now Suzuki. Saanich use BMW RTP1200s.

[@colingoldthorpe5918]

My Triumph Trophy SE they want $1500 for the 32K KM service in Calgary.... it’s crazy how much they charge. I miss my V-Storm though may get a new version one, had a 2012 650. It was a great bike miss it a lot....

[@BlueMarbleRider]

I had a 650 too - loved it. I just can't see selling my 1000 - it's just too good at what it does, and it does it for nothing with bombproof reliability and bundles of fun to boot. Fashionable? Perhaps not. But that is not what gives me kicks when I ride. Cheers.

[@ralphcantrell3214]

I can tell you my 2nd generation's Wee-Strom 14,000 mile service wasn't worth it. That's the first service which requires a valve check. It cost me a pretty penny and the valve clearance was right on spec. I do all services myself except the valve checks, so that was the Wee's first trip to a certified mechanic. I think I might not worry about valves ever again unless i hear noises.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

That's the most important service to get for peace of mind. Like you say, it's unlikely they'll move for eons.

[@BlazinBlades]

The gen 1 has only one spark plug per cylinder. So 4 spark plugs are probably for better fuel efficiency?

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Probably fuel efficiency - more complete detonation, better power and better reliability - if one plug goes, you're not stuck. Cheers.

[@petecurran3995]

Great video - just finishing equivalent service on my 650 and may now look at TBS before it's all buttoned up! p.s. The TMF's dead right!

[@toby7504]

I know a couple of stroms that rolled 200k an never check valves and they was in spec when they did. I have never had a vstrom that needed valve adjusts as long as l workt with suzuki.... Husaberg in the other hand...you know... :)) nice video and a great bike

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Cheers. The strom is just such a good bike - dunno if it's ever going to be worth replacing it.

[@jaywhoisit4863]

Too expensive for things that are easily done on a Saturday afternoon with a couple friends and a case of beer.

[@LATAMbiker]

Don't think so. No way with beer and friends are you going to do the valves on this bike, especially if you have to remove the cam chain tensioner and pull cam shafts.

[@user-xb5zu6zu7j]

Valves are so easy to scam. I bet they didn't even checkered them ;) I do all vstrom work myself- this is the best way to make sure it's actually done. I had to adjust nearly all my valves on my 2016 650 after 17k miles.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

You're right, they're easy to scam, but I checked all the new head gasket sealant before riding away...definitely not as neat as the factory touch. Cheers.

[@0utdoorsurvival]

Hi Blue Marble Rider, would like to ask you, what does lubing the chasis entail? What are the parts that has to be lubed? My 2014 Vstrom 1000 has been making an awful creaking noise when i am riding or when I brake.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Good question, but before any lubing, look at any fittings (chassis fastenings for tightness - particularly the subframe and engine mounting bolts. I've never heard of problems on the Suzuki, but I have on other bikes). Lubing- rear suspension bearings and linkages ("dog bone" - is a possible source of the noise), lower shock mount. The swingarm is usually good for many kms, and its a big job to get it off (supporting the bike is difficult...) - but it shouldn't be this. Have you done a lot of off road and water crossings? If so, then perhaps the rear swingarm should be looked at. Good luck.

[@mrcreative6020]

Great review. My Strom 1000. Has 9000 miles And I was wondering about valve clearances, so it’s good to hear your results on that. Mine is a bit agricultural as you say, and I wonder if I should get the throttle bodies checked. Another issue is that when the bike is Well warmed up an alarm spin I find that the gears can be quite mushy and hard to find when I stop to go back to 1st. There seems to be quite a lot of play Karma so that I have to put it in Whatever gear I can find And then let the clutch out slowly to engage the gear and take the play or slop out of it. Then I can feel the gears pop into place. I just don’t like the amount of play in the gears and I’m wondering is that the same on all DL 1000? Wil, Dublin

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Top of the morning to you, Wil: thanks for the feed back. My vstrom doesn't suffer from the gear scenario - dunno if using synthetic gear oil and the 35K km have improved it? I don't remember any slop or difficulty with the gears, even if I stop in 3rd or 4th, although it can be notchy when stopped getting back down to 1st at times. Likely if the throttle bodies haven't been synched since new, they will need it. The most change in an engine takes place at the start of its life - typically, valves, throttle bodies, gears settle down after the first 12,000mi/20,000km. Also, the clutch chudder can make the bike feel a little agricultural; you can live with it, or get a modified clutch basket from Werks (werksparts.com/suzuki-clutch-baskets). I'll probably go that route, although right now, mine is not too bad, and certainly doens't interfere with riding - it's just the Ducati dry clutch like rattle I can't stand. Cheers.

[@HippoDrones]

I really need to get my Street Triple 765 booked in, it isn't at the mileage yet, but is overdue on time (not by much)

[@BlueMarbleRider]

I always go mileage rather than time, unless the bike has been sitting unridden for a looong time. I recon most fluids these days are much better than they used to be and stay stable for far longer. And...no mechanic will treat your bike as good as you will. Case in point - When I got the recent first service on the Kawi, the shop put in just enough oil to reach the lowest acceptable level...So not only did I pay $336 for essentially an oil change and chain lube, but I now have to go out and buy a litre of oil...whine, whine, whine :-)

[@vitortaba]

Very good review...I have one like yours and thankfull for this good review

[@lotrm93]

Hi, I keep a 2014 VStrom 1000 in Victoria. I'd be interested to know where you took yours for the service as the new Barnes Suzuki (used to be Action Cycle) doesn't seem to be afraid to charge top dollar! Did you go to Mile Zero? Thanks!

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Mile Zero it is. Their prices have increased in the last few years, but they may well be cheaper than Barnes...(Barnes also run many HD dealerships and are used to charging big coin...). Ask for a quote first - they are very clear, upfront, and above all, honest in my experience. Not only that, they're very personable to deal with. They have the Victoria Police service contract for their Vstroms...says something. Cheers.

[@joecamel6835]

You could prove you serviced it yourself by filming it.

[@TheSteps62]

Thanks for your review! I'm just wondering, what you think was the most important thing that made the bike be so much smoother would it be mostly due to the throttle bodies being adjusted? Cheers.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Yes, synching the throttle bodies was likely the biggest improvement.

[@dancingmaryjane]

hows the suspension on it? corner well? I'm about 190 pounds. Does it feel planted in cornering? Thanks

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Probably the best part of the vstrom is the suspension. It is amazing. No caveats here. I'm not going to say amazing for a "budget bike"; it is fabulous - full stop. The suspension is fully adjustable, set up quite stiff from the factory, but I like it that way - many adjust it softer for off road, but I don't believe in taking 500lb beasties off road...just my own preference. The bike is superbly planted in the corners. 190lbs won't tax it at all. Im 185, and with my wife and full panniers and top box, preload on the rear clicked up to 18/21, you won't know you're not solo.

[@dancingmaryjane]

@@BlueMarbleRider thank you so much! I'm coming off a modified FZ09 i upgraded the suspension. It feels great but I find myself wanting to go longer distances. the lack of wind resistance really beats me up so I'm looking at a Strom! I definitely don't want to lose cornering capabilities on those mountain roads! I was looking at a multistrada or something along those lines but I'm not sure on the reliability of those

[@BlueMarbleRider]

@@dancingmaryjane Lots of good choices out there. The strom has a 19 inch front wheel which means it won't be quite as flickable as an FZ09 but it's smooooooth....

[@gordonjames8811]

Hi when did the mechanic tell you to come back for your next valve check? thankyou and safe riding.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

48 000 km/29000mi

[@enrique60033]

Guy does not understand oil chnge just because you drain it for long time is not going to change much,compared to a dealer/shop oil change.Yes I do my own oil changes too but quick oil change is not the reason.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

I repectfully disagree, Enrique - next time you oil change your bike, rock it from side to side and watch just how much oil comes out. Do it several times and notice not only the quantity but the colour. I guarantee your dealer isn't doing that.

[@Max.527]

2016 650 is 54,000 and spark plugs are still working lol

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Those plugs will go for another 54k miles - don't let suzuki take them LOL.

[@ahsisti]

Greetings from Brazil @BlueMarbleRider How often do you change oil? I have a 2018 Vstrom 1000 XT and my owner's guide tells me to change oil every 6000 kms. I heard that in Europe and other countries, the owner's guide tells to change oil every 12000 kms. Is that true? What do you have in yours?

[@BlueMarbleRider]

Hi Adriano: I change mine every 5000km and I use synthetic. Can’t remember what my manual advises, and I’m sure many riders go longer between changes, especially if they’re using synthetic. If you’re using the bike in dusty conditions, then sooner is better. Cheers.

[@georgestratford6983]

Where do you take your V Strom for its service on Vancouver Island?

[@BlueMarbleRider]

George Stratford Hi George: I take it Mile Zero just north of Ladysmith. I’ll be taking my Z900RS there too rather than than the Parksville Kawi dealer...price and personal service are much better near the 49th parallel...

[@johnparish5498]

Of course a Harley would catch crooks… any drunk farmers ploughing a field wouldn’t stand much of a chance…

[@BlueMarbleRider]

LOL

[@mariosraptor]

What????? I checked valves. Changed sprockets and chain. Oil and oil filter. Changed coolant. Changed brake fluids. Clutch fluids. Spark plugs. Tank plastic stickers. Cleaned filter I have a K&N. And led turn signal relay. All 500€. Also for warranty is the same. You prove it by keeping a log and the receipts of parts changed.

[@redbitter1232]

Gday from Australia. I own a 2014 vstrom650 I do my own oil change every 6 k. I’m putting it in for my 1st major service. Charging me 1000 Australian dollars. I have 37000 Kim’s on it.

[@BlueMarbleRider]

It's amazing how stroms are so reliable. Can't argue with a bike that only costs a 1000 for the first major service after 37km - the beemer/KTM lot would bite your hand off for that. Cheers.