The 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE Is a Big, Feature-Laden, Off-Road Capable ADV

[@BigRockMoto]

The full review on the 800DE is coming very soon, as well as the full review on this 1050DE. ⚠Today's Gear⚠ Schuberth C3 Pro Helmet: imp.i104546.net/ZQrND1 Klim Baja Mesh Suit: imp.i104546.net/oeGVN9 Mosko Moto Wildcat 8L Backpack: bit.ly/3OiE5Ss Sedici Marco 2 Glove: imp.i104546.net/nLnyz7 Sidi Adventure 2 Boot: imp.i104546.net/b3q5kx 🏍 SUPPORT BIG ROCK MOTO BY USING THESE LINKS! ⚠Patreon: www.patreon.com/bigrockmedia (Chat with me, discord access, exclusive videos) ⚠Rocky Mountain ATV/MC: bit.ly/33kgRIz ⚠Revzilla: imp.i104546.net/6bxxXN ⚠Mosko Moto: moskomoto.com/bigrockmoto ⚠Amazon: amzn.to/3viGZ0A ⚠Merchandise: big-rock-moto.myspreadshop.com/

[@georgedoolittle7574]

Instagram Shorts are a great discipline to effect so huge fan of this absolutely

[@aboutfaceretreats6562]

Pretty cool to do the back to back days n the Suzuki s

[@marty4933]

Probably the 800DE is more suitable for off-road use and this 1050DE is intended for freeway touring with some dirt tracks. A comparison would be interesting. Always informative to hear your views on bikes.

[@boostedharambe1115]

same as the 1250gs and the 850 imo. But both models are stuipidly heavy anyways.

[@Vstromdan327]

I had a hard time deciding between this and the 800de. I asked myself how much am I really going to ride off road. After arguing with myself I ended up purchasing the 1050de. After 2 months and 2500 miles. I'm extremely happy with my choice.

[@PerspectiveBeyond]

Hey @danielfoglio5439, how are things now after a year? Any gripes, still loving it, or...? Cheers

[@Vstromdan327]

After 18 months and 15,000 miles I would have to say I'm happy with my choice. There are things that annoy me when off-road, like the weight and long wheelbase but those are assets on the road. The cruise control and quick shifter are amazing on long trips. The suspension is surprisingly good even though the travel is limited. I'm in the process of tearing it down to check the valve clearance and grease all of the pivot points. If I find anything wrong I'll let you know. As for now I'm going to keep it for at least another 15,000 miles.

[@thehammer3340]

It was between the 800DE and the 1050 DE, I chose the 1050DE because I really wanted the cruise control for long highway miles. 😎

[@mdragon99]

Lov'n the Love for the UJM Adv this year. Suzuki has been the real success story for the modern ADV with the V-Strom 650. Remembering how rare of a breed Euro dealers were, it has been the UJM Advs that we have been adventuring around North American on for the last 25 years. Waaay back in my youth in the 70's....the UJM. My Yamaha DT175 was a prince and could be rebuilt with it's own tool kit and a couple rocks. I know this because of an off I had when I tried riding it up a Black bear's butt adventuring up in the Rockies by Kakwa Falls, AB. And now I've forgotten my point. Fun memory though. Thanks for a great video!

[@johnwood4448]

Ian Thanks for a really professional presentation with top quality sound and picture quality,your channel and reviews are the most comprehesive,most professionally produced and more importanly,the most truthful and honest I've come across on YT. Thanks once again ,keep up the good work😊

[@BigRockMoto]

Many thanks!

[@SKgeostrat]

Great sound Ian! For anyone who is thinking about a long trip, the V-Strom has to be attractive! Very good reliability and availability of dealers, all over the world. They very rearly break. What more can you ask. I'd consider this for a Round the World type trip, for sure, maybe the 800 rather than this one, but both would work. Hard to beat! Easy to service yourself, like all Suzukis! (2 months later) Ian, I'm watching this for the second time. In the meantime, I have tested both the 800 and the 1050. I would buy the 800 DE in a flash, were I to go on a really long trip, with gear and alone. There is more than enough power in the 800 and the lower weight makes it a better choice for me, riding alone and far. I also find it better balanced overall. The one thing that could still make me buy the 1050, is the electronics, especially the cruise control, which frankly should be standard on all ADV bikes. Triumph scores a lot of points with the 900.

[@andrewshore262]

I owned an 18 V Strom 1000 for nearly 5 years and you’re right they don’t break down, home serviced great value for money. This year I did consider the new V Strom’s DE & Standard but their RRP has shot up here in the U.K. and more importantly so has the cost of spare parts it’s true they get more kit etc., but for me they no longer represented good value for money. In the end I was able to secure an ex demo Triumph GT PRO 1200 (less than a 1000 miles on it) for the same money as a DE, it actually weighs less and has roughly 30% more power, electronic suspension, shaft drive, heated seat (I added), and adjustable screen! Good quality video & sound, I like your factual reviews they helped me to decide when purchasing my Triumph👍🇬🇧

[@Roberta_Esposito]

10:03 love how Ian’s cool enough to not block out speedo✅

[@Kevin97587]

Video and audio are perfect. I think u have one (if not the) best setups and qualities from all motorcycle channels.

[@fedup7416]

You have the best bike review channel on KZbin. Always great, thorough, and professional advise.

[@jamessmith9786]

Wait, you "can't have everything"! Seems like lots of people I meet these days feel otherwise. Great initial review and Ian, we really appreciate you riding such miserable roads through drab scenery to bring us your opinions. Good looking bike, worth the price for Suzuki reputation & network. The "wow factor" also happens when some bikes need repairs & parts. A "tall ,heavy girl" is not always a bad thing.

[@MeerkatADV]

Man Suzuki did some work on these. It's in a tough market bracket, and doesn't have the top off-road specs in the segment but it seems like it's designed to be a great mid-range option for those not trying to do hard off-road.

[@TourmeisterTWT]

I don't know if you work on your own bikes, but one thing that would be nice to see in reviews is how hard/easy it is to do things like change the oil, replace the air filter, access the spark plugs, etc,... One of my biggest gripes about newer adventure bikes is that they are getting harder and harder to work on, which for a bike that might have something go wrong in the middle of nowhere can be a big deal! I miss the simplicity of my old 02 R1150 GS even though I love my 17 R1200GS Rallye. The 17 is much more difficult to do even basic things because of all the plastic, clips, screws, etc... that you have to keep track of. Also, stock headlight reviews would be nice. I live in deer infested East Texas and the ability to see far ahead and wide is critical to avoiding these critters! All that said, I love you reviews.

[@bfbryfield]

I have one.. very smooth bike.. found the road riding very good.. dirt roads very good as well.. have not tested on true off road.. single or double track. That is why I still have my wr 250r :) The weight seems to fade away after a few weeks when you get used to it. Btw.. I am 6'1", feet are planted. Also lost one fastener for the windscreen the first time I adjusted it. When your on dirt it seems to fair better with a forward leen, oh! and yes I removed the rubber from the foot pegs (its actually better, without)

[@Jungleland33]

The best comment I have seen regarding this bike is that " it's as reliable as a hammer". That's good enough for me.

[@TheAwakenHD]

The problem with the v strom is it's good everywhere but you don't have that "wow" factor

[@MagicAyrtonforever]

I agree, My 2020 Africa Twin was great fun until someone crashed into the back of me writing it off and breaking my arm.

[@jackvliet]

I loooove my 2019 1000. But I'd like to try a gs or something similar

[@marcochavane3124]

Jack of All Trades, Master of None, though oftentimes better than the Master of One.

[@LooxJJ]

You will do “WOW” with all capital letters once you actually take it on adventure riding…say from Los Angeles-to-Patagonia.

[@chrissahlstrom8939]

I had a deposit on a new africa twin and pulled it because on the test ride it didnt have the wow factor either

[@craigcooper8810]

great review mate awesome quality and sound! :)

[@robertbates1079]

I think unless you ride an enduro bike , most people buy these bikes for the comfort and practicality for a on road bike with the versatility to ride the odd fire road or down to the campsite 2 up maybe . Some countries have lots of untarmaced roads too , but i dont think its a dirt bike . Reliable, frugal, lots of safety features and cheap to service ,great brakes , handles great , great choice of bike unless you buy for ' the badge ' .

[@kawabungah20]

Really enjoyed this first ride and looking forward to the full review. The 800DE looks so good that it will be interesting to see what advantages there might be with the 1050DE, especially for riding two-up. That classic V-Strom L-twin sounds sooo good.

[@dirkhuman760]

I like the fact you test this, or show us this 1050 before the 800DE. It makes sense to compare the two. Great video.

[@CPUspeed]

Great video as always. Big vstrom fanboy and so happy they went the triumph route. 2 bikes! One for road, one for off road.

[@michaelbode5784]

I love your new first ride reviews … it’s an honest as it happens response from what you are feeling at that moment … great job Ian

[@BigRockMoto]

Glad you like them!

[@stanprothero]

Good to see the 1050DE compared so quickly after your 800DE review. VERY INTERESTED in a compare and contrast with opinion between the two as I feel that choice is more appropriate than considering another 1 litre ish bike

[@bobz1736]

Love your in-depth reviews. Video quality is great. Sound quality? I think you need to move the helmet mic to the side a little bit, so not get the pffff ptthh shfff sounds 😉

[@pappaclutch3266]

I really would like to see you review a Super Tenere. I know there’s probably not alot of viewing power there but it’s a great bike!

[@keyboarddancers7751]

Top quality content and format as ever, *Mr Big Rock Moto* - as an armchair biker (due to knee problems) I'm always pleased to see a notification of a new video from you. My only minor gripe (as with many bike & auto channels) is the use of the wide angle lens which I feel distorts the image, doesn't give a proper close view of the bike and creates an incorrect sense of road speed. Look forward muchly to the full review.

[@vesperti]

Love the VFR shout-out. Heavy bike, best of every world engine IMO

[@Roberta_Esposito]

VFR1200fd

[@vesperti]

@@Roberta_Esposito late RC36 is where it's at

[@Roberta_Esposito]

@@vesperti VF1000r VF1000f VFR1200 stomp that 750😎

[@vesperti]

@@Roberta_Esposito I'm not racing anyone, do not care

[@tonymonaco4391]

I finally learned why Ducati uses V-twin engines too. Thanks for that info.

[@awhoot1]

Man I’m excited your doing the 800de and the 1050 de reviews at the soma time!!! Going to be good. 🤙🏻

[@sandwaves5642]

Sound = 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 Filming = 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@1136tscc]

Video looks great on my iPad. Nothing better than watching BRM video with a coffee on a holiday Monday. Thanks Ian.

[@lazarsekulic2694]

Thanks for reviews. Please do Super Tenere if you can. I know its not popular but at least you will get some new people on channel who really respect good motorcycles!

[@Shadowzxpower]

Damn ! This color scheme remind me of my blue / white DR750 from 30 years ago ✌️

[@grantdubridge7995]

I think your cameras look great. Extreme high definition and brightness. I love the fact they colored the seat. Like my blue seat on my 1992 KLR. Just makes the whole color scheme flow the entire length.

[@MoiPloy]

finally you got your hands on the updated version ..i think suzuki heard you about the lack of suspension travel

[@toltod]

Thank you for cycling power and checking to see if it remembers settings. This is something I don't want it forgetting.

[@smith951]

First rides are my fave. Most for entertainment and the info level I'll rember

[@craiggillphotography8030]

Great review. Not my style of bike but looks good. Your audio quality was excellent. Best I’ve heard from a bike KZbinr.

[@bradmx144]

New Africa Twins are nearly impossible to find, at least in Phoenix, so maybe this is an option. Will be looking forward to the in depth review.

[@charlesochler5800]

I love the givi airflow I put on my 650. I imagine would be a good fit for this bike as well

[@inspectorclouseau3880]

Hi Iain, the adventure bike segment is really getting interesting now. A lot of manufacture's are developing bikes now at different price points. Lots to choose from

[@davidc1961utube]

Seems like a good bike for two up ADV touring up to forest service roads. With more knobby tires, and by yourself, maybe you could keep up with an AT. The difference might be greater the third time you pick it up in an afternoon... I imagine the lawyers require the ABS be on every time after cycling the key. For audio, I would suggest moving the mike a little farther away. There was a fair bit of heavy breathing wind noise. Cheers!

[@tjs201971]

Ian! I watch your v-storm 650 video again and thank you for another amazing review! The V-storm 650 will be my new adventure motorcycle! Sense I am a new rider!

[@Sr.D]

Wow wow wow 🤯, wait just a minute, GEAR DRIVEN CAMSHAFTS!?!?! I thought nobody was doing that nowadays, that's the most reliable system right there, but what do you mean by partially?

[@BernardAnderson]

Ian, I love your first ride vids! Thank-you!

[@TheSar]

Been waiting for this. Thanks Ian - awesome video as always.

[@leewilborg7046]

The camera video seems a little more vivid with the colors and the definition looks like an improvement. I like it.

[@arai4176]

I gotta be honest, that Pillow Cube commercial was the best video I've saw in a long time. I'll stick with my GSA because I've owned a V-Strom DL 1K for a hand full of years. They are good bikes and it is true about them not breaking down. I done my very best to turn it into a forever bike but pulled my hair out trying and spent a load of money that I could've just used to buy my GSA. I now know what everyone means when they say "its just not a GSA" Nope... Im not rich, but I spend my money wisely. Safe travels in your journey gentleman and as always, I hope you get laid tonight.

[@andreasweber7828]

Wow, reminds me of my blue ‘89 DR 750 S. sold her to an ambitious lad who’s going to transform her into a rally bike. Was glad to get rid of her after a 16 year hibernation in a garage.

[@0HARE]

I enjoyed this first ride impression. The V-Strom seems very capable of anything I’d ever put it through. I’m wondering if you’ve done, or will do a review of the BMW F850GSA. That’s the one I’m really interested in. It’ a similar, but higher price point than this Suzuki, but maybe a bit more off road capable. Would love to hear your impressions.

[@laurentrun6564]

Thanks for this high quality review ! I've tested this bike on my little island and the height was a problem when you stop on an incline road (I'm 6ft/183cm). I think I will go for the standart 1050 as I'm gonna use it 80% on road. Thanks again !

[@Muhammeteminatbas]

Video quality is great but audio quality can be a little bit better.

[@spencervidal3168]

I essentualy that same motor on my 89 TL 1000. That V twin has been around for 30 or 40 years... Bullet proof

[@PGS675]

thanks! audio &video quality is good! like your review!

[@Birdynmnm]

As a happy VStrom 1000XT owner, for me the additional and high centered weight is counterproductive to the added off-road capabilities of that 21 wheel. I think however that the standard 2023 1050 model will be a really awesome bike for twisting roads, but understand you went to test the DE model. Also the price is now unrealistically high. That does not mean I would go with the KTM890 as an example, since the reliability of that is nowhere near the VStrom level. I think the African Twin for me is now looking the best

[@Volksplane1]

Enjoyed the out-takes at the end😄

[@user-pp5or5og4k]

I agree on your comment about adventure riders in washing the front end. I noticed in a lot of POV videos, if I can see your hands and all of the dash in your shot you're sitting down too much or your weight is too far back. Get on the balls of your feet stand up and charge forward.

[@lazarsekulic2694]

Waiting for full reviews on 800DE and 1050 DE. I start biking because of your channel and got 650XT as my first bike. Looking to uprgade to the bigger

[@PeterW961]

Hi Ian.. Thanks for a great review, it’s great to get your first impression. I got the DL1000 ABS. But looking at the 800DE. How much smaller is it comparing to the 1050DE and do you think 800DE is big enough for riding 2 up with luggage

[@mikeross7725]

I love the first ride impressions ride format.

[@Blindranger]

@bigrockmoto you keep bringing up the Africa Twin as a comparison, but as far as I can tell it has not been sold in the USA since 2022!

[@ComfyDadShoes]

I’m curious to see what Suzuki does with the v-Strom lineup. I read a lot of comments saying the big v1050 stays, the 650 goes. I also wonder if a DR big package becomes a thing as well!

[@khakimzhanmiras]

this is approximately the treatment i wanted the ftr1200 to get. instead indian doubled-down, cut the suspension, and gave it 17” wheels. On the subject of the 1050, I had a cagiva with the same engine, it was a great bike. 18” front wheel, no off-road aspirations.

[@1136tscc]

Been waiting for this review, I just bought last year’s XT because I didn’t see the $8000 difference in value. (Canada). Also of note a HAT adventure sport is still $2000 more than this up here

[@mikemerrill175]

My son owned two different v-stroms. Both were great bikes he rode daily in SoCal traffic. Sadly, chain maintenance, or lack thereof ended the service life of the first & prompted the sale of the second. Some folks REALLY need to buy bikes with shaft drive.

[@gregorbabic7664]

I don’t understand. Replacing a chain is easy. How does that end the life of the bike???

[@gregfriedman2996]

@@gregorbabic7664 Maybe wear out the countershaft sprocket?

[@ChrisThompson-nn2pv]

Looking forward to the full review 👍👍

[@2002honda954]

1050DE. Dual Explorer. Got it.

[@frederickstaana1269]

Cant wait for your usual complete review

[@patwrenching9674]

i have both the 2023 800 and the 1050 and have just come off several years on road bikes HDs. i notice the throttle response on the 800 is instant but the 1050 has a little lag at the beginning of the twist. nbeing used to near on 200nm of torque and no ride modes accept throttle programming i miss the torque in these bikes but in the main am happy with the choice to go suzuki

[@goldyg6511]

awesome video clarity, always dig ur reviews Ian thanks much

[@advredbikes]

Thanks Ian, great insight into this bike, thank you.

[@RideWithDaan]

Hey Ian. Great review again. Could you maybe one time do a video on what video and audio gear your using for these KZbin videos? Quality is great. Cheers 👍🏻 Ps take a shot everytime you read the word video lol

[@tomthomsen990]

You got $770K for the house! That's awesome! Oh, great video too!

[@JCBigCat]

20:37 when you accidentally say the channel's name :D

[@michaelparish2435]

I like the new camera setup

[@DAXCafeRacer]

Great video like always!

[@georgedoolittle7574]

Only sound problem not in using the helmet for the intro for the most simple fix. If you want the full tripod set given how intensive your reviews are that's how i would change the audio in effect *"interviewing the machine"* prior to "take off."

[@yorkchris10]

It looks like my old Oilhead. Apparently BMW used the designer from the Katana. Europeans started putting TKC's on their Oilheads and raising the front fender to fit. It's been more than twenty years and you can buy whatever fits the bill without modifying.

[@mattbryonphoto2357]

So in your unbiased opinion: I’m a guy looking move from my v85tt to bike where I’d be riding more on and off road plus with a passenger fully loaded with luggage, which bike do you like more for my application…the Africa twin or the vstrom? I love my Moto Guzzi but it is lacking a bit of power while being fully loaded . also with it being air cooled, she likes to overheat in slower speed situations. Anyways! Thanks for you doing such great videos! Love it.

[@VaidotasADV]

Nice to hear a professional review. But why it is only some video about 1050 basic 2023y. I thinking to buy v-storm and I think that DE can be to heavy and to big for me (I am 183 cm, 86 kg.) . I am driving v-storm 1000 cc 2004 y. now and bigger I thing can be to me uncomfortable or maybe not :) I am riding 80% on road and 20% off. And I can't decide which one to take :) What do you think? I would like to see a professional video about this model.

[@wanderlpnw]

I used to have the previous generation of that Schuberth. It's a great winter helmet, but it's too hot in the summer, IMO.

[@ArunTripsNTalks]

Vstrom is an excellent package of 100hp engine, touring, semi-off road ability, heavy sturdy bike at affordable price for a 5yr plans compared to BMW R1250 deeper investment..

[@aagetreffen]

Thank you for another great presentation. I have been waiting for your opinion on this bike. I think I am buying this bike. I live in the arctic so there are not so many dealers near me. So it makes it easier if this is a good bike. And it seems you confirmed my hopes for this bike.

[@BERZERKERSV4]

OMG ..@$16k on a 15 year old design with nearly zero meaningful upgrades and a few electronic gimmicks that have no real world value (quick shifter, 3 axis blah blah blah) over the years…. AND it’s more expensive than a Africa Twin?….Once again Momma Suzuki shot herself in the foot… AND it gets better…. $600 for 2 freight/destination charges…. AND you want side hard cases/mounts?…. That’s another $1700 !….which translates into and OTD price of nearly $20k, which represents a very poor value…next thing you know the new 800 VStrom won’t have cruise control or a center stand….. oh wait…. Looks like Suzuki is having a Bud Light moment…or their motorcycle division is approaching MotoGP and WSBK status…. Once again the IBEX800 is rising to the top of my list…. Thanks Ian for a brief , informative and honest eval…. Kudos from Daytona…

[@Ritalie]

The worst part about riding motorcycles is the wind noise, and the bad helmet designs. I can't believe in 2023, we haven't figured out how to quiet the wind noise. I had to use a helmet I bought 25 years ago on a recent drive, because my 2020 and 2021 helmets both have much more wind rumbling.

[@tsav6952]

Probably pick one over less reliable bikes like Ducati and KTM and maybe Triumph.

[@TheElicoA]

Hi, Thank you for a great video. Not long ago you reviewed the v-storm 800DE, what are the main differences? Does my assumption that the former will be a better choice for a new rider?

[@rjeepster8640]

I think so many manufacturers miss the mark with small and non adjustable windscreens! First thing we do is bigger windscreens and hand guards!

[@slakk5093]

If it does have gear driven cams that’s a big plus for reliability and longevity

[@scottlazar9731]

great quality and love the honest first impressions. very useful. It will be interesting to see what is different to you in upcoming rides.

[@PaydayGabeBCNV]

Maybe it was just me,,, but the Audio was weak sounding. The video was just fine though. Love the paint scheme on the bike.

[@chukku2175]

The high seat height of this bike is a bit of an enigma... Usually that's the price you pay for ground clearance or long suspension travel or a flat seat line. Simce the Vstrom doesn't really have a lot of any of those, it makes you wonder where the seat height comes from ?

[@dstubby82]

Hoping for a proper 650DE one day. 🤞🤞🤞

[@ezct5215]

We need you to review the Yamaha tenere 1200!

[@ConcoursOne]

You need to review a flashed Super Tenere. More suspension travel than this “New” bike and has shaft drive. I seriously don’t understand why it is so dismissed by reviewers.

[@williamrae9954]

Discontinued in most parts of the world...emissions

[@chrissunde1104]

Beautiful road, where are you riding?

[@DavidLPitman]

Hey Ian. If Maggie wanted to ride with you on 85/15 asphalt/fire road adventures, would you stay with a mid adventure like the 800DE, or go with the additional cc's and larger adventure like the the 1050? (or similar spec'd other brands). I'm all for mid, but thinking I would miss the additional cc's on the 85% road with 2 up. We are not plus size, but still.. Thoughts? Thank you!

[@dcryder9736]

Didn't know you had an MT-09. Is it the SP? Got any video?

[@andrewdowd3997]

Geez. Looks like a beautiful machine but I was surprised by the price! Seems steep to me! Thanks for the review I love your content! I don’t know how to contact directly you but I am trying to start a motorcycle tour guide business and would really appreciate any of your insight or advice.

[@20cent]

Weird pricing is going on in the west (and in the US), are they trying to amortize the freight cost craziness from the COVID times? In Asia the 1050 is still 30-50 % cheaper than anything else in the same category, Africa Twin included.