Motorcycle Suzuki V-Strom 650

2024 Author: Erin Ralphs | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-02-19 11:41

Since the V-Strom 650 was first introduced in 2004, it has become one of Suzuki's best-selling motorcycles. Therefore, it is not surprising that the manufacturing company continues to support it with fresh updates and improvements.

The model attracted drivers with its high technical data. additionally, with each new version, the control systems were improved. The manufacturer was not afraid to introduce new technologies, and the motorcycle itself drove hundreds of kilometers around the test site in different modes before launching conveyor production. Comfort and reliability have become the slogan of manufacturers. To cater to off-road enthusiasts, the XT version was created.

Update History

Suzuki V-Strom 650 was updated in 2012. Engineers have improved performance, driving comfort and ABS. Additionally, the company's specialists modernized the style.

Shortly after, the V-Strom 650XT was unveiled at the show with tubeless wheels, wire spokes, skid frames, a touring windshield and a redesigned fascia. Now in 2018, both 650 models get a brand newappearance, several electronic improvements and improved performance.

Difference between V-Strom 650 and XT

The standard Suzuki V-Strom 650 comes with cast wheels, while the 650XT comes with tubeless tyres, wire mesh rims, a frame and load-bearing reinforcement.

Also on the XT version, a protective lower engine cover was supplied. Reviews of the Suzuki V-Strom 650 owners are mostly positive. Like the revised XT version, the classic version is almost as good off-road as it gets. However, the wheelbase with improved discs allows the XT version to move more confidently. Tubeless tires improve the bike's agility and performance when climbing uphill on a sandy road.

The Suzuki V-Strom 650 has been upgraded for long-distance travel. An additional option is an offer from the dealer in the form of improvements and body modifications. With their help, you can replace luggage compartments, install reinforced protective frames or replace the entire seat.

What's new in the model

The new body of the Suzuki V-Strom 650 has a number of distinctive details. Now it has become similar to the V-Strom 1000 version in design. The decision to modernize the body was also made due to technical improvements to the engine and exhaust system.

A breakthrough in refinement was the addition of a traction control system that continuously monitors speedwheels, throttle opening, engine speed and the selected gear when adjusting the power. There are three control levels (high, low and off). The system can switch on the fly.

Traction Control

Suzuki V-Strom 650 is now equipped with three-mode traction control. Shifts can be made on a non-stop ride, but they will not be activated until the throttle is fully closed after selecting a new mode.

Engine improvements include new low friction pistons and dual spark plugs, as well as upgrades to throttle bodies and fuel injectors. The result is increased low- and mid-range torque and increased peak power. Reaching the new Euro4 standards has also made the engine cleaner and more fuel efficient than older models.

V-Twin engine

The bike now produces 69.73 HP and 8,800 rpm, up from 64.4 HP and 8,800 rpm in the previous year's model. The technical characteristics of the Suzuki V-Strom 650 make it possible to operate the version in almost any weather conditions. The company cares about the safety of customers, so in addition to the engine, the control system has undergone a serious revision.

In addition, the under-chassis exhaust system helps to narrow the rear end of the bike, greatly improving its agility. The width of the cabinet with factory-installed storage boxes is 21.6 centimeters less than before.

Backthe part is designed in such a way that it can be connected with existing luggage accessory systems developed for the V-Strom 1000 since 2014.

Case and electronics

Indications for traction control level, gear position, air temperature, fuel consumption and fuel level are integrated into the extended instrument panel with display. Additionally installed 12-pin charging port.

The characteristics of the Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom were changed not only in terms of hardware. The electronics have also changed. This year also saw the addition of Suzuki's Easy Start system, requiring only a two-second press of the starter button to start the engine. Low RPM Assist is another electronic assistant that slightly increases wheel speed. The sensor is activated during a sudden deceleration to help avoid slipping and skidding on the road. Additionally, it is worth noting the new dashboard. Unlike the previous generation version, the new one has a fully digital display without mechanical sensors.

The bike also features a new three-position height-adjustable windshield designed to reduce buffering. It needs to be adjusted by yourself with the help of tools. Despite all the changes, the Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom did not get any heavier and actually lost 1 kilo.

Impressions of the trip

Motorcycle Suzuki V-Strom 650 at a speed of 60-100 km/h handles well on asph alt. Turns are effortless, and its compatible suspension helps supportoff-road stability. The model is universal. Specially designed tires have good grip not only on the road, but also on the ground. In addition to the stabilization control system, the tires have reliable grip.

Improved torque and power for faster starts. The braking system is quick to respond on both uphill and downhill runs. The previous model Suzuki V-Strom 650 from 2014 was already equipped with a 650cc engine. see Therefore, at an average speed, the feeling in driving and driving is practically the same.

However, the declared power does not make the handling aggressive. Even with full throttle at the start, the motorcycle will not raise the front wheel. The version is great for driving in an urban environment.

Inspection and control system

V-Strom 650 has a sport damping system that provides a pleasant ride on tough, twisty roads.

The new V-Strom 650 traction control constantly adjusts engine power as the wheel spins. The V-shaped frame perfectly protects the legs during the trip. The rear wing completely absorbs splashes and pebbles flying out from under the wheel on the pavement, preventing them from scattering.

When the traction control system is set to position 1 (low), it will resist any surprises or mistakes. The mode works well for unplanned off-road driving. Mode in position 2 is the most accurate and completely neutralizes wheel slip when driving. It's great for riding in the rain. OFF mode completelydisables traction control and stabilization. All control buttons for easy switching when traveling are located under the left hand.

Security elements

Wind protection with the new windshield is quite good. At high speed, oncoming air flows are redirected above the head. In comparison, the windshield that was standard on the 2015 V-Strom 650XT was positioned lower. A small angle of inclination allowed the headwind to hit directly in the face. Standard hand guards also provide additional protection against cold headwinds and flying objects from under the wheels of the vehicle in front.

Modification of the V-Strom 650XT series is completely off-road. Smooth throttle response and low seat height make it easy to ride. The motorcycle moves without sudden movements and can climb up the road without slowing down. The model is fitted with Bridgestone BATTLAX street tires. However, they also handle sandy roads well.

Note that the standard model has hand and foot protection. In the XT version, the frame is modified, as the landing is designed for off-road trips. Side arches on the classic V-Strom 650 protect the rider's legs from damage in the event of a fall.

ABS

Braking performance is at a high level for the standard ABS system on the Suzuki V-Strom 650 when driving down the street. Hard stops, however, require firm finger pressure on the lever. The brakes are smooth, but when cruising at medium speeds, it will take effort to bring the bike to a sudden stop.

ABS is acceptable on soft dirt roads, but can also be used on sandy, rocky terrain. A strong pulsation of the slip mode becomes noticeable at lower speeds.

With the stabilization system, it will be difficult to put the rear wheel into a skid to enter a turn. The axle lock mechanism is activated at the slightest deviation. Unfortunately, Suzuki still considers the ABS OFF mode to be a safety issue, so anyone who wants to use the OFF mode for off-road riding will have to resort to pulling the fuse from the circuit.

The standard V-Strom 650 can handle equally well on pavement or off-road. The weight of cast wheels is about 600 grams less than in the XT version, which have spoked wheels. The only difference in the stability control system between the released models is the harshness of the off-road ride.

Conclusion

The V-Strom 650 is still a well-built, well-designed, easy-to-ride, fuel-efficient bike for everyday riding. Now with more power and the addition of traction control, the model is better able to handle sharp off-road transitions from smooth pavement. The smooth running of the engine and the padded seat provide comfort.

This allows you to travel long distances without worrying that your back will get tired or numblegs. The well-designed weight and dimensions of the motorcycle give it greater maneuverability on the road. The frame is designed for modernization and refinement. Vehicle owners can install an additional saddle instead of a rack or attach side storage compartments.

In terms of reviews, the Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom has many positive reviews. The owners note the frisky character of the motorcycle and at the same time its improved control system. The classic model will be an excellent solution for moving around the city. If there is a desire to go to the forest or mountains, it is better to use the modified version of XT.