Rest in peace brother, I miss your honest reviews and the fun light hearted nature of the channel.

Suzuki V-Strom is reliable, street oriented bike that can go off road. Better on road than most adventure bikes, where we spend most of the time, if we are honest with ourselves.

Absolutely adore my 2020 V-Strom 1050

I just made 650 km in one day yesterday on my 2019 Vstrom 1000 XT in the Italian and Austriann Alps before going back home to Slovenia. I rode it alone and pretty sporty and again Suzuki made a lot of fun. At one point I rode behind a GS 1250 (also alone) and it did not get away more than few meters. Suzuki has great engine, comfort and just puts a smile on your face. I wound not upgrade to the new one because it has more kg and tourque higher up. I dont mind cruise control and few more eletronic stuff.

i love your accent and simplicity the way you explain everything like a friend !!

Paul from Australia you guys do some of the best most honest reviews “ on the planet “ keep up the fantastic work well done 👍 “

I like the fact that your honest and not a nut rider like a lot of channels.

My favourite host and reviewer of all time. Keep it up love from India.🙂

Great review (as always, I really enjoy the way you guys do reviews). Also funny thing, that you mentioned to look at the dash, because you can easily go over the speed limit, because I did the same while I was test driving it. Not to mention that in this color just very pleasing for my eyes.

Nice video!!! I'm a fan of your channel! Greetings from Spain!

Reliability - this is the main competition from Suzuki!

Great review as always!...Thanks!!

Hey, the intro and the music are fantastic

I have the earlier model ‘18. The ABS works really well off road. I can get quite a bit of “lockup” from the rear. Not enough to completely steer the bike but definitely enough to slide the ass around. If you hammer the back brake on dirt you can see your skid mark clearly behind you and it’s pulsing in a way that the skid mark is fully intact and not stop and go. Very impressed with it.

Good insight as to the best use of this bike. Definitely not a serious off-road adventure bike, but a good value for a reliable traveler.

the slow motion shot with Erik Satie playing in the background - very nice. My 2014 Vstrom 1000 has been a wonderful bike and I've done many mods to it. So while I like the new 1050XT I wouldn't consider a swap-over. You are correct - it's a great touring bike that can join big sealed roads by travelling so-so dirt roads in between

An adventure bike that is street oriented with an engine 1000cc or more without a 20k price tag. That hits the spot for me!

I love Suzuki and it's the unique true review about this bike, thanks

Great review 👏🏻 greetings from 🇬🇧

I agree completely... Miss this guy. I love the look... Just if these looks were over top of a new bike

This braking system is the best I have ever owned. I naturally two finger all day without even thinking about it. It’s extremely easy and comforting. If it seems a little sensitive at first it only takes a couple days to get a great feel

cheers from Greece my friend!

Muchas gracias por tus consideraciones sobre esta moto!!

And you were right. In 2023 Suzuki made a 800de. I really wanted to see a review of it from you, my friend.

"Suzuki needs to completely build a new bike"...I agree. I know that v-twin is a good engine but a compact parallel twin in a lighter package with more off-road capability would be more exciting.

Nice review

Thank you for mention of passenger seat, many review of motorcycle always missed to present of passenger view

I'm loving my 1050,it will see a dirt road or 2 but it's about the looks and the engine for me and how it blast along on the road.. Love suzuki vtwin engines.

As an R1200GSA LC owner I find this bike very attractive. Has some retro vibe to it plus It looks quite sturdy and easy to maintain. Maybe it's just my feelings towards japanese bikes in general.

I agree with you. I had a vstrom for 7 years, the 2007 model, and actually is basically the same bike. The frame and the engine are almost the same. Only better brakes and a lot of electronics has the new. Suzuki needs to create a really new bike to compete with Africa Twin, Triumph, etc.

Hi.. good review.. ! whats the helmet you are wearing? Thanks

Loved the video. I enjoy how you explain things in a detailed yet simpler manner. I have question regarding the V strom XT. Does it come with a steering damper?

Not my first choice, but I really like those tubeless spoked rims...

The most significant change in the engine is the cam profiles. It means there is less torque tha before low in the revs but more in the mid range, and more peak power at the top end.

Great review as always. What is the music at the start of the review, it's great and I need it!?

I am from Brasil and i like your vídeos.

Where did you guys film the test ride?

Nice review Borat!

You can switch off abs! Spin back wheel for few seconds while bike is on the central stand and abs light will show up on the dashboard. Abs will be off as long as you switch off ignition

Good conclusion!

How is the heat with all the black gear?

Hope to have this bike.......

Thanks. Nice review. I love the look! I love that both Suzuki and Honda make stylish use of bright colours on their bikes (as opposed to BMW and Triumphs dull palette). Rumor has it the vstrom 1050 is not selling well; I'm hoping Suzuki discount and/or give a good finance deal in the coming months. If not, I'll probably get the (dull looking) tiger 900 rally as it's a better bike for the price. (or the africa twin if honda does a good deal, though I doubt they will, that thing is selling like hot cakes )

Nice review!!! What do you mean when you say that you feel “it doesn’t come with proper suspension travel”? Do you mean it’s uncomfortable because of being too hard or particularly because of being short? Best regards!!

Love from kerala india 😁❤️

So, it’s more street bike than off-road. Bike shape looks killer, though.

If the 650 v-strome got a similar make over it could be a big hit. This thing is a bit on the heavy side.

Totally agree, I’ve got the previous model and we were definitely expecting a lot more................ However I’ve now read that Suzuki are filling patents for an all new engine 700cc vertical twin - turbo charged with a wide power output 120 - 150 hp in order to pass emissions etc. Can’t say I’m surprised the current V Twin first appeared in the mid 90’s and it’s well past it’s sell by date. I think this mild facelift is just a holding job until the very latest bikes with updated power units appear, Suzuki have been dropping models from their range for a few years without any replacements apparently the new engine could or will be used to power a wide selection of models in various states of tune. It will cut manufacturing costs, a shame they’re not thinking about a new V twin but they’re expensive to produce, anyway that’s what I read let’s see what happens

Hello what suit is it your wearing in this vid please.

No reviewer mentions the clever oil cooler solution.

Juuuhuuuu new movie!!!

I hope you tried adjusting the the front forks as it has damping adjustment and spring preload? Same with the rear. I hope you tried doing those adjustments before talking about the suspension capabilities.

Very good test, as always. It id a very good bike but something is missing (I don’t know what). It needs that something to become a real rival for the Honda, Triumph or BMW.

Nice review. I have an appreciation for bikes with some history and bullet proof reliability. Do they need to make an all new bike? I say no. I would choose an old faithful VStrom or Super Tenere over the BMW or Triumph any day (even if they were priced the same). And I've had the Tiger 800 and 1200.

As i understand it, the suspension is adjustable... so a couple of turns to it should get it to where one wants it to be !

Suzuki comes to the boxing ring with 1 glove Honda brings 2 its a knockdown,after driving an 09 650 to Argentina from Canada.and now owning a 14 that i had to fill every 330kms i really wanted an upgrade ,hopefully soon.

I recently test rode the Africa Twin and V Strom 1050 side by side and I also felt that the Africa Twin is more punchy. Did you ride the standard Africa Twin or the Adventure Sports?

With respect to the brakes, l hope you tried out the different levels of the ABS?

Hi there! Im a big fan of your channel. Im planning on getting my first adventure bike soon. Have tried the bmw gs1250 very fast, nice suspension and brakes but i find it too big and heavy for me. Im 5’ 6”. Been also looking at the Vstrom1050 XT, gs850 and tiger 900 gt. I read that the seat height on the vstrom 1050 is 33.5”. Do you think its too tall for me? The tiger 900 gt is priced at $20,631.00 US. It has lower seat and lighter but i might have a problem with maintenance and parts here. Dealer is very far away. Only one dealer in the whole country. The GS850 priced at $19,910.00 here is so bare, no cruise control, basic suspension, no quickshifter, key for ignition, feels like really old model already. But Bmw have many dealerships here. The Vstrom 1050 XT is priced at $17,723.00 US. My concern only is it heavy? You think I can reach the ground without much difficulty? I will use it more on road and very minimal offroad only when cannot be avaoided. 90% road, 10% offroad. Suzuki also does not have much dealers here, but japanese motorcycles have very good reliablity so im not that worried. What do you think of my choices? Or should I wait for upcoming models? No Tenere 700 here yet. Thanks! And more power to your channel.

The V-strom was a winner from the start, when Suzuki realised the V-twins potential from the TL/SV years, the use of cast wheels being the only mistake, from the start, and the lack of ground clearance.

I used to have many VW (Golfs, Tiguan) cars one after another, but last time I changed to Toyota, because my priorities have changed to value more and more reliability ja quality behind that. I have not regretted choosing C-HR Hybrid as my car. My last bike was 2012 BMW F800GS "Triple Black" with all bells and whistles. I find myself again in spot to look for same things I value in Toyota. Suzuki is very high on that list as for a bike manufacturer. And I don't mind not to have the latest of everything. Reliability is something you can enjoy also between all the rides you take. Just wash it, smile and bike is ready for next adventure.

The bike looks great on paper, until you put it next to the new Africa Twin. Then it seems too expensive. I dunno I'm still thinking about it...great review btw

You said it most people will stay on pavement and when they venture off maybe gravel road 5-10% and honestly if you want a dirt bike get a dirt bike. Most sport touring bikes are too heavy for off road anyway regardless of suspension. Best one I've seen but haven't been able to test ride is Yamaha T7 but it's more off-road oriented so this one is likely better on pavement

The older model with same engine is better max. torque 101 NM @4.000 RPM and the new is 100 NM@6.000 RPM. I have the 2018 V-Strom 1000 and the mixed analog/digital dashboard design is also way better. The 6 extra HP the new model has, does not make it faster because the new model is heavier. The only thing i want from the new model is cruise control.

My SV650a is pretty damn punchy. Surely the v strom 1050 is super punchy. I wonder sometimes if journalists get spoiled testing all these bikes. Cager on 2 Wheels said the 1050 was super quick.

That id plate is serious?

You CAN turn off the ABS....speak to Hessler(Germany) for the kit!

As it is though I would have it over the Africa Twin. It’s lower, has a better screen, seat, the dashboard is comprehensive and far less complicated than the Honda’s encyclopaedic , complex system. I might just stop at the 650 as it is less bulky, more manageable particularly on dirt roads.

Freeload a few fleets of those to me right in time

Love from india ❤️❤️❤️

We love you from saudi arabia

The success of this bike will be depending on pricing, at least in Finland it beats all the machines in terms of pricing except the tracer 900. Africatwin, GS850 and f900xr,KTM 890,Tiger 900 all these bikes equipped with the same electronics are 2-3k euros more in my country, and if you compare it in liter engine category it is over 10k euros less than 1200gs or Multistrada for example, and the big question is is it 10k worse bike than them or not?

Why don’t ya just say it’s not gs lol , not Bmw or Honda money too Nothing wrong with its road manors corners on rails

Just remember it’s not Bmw/Honda/triumph money

Good morning my friend I didn’t see you do it video Honda adventure850

The XT price in Australia is a bit rich.

Saw one in the dealership yesterday. Looked impressive except the sump and oil filter was very exposed. The protective bars like on your test bike do not seem to be standard. For all the faults you mention have to keep in mind it is a very low priced bike

You can go offroad with the Vstrom. Aussies has proven that. A good rider and offroad tyres and go. I agree with you on the ABS though. Honda and BMW did that better with a button. Even the Yamaha T7 has that option. You can turn off the ABS on the Vstrom just to unplug the fuse or do a little trick and put the bike on the centerstand. But why has it to be that complicated. Looks like a offroad but isnt. Poserbike? True a lot of the ADV's never see the dirt. Most people ride them because of the looks. Bottomline in that segment. The Vstrom is a damn good and reliable bike wich is cheaper then the overprized Honda and BMW and certainly a lot more reliable then BMW. And that coming from a BMW GS rider.

Nice review. For the price it's not a bad bike but that exhaust needs redesigning....it looks to big and ugly!👍🇬🇧

Izgleda odlično

to turn off ABS, ride bike a couple feet till ABS light come off. Leave motor running put on center stand, pull in clutch hold front brake put in 4th gear let out clutch. ABS lights will come on! You'll need to repeat this when you turn off ignition.

Why don't you people do a comparison btw this Suzuki V-Strom 1050xt and Honda Africa Twin Manual Adventure Sport? Not many videos out there..

I like the v stroms , I just wish they would give us more ground clearance.

Dear Friends, I am going to move from the naked/street type of motorcycle to a one type in which I can explore the country. Therefore, I am looking for an Adventure or Sport Touring model. I really want a comfortable bike in which I can do many miles without back issues. The comfort is in the top of my “checklist” points. From all the motorbikes you have tested which ones would be best for my goals? Can you give me a top 3 suggestion? Love your work by the way.

Just ONE thing I did not like about this bike - the 24000km valve service. Should have been 40k+ Would be nice if you mention in the reviews the service / valve check intervals - all the bikes.

I disagree with that last. Not need to change. You don't change something is so good. Just developing it. The suzuki has amazing v engine with super sound torque and the best durability due every bike of category. Also the best value for money 💰.

Another good review,thks.JHB-SA.

Price point wise the vsrtom is the best bike out there hands down

I am looking one bike that I can travel with my wife. My budget 1050 xt or triumph tiger 900 gt pro or that price list. Bmw 1200gs or honda africa twin is over my budget. I am looking good seat position when I need power is there. I will just ride on road maybe little bit gravel. I have at the moment ktm 790 duke but I am not fun with ktm engine. Engine has too loud and also got couple of times oil licking problems. I will not choose Ktm anymore. Do you guys some suggest. Really I cant choose. Thanks.

Honest words 👍

Zaruki !

I tottaly agree, Suzuki missed the chance to make a better bike then Africa. Old Vstrom had better engine than old Africa, but with 2020 Africa made new frame, engine, suspension and Suzuki only small engine updates to make it Euro 5. They missed the chance to make a new frame and a lighter bike. And not that I need it but no TFT for 2020 is just a no go. I think 2019 Vstrom had better dash since it works great in sunny weather and is easier to read.

No new video

What's up

As much as i like the 1050, i can find a (new) 2019 at for $1000 less than a (new) 2020 xt..

IMO, the 1050 V-Strom is a very underappreciated bike (I say the 1050, because here in Greece, the 650 has sold many bikes, maybe TOO many). Let me explain: If you factor in its PRICE and if you carefully consider what the vast majority of people (70% or more I feel) will ask of a bike, what they will care for and what the bike can actually do (if you have "the hands" as we call it here) the V-Strom is really tough to beat. Yes, the windscreen mechanism is plain stupid and poorly designed (in terms of functionality, it may be durable and reliable as time goes by which is just as important) and the dash looks silly (they better had stick with a more traditional analog RPM + digital speedo and other info, it's a stupid time we live in). But apart from those menial things, I think the bike has it where it counts. If you are in the 30% (or less) that is looking for more, pay the money and get it, some bikes are more comfortable, some more powerful and some more capable off-road. They cost more though. If you're on the 70% (I know I am), this bike is great and you won't spend money that won't offer YOU any benefit. Edit: Also, IIRC I think Suzuki is sitting on a VVT patent and if they decide to use it, it will be a great addition to the V-Strom

A great review, as always. That bike is sooo ugly. Everything is horrible. Its just wrong! You were so right when you said Suzuki should redesign the whole bike.

You say comfort is important on an adventure touring bike and then heated grips aren’t important. I disagree

You write. Suzuki it's mast stadi!

1050XT