KIWI RIDER 04 2019 VOL.1 | Page 33

Suzuki often builds great bikes that may not be quite as flashy as some Euro brands, but the machines certainly perform well above expectation from a price standpoint have to hand it to the guys and gals at Suzuki, they really have managed to pack a whole lot of tech into their latest V-Strom 1000... while still maintaining an excellent price point. I think this is definitely one of the company’s greatest strengths. Suzuki often builds great bikes that may not be quite as flashy as some Euro brands, but the machines certainly perform well above expectation from a price standpoint. For example, the new ‘Strom has five-axis ABS that is linked front to rear, three position traction control, low rpm assist to prevent stalling, and a slipper clutch. On top of that the Suzuki comes with tubeless, spoked wheels, adjustable suspension, a three-position screen and a cleaner Euro4-compliant engine that has been achieved without noticeable power loss – in fact horsepower figures are the same at around one hundred with a gnat’s- whisker less torque. Our test machine was champion yellow in colour and, to my eyes, a handsome beast. The thing that struck me when throwing a leg over the 1037cc DOHC V-twin is that it’s not physically super big for a large capacity adventure bike. The seat height should be manageable for the majority of riders, it’s quite slim overall and has very comfortable ergonomics in general. There is no doubt in my mind that its relative compactness makes it a more achievable mount for those with an average or less inside seam measurement who still want a large capacity machine. I adjusted the screen with the top edge nearest me, mainly because I thought it looked best. However, once underway I found it worked better furthest away from me with my 190cm frame. It’s a simple adjustment procedure, just push the screen forward and release. It will then automatically click into the next forward position until returning to its original position on the third push – such an easy adjustment system that’s easy-as to use. The screen has three positions and gets progressively taller and more upright as it goes forward. It worked well for me. For what seemingly is a very simple thing… an effective screen which works well for your height can make a massive difference to comfort and fatigue levels over a long day’s ride – definitely worth considering when making a purchase. KIWI RIDER 33