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