Overall the Suzuki V-Strom
DL1000XT is a very good
machine with well rounded
capabilities. It is quick,
comfortable, easy to ride
As I mentioned earlier, the V-Strom has great
ergos and a smaller compact feel, but the
twin spar aluminium frame still allows for a
decently-sized 20 litre fuel tank. At 232kg wet
the Suzuki is not a lightweight, but it certainly
isn’t heavy when lining up among other
bikes in this class. The suspension up front is
43mm USD forks with 160mm of travel and
they’re fully adjustable. At the rear a linkage-
driven shock also provides 160mm of wheel
travel and is only adjustable for rebound and
preload. On tarmac and gravel roads the
suspension action is totally acceptable giving
a comfortable and quite controlled ride – in
fact it was better than I was expecting it to
be. When pushed hard beyond these normal
riding conditions the suspension action does
have its limitations… as one would expect – it’s
not a dirt bike.
Overall the Suzuki V-Strom DL1000XT is a very
good machine with well rounded capabilities.
It is quick, comfortable, easy to ride, has
decent weather protection and an excellent
suite of safety electronics. This is a very
capable touring machine that’s well priced and
certainly punches above its weight. Oh, and
let’s not forget, these V-twin motors seemingly
go on for ever…
KIWI RIDER 39