SECOND OPINION – V-STROM OWNER
Throwing a leg over the 1000XT V-Strom is a
fundamentally different experience compared
to my 10-year old original model. Aside from
the rumble of the trusty V-twin it’s a new, much
improved package.
Since my model, the bodywork has been
redesigned to bring it up to date with the rest
of the adventure world, and given the weights
of both are pretty much the same, the bonus is
you’re getting a less bulky feel with a smaller-
looking bike. The removal of the high pipes
has reduced the bulk and width of the rear
substantially, making it much easier to get on
and off for the average sized rider and pillion.
The riding position has not changed a great
deal and is still a comfortable adventure style,
and combined with a good seat, reasonable
distances are not a problem.
The major improvement for me has to be the
40 KIWI RIDER
brakes, the Tokico four-piston radially mounted
brakes are outstanding, and in another world
compared to the twin pots fitted to the old
bike. The addition of the ABS modes and
traction control pushes my old V-Strom back to
dinosaur status.
Thankfully the engine is still great with around
100hp and a good torque curve. It will get you
anywhere you want to go solo, or two-up with
luggage. It’s still slightly high geared for me,
and the old bike when geared down gives good
drive out of NZ back road corners and is easier
to manoeuvre in first gear. The new bike could
benefit from this too.
The upgrade to upside-down front forks
means the bike copes better in general and
they ride higher in the stroke than the old
boingers. There’s less dive under braking than
on the old bike, and there’s adjustment too.