I still like the most instant A ( for Active ) mode best , although having B ( Basic ) and C ( Comfort ) there for lazy days is probably no bad thing . To have the levels of traction control and ABS intervention individually tuneable is also a nice thing – as is the ECU ’ s memory which means you don ’ t have to start again each time you switch the ignition off . As for the trick load-dependant braking setup – that ’ ll have to wait , but given modest braking effort ( boy , it was slippery ) everything seemed pretty stable .
WHERE ARE WE AT ? The V-Strom is then something of an unsung hero . It ’ s much better than given credit for , both for road touring and off-road adventuring . Its looks have let it down for years , not until 2020 did it start looking remotely sexy . That Suzuki hasn ’ t at least a little bit tweaked the styling for this latest generation – except for colours – will not help its cause . Which is a shame because , unquestionably it has a capability and established a niche within the big adventure segment that is of value . It can comfortably tour long distances , even two up , and its off-road chops are not to be sniffed at . All that said , I suspect the V-Strom buyer is still his / her own individual . I don ’ t see that the
THE 1050
Just so you know . Suzuki explained there ’ s been some levelling-up with the V-Strom . Here Suzuki has gone to lengths to ensure the road-variant is no longer the poor cousin , it has all the same whistles and bells ( save the Gravel mode ) as the RJ ( DE ). And it is then a very nice road bike indeed . Not immediately inspiring ( in the showroom ), but when ridden , its strengths and character really shine through – it ’ s a seriously comfortable , fine handling sporty tourer . And seeing as it has a 19-inch front wheel , you could still fit adv tyres and a bash plate – but frankly what ’ s the point ? Nice bike though – and the grey / red colour scheme was strangely attractive .
V-Strom compares to much else in the market . It ’ s not a GS-rival , not an 890 beater , not even a Tiger alternative . It ’ s the V-Strom and it either fits your requirements or it doesn ’ t . It is , though , undoubtedly a very good bike and a genuine adventure bike for that matter .
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