with excellent weather protection from a great screen . The 835mm seat height is manageable for most , something particularly important for learner riders , but might , sadly , still rule out some shorter riders . The engine has a nonintimidating , smooth and linear power delivery from idle to redline , good suspension action , easy handling and decent brakes . In short , it is a very balanced and competent package . The DL has two-piston brake calipers rather than the SV ’ s four-pots , both machines have ABS . Soon it was time to leave Wanganui and head up the Parapara Road on the bikes for a little adventure . Near Lismore Forest , a favourite enduro racing area of times gone by , we found some nice , loose metal gravel roads for a little V-Strom sliding fun . The DL has traction control that ’ s very easy to turn off for off-road riding ... there ’ s no IT Degree needed to navigate the menu and , once off , it stays off , even when the key is turned off and on later – fantastic , a bike that does what it ’ s told for once . Other brands please take note . Both bikes sport the same 645cc , 90-degree V-twin engine that are liquid cooled with twin overhead cams , with a nice six-speed gearbox , and both are gems in their own right . The DL is smooth with a very linear power curve that ’ s predictable and surprisingly effective . Brisk / sensible travel on road is quite easy . It can pass
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