Motorcycle modifications
Usually there are two generations, although within each of them there are also a lot of minor changes. The first was produced from 2002 to 2012, and for several years was even sold in Europe under the name Kawasaki KLV1000. In 2013, a deep modernization of the model was carried out, which became noticeably prettier, acquired new V-twin engine settings, improved suspensions and a modern appearance. But both generations are well suited for the purpose for which they were created - to travel far, in comfort and in any conditions. The word “Strom” itself, translated from German, roughly means “powerful stream”, and this name is perfect for a brutal touring enduro.
Competitors
The first Japanese who comes to mind in the touring-enduro class is, of course, Yamaha with its Tenere.
Yamaha XTZ 660
The Yamaha XTZ 660 is a good choice for those who are interested in an inexpensive touring motorcycle.
The XTZ 660 launched in 1991, the XT 660 Z, conceived as an update to the line, was released in 2007. Compared to Suzuki, they had 1-cylinder engines and a 5-speed gearbox. Because of this, they lost in terms of dynamics and maximum speed.
Honda XL700V Transalp
Honda was not far behind. Its XL700V Transalp was released in 2008.
The model was produced up to and including 2011, mainly for the European market.
It had a V-shaped engine with 2 cylinders, a 5-speed gearbox, a speed comparable to Suzuki, but at the same time it lost in dynamics. It’s interesting that the brand also has a 650cc model, but only the older model was offered for comparison.
Kawasaki Versys 650
Kawasaki Versys 650 is one of the leaders in all-purpose touring motorcycles.
Kawasaki came closest to Suzuki.
The 650cc Versys model also has 2 cylinders (in-line), 6-speed gearbox, chain drive, and comparable speed. But it differs in three stock configuration options. From minimal - protection of hands, tank, side cases to luxury, in which an additional case is installed in the back, fog lights with LEDs, a second 12 V socket.
Weight
Curb weight changed from 207 to 214 kg.
Dry from 185 kg to 195 kg.
Motorcycles without stock ABS weighed ~20 kg less.
Dimensions
Currently, the model is one of the lightest among motorcycles of this class.
The sizes have changed several times:
- the length of the bike has become shorter - from 2290 mm to 2275 mm;
- lost weight in width - from 840 mm to 835 mm;
- grew in height - from 1390 mm to 1405 mm.
The wheelbase has also become larger - from 1540 mm to 1560 mm.
Seat height - from 820 mm to 835 mm.
Ground clearance - from 165 mm to 175 mm.
For whom is it intended?
The optimal height for the owner of this motorcycle is from average and above.
However, even tall users (above 180 cm) note that the motorcycle is tall. “I stand on tiptoes at traffic lights.”
Flaws
To make the bike even better, it's worth installing the optional crankcase guard, otherwise the open engine will quickly turn into a lump of dirt.
Users do not note any significant disadvantages except for one thing – love for butter. Up to 0.5 liters per 1,000 km are noted. Some owners say that they need to fill in 10w/50 or 15w/50 instead of the standard 10w40 or less.
- They write about the difficulty of moving at low speeds - but this depends more on the driver, and not on the motorcycle.
- Vibrations. Despite the 2 cylinders, they are there. They don’t interfere with movement, nothing is transferred to the handles/mirrors/pegs, but the bolts need to be tightened periodically.
Some people note the weight, but for a good off-road bike this is more a plus than a minus
Suzuki V-STROM 1050 2022
As with the Hayabusa, the V-STROM underwent phased development, without undergoing significant redesign, so as not to upset fans of the model. And even the new V-STROM (as, in fact, Busa) is in many ways structurally similar to the very first version. And it's not because Suzuki is saving money... it's because Suzuki is guided by the principle "if it's not broke, don't fix it." However, the new 2021 Suzuki V-STROM 1050 comes with a number of nice technological features and amenities. In particular, the large V-STROM received the new Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS) - a set of electronic assistants based on a 6-axis inertia measuring device, cruise control, hill assist, riding modes, adjustable windshield, LED light, as well as more powerful engine that meets the requirements of the Euro 5 environmental standard.
Suzuki V-STROM 1050 2021
Suzuki V-STROM 1050 2022 - a universal touring bike without any disadvantages
Overall, the Suzuki V-STROM 1050XT is a great bike. It suits me very well, including in terms of comfort - thanks to the narrow V-twin, which does not try to fry my legs, but produces excellent traction and has excellent luck on the road and off-road. What would I add? Quickshifter, warm handles, crankcase and radiator protection.
Suzuki V-STROM 1050 2022 has been updated, but has not become much more expensive. Yes, it doesn’t have a TFT instrument panel or quickshifter, but it’s well worth the money. Excellent design, highest reliability, time-tested design, available spare parts (due to the fact that the platform, to put it mildly, is not new). Nothing but advantages. For those who are looking for a universal touring bike without any disadvantages, built on a reliable, proven platform, the V-STROM 1050 is perfect.
