Suzuki V-Strom range test: on the right track in 2015 ?

With the return of the V-Strom 1000 in 2014, followed by the V-Strom 650 XT 2015, Suzuki is firing on all cylinders in the trail bike market, which has been growing since 2008. To date, the range has nine more variations. or less accessorized. Testing.

V-Strom 650 XT ABS: adventurer, really ?

Derived from the standard V-Strom 650, the 650 XT is essentially distinguished by a more assertive backpacker look, with 19- and 17-inch DID spoke rims fitted with Bridgestone Trail Wing tubeless tires and an adjustable windshield. height in three positions (with tools). On the French version, hand guards and a plastic engine guard complete the standard equipment.

Many other accessories are obviously available as an option, including side protection bars, long-range LED headlights, a center stand, a bubble booster, a 12V socket, chain protection, a metal engine guard or even a kit of specific aluminum cases and top-case.

This XT version also uses the famous “duckbill”, a hallmark of Suzuki “adventure” trails. The 645 cc 90 ° V-Twin engine does not change, as do the suspensions (with preload adjustment dial at the left). ‘rear), braking (two-piston caliper and standard ABS) or instrumentation (tachometer, gear indicator engaged, exterior temperature indicator, fuel gauge, clock and various warning lights).

In use, the V-Strom 650 XT has little to envy the V-Strom 1000, with the big exception of the superior torque and extension of its predecessor! Soft and easy to lead on the net, it does well in town and responds to the slightest demand on the accelerator.

Easy to handle, it does away with congestion and enjoys precise and rigorous heading. We appreciate the availability and vigor of its twin on intermediate speeds, as well as its healthy behavior in sporty driving. But when the pace intensifies, the relative flexibility of the suspensions on the bumps causes movement..

Braking is adjustable and progressive, with correct power. Off-road, the general behavior remains good but the tires with an essentially "road" profile quickly clog up on the fat. As for the engine guard, it is purely decorative: not only is it made of plastic, but it does not cover the underside of the engine. To keep in mind when crossing any obstacle…

As on the V-Strom 1000, the non-switchable ABS and the low suspension travel limit its range anyway to well-paved forest roads. We expected a little more from this new version, too timid and close to the standard V-Strom 650, even if it is generally very effective.

V-Strom 650 XT ABS 2015 (€ 8,599). Colors: matt gray, red, white. Hand guards and hoof fitted as standard in France

All MNC tests of V-Strom 650

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