Suzuki V-Strom

Language aside, the general plot of the machine is to whack the rather tasty TL1000 V-twin powerplant into a rally bike chassis - perhaps a little more road than dirt oriented - and see what the punters think of it.

We've had a couple of goes on the thing by now, and each time we come away with an increased respect for it.

Wot's this then?

Here's Suzuki's version of the plot: "The 996cc V-twin engine is based on the familiar Suzuki TL1000S powerplant and incorporates further refinements such as stronger, lightweight forged aluminium-alloy pistons and an improved valve mechanism.

"Also featured is the successful Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) electronic fuel injection system, as used in the award-winning Suzuki GSX-R range, which delivers linear throttle response and improves the low-rpm engine torque.

"It all adds up to 72kW (94ps) of power at 7600rpm and 101Nm of torque at 6400rpm, put to the ground via a six-speed transmission.

"For long-distance touring the V-Strom 1000 features a large 22 litre-fuel tank which is comparable to that of a dedicated touring machine, and an integrated rear carrier with a non-slip rubber surface to aid the attachment of bags or luggage.

"A contoured passenger seat that incorporates the rear of the fuel tank allows for two-up touring comfort and ample room for rider weight transfer.

"Equally at home on the highway or twisty mountain passes, the Suzuki V-Strom's alloy chassis is a twin-spar design contributing to the light 207kg dry weight. Front brakes are dual 310mm front discs with dual-piston calipers, with a single 260mm rear disc fitted with a single-piston caliper at the rear.

"The V-Strom's versatility is again demonstrated by its piggyback-reservoir rear shock with a convenient knob-operated hydraulic adjuster for spring preload, allowing riders to adjust for luggage or pillion passengers without requiring tools."

Our experience is that fuel consumption works out to around 15-17km/litre, depending on use.

Wot's it like?

Without question, the highlight is the powerplant. Plenty of grunt at any revs, though it does prefer to be kept humming. Transmission and clutch are fine. Gearing is on the tall side, and you might be tempted to lower it a little if you were tackling a lot of dirt roads.

Braking is conventional and contains no surprises - simply capable. Steering is okay, but not as sharp as some of its competitors. This is the only area of the bike that doesn't shine, as it tends to be a little less precise than we'd like on tar.

It's a reasonably long bike and therefore has good room for a pillion, and you can obtain a variety of accessories, including a full 3-box set of Givi panniers.

The V-Strom is a large machine that's not particularly tall for this class (claimed seat height is 830mm) and it suits medium to taller riders best.

It responds very well to an assertive - even aggressive - riding style, and is one of those bikes which is likely to keep the owner interested for a very long time.

Price is $15,490 (plus ORC), which we reckon it's very good value.

Story: Guy Allen