Now the V-Strom may not be as popular as a Honda Africa Twin, but for a lot of customers around the globe, it has comes across as a practical and reliable bike. And taking into consideration how desirable and affordable it is, Suzuki couldn’t resist launching the bike here in India in 2018. However, with the new BS6-emission norms having kicked in, Suzuki had to update its engine for 2021. The new version has been launched at a price of ₹ 8.84 lakh (ex-showroom, India).
There is a hike in the price, but the V-Strom 650 XT doesn’t really bring anything new to the table. It is powered by an updated, BS6-compliant 649cc 90-degree V-twin engine that makes 70bhp at 8800rpm and 62Nm of torque. The design and features on the bike remain unchanged, and it gets an LCD instrument console and a halogen headlight. It also gets equipment like dual-channel ABS and a 3-level traction control system. The V-Strom 650 is sold in two colours: Glacier White and Champion Yellow.
The Suzuki bikes is quite huge and the V-twin sounds great when taken to its limit. Even at high speeds, you remain seated quite comfortably while the blows without being a hindrance, thanks to the adjustable windscreen. The bike sports an aluminium twin-spar frame, which contributes to the bike’s slender appeal, and thanks to its light weight, the bike is agile and fun-to-ride. The bike weighs in at 216kgs, but the wheelbase is longer than the Versys 650’s wheelbase. But to the telescopic fork, electric responses aren’t much around corners, and can be enjoyed on roads too.
The engine is strong and has ample grunt on offer, and scores brownie points when it comes to refinement and linear power delivery. It surges ahead without delay, but it’s the mid-range that leaves you thoroughly impressed. The engine feels tractable and is responsive in its powerband, meaning overtaking is a breeze. You feel at complete ease riding this motorcycle even at cruising speeds.
The V-Strom is a tough and hugely capable adventure machine. It has a ground clearance of 170mm and features soft suspension at the front and rear along with bullet-proof-like underpinnings.And these are really good and grippy on and off the tarmac. The ergonomics are fantastic and can make a switch from beaten-up tarmac to runway-smooth roads without any fuss. The ride is comfortable and there’s lots of feedback as well.
You can also have accessories for ₹ 60,000, but that’s only for the first 30 customers. You also get a chainguard, crash protectors, a centre stand and a riding jacket. These buyers also get ₹ 40,000 worth of insurance. Also, grab the latest info on the new bikes, only at autoX
