Suzuki’s dual sport offerings have been updated for 2017, with the V-Strom 1000 leading the pack in terms of the power to comfort ratio. The 1,037cc 90 degree V-twin produces the same power as the previous model despite the extra bulk and exhaust restrictions imposed due to the Euro 4 compliant hardware onboard. Peak torque of 103 newton metres is delivered at a lowly 4,000 RPM, providing excellent driveability through streets and loose gravel.The V-Strom is available in two variants- the standard and the XT which is more off-road ready. Laden with electronics such as the Bosch 5 axis IMU and a linked braking system (a la Honda’s CBS) makes this bike a hoot while off road. The three mode traction control and power modes act as an additional safety net for the rider.
The V-Strom 650 is a dual sport variant of the generations-old SV 650 naked. Though the engine has undergone surgery at multiple places to incorporate better components and smoothen out the ride, the 645cc 90 degree V-Twin now gets 10-point injectors and dual spark plugs (No DTS-i jokes please) and still produces the same power and torque as the outgoing variant.
The frame, subframe and swingarm are the same, with electronic aids seeping down to the baby brother. It now gets the exact same electronics suite as the 1000, the same dash and a similar exhaust but weighs a kilogram less than the outgoing model.
By: Suraj
