NIMBLE SU GOES DOWN A STROM
Fraser makes his V-strom more practical with panniers, engine bars and fog lamps The more I ride Suzuki’s V-strom 1000XT, the more I like it. While other manufacturers have continued to increase engine capacity on their adventure models – 1200, 1250, 1290 – Suzuki has stuck to the tried and tested 650cc and 1000cc motors.
In the real world, the Strom’s excellent V-twin, with 101bhp on tap, provides all the power I need, propelling me up to motorway speeds smoothly and very quickly. Handling is reliable and stable, and the two-stage traction control unobtrusive and reassuring. And with a maximum torque of 74.5lb ft reached at just 4,000rpm, it is excellent around town and for commuting.
I have been averaging nearly 60mpg, which is impressive, and the 20-litre tank means refuelling is a pleasingly infrequent activity.
One of the things I like about the bike is how light and nimble it feels – an advantage over some of the bigger adventures on the market. The Strom has a kerb weight of 232kg, whereas BMW’S excellent new R1250GS, for example, is 249kg.
To my mind the Suzuki actually feels lighter than it is, as it’s so well balanced. This week, I headed over to Suzuki dealer JW Groombridge (jwg. co.uk), in East Sussex, to have some accessories fitted.
First off, knowledgeable and friendly mechanic Ian fitted some aluminium panniers. These are light, strong, lockable, come with waterproof inners and are very easy to take on and off.
The top-box easily accommodates a full-face helmet. Ian also kitted the bike out with engine bars and fog lights – both useful add-ons now that winter is on the way. All are excellent additions to what is a superb and sometimes underrated adventure bike.
To see my full review of the V-strom 1000XT from earlier in the year, go to mirror.co.uk/all-about/ motorbikes Aluminium panniers and fog lights
■■Royal Enfield’s new 650cc twins have been generating rave reviews (see mirror. co.uk/all-about/ motorbikes).
Last week a custom-built Bonneville Racer took to the Salt Flats in Utah and set a record return run average of 157.053mph (pending FIM certification) in the twin cylinder, naturally aspirated 600-700cc class. Alongside Enfield’s design team, S&S Cycle, of Wisconsin, tweaked the engine and British firm Harris Performance, of Hertford, developed the chassis. The bike was ridden by 18-year-old Cayla Rivas (above), of Fresno,
California, who hit a top speed of just over 159mph on the measured mile.