One epic ride

The cloud-covered mountain tops of Sagada are a dream destination for many riders. Last November, it was the destination for the Suzuki Wheeltek V-Strom Sagada Ride.

Some 32 V-Strom riders and several guests took on the challenge, as part of Suzuki Philippines’ efforts to unite the various V-Strom clubs around Luzon and to highlight the V-Strom as one of the brand’s top-sellers and the perfect touring motorcycle. Suzuki Philippines had invited us to join, with out motorcycle provided by Wheeltek Motor Sales.

For this ride, the group would navigate the scenic highways of the Mountain Province, via the route of Nueva Vizcaya-Ifugao-Mountain Province-Halsema-Marcos Highway adding up to 416kms total.

The ride gathered Suzuki V-Strom riders from all over Luzon early in morning of November 17 with those from the South and National Capital Region (NCR) meeting up at a gas station along the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX). Just before daybreak, the group gathered for a introductions, a safety briefing, and prayers before riding out. The group was finally whole at Dalton Pass for the briefing, a quick breakfast and gas up.

Following this, the group proceeded to Ifugao for lunch in Lagawe and a quick photo op at the Banaue Rice Terraces. The team then went on their way to scenic Sagada in the afternoon with the majestic panorama of the Mountain Province.

Celebrating the success of the ride, Suzuki and Wheeltek rewarded their riders with a sumptuous al fresco banquet and booze at the Sagada Blue Mountain Cabins with an acoustic band on the background. The following morning, the team gathered again for the ride to Manila via Baguio which they would reach via the renowned Halsema Highway.

There was a quick stop for a photo op at the Philippine Highway's Highest Point in Atok, Benguet. Then the group stopped in Baguio for lunch at Forest House. This was the culmination feast for everyone before going on their respective ways home.

Team Suzuki-Wheeltek was in full force during this ride. Personally acknowledging the riders were Wheeltek Motor Sales Corporation executives led by President, Reynaldo Odulio Sr., and Executive Vice President, Teresita Odulio. Joining the ride were VP for Finance, Raymond Odulio, VP for Operations, Reynaldo Odulio Jr., and VP for Sales and Marketing, Roscoe Odulio, as well as Big Bikes General Manager, Bobby Orbe, and Suzuki Regional Sales Manager, Erick Fernandez.

Designed to conquer the steep mountains whether solo or with a pillion, the Suzuki V-Strom will definitely provide its riders with comfort and power as was proven during the V-Strom Sagada Ride. Traversing the twisties and steep roads of the Caraballo Mountain Range (Cagayan Valley) and the Cordilleras (Ifugao-Mountain Province), the V-Strom did not disappoint, further underscoring its claim as the ultimate adventure bike.

The Suzuki V-Strom is available at all Suzuki Big Bikes Center Nationwide with an SRP of P539,000 (V-Strom 650XT) and P759,000 (V-Strom 1000XT).