Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
A PERFECT STROM TO MATCH NEWER RIVALS
Adventure bikes have been where it’s at in terms of being the most popular sellers for a good few years.
Suzuki’s V-strom has, for some time, found itself holding a lonely position between the smaller-engined bikes and the bigger ones. But in my view that’s only been a good thing, and sales figures back this up. Recently, however, other challengers, such as BMW’S F900XR and Triumph’s Tiger 900, have been muscling in.
So can the latest version of the Strom hold its own?
The previous model was never a looker, but this one has exciting retromodern styling, influenced by the DR-Z desert racer and the DR-BIG.
There are three bold colourways, a distinctive LED headlight, LED indicators and clear LED tail light.
Jump on the plush new seat – height adjustable to two positions – and the ride position is upright and relaxed.
There’s an aluminium tapered handlebar and rubberised steel footrests. The cockpit has an LCD instrument panel with easy-to-read digital speedo, analogue-esque tacho, gear indicator and all the rest including a USB port.
The 1050XT has three ride modes which adjust throttle response, and three traction control levels. Both can be altered on the move and the switchgear is intuitive. There’s also cruise control.
The engine is essentially the same as the old model, but tweaking means the torque builds to a nice peak in the mid range and there’s a bit more top-end power. It has an anti-stall system and hill-hold control.
It’s actually a delight, with smooth delivery via rideby-wire and seamless gear changes. It’s a set-up that will still give many sports bikes a run for their money.
Suspension is managed by adjustable USD KYB forks and KYB shock. Through the bends it behaves with calm predictability.
Braking is via Tokico calipers and twin 310mm front discs, with two levels of cornering-sensitive ABS.
You also get a very easy-to-operate manually adjustable screen and even a centre stand.
Verdict? This latest V-strom can definitely maintain its position in a more populated section of the adventure market.
Suzuki V-strom 1050XT
Price: £11,299
Engine: 1037cc, four-stroke, V-twin
Power: 106bhp
Torque: 74lb ft
Colours: Black; yellow/blue; orange/white