Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT test ride review

Here to take on popular mid-sized adventure bikes like the Kawasaki Versys 650 and the Honda CB500X, Suzuki’s V-Strom 650 XT made its Malaysian debut last year to cater to those who want a bike that can do it all for just under RM40,000.

Priced at RM37,989, the V-Strom which is offered in Malaysia with a two-year or 20,000 km warranty, is powered by a liquid-cooled 645 cc V-twin engine that churns out 71 PS at 8,800 rpm dan 62 Nm of torque which peaks at 6,300 rpm, and coupled with the engine is a six-speed transmission.

Complementing the powertrain package are features like the spring-preload-adjustable 43 mm front forks, a link-type rear monoshock damper with a rebound damping adjustment, and the hand-operated spring preload adjuster.

Stopping power on the other hand is provided by dual 310 mm discs with Tokico two-piston callipers at the front, and a 260 mm disc with single-piston callipers at the rear, while ABS is fitted as standard.

Visually, the V-Strom which weighs 213kg looks noticeably bulkier than its rivals like the Versys which weighs 206kg and the CB500X which weighs 195kg, which is a good thing as the Suzuki feels more stable than the other two when it is on the move.

So if you’re looking for a bike which feels “big” in this category, the V-Strom will tickle you in the right places compared to the Versys or the CB500X.

While the seat feel super comfy, the handlebar, foot pegs, and all the buttons and controls are positioned ergonomically, which means that you ccan get used to the bike in a matter of minutes.

Standing 179cm tall, I could put my feet flat on the ground while sitting on the bike but if you are shorter than 170 cm, you will probably be tiptoeing.

Safety and riding assistance features are adequate for a bike in its price. For instance, we have Suzuki’s Advanced Traction Control System which has three traction control modes – 1, 2, and “Off”.

There is also “Low RPM Assist” and “Engine Control Module (ECM)” which come as standard, preventing the V-Strom’s engine from dying at low revs.

Overall, the V-Strom 650 can be best described as a “smooth” dual-purpose motorcycle which is ideal for daily usage, as well as long distance weekend rides thanks to the thick and comfortable seats, sufficient wind protection, a 20-litre fuel tank, and a smooth engine.

With the right tyres, you can even take the V-Strom for some mild off-roading as it comes with enough protection and electronic assistance.

Despite looking bulky, the V-Strom feels stable and agile, instilling confidence in you to lean a little bit more around corners. The noise, vibration, and harshness level is also impressively low, meaning that you don’t get tired easily.

Another good thing about the V-Strom 650 is that it comes with a lot of features as standard such as the handguards, an engine guard, a 12V power outlet to charge your phone, and a mount for the rear box, all of which will save you quite a bit of money.

On the downside, the V-Strom is not the most visually appealing bike in its segment, and looks quite conventional compared to models like the Versys which looks much more modern and exciting.

And then we have the instrument panel which looks like it came from the 1990s.

But other than that, what we have here is an enjoyable, reliable, and affordable bike which ticks all the right boxes if you’re looking for an adventure bike that can do it all for under RM50,000.

Also read: Suzuki launches three new models in Malaysia