Suzuki DL V-Strom 1000

The V-Strom 1000 gets a range clean-up and a host of small changes – all of which adds up to a better offering. Gone are rambling something-or-other editions, and in come two models, the stock V-Strom 1000, and an XT version. Standard is for road riders, the XT for is for the more adventurous – just like the 650 range. 

Both get the same revisions, with a new seat and cowling/windscreen design for improved comfort, while adopting the Motion Track Brake System. The XT is distinguished by laced rims and a more rugged stance. The number of catalysers in the exhaust system has doubled to help meet Euro4 regs, and Suzuki say it has lost no performance as a result.

The Motion Track Brake System is a Bosch ABS system using a 5-Axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), which means cornering ABS in layman speak. The brakes are also linked, automatically applying pressure to the rear when the front brake pressure rises to a certain level.

The windscreen has also been changed – which will hopefully cure its turbulence issues. Three pre-set positions are available. From the lowest position, the screen can be lifted 15mm or 30mm upwards, and is 49mm taller than the previous model’s. The screen angle can also be changed.

The new V-Strom 1000 comes in yellow, black and white.

V-Strom 1000 & V-Strom 1000XT

The V-Strom 1000 and 1000XT’s bold new fairing design is achieved by a straight styling line from the tip of its beak back to the fuel tank. This is a sharp and aggressive refinement of the Suzuki DR-Big inspired appearance. The height- and angle-adjustable windscreen has a new shape and is 49mm taller. The windscreen was developed through extensive wind-tunnel testing to reduce wind noise and rider fatigue. Suzuki’s patented mechanism allows the windscreen angle to be easily adjusted by hand.

The V-Strom 1000 and 1000XT’s Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) has been updated with Suzuki’s new Motion Track & Combination Brake System. This system aids rider control during sudden braking, even in corners, and will help the rider continue cornering on the originally intended line.

• This advanced ABS system adjusts brake pressure during upright riding with other pressure adjustments when the motorcycle is leaning to either side, so the stopping force matches the available traction.
• Information about the motorcycle’s attitude is continually measured by a BOSCH five-axis IMU. Sensors on the front and rear wheels continually measure speed. The wheel speed and IMU measurements, plus the amount of brake lever or pedal pressure, are calculated by the ABS control unit to instantly adjust the fluid pressure to the brake calipers as required.
• Additionally, this combination system can apply rear brake pressure when the front brake pressure reaches a certain point to help stabilize the vehicle. This contributes to increase stability and maneuverability during cornering.
• The rider has customary, independent control of the front and rear brakes unless a situation occurs to activate the Anti-lock or combination braking features.
• Thanks to the new, advanced ABS control unit, the amount of kickback from anti-lock function to the lever and pedal has been significantly reduced.

Tokico mono-block front brake calipers are mated with 310mm floating-mount dual discs are connected to the new Motion Track Anti-lock & Combination Brake system for strong stopping performance.

Suzuki’s debuted its first motorcycle traction control system on the V-Strom 1000, which enables the rider to control the throttle with more confidence in a variety of riding conditions.

• The traction control system continuously monitors front and rear wheel speeds, throttle opening, engine speed, and transmission gear. It quickly reduces engine output when it detects wheel spin by adjusting ignition timing and air delivery.
• The rider can select one of three modes (1, 2, and OFF). Modes 1 and 2 differ in terms of sensitivity. Mode 1 has lower sensitivity; it allows a certain degree of rear wheel spin for good road conditions. Mode 2 has higher sensitivity; the system engages traction control sooner and is for poor road conditions.

The V-Strom 1000 features lightweight 10-spoke cast-aluminum wheels (manufactured for Suzuki by Enkei) combine nimble handling with sporty looks. Handguards with larger handlebar vibration damper weights and a lower engine protector are now standard.

The V-Strom 1000XT is supplied with new, large diameter, tapered style handlebars which have handguards with large vibration damper weights. The lower engine protector is also standard.