Ride Review: 2015 Suzuki V-Strom DL1000

2015 Suzuki V-Stom DL1000 (test ride)

I test rode the new Suzuki V-Stom DL1000 & liked it much more than the 2012 I rode several years ago feeling like the modern day version of the venerable 1981/82 Yamaha XV920RH, narrow between the legs.. If only it had better wind protection & a prettier front end. It’s definitely the value leader & very well spec’d for the money. 

Finally a 1 litre twin that feels strong right off idle…I found none of the lean fueling jerkiness that a few reviewers have commented on…it definitely needs a pipe as you barely hear the exhaust. The motor feels more burly and manly than the wee-strom with pleasant stronger power pulses, while feeling modern & refined…I like the ever so slightly rumpy idle that tells you there are beer mug sized pistons down there. 

Pickup is linear & strong up to 6 – 7k with a very entertaining mid-range that invites short shifting. I immediately became comfortable & found it very easy to live with in stop & go traffic. Light clutch, linear engagement, typical Suzuki butter like shifting except when going into first. 

The brakes are outstanding & wonder of wonders a rear brake with bite that can be modulated….the suspension feels very top shelf, well damped & sprung & fully adjustable. 

The seat was comfortable with lumbar support at the back & some fore aft movement range. The windscreen is easily adjustable front to back while riding & the 3 positions provide noticeable changes, but screams for better aftermarket coverage. Today was cool & I missed the BMW K1300GT leg protection on the hwy, but did notice that once the bike warmed up it gave off more heat to my legs than anticipated…great on cooler days, but might be detrimental on warmer rides. 

The ride is a good compromise of taught & supple over most road conditions & in typical V-Strom fashion straight line stable like a tanker, but very resistant to quick turn in or direction changes….this is one of the drawbacks to 19” front wheels on bikes that are targeted for 95+% road….I think that this is why Triumph, Ducati & Aprilia spec’d 17” front wheels…although, KTM & BMW manage to design in much quicker steering with their 19” wheels. If only the front wasn’t so dorky looking & why has Suzuki not offered a model with wire wheels like they do for the Wee-Strom yet?