Suzuki V-Strom 1050 Adventure Test 2024

There are motorcycles on the market that are debated or longingly discussed at almost every pub-talk. At the same time, there are also inconspicuous motorcycles that offer a lot, yet their name rarely comes up in petrolhead conversations. On our last tour of the 2024 season, the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 proved that it is one of the most underrated bikes on the market.

The Suzuki V-Strom 1050 was tested on the twisty roads of the Waldviertel and Mühlviertel regions, areas renowned not only for their picturesque landscapes but also for their ideal terrain for motorcyclists. Our starting point was the Moho Rockenschaub in Liebenau, a hotel perfectly tailored for motorcycle travelers with excellent service and wellness offerings. In this versatile environment, we were able to thoroughly experience the strengths and weaknesses of the V-Strom 1050 in various riding situations.

For better understanding, here are the key data about the V-Strom. The Suzuki V-Strom 1050 stays true to its proven concept, offering a 1037cc V-twin engine that delivers 107 horsepower at 8,500 rpm and 100 Nm of torque. The engine, originally developed based on the DL1000, has been continuously refined over the years and runs particularly smoothly, enhancing riding comfort. The tire setup is typical for an adventure bike, with 110/80-19 at the front and 150/70-17 at the rear, allowing for a wide range of tire options.

With a weight of 242 kilograms (wet weight), the V-Strom is not a lightweight. The seat height of 850 mm is adjustable and can vary between 820 mm and 870 mm depending on the accessories. The 20-liter fuel tank allows for ranges of over 400 kilometers with a consumption of about 5 liters per 100 km.

The electronic equipment of the V-Strom 1050 includes lean-angle sensitive ABS, a four-stage traction control (including deactivation), and three riding modes (A, B, C) that offer different power characteristics. A modern 5-inch TFT display combined with one of the most intuitive operating concepts on the motorcycle market makes controlling and reading these systems easier. A quickshifter is also available.

The chassis features a fully adjustable 43 mm upside-down fork at the front, while the rear is equipped with a monoshock with a handwheel for preload adjustment and rebound setting. The suspension travel is 160 mm both front and rear, which is suitable for a road-oriented tourer.

The Mühl- and Waldviertel regions are characterized mainly by narrow, twisty roads, but during the journey via highway and country roads, we got a sense of the touring qualities of the V-Strom. It's immediately noticeable that it is perfectly suited for extended tours and everyday use. The well-thought-out seating triangle provides a typical adventure bike upright and very relaxed seating position, which is neither inactive nor merely comfortable. Despite its considerable size, the V-Strom 1050 can be maneuvered very easily and effortlessly via the wide handlebars. The comfort of the seat and the stable suspension setup make it an extremely pleasant companion on long journeys. Small features like the center stand make maintenance, such as chain lubrication, easier.

One criticism remains the cumbersome adjustability of the windscreen, which cannot be adjusted while riding. The wind protection itself is solid and offers sufficient comfort, with taller riders benefiting from better ventilation when the windscreen is set to a lower position.

Even in the twisties, the V-Strom 1050 impresses with its harmonious overall package. With just a slight lean of the upper body towards the front wheel, it's almost astonishing how actively and sportily you can drive the adventure bike around the corner. The finely tuned chassis allows for precise handling, provides good feedback, and thus a safe riding feeling. All too quickly, you find yourself at the end of the V-Strom 1050's maximum lean angle. The engine offers powerful thrust, especially at low and mid-range RPMs, while the chassis remains stable even on uneven roads. Accompanied by the mighty V-twin pops, you zip through the curves with great pleasure and confidence.

Even in the braking zone, the V-Strom 1050 shows unexpected potency. Paradoxically, the V-Strom 1050 offers the best braking performance even compared to its sportier Suzuki siblings, the GSX-S1000GT and GSX-S1000GX. On the V-Strom, the brakes provide a crisper pressure point and bite more finely and progressively.

With a starting price of 15,300 euros in Germany, nearly 16,500 euros in Austria, and 15,600 francs in Switzerland, the V-Strom 1050 offers excellent value for money. The features are solid, and the continuous improvements make it a mature and reliable model. The grunt of the V-twin is sufficient even with the high weight for spirited riding or touring with a pillion, so you really don't miss anything with the V-Strom 1050.

The Suzuki V-Strom 1050 is a mature and versatile bike that is often underestimated. It shines with a harmonious overall package that may not boast a headline-worthy highlight, but also has no significant weaknesses. Whether for touring, daily use, or semi-sporty riding, the V-Strom delivers a confident performance in every area. With its robust design, proven technology, and a fair price, it remains a clear recommendation for riders seeking a reliable adventure bike.