Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT 2020 vs. Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023

The Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT 2020 and the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023 are both enduro motorcycles from Suzuki, but they have some notable differences in terms of technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine, the V-Strom 1050 XT 2020 is equipped with a more powerful engine compared to the V-Strom 650 XT 2023. The V-Strom 1050 XT 2020 has a 1037cc V-twin engine that produces 107 horsepower and 100 Nm of torque, while the V-Strom 650 XT 2023 has a 645cc V-twin engine that produces 71 horsepower and 62 Nm of torque. This makes the V-Strom 1050 XT 2020 more suitable for riders looking for a more powerful and performance-oriented motorcycle.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have similar front suspension setups with telescopic forks, but the V-Strom 1050 XT 2020 has an upside-down telescopic fork, which is generally considered to be more advanced and provides better performance. The V-Strom 1050 XT 2020 also has a slightly longer front suspension travel of 160mm compared to the 150mm on the V-Strom 650 XT 2023.

Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT 2020

Both motorcycles have swing arm rear suspensions with monoshocks, but the V-Strom 650 XT 2023 has a slightly longer rear suspension travel of 159mm compared to the 160mm on the V-Strom 1050 XT 2020. The V-Strom 1050 XT 2020 offers more adjustment options for the front and rear suspension, including compression, preload, and rebound adjustments, while the V-Strom 650 XT 2023 only offers preload adjustments.

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have aluminum frames with a twin-tube design. They also have similar rake and trail measurements, with the V-Strom 1050 XT 2020 having a rake of 64.7 degrees and a trail of 109mm, and the V-Strom 650 XT 2023 having a rake of 64.2 degrees and a trail of 110mm.

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front, providing good stopping power. They also come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and traction control, ensuring safer and more controlled riding experiences.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have the same front and rear tire diameters of 19 inches and 17 inches respectively, with a rear tire width of 150mm. The wheelbase of the V-Strom 650 XT 2023 is slightly longer at 1560mm compared to the 1555mm of the V-Strom 1050 XT 2020. The seat height of the V-Strom 650 XT 2023 is also lower at 815mm compared to the 850mm of the V-Strom 1050 XT 2020. Additionally, the V-Strom 650 XT 2023 is lighter with a kerb weight of 216kg compared to the 247kg of the V-Strom 1050 XT 2020. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters, allowing for longer rides without frequent refueling.

Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023

In terms of strengths, the V-Strom 1050 XT 2020 offers a more powerful engine, excellent ergonomics, good wind and weather protection, extensive accessories as standard, and a successful retro look. It is also suitable for long-distance rides. On the other hand, the V-Strom 650 XT 2023 is a simple and uncomplicated bike with proven technology and a good price/performance ratio.

However, both motorcycles also have their weaknesses. The V-Strom 1050 XT 2020 has a high weight, which may make it less maneuverable for some riders. It also lacks the ability to switch off the ABS and does not come with a quickshifter. The V-Strom 650 XT 2023, on the other hand, has a design and equipment that may be considered outdated by some riders. It also has limited off-road capability compared to the V-Strom 1050 XT 2020.

In conclusion, the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT 2020 and the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The V-Strom 1050 XT 2020 is more suitable for riders looking for a powerful and performance-oriented motorcycle, while the V-Strom 650 XT 2023 offers simplicity, proven technology, and a good price/performance ratio. Riders should consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing between these two models.