What’s it all about?
The V-Strom 1000 ABS has evolved from the V-Strom 650 ABS which has been especially popular in both Europe and North America. It is equipped with a newly designed V-twin engine, aluminium chassis, radial mounted front brake calliper, ABS, traction control, and includes specially designed side and top cases. The styling design of the V-Strom 1000 was originally inspired by the 1988 DR750S, Suzuki’s first big on/off-road machine. This bike is due to launch in 2014 and will offer customers the best of adventure bike riding including versatility, fun as well as comfort for long distance travel.
What does it cost?
You’ll need £9,999 plus on-the-road charges to get hold of one of these. Suzuki has also announced the colour schemes that will be available at launch namely Candy Daring Red, Pearl Glacier White and Glass Sparkle Black.
How does it handle?
Suzuki has created a brand new traction control system for the V-Strom 1000 based on the system developed by its MotoGP engineers and it is claimed that it is the most advanced system ever seen on an adventure bike to date. The new system uses five sensors to analyse information on the machine and delivers optimum traction with precision through multi-function settings.
The V-Strom’s all-new chassis is designed to provide impressive manoeuvrability and agility. It features a twin spar aluminium frame that helps to reduce the overall kerb mass to just 228kg, which is 8kg lighter than the original V-Strom 1000 and will be the lightest bike in the class. The new bike also boasts a 19in front wheel which is now the preferred size in the adventure bike sector to provide agility as well as stability both on and off road.
The new radially mounted front brake calliper combined with Suzuki’s lightweight ABS system look to provide braking performance that matches the control of the new V-Strom’s power delivery system.
Verdict
The 2014 Suzuki V-STROM 1000 ABS has a big task on its hands as it competes head on with the market leader in this class, the ubiquitous BMW R1200GS. The Beamer is the natural choice in this sector making it very difficult for competitors to make any serious impact. This new Suzuki V-Strom 1000 ABS however should not be overlooked as it has much to recommend it both in looks and technical content. If the handling characteristics match Suzuki’s ambitions, then BMW may have something to worry about. The V-Strom’s price won’t do it any harm either.