In keeping with Suzuki’s adventure spirit, the new V-Strom’s styling was inspired by the company’s DR-Z rally bikes of the 1980s, while taking on some modern highlights, such as stacked headlights – as seen on the Hayabusa and GSX-R sportbikes – and LED rear combination lights. The new V-Strom also features a six-way adjustable windscreen.
This new V-Strom is 18 pounds lighter. It also has a narrower seat, a 20mm longer wheelbase and handlebars that are positioned 1.3 inches closer to the rider. Suzuki claims that the new V-Strom has more power, part of which comes from a larger cylinder bore. The Suzuki’s 90-degree V-twin motor has been bored out 2mm for a larger 1037cc displacement – up from 996cc. The V-Strom also features Suzuki’s Dual Throttle Valve fuel-injection system that gets 10-hole fuel injectors on each throttle body, replacing what used to be four-hole injectors. The result is improved fuel atomization and lower fuel consumption, according to Suzuki. A larger radiator eliminates the need of an oil-cooler. The V-Strom has a redesigned intake and exhaust system, which includes a new compact air-cleaner box with a 6.5-liter capacity.
A single muffler replace the former dual-muffler system, which now incorporates Suzuki’s S.E.T. (Suzuki Exhaust Tuning) technology – an ECM-controlled butterfly in the exhaust pipe that optimizes exhaust pressure and increases controllability. The transmission has been redesigned and has been fitted with Suzuki’s Clutch Assist System (SCAS), which works as a slipper clutch.
The new ‘Strom features a three-mode traction control system as standard feature – a first in the industry. Traction control can be turned off (mode 1), or adjusted between the other two other modes – more control or less control. The traction control system and be adjusted on the fly via a button on the left handlebar. There’s also a new digital instrument cluster, which now includes outside temperature and a freeze indicator.
Suspension is handled by a fully adjustable KYB 43mm inverted fork up front and a tool-less 20-position preload-adjustable shock in the rear. The big V-Strom is fitted with new radial mount Tokico mono block front-brake calipers. ABS is now standard equipment. There are also new 10-spoke cast-aluminum wheels with a higher speed-rated Bridgestone tires. A new 12-volt DC socket has been added to power a GPS or other gadgets.
Suzuki will offer plenty of accessories for the new V-Strom 1000 ABS, including a three-luggage system that was designed specifically for the new model. The cases can be unlocked and locked via the bike’s ignition key and are no wider than the width of the handlebars. Suzuki claims that the 35-litre top case can hold a full-faced helmet. The right side has a capacity of 9.2 gallons and the left 7.6 gallons.
