SUZUKI’S latest mid-size adventure two-wheeler is the V-Strom 650XT.
The new 650XT has dubbed as the best model from the V-Strom 650 line-up that goes back 16 years.
As they say, proof of the pudding is in the eating.
Let’s go burn some rubber.
The slim seat is firm yet comfortable thus spending hours on this seat will not pose a problem for any rider.
This slip resistant saddle is wide enough for me to move around, which gave me added comfort.
I parked the bike for more than an hour under extremely hot weather and when it was time for me to ride to my next destination, the seat was warm and not burning hot unlike other bike seats which I have experienced before.
I believe it must be the type of foam used to build the seat that reduces the absorption of the heat.
The instrument dashboard get an analogue tachometer with digital speedometer and LCD display.
The LCD display information consists of gear position, speedometer, odometer, trip meter, clock, fuel, range on remaining fuel, fuel consumption, reserve fuel and traction control modes.
The bike also comes with a tall windscreen that is able to cover my whole face or it can be adjusted to the need of each rider’s need.
The windscreen cannot be adjusted while you are on the move.
You need to stop the bike and use an allen key to loosen the screws to adjust the height of the windscreen.
This is not practical and the Suzuki folks must pay serious attention to this inconvenient design.
The beak-style fairing on the 650XT is a true representation of an adventure bike.
One glance from the front, without a doubt one will be able to identify what bike is the 650XT variant.
Meanwhile, the design of the front fairing and the headlight are also part of the aerodynamic styling of the bike.
The fuel tank which is able to store 20 litres of petrol is shaped where the lines of the tank flow harmoniously into the
slim seat.
I pushed the bike hard on the highway and the back roads of Banting and Carey Island to avoid getting wet.
The acceleration was smooth without any lag in the delivery of the needed horsepower.
I rode the bike way above legal speed limit and it’s stability was solid like a rock.
I was able to upshift and downshift gears at any speed and then accelerate without any lag in power.
While riding to Carey Island, I was able to flick the bike along the back roads like a professional racer without any issues.
Despite being a 650cc machine, the 650XT is said to be able to clock speeds beyond 200kph, made possible by a healthy dose of horsepower and torque.
There is nothing to complain about here but unfortunately, this machine will never be able to compete with the 1,000cc bikes on the highways.
However, the 650XT will eat up any bigger bikes on any backroads, corners and twisties.
The 650XT also gets the unique Suzuki Easy Start System that allows riders to start the bike without pulling in the clutch lever when the transmission is in neutral.
I rode the bike a few times in the city center and in Petaling Jaya.
The handling of the bike was easy despite the traffic jam.
The slim design of the bike and not to forget the well distributed weight ensures a rider can weave in and out of traffic.
Not only that, Suzuki’s Low RPM Assist seamlessly adjusts engine speed during low-speed riding thus offering smooth power delivery.
This helps reduce the possibility of the rider stalling the motorcycle during low speed especially in traffic
jams.
In order, to achieve controllable and reliable stopping performance, the Strom 650XT is equipped with 310mm double discs with dual-piston calipers at the front and 260mm single discs with single-piston calipers at the rear complemented by ABS.
In addition to ABS, the 650XT also has a two-stage Suzuki Traction Control.
Mode one allows modest rear wheel spin for more advanced, exhilarating riding, while mode two activates traction control at the slightest loss of rear-wheel grip to give greater confidence on slippery surfaces or in the rain.
However, if you are a seasoned rider, you can turn off the traction control and have loads of fun at your own risk!
The front suspension comes with a telescopic fork while the rear uses a pre-load adjustable monoshock.
The suspension easily absorbs bumps and humps leaving my rear and tail bone pain-free.
The bike’s suspension does not wallow too much and neither does it feel too stiff when hitting bumps.
If you are looking for a mid-displacement adventure bike that can offer you off-road, tarmac touring and the daily commute, the 650XT must be on your consideration list.
Besides generous horsepower and torque, this RM37,989 bike comes with an array of aids with the intention to deliver pleasant riding experience.
SPECIFICATIONS
Suzuki V-Strom 650XT
Engine: 645cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 90˚ V-twin
Maximum power: 52kW (71PS) at 8,800rpm
Maximum torque: 62Nm at 6,300rpm
Transmission: Six-speed
Suspension: Front telescopic, coil spring, oil damping; rear link-type, single shock, coil spring, oil damping
Braking system: Front Tokico, two-piston calipers, twin disc, ABS-equipped; rear Nissin, single piston, single disc, ABS-equipped
Features: Advanced Traction Control System, RPM Assist Feature, Easy Start System
Fuel capacity: 20 litres
Dry weight: 216kg
Price: RM37,989 (without registration and insurance)
Keyword: Suzuki V-Strom 650XT: Punching above its weight