I bought a V-Strom in 2008 for a year-long trip to Central and South America. I put about 35,000 kms on it that year; the only maintenance it needed was oil changes and tires. I was very happy with it. Had the Honda been available at the time however, I probably would have bought it instead. You don’t need a bigger bike when you will only be averaging 50 or 60 kph, and doing a lot of gravel. The V-Strom was a pain to pick up when it dumped, and when you are really out there, it happens. Between Mexico and Argentina, the only place I found fast roads was Chile, the rest of the time, 500 would have been more than enough.
I agree with most of what your saying on the cb500. I just picked up a 2019 after looking at all the bikes in the weight range. I really think these 2 bikes are marketed for different style riders. The Honda dealer told me the average age guy buying the cb is 51-60 years old. I'm slightly below that but I had no intention of highway riding or high speed twist and turns which I believe alot of the older fellows are also not looking for. When there's no traffic my eyes are focused more on the surrounding scenery than planning my next corner angle . I also plan of some light single track and light trails. I also found out this morning that I can safely pick it up after it has fallen. Silly me didn't put the kickstand all the way down and it fell right over. No damage thanks to the barkbusters. This is a huge reason I didn't go Africa twin or any big adventure bike. Just didn't need the top speed or power, which also equates to lower mpg. I'm in the mid 70s at 900 miles on the odometer. Take care.
Two thumbs up. I'm one of those elderly riders that's looking to go back to a smaller bike but 46 HP vs 64 HP is a huge difference. I'm looking for a V-Strom. A Tenere would also be nice if I wasn't too cheap to pay for a new one. The difference in MPG isn't significant enough when I'm only riding 5,000 miles a year.
I've ridden both. The V-Strom is a pleasure to ride, but the 500x gets it done as well. The Strom's bigger engine will get you to 120. The 500x tops out around 110. Other than that, more similarities than differences. Both are at the mercy of the wind on the road, as is every other bike. But the 500x has no problems blowing by semis, or through the wind chop. At that point it's up to the rider.
Never sugar coat. Your entitled to and I respect your opinion. I for one think it looks pretty good. I like the simplified look. As a newby, i dont wanna look like Im showing off with some over-styled bike. I just wanna enjoy the ride. Awesome review!
Good summary. I was sold on the 500x until I came upon the v stom. Seems better on the road; more comfortable. I’m looking at a 2012 v strom with 9000 km on the clock.
they changed the ergos as well... less comfortable (for me) and they changed the mount position for the hard bags, so it is significantly harder to lift a leg over without doing the step on the peg first - never had to do that with my '02 DL1000... ymmv... also they gave away the awesome headlamps of the first generation Stroms for the throwback to the 80s piss-poor single lamp on the new ones... guess why i just picked up an '07 DL650...
I just rode a V-Strom 650 for the first time... What an amazing machine! And like you said, it's all about the ENGINE! The most fun I've ever had on 2 wheels.
both the 650 and 1000 VStroms are the Swissarmyforks of motorcycles... I had a 1000, now have a 650, and the 650 is more refined.. the 1K is just a beast (but sooooo much fun!)
I had a couple of Harleys before, and they were definitely head-turners. The only time my V-Strom turned a head was from a four-year-old boy in Mexico. Still, it got me back and forth from Tijuana to the north of San Diego more than a thousand times. I'm thinking of buying another one.
I just bought a 22' CB500x a couple weeks ago for my 90 highway mile round trip to work and I can say I agree with 95% of what you said. My debate online over which bike to pick quickly changed once I was in the dealer looking at a new 650 vstrom next to the new 500x. I will say, the vstrom was hands down the most comfortable bike I've ever sat on but on the flip side, it's one of the ugliest bikes I've ever seen. I went with the 500x over the vstrom because of looks, weight and the price. the vstrom was several thousand more expensive than the 500x and on the highway the 500x is well mannered. Once you get over 70mph the mpg drops off a cliff though. The 500x is still well mannered and more enjoyable to ride than any other bike I've owned, (mostly plain cruisers with no windshield etc).
Thanks for the video. I have owned both of these. The Strom was more fun, but the CB is better for just getting around. The Strom plastics are easily damaged by falling over. The V-Strom 1000 should also be considered.
Test rode my Wee-Strom before I bought it. The sales guy asked me "What's wrong?" "I can't get it into first gear!" "You are in first gear!" Which tells you a lot about Suzuki gearbox quality. TBF I was riding a CBR929RR which banged into first gear. Stroms are so ugly they are a stealth bike. The cops just don't bother with you. I've put 35k miles on mine and its been relatively problem free (and yes the valve clearances never need doing) Needs new head bearings so the front end is going to get stripped down & new fork oil etc.. Not everyone's cup of tea though - but definitely mine :-)
Vstrom all the way. I bought a new 2005 SV650N and loved the torque all the way through the rev range. 9 years later, bought a new Vstrom 1000. What a power house v-twin. Wheelies were very possible right off the line. You had to be careful. Now looking at the 650 Vstrom. I know I am going to like it. Oh yeah, Vstrom all the way!
Great review, I have 107000 kms on my 2011 vstrom and totally agree with you although I think mine is beautiful... at least until my next bike, whatever that might be.
There is nothing worse than having a beautiful motorcycle that you hate to ride which was my case with my R6 back in the day. Vstrom will be my next bike.
These are the two bikes I was deciding on Went with the 2018 Vstrom 650 The Vtwin and power/Torque + stellar reliability was the clincher Thanks for great honest Vid
Nearly 200cc difference and 20ish horse power... My 2021 does 88.5mpg normal riding... and drops down to 75mpg Imperial.... riding hard ... I have ridden my bike in some very windy weather no problems.... The bike is very comfortable to ride...í'm .5ft 10in and 100kg..... My friend has a vstrom 650....and I have no trouble keeping up with him on the Twisties . I owned quite a few bikes over the years and I can the CB500x is the most relaxed one to ride..
@Vehicle Hunter ♥ I have the same looking V-strom 650, 06, Givi Racks and mount for topbox. i also add a adjustable Wilbers Rearshock on it and it is just as good as my old BMW R1150GS. Now i wait for my Dominator Slipon with DB killer. After that i going to add a Airhawk for longer trips. I love the look of the CB 500 so much, but i dont think it would be worth to "upgrade" to the cb500X from a v-strom. Edit: damn do you have a XR650R ? i hade one too , hate myself for sold it as it was street legal and almost new.
I appreciate the road travel review. Perhaps you could make another video that compares the off road capability which completes them as "adventure" bikes.
Had both bikes, the older vstrom probably have a better wind protection than the new model. I think if i was to buy one again I'll go with the Honda, light, easy to maneuver and the wind protection is better than the current vstrom. Im 5'8" so it probably fits me better
It’s not ugly you just don’t get the shine of other bikes but it’s not ugly just plain, and of course if you call our Vstroms ugly we will not like it as bikes are our souls, still a nice review of the two bikes honest and direct to the points to take on care, mine unfortunately has broke a little bit more than just the chain but still will hope to get it back from the garage and ride many many miles on it
Vehicle Hunter mine is having a electrical problem, they still checking on it but still nothing we will see maybe a small thing I hope 🤞 because I love mine it moves nice on curves 😂
These cost the exact same in my area used... I'm leaning towards the cb500x due to living in dense urban area... a lot of stop signs and lights, rush hour traffic.. Very little highway driving. Ive owned a gs500 and have good experience on a 90s 750 nighthawk. I don't want to go any bigger than the nighthawk but would like better mpg. Cb500x seems to fit the bill.
It's a coincidence that I have ridden both bicycles. In my feeling, they are not of the same level，almost all parameters are won by Suzuki dl650. The frame, suspension and hub of the two bikes are very different. But Honda has the advantage of comfort and lower failure.
Bloomin good video mate, two good bikes to compare for me, really valid points on both bikes and impartial which is good to hear. Mate, quick question. The unit on the handlebars on your bikes, sat nav, what is that?
Recently been looking at the v strom 1000 to upgrade from my cb500x. I usually get 68 mpg with the cb500x. Most v strom 1000s get 40. Ouch. That is going to be hard for me to swallow.
I had a 2014 650 V strom after my CB 500 x,apart the first 100 kilometers,I never regreat it after,especialy for very long journey or riding with a pillion,but anyway in all circumstancies.Now riding a Ténéré 700,very very happy with it,but as now I'm getting a bit older,I know my next bike in a few years will be again a V strom 😍...
Thanks for your timely review. I agree that the previous generation of the VStrom is something only a mother would love. However, the post 2017 VStrom is a much better looking bike than the Honda. And can’t fault the reliability, it’s second to none. I rode both bikes before making my choice., the Suzuki was the much better bike to ride. That being said, I have no intention of taking it offroad , so the extra weight just isn’t an issue.
Thanks for taking the sensible, practical approach. Hard to imagine riding across country on the Suzuki. The seat is that good?? Just curious about your accent. Where are you from? Keep up the good work.
Please don''t make blanket statements about parallel twins. There is a massive difference between a 180 degree parallel twin and a 270 degree crank parallel twin. I always hated 180 parallel twins (terrible secondary vibration). OTOH I really like the two 270 twins I currently have.. BTW the 270 twin has exactly the same sound as a v twin....which I agree is better than the old fashioned 180 which is currently used only on smaller displacement price point parallel twins.
Very honest comparison. Nice video review. I owned a 2005 650 V-Strom. Same colors. Yeah, it is sorta butt ugly. It was fun to play with though. Pop the front end up in first effortlessly. On the highway it buffeted a lot in my opinion. I'm 6'2", 180# and that windscreen was a deal breaker for me. Buffeted the bike around when in a head wind. My arms got tired of always correcting the line. The 2022 CB500X is out now and I'm not sure I like the updates. For one thing they have ABS now and you can't turn it off. Not great if you like to ride dirt trails. They went to dual disc brakes up front, probably because of the ABS, but it was really easy to check tire pressure on the front before with only one disc. Power-wise I thought the V-Strom lacked a bit, because it's so heavy. I don't think the CB would disappoint, especially off a stop because of its lack of weight. You say the CB is more expensive? Not true here in the U.S. That's why the CB sells out here. For the money it's a cheap bike. Overall, I think I might wait and find a deal on a 2021.
The CBX has had the ABS long before they upgraded to the twin rotor front brake system in the 2022 models, but yeah, not being able to turn it off is kind of a nuisance.
In my experience, a lot of parallel twin engines are dogs (down on power and rather flat in the upper rev range). The 'Strom's V-Twin makes usable power everywhere on the tach and plenty of it to get the job done. They aren't the fastest bikes by any means, but they are very "satisfying".
@@mrantone916 Many people tend to categorize all V-twins into the same category as any other 45-60 degree "cruiser" engine. However, the 'Strom's 90 degree V-twin is another animal alltogether, with near perfect primary balance and a track bred, performance-oriented pedigree. I have been riding for over 50 years and have owned around 50 bikes, and Suzuki's 645cc 90 degree v-twins are among my favorite engines ever.
@@ralphcantrell3214 I have been riding 55 years and have pictures of all 63 bikes. Got 6 in the garage right now and looking at these two bikes....trying to decide.
@@spydie That's really cool! I wish I had taken more pictures. I like Honda, it's my favorite brand and I have owned 10 of them. I currently have two Honda motorcycles in the garage. But I wouldn't trade my DL650 nor my SV650 for the CB500X. I can say this with near 100% certainty, though I've never even ridden this particular Honda. It isn't that I dislike the CB500X. I'm sure it is a typical Honda that will get the job done as well as anything in it's class and last for decades. It's just that I LOVE my two Suzi's. That sweet 90 degree twin just won me over. If there is a single disadvantage to the Suzuki 650's, I'd say it is that the V-twins are probably slightly heavier and more difficult to work on. You've got to remove the tank to replace the air filter. There are two heads to remove for valve checks. There is less working room for most anything. They almost never break though, so even that is pretty much a wash. For instance, after doing two valve checks on each of my Suzuki twins and consulting with my friends who are certified techs and earn a living wrenching on bikes, I have decided to never worry about the valves again. I'm not getting any younger, and have decided the bikes will probably outlast me even if I do nothing else to them.
@@spydie ...And by the way, the super-low cost of buy-in with the DL650 is almost unbelievable. Like-new used ones are a dime a dozen, and a lot of them are farkled to the max. I can almost promise you the cost to insure a DL650 will be much less than the Honda too.
This Gentleman gave a though ride and review on BoTH!!! NOTE: ENGINE ON CB500 WAS EXTREMELY SMOOTH UNDER 55.FELT A 4. CYLINDER. OVER 60 NOT GOOD anywhere!
@@VehicleHunter Well for a start, the UK is adventure bike mad! The CB500x is selling well as an affordable Africa Twin but also there is a bit of Honda worship going on. Some used bike sellers even increase the warranty period by 50% for Hondas! Finally, the vlogger Itchy Boots has a huge following here and any bike she uses gets a lift. So it was good to hear in your description that it is really just another bike!
Great review, no frills, honest and down to Earth, agree totally with all you have said, now looking to downsize from a GS1200, so here are a couple of contenders
By default, on all my Honda bikes, I ALWAYS replace the front sprocket with +1T, and the rear one with -3T. I would actually put -6T or -9T on the rear, but honda engineers have such a small margin on advance timing, that any extra load will most certainly knock or stall the engine at low RPMs. So they make it impossible to do. Usually +1T front, and -3T rear gains about 10-15% on speed, so that's from 60-70MPH to 66-80MPH, much closer to your desired highway speed. Also, MPG increases a lot, especially at 45MPH (by 10-15%). For highway speeds MPG with the new sprockets gains usually a lower amount, like +5% or so.. MPG gains below 30MPH are zero, as you'll need to down shift a gear.
vstrom is clearly better first had the cb500x and now the vstrom 650. once you adjust the windshield or open the seat, you notice the difference. suzuki has clearly solved this better
the new vstroms gave up those amazing headlamps for the new pos retro one... i wouldn't get a new one... many other reasons as well, but the headlamps are very important to someone who rides occasionally at night.
Good honest review, I have the 500X and agree with most of what you reviewed. I wanted a Vstrom but it's just too tall for me. On state roads I'm averaging 77 mpg for the 2017 model around 55-60 mph
It is not too tall... I am 5’7” and I can flat foot. You just need to turn the stock suspension knob counterclockwise to the softest suspension setting and take the rubber supports underneath the seat off. This will make the seat height drop by 2 inches. I also wear a one inch shoe lift that allows me to flat foot. I am 5’7” wit a 29 inch inseam and can flat foot.
@@robertp9370 Dear Sir, does taking off the seat rubber supports damage the seat itself for it's now being bent in the middle if one were to sit on it? Thanks and take care.
@@leenoble5852 not sure if I understand. Too answer your question, taking the rubber mounts in no way damages the seat, but are you saying that YOUR seat with YOUR weight is causing it to get damaged?? Because I’m 165lbs and my seat is in no way damaged by my weight without the rubber mounts. I would think at any weight the seat won’t get damaged, the rubber mounts are only there to soften vibrations that you don’t really feel anyway even with the rubber mounts taken off. Just take them off if you want a shorter seat.... no damage has occurred to my seat.
I bought a V-Strom in 2008 for a year-long trip to Central and South America. I put about 35,000 kms on it that year; the only maintenance it needed was oil changes and tires. I was very happy with it. Had the Honda been available at the time however, I probably would have bought it instead. You don’t need a bigger bike when you will only be averaging 50 or 60 kph, and doing a lot of gravel. The V-Strom was a pain to pick up when it dumped, and when you are really out there, it happens. Between Mexico and Argentina, the only place I found fast roads was Chile, the rest of the time, 500 would have been more than enough.
I agree with most of what your saying on the cb500. I just picked up a 2019 after looking at all the bikes in the weight range. I really think these 2 bikes are marketed for different style riders. The Honda dealer told me the average age guy buying the cb is 51-60 years old. I'm slightly below that but I had no intention of highway riding or high speed twist and turns which I believe alot of the older fellows are also not looking for. When there's no traffic my eyes are focused more on the surrounding scenery than planning my next corner angle . I also plan of some light single track and light trails. I also found out this morning that I can safely pick it up after it has fallen. Silly me didn't put the kickstand all the way down and it fell right over. No damage thanks to the barkbusters. This is a huge reason I didn't go Africa twin or any big adventure bike. Just didn't need the top speed or power, which also equates to lower mpg. I'm in the mid 70s at 900 miles on the odometer. Take care.
Thanks for your interesting reply.
Two thumbs up. I'm one of those elderly riders that's looking to go back to a smaller bike but 46 HP vs 64 HP is a huge difference. I'm looking for a V-Strom. A Tenere would also be nice if I wasn't too cheap to pay for a new one. The difference in MPG isn't significant enough when I'm only riding 5,000 miles a year.
You make sense. These are the reasons I like my NC700X. Plus the internal storage compartment.
@@njminer I think 5000 miles a year is more than most people, you must live somewhere warm.
@@timjohnson1199 I wouldn't call upstate New York balmy although I do ride down to where it's under 40 : ) I'd agree that 5k might be more that most.
I've ridden both. The V-Strom is a pleasure to ride, but the 500x gets it done as well. The Strom's bigger engine will get you to 120. The 500x tops out around 110. Other than that, more similarities than differences. Both are at the mercy of the wind on the road, as is every other bike. But the 500x has no problems blowing by semis, or through the wind chop. At that point it's up to the rider.
Never sugar coat. Your entitled to and I respect your opinion. I for one think it looks pretty good. I like the simplified look. As a newby, i dont wanna look like Im showing off with some over-styled bike. I just wanna enjoy the ride. Awesome review!
Good summary. I was sold on the 500x until I came upon the v stom. Seems better on the road; more comfortable. I’m looking at a 2012 v strom with 9000 km on the clock.
That deer photobomb was awesome!
I like the look of the old v-strom over the woody woodpecker beck of the new ones.
they changed the ergos as well... less comfortable (for me) and they changed the mount position for the hard bags, so it is significantly harder to lift a leg over without doing the step on the peg first - never had to do that with my '02 DL1000... ymmv... also they gave away the awesome headlamps of the first generation Stroms for the throwback to the 80s piss-poor single lamp on the new ones... guess why i just picked up an '07 DL650...
I just rode a V-Strom 650 for the first time... What an amazing machine! And like you said, it's all about the ENGINE! The most fun I've ever had on 2 wheels.
He says he's not a fan of v-twins yet he likes this bike. Hmmm....
both the 650 and 1000 VStroms are the Swissarmyforks of motorcycles... I had a 1000, now have a 650, and the 650 is more refined.. the 1K is just a beast (but sooooo much fun!)
@@themittonmethod1243 Yep same here , 650 is better .
I had a couple of Harleys before, and they were definitely head-turners. The only time my V-Strom turned a head was from a four-year-old boy in Mexico. Still, it got me back and forth from Tijuana to the north of San Diego more than a thousand times. I'm thinking of buying another one.
I just bought a 22' CB500x a couple weeks ago for my 90 highway mile round trip to work and I can say I agree with 95% of what you said. My debate online over which bike to pick quickly changed once I was in the dealer looking at a new 650 vstrom next to the new 500x. I will say, the vstrom was hands down the most comfortable bike I've ever sat on but on the flip side, it's one of the ugliest bikes I've ever seen. I went with the 500x over the vstrom because of looks, weight and the price. the vstrom was several thousand more expensive than the 500x and on the highway the 500x is well mannered. Once you get over 70mph the mpg drops off a cliff though. The 500x is still well mannered and more enjoyable to ride than any other bike I've owned, (mostly plain cruisers with no windshield etc).
Best review
This is how they should be
Appreciate straight talk
Thanks for the video. I have owned both of these. The Strom was more fun, but the CB is better for just getting around. The Strom plastics are easily damaged by falling over. The V-Strom 1000 should also be considered.
Test rode my Wee-Strom before I bought it. The sales guy asked me "What's wrong?"
"I can't get it into first gear!"
"You are in first gear!"
Which tells you a lot about Suzuki gearbox quality. TBF I was riding a CBR929RR which banged into first gear.
Stroms are so ugly they are a stealth bike. The cops just don't bother with you.
I've put 35k miles on mine and its been relatively problem free (and yes the valve clearances never need doing) Needs new head bearings so the front end is going to get stripped down & new fork oil etc..
Not everyone's cup of tea though - but definitely mine :-)
Vstrom all the way. I bought a new 2005 SV650N and loved the torque all the way through the rev range. 9 years later, bought a new Vstrom 1000. What a power house v-twin. Wheelies were very possible right off the line. You had to be careful. Now looking at the 650 Vstrom. I know I am going to like it.
Oh yeah, Vstrom all the way!
Just the comparison I was looking for. Thank you
Great review, I have 107000 kms on my 2011 vstrom and totally agree with you although I think mine is beautiful... at least until my next bike, whatever that might be.
Wow you not talk only about these bikes but overall about biking . Thanks for this video.
That rear adjustment knob on strom controls preload not rebound.
The best detailed comparison between the 2 bikes on youtube.
great REAL review from a REAL rider without sugarcoating!
There is nothing worse than having a beautiful motorcycle that you hate to ride which was my case with my R6 back in the day. Vstrom will be my next bike.
These are the two bikes I was deciding on
Went with the 2018 Vstrom 650
The Vtwin and power/Torque + stellar reliability was the clincher
Thanks for great honest Vid
This is such a great comparison! Thank you!
My Vstrom has 200 000kms. Valves still in spec.
Wow, really ?! I'm buying a 100 000km VSTROM from 2010 and it's just nice and comforting to read a comment like yours ! 🙂
@@PierreEmmanuelDOCQUIN I've not been kind to this bike.
It is rock solid.
how is that possible???
@@PierreEmmanuelDOCQUIN I've put 125000km on a 2009 V-Strom 650, valves have not required adjustment yet.
How do they do that? Is it some special alloys on the cam and valve tips?
Nearly 200cc difference and 20ish horse power... My 2021 does 88.5mpg normal riding... and drops down to 75mpg Imperial.... riding hard ...
I have ridden my bike in some very windy weather no problems....
The bike is very comfortable to ride...í'm .5ft 10in and 100kg.....
My friend has a vstrom 650....and I have no trouble keeping up with him on the Twisties .
I owned quite a few bikes over the years and I can the CB500x is the most relaxed one to ride..
I just wish that you owned more bikes, so that you could do more videos like this. Thank you
@Vehicle Hunter ♥ I have the same looking V-strom 650, 06, Givi Racks and mount for topbox. i also add a adjustable Wilbers Rearshock on it and it is just as good as my old BMW R1150GS. Now i wait for my Dominator Slipon with DB killer. After that i going to add a Airhawk for longer trips. I love the look of the CB 500 so much, but i dont think it would be worth to "upgrade" to the cb500X from a v-strom.
Edit: damn do you have a XR650R ? i hade one too , hate myself for sold it as it was street legal and almost new.
I appreciate the road travel review. Perhaps you could make another video that compares the off road capability which completes them as "adventure" bikes.
Give and take, you can't really go wrong with either bike.
I like the way the new vstroms look, and love the new 1050s. Thanks for the review.
Good honest review! Well Done! The shot with the "f your feelings" cracked me up!
Thanks. I like the review and see that weight distribution of engine etc can make a bike behave differently .
Had both bikes, the older vstrom probably have a better wind protection than the new model. I think if i was to buy one again I'll go with the Honda, light, easy to maneuver and the wind protection is better than the current vstrom. Im 5'8" so it probably fits me better
Great comparison.Just wondering if you have ever added a tooth to the strom front sprocket.The pros & cons.Thanks.
Great review....
Just curious, what was the issue with the CB 500?
Why wouldn't it start?
Brilliant comparison. Thanks mate!(Yep I'm an Aussie and love my Vstrom... BTW your accent is cool, man. You sound like Christopher Walken!!
It’s not ugly you just don’t get the shine of other bikes but it’s not ugly just plain, and of course if you call our Vstroms ugly we will not like it as bikes are our souls, still a nice review of the two bikes honest and direct to the points to take on care, mine unfortunately has broke a little bit more than just the chain but still will hope to get it back from the garage and ride many many miles on it
What broke on yours?
Vehicle Hunter mine is having a electrical problem, they still checking on it but still nothing we will see maybe a small thing I hope 🤞 because I love mine it moves nice on curves 😂
Great comprehensive review.👏Really helps when looking at my next bike. Thanks again. Keep the rubber side down👇 and good riding. 👍
Wonderful review brother 👏 ❤️
Planning to buy one adv bike
Cb500x
or
v strom 650xt
Which one would be better value for money.
Your advice please
These cost the exact same in my area used... I'm leaning towards the cb500x due to living in dense urban area... a lot of stop signs and lights, rush hour traffic.. Very little highway driving. Ive owned a gs500 and have good experience on a 90s 750 nighthawk. I don't want to go any bigger than the nighthawk but would like better mpg. Cb500x seems to fit the bill.
60 pound difference is HUGE. Knob has to be for preload.
The V-strom 650 looks more like a 1000cc with its weight and size.
It's a coincidence that I have ridden both bicycles. In my feeling, they are not of the same level，almost all parameters are won by Suzuki dl650. The frame, suspension and hub of the two bikes are very different. But Honda has the advantage of comfort and lower failure.
So. Cb500 is lighter and uses less fuel. I just bought a v strom.
The CB500 is nearer to a 450 than it is to a 500 (it is actually 471cc) - not that Honda's literature and adverts make this clear.
It would help if you said the age of the bikes..
Gen 2/3 ect.
Thanks
That's a gen 1 650 Strom.
Your Vstrom looks different than the one we get in India. Different versions?
CBR250R rider here - I have exactly the same gas cap. Its a pain. My prior bikes all were hinged. ( Even a 87 GPX250 ) - come on Honda!
Honda added a hinged cap in 2017............That's 5 years ago.
Nice review! Would you say the same for the new 2020 V Strom? Re looks and styling?
Bloomin good video mate, two good bikes to compare for me, really valid points on both bikes and impartial which is good to hear.
Mate, quick question. The unit on the handlebars on your bikes, sat nav, what is that?
Recently been looking at the v strom 1000 to upgrade from my cb500x. I usually get 68 mpg with the cb500x. Most v strom 1000s get 40. Ouch. That is going to be hard for me to swallow.
Get the 650, test drive one
I had a 2014 650 V strom after my CB 500 x,apart the first 100 kilometers,I never regreat it after,especialy for very long journey or riding with a pillion,but anyway in all circumstancies.Now riding a Ténéré 700,very very happy with it,but as now I'm getting a bit older,I know my next bike in a few years will be again a V strom 😍...
What year/gen is your Vsrom?
Great video! Thank you for sharing your experience!
How the hell a lot of people think V-Strom is an ugly bike? I like it! It looks amazing!
Good comparison !
I prefer CB500x 😉
Great comparison on both. Awesome actually! By the way, nice road rash on the Suzie.....*grins* ....hope you didn’t lose too much skin.
Cheers.
Thanks for your timely review. I agree that the previous generation of the VStrom is something only a mother would love. However, the post 2017 VStrom is a much better looking bike than the Honda. And can’t fault the reliability, it’s second to none. I rode both bikes before making my choice., the Suzuki was the much better bike to ride. That being said, I have no intention of taking it offroad , so the extra weight just isn’t an issue.
Yammie would be jele after watching this video. Stellar review! Thanks.
I may be about the only one who likes the sound of inlines, cb500 included
Thanks for taking the sensible, practical approach. Hard to imagine riding across country on the Suzuki. The seat is that good?? Just curious about your accent. Where are you from? Keep up the good work.
Please don''t make blanket statements about parallel twins. There is a massive difference between a 180 degree parallel twin and a 270 degree crank parallel twin. I always hated 180 parallel twins (terrible secondary vibration). OTOH I really like the two 270 twins I currently have.. BTW the 270 twin has exactly the same sound as a v twin....which I agree is better than the old fashioned 180 which is currently used only on smaller displacement price point parallel twins.
Very honest comparison. Nice video review.
I owned a 2005 650 V-Strom. Same colors. Yeah, it is sorta butt ugly. It was fun to play with though. Pop the front end up in first effortlessly. On the highway it buffeted a lot in my opinion. I'm 6'2", 180# and that windscreen was a deal breaker for me. Buffeted the bike around when in a head wind. My arms got tired of always correcting the line.
The 2022 CB500X is out now and I'm not sure I like the updates. For one thing they have ABS now and you can't turn it off. Not great if you like to ride dirt trails. They went to dual disc brakes up front, probably because of the ABS, but it was really easy to check tire pressure on the front before with only one disc.
Power-wise I thought the V-Strom lacked a bit, because it's so heavy. I don't think the CB would disappoint, especially off a stop because of its lack of weight.
You say the CB is more expensive? Not true here in the U.S. That's why the CB sells out here. For the money it's a cheap bike.
Overall, I think I might wait and find a deal on a 2021.
The CBX has had the ABS long before they upgraded to the twin rotor front brake system in the 2022 models, but yeah, not being able to turn it off is kind of a nuisance.
In my experience, a lot of parallel twin engines are dogs (down on power and rather flat in the upper rev range). The 'Strom's V-Twin makes usable power everywhere on the tach and plenty of it to get the job done. They aren't the fastest bikes by any means, but they are very "satisfying".
12sec quarter miles is plenty fast. 😎
@@mrantone916 Many people tend to categorize all V-twins into the same category as any other 45-60 degree "cruiser" engine. However, the 'Strom's 90 degree V-twin is another animal alltogether, with near perfect primary balance and a track bred, performance-oriented pedigree. I have been riding for over 50 years and have owned around 50 bikes, and Suzuki's 645cc 90 degree v-twins are among my favorite engines ever.
@@ralphcantrell3214 I have been riding 55 years and have pictures of all 63 bikes. Got 6 in the garage right now and looking at these two bikes....trying to decide.
@@spydie That's really cool! I wish I had taken more pictures.
I like Honda, it's my favorite brand and I have owned 10 of them. I currently have two Honda motorcycles in the garage. But I wouldn't trade my DL650 nor my SV650 for the CB500X. I can say this with near 100% certainty, though I've never even ridden this particular Honda. It isn't that I dislike the CB500X. I'm sure it is a typical Honda that will get the job done as well as anything in it's class and last for decades. It's just that I LOVE my two Suzi's. That sweet 90 degree twin just won me over.
If there is a single disadvantage to the Suzuki 650's, I'd say it is that the V-twins are probably slightly heavier and more difficult to work on. You've got to remove the tank to replace the air filter. There are two heads to remove for valve checks. There is less working room for most anything. They almost never break though, so even that is pretty much a wash. For instance, after doing two valve checks on each of my Suzuki twins and consulting with my friends who are certified techs and earn a living wrenching on bikes, I have decided to never worry about the valves again. I'm not getting any younger, and have decided the bikes will probably outlast me even if I do nothing else to them.
@@spydie ...And by the way, the super-low cost of buy-in with the DL650 is almost unbelievable. Like-new used ones are a dime a dozen, and a lot of them are farkled to the max. I can almost promise you the cost to insure a DL650 will be much less than the Honda too.
Love the armchair reviews of 2022 bikes and then telling you what you should buy based on there 10yr old bikes.
This kind of bikes better pick one which is reliable and more fuel efficient of the two
great review mate
Good review but should have mentioned the years. Your vstrom is pre 2012. There were a lot of changes in 2012 and they look a lot better too.
The only thing I don't like about the look of the Vstrom is the angle of the cylinder, otherwise it's fine
Quality wise go for the vstrom 650 the Honda 500x has many issues
Good review. Like your honesty.
just hope you don't get one with a bad stator; the 1000 is also known for charging issues
Thank you so much. Appreciate the content.
parallel twins don't sound good? have you ever heard an Africa twin?
its a v
@@mastodonttix the old africa twin from the 80's was a vtwin . the new one is a parallel twin
Great review, Thanks. 👍🏼
Do you live in the MD DC area?
Thank you vHunter 👋👋 you nailed it.
objective comparison, thank you
Very good and interesting review thnx!
Excellent review!
Its a good balanced review. I agree with you about the look of the SV, the CB is much simpler and better looking.
This Gentleman gave a though ride and review on BoTH!!!
NOTE: ENGINE ON CB500 WAS EXTREMELY SMOOTH UNDER 55.FELT A 4. CYLINDER. OVER 60 NOT GOOD anywhere!
Oh right, that was VERY interesting, thanks. There's a bit of a myth building up over the CB here in England.
Hmm what myth?
@@VehicleHunter Well for a start, the UK is adventure bike mad! The CB500x is selling well as an affordable Africa Twin but also there is a bit of Honda worship going on. Some used bike sellers even increase the warranty period by 50% for Hondas! Finally, the vlogger Itchy Boots has a huge following here and any bike she uses gets a lift. So it was good to hear in your description that it is really just another bike!
@@hermitmonk52 ... It will be interesting to see her next adv bike after her rally experience.
GREAT REVIEW,THANKS
Great review, no frills, honest and down to Earth, agree totally with all you have said, now looking to downsize from a GS1200, so here are a couple of contenders
Its not beutifule but its beutiful to ride... A look only mom can love:))) I like mine...a great bike for most tasks.. Great review sir.
By default, on all my Honda bikes, I ALWAYS replace the front sprocket with +1T, and the rear one with -3T.
I would actually put -6T or -9T on the rear, but honda engineers have such a small margin on advance timing, that any extra load will most certainly knock or stall the engine at low RPMs.
So they make it impossible to do.
Usually +1T front, and -3T rear gains about 10-15% on speed, so that's from 60-70MPH to 66-80MPH, much closer to your desired highway speed.
Also, MPG increases a lot, especially at 45MPH (by 10-15%). For highway speeds MPG with the new sprockets gains usually a lower amount, like +5% or so..
MPG gains below 30MPH are zero, as you'll need to down shift a gear.
vstrom is clearly better first had the cb500x and now the vstrom 650.
once you adjust the windshield or open the seat, you notice the difference. suzuki has clearly solved this better
i think vstrom looks better than cb or the new vstroms.
the new vstroms gave up those amazing headlamps for the new pos retro one... i wouldn't get a new one... many other reasons as well, but the headlamps are very important to someone who rides occasionally at night.
Second gen vstrom looks good in my opinion. It is something beautiful and something not so beautiful about that bike in the same time.
Around 3:40, I like the deer crossing in the background !
Good honest review, I have the 500X and agree with most of what you reviewed. I wanted a Vstrom but it's just too tall for me. On state roads I'm averaging 77 mpg for the 2017 model around 55-60 mph
It is not too tall... I am 5’7” and I can flat foot. You just need to turn the stock suspension knob counterclockwise to the softest suspension setting and take the rubber supports underneath the seat off. This will make the seat height drop by 2 inches. I also wear a one inch shoe lift that allows me to flat foot. I am 5’7” wit a 29 inch inseam and can flat foot.
@@robertp9370 Dear Sir, does taking off the seat rubber supports damage the seat itself for it's now being bent in the middle if one were to sit on it? Thanks and take care.
@@leenoble5852 not sure if I understand. Too answer your question, taking the rubber mounts in no way damages the seat, but are you saying that YOUR seat with YOUR weight is causing it to get damaged?? Because I’m 165lbs and my seat is in no way damaged by my weight without the rubber mounts. I would think at any weight the seat won’t get damaged, the rubber mounts are only there to soften vibrations that you don’t really feel anyway even with the rubber mounts taken off. Just take them off if you want a shorter seat.... no damage has occurred to my seat.
@@robertp9370 Thanks for the prompt reply. Info is good enough for me to decide to take the rubber supports off. Thanks Sir... :)
@@leenoble5852 ya man do it, it will help. It is a well known way for vstrom owners to get the seat slightly lower. By like .8 inch.
Nice work. thanks for sharing. gracias
I love the CB500 line but the V-Strom is a mile muncher. 😎
LOL Very good review. Very informative. A big thumbs up.
good reviews
The Suzuki🙂
A great review!😁
Honestly, you put a lot on looks of the bike. To me, its the least important issue. Suzuki makes great bikes.
I Love my v strom,it starts everytime
Honda❤️
This video only needs to be about 2 seconds long... just about as long as it takes to say "V-Strom"...
Well in Mexico it’s the V-Strom, Honda assholes wont sell the CB500 here.