I like the change of format, where you jump in and out of showing individual features. Breaks everything up nicely and keeps it interesting. Must be more work to edit, but works really well. 👍
Thanks for that feedback Andy - I like it I must say although it is a lot more of a pain to film and edit - requires a bit more thought and planning but I’ll probably try and stick with it when I can….
I'm so confused by what is going on in both the bike and car market at the moment. People are spending more and more money to buy vehicles which are jam packed with things that they not only don't need, but also a lot of the time probably don't even want, and they only get it because other people have. I like the base model v strom 1050 or even the 650 because they're just good, simple, honest bikes.
Fabulous review as always - I do like this bike however Honda are about to unveil the NT 1100 which I understand is more of a sports tourer in looks and of course Suzuki have the new GSXS 1000 GT Having owned a couple of Suzuki's I can bear testimont to the reliability of the brand so it wll be a tough decision what to go for next.
Another comprehensive review, thank you. AS for the looks of the VStrom, you ask? I hope someone's eye beholds it, but it won't be mine, I think it looks a mess 😞
Done 9000 miles on my 1050XT and owned for 20 months. I came from a GSA and tiger 800 and have to say this is my favourite by far. The engine is an absolute peach and can really wind it on when you want.
Yes and no. I owned the 2016 model for 5 years and nearly 30k. It’s much better value for sure, and basically half the price of the GSA. Reliability likely better too. However… The GS, especially the 1250 really is a much better bike.
@@IanTed certainly I have never ridden a GS either, unfortunately the GS will most likely be forever out of my reach! Where I live a new base model GS is nearly double the price of this Suzuki!
@@MoroMagrew if you really want a GS you can get it.. it’s just a matter of making clear, for yourself, what are your, priorities where you spend your money. I have the 750, and she just delivers. For the money I could get another bike more powerful, but the building quality and all the tech she’s got..it’s a great bike. Now is working and saving, for when the 3 years warranty go, get a big GS or GSA
True. But it’s just another bike on the road. Ok you can say the same about the GS, but just like MF says “riding a bike it’s, also how she makes you feel..”, and for me this one doesn’t cut it. Is ugly AF, and I look to it, and nothing moves me to get one. I rather ride my 750gs than a this 1000cc Suzuki
I really like this new format with the ride and walk around being alternating. Really pleasant to watch :). Your quality of video keeps getting higher and higher with the years.
I’ve clocked around 30k on the 18 model (1000), good honest bikes, reliable and in comparison to this model it feels a bit more torquey lower down the range. They’re good budget tourers that get the job done without being flashy - reliability is probably their top strength but I can’t help feeling the competition have caught up and passed Suzuki and it’s high time we saw something new in this sector from them.
My friends’ neighbours have the 650’s, husband and wife. They regularly go from Vancouver (island) across Canada and south down to Mexico. They love them and as these a long trips, thousands of miles, says a lot for the bikes.
Yep, I’ve got a few bikes but the Wee ‘Strom is the one I rode solo from Prince Edward Island to El Salvador, including a few weeks travel in remote parts of Mexico. Also, on another run, the Wee circumnavigated Baja, mostly off road. A month ago, I took a Wee around the Trans-Labrador Highway - perfectly adequate performance. I know it’s a matter of opinion but, for me, a fully farkled Wee outshines the Big ‘Strom in almost every way.
@@UncleWally3 sounds like some great trips. Another thing for going to a 650cc, at least here in BC, is insurance costs. ICBC are expensive, as you may know. I’m looking forward to trying out the new Tiger 660, could just be the ideal bike for me.
Absolutely love the DR BIG retro styling. Would love to hear a comparison to the Guzzi V85TT as an addition to the end of your in-depth review Mr Flyer👍. Which is more comfy, which is more "special" ... Is an event to take out, character, makes you feel good, even at 30mph, which is best at what as a multi functional motorcycles🤔
Don't understand Japanese manufacturers,why they finish a bike like this to good standard with full electronics and put cheap nasty flexey rubber brake pipes, when ABS controls everything and you have 1970,s rubber brake pipes, even Royal enfield interceptor have solid plastic/ braided brake pipes. Even top shelf goldwing and busa have cheapo rubber pipes as well.
I appreciate the review of the new V-Strom 1050 and as we typically have similar thoughts on bikes I was curious to see what you thought. I agree on the cheap LCD display and hard seat but don't agree the riding position is as sporty as you noticed. When I think of a sporty position I think of the BMR R1250RT which is not only sporty (read cramped) but the boxer engine makes placing your feet forward nigh impossible. I'd like a dedicated road touring bike but the RT won't work and the Goldwing is just a bit too expensive. And while you may not like the right hand activation button for the cruise control, remember that is only to activate the cruise control. To actually set or adjust speed you use the left hand as you prefer. I had to install the Suzuki heated grips on my bike but they work well even if the install took a few hours. Fuel range looks to be about 250 miles which is about the same as my 2018 GS. Powerwise I think the V-Strom 1050 is very strong. It is not as powerful as the 2018 R1200GS I sold to buy the V-Strom. And yes you read that right I sold a GS to buy the V-Strom. My 2018 R1200GS had spokes on the rear wheel loosen while touring Europe; twice. By the time I returned to Washington State (NW of the US, not our miserable political capitol) a spoke was missing and there was a centimeter of free play in the wheel. At this time I had about 6,000 miles on the odometer and the camshafts had worn out. I had to fight several dealers to get them to pull a valve cover on the GS to discover this somewhat common problem. If you go to my page (I am not trying to get hits ) you can click on sound files of before and after to hear what I am referring to. The GS has since been repaired but I just did not trust it on any more long distance trips. Before repair: ua-cam.com/video/SeELzPcZjLE/v-deo.html So while I also agree it is a budget ADV bike (but as capable on gravel or unimproved roads as any other) I suspect mine will be much more reliable than the GS I sold. Ironically, the US market is super hot for used bikes and sold the GS for enough money to buy the V-Strom outright and outfit it with a full luggage suite. Looks are subjective but I bet if you could have landed one with the North American Color Scheme of Glass Blaze Orange you would like the appearance much more. suzukicycles.com/adventure/2020/v-strom-1050xt www.rk-productions.net/Assets/Photos/bikes/2020%20V%20Strom%20New%20Bike%20Day/PendOrielleRide/IMG_7148%20(1).jpg Either way, I enjoy your reports and hope you have at least a more positive than negative final opinion on the V-Strom 1050. If not, I totally get it and recognize that we all don't like the same bike. Ride safe and looking forward to your thoughts on the Multistrada V4S . . . soon I hope.
I've had the 650 2005and 1000 2003 and found them great . Didn't care about the looks just good comfortable capable bikes. Peace and love brother 👍🏻☮♥️
I bought the XT tour myself about 3 months ago. I'm 6'2" and found the screen a bit too narrow, and made for noisy airflow more on the side of my helmet (top was OK). Changed for a Puig touring screen (which is slightly taller, but more importantly wider) and problem solved. Cruise control is only enabled with the right hand button, then you set the cruise speed with the left "set" control. Neutral is also very easy to find. So much so, that it is easy to pop it in neutral when accelerating away and changing between 1st and 2nd, or is that just me not being positive enough. I found the real world mpg around 50 and that's with 3000 miles done, but that has been done mainly on winding A roads, as when touring I avoid the motorways. So that might be a little on the low side. Otherwise very happy with the bike, and the aluminium panniers are great too.
Took one for test ride today and the screen was the only thing I could find that was a fault ,good info on the Puig touring screen first thing to order cheers.
Great review as always Andy. Two months’ ago I traded in my 2019 V-Strom 1000 for a new 1050XT in black (I think it looks much better than the colour you’ve been given here). I’m in the fortunate position where I can afford pretty much any motorcycle on the market, so I road tested a 1250 GS as well. IMO the only area where the GS really excelled over the V-Strom was the suspension (telelever front @ electronic rear) and the clarity of the dash (until someone steals it!). The big problem with the GS is that it’s impossible to buy a standard version unless you place a factory order & wait about 6 months. My nearest dealer had plenty of TE models in stock but all had other extras and were at least £19K. The GS sat nav prep would also be useless for me as I have my iPhone on the V-Strom cross bar as you pointed out. So I would end up paying for things I don’t want/need. Also, my Suzuki dealer offered me £700 more for my trade in and was more interested in keeping me as a customer than the BMW dealer was of gaining a new customer.I also really dislike the sound of the 1250GS boxer engine and as you mentioned in the video, the V twin in this Suzuki sounds brilliant. Suzuki have somehow made the Euro 5 version sound better than my previous Euro 4. I also get about 5 mpg more out of the new 1050 and find the engine smoother & more responsive than the previous model. I’m really happy with the upgrade. Other good points; LED headlight is miles better than the old halogen unit, cruise control works easily (after starting the engine just activate on the right switch before pulling away, then just one tap of your left thumb on the down arrow sets it), there’s a programmable change up light (really bright white LED at top of dash) & adjustable seat height. I’ve been all over Wales on my new 1050 XT since I bought it and I love it. My only complaint is the heated grips were a dealer fit option - surely all adventure or touring bikes sold in the UK should have them as standard.
My daily commuter and I absolutely love it! Added Givi panniers and Denali running lights, now have 30,000 miles done with no issues. Air filter changes are a bit of a job though.
I don't think I could bring myself to twirl around, alone in front of a camera, in a public parking lot. I'm glad someone does it though. Thanks for all the reviews.
I loved the 650cc v-Storm. It’s on my list for a new bike, should I win the lottery. I always sit on my bike when moving it around; much more control and much safer. Suzuki’s last forever. Easy to use do it all bike.
Thanks for the feedback - you seem to be in the minority with most people saying they prefer this format….in reality I’ll probably “mix n match” in the future as my old format is much simpler to film and edit!
Great review as always thanks Andy, haven't really got into the adventure bike scene as have no intention of off roading, and as such Suzuki other new offering the GSXS1000GT really would interest me. Just back from a wonderful week touring Cornwall on the Ducati Supersport which was fantastic and made light of the 400 mile journey each way. Cheers TMF.
I have the XT in Marlboro colours, and love the bike. Yup, easy to manoeuvre around, very quick but not stupidly fast, 55mpg most of the time, insurance fine, amazingly stable at motorway speeds compared to many previous bikes I had. Have to be in 4th gear at least for cruise (would like to be able to use in 3rd for the 30mph areas) but use it all of the time, display is OK, readable in bright sunlight, but I still think Kawasaki have the best one (see Z1000SX). Suspension is pretty good, I prefer comfort over sport. Seat is fine for longer trips as long as you slide back in it, if you sit forward then it tends to be a bit hard. Screen is a bit too small, I'll change to either the Puig or the Givi Airflow one day - but I don't want to bust the looks of the bike, so am putting that off for the moment ! Had the 650 before this, that was also a brilliant bike, 70+mpg, half the insurance, a bit lower so easier to manage - I just liked the get-up-and-go of the 1050. Dealer is brilliant. Happy guy :-)
@@TheMissendenFlyer to be fair there is stuff accounting for that extra weight that some people would put on anyway, like the engine protectors (sorry, accessory bars :) ), center stand and so on.
Just got mine 2 weeks ago, have done 1000km.. am loving in and am just 5f5in.. no problem at all.. all good cruising around and busy road handle well during low ref. No regret despite my initial plan to get on GS
G'day Andy. I currently have the 2014 model (from new), with 98k kms on the clock. Great for touring as it is utterly reliable and comfortable. I have covererd a lot of different types of road surfaces and it handles them all very well. Cannot fault the big Vee so it is a keeper. The Vee will soon be sharing the garage with a new '21 Speed Twin. Life is pretty good. Great reviews as per usual brother. Stay safe
I've found most Suzuki are designed for shorter legs and long arms. Not to keen on the design personally but overall the vstrom seems like a good do it all bike for most riders. Not sure why they've styled it like an adventure bike when it has zero pretence of being an offroad bike. Guess that bike in the Suzuki range has been occupied by the new gsx GT.
There was a recent article in MCN regarding the In&Motion airbag and it said that it deploys in 91% of accidents. 91%? That means there's almost a 1 in 10 chance of it not protecting the rider, surely a piece of safety kit should work 100% of the time? I hope the air bag in my car is better then 91% efficient.
Had a GS 1150 (one owner low miler),dreadful bike ,was appalled by it's build quality yet the BMs i had in the 70's and 80's were much better built? Made me appreciate the Suzook much more!!
The 1050XT is a really good bike but i think the 1000XT was the better package and the better deal. The 1050XT got features that are nice but not really necessary for a much higher price. It also is heavier and the display is new but hard to read. I also liked the low down torque of the older model more. But it still is a good bike. I prefer the yellow one!
Great review. This is bike which I've never paid a lot of attention to in the past, but I may have missed something, as it looks like a very good bike and excellent value for money. Being old enough to remember the DR 800 (Dr Big) models from the early 90's, I actually quite like the looks as well.
My first impressions were "KATANA". Not good. Designed & built by the 'B' team. An Africa twin isn't much more expensive, so it's a bike I'd walk straight past I'm afraid.
236kg… is not much at all. My Scooter is 275kg on a 500cc. It is just fine. And if you like it a littlebit smaller, a littlebit baller… Just not put that much gas in the tank. If it has 26 liters tank, you can put in 6 liter of gas, and the bike is 20 kilos (Kg) lighter. But if the tank is smaller, you cant put extra gas in the tank, when its full. Trust me, you don't want to ride around with extra gas cans. They make a lots of problems. Like you have to fill up on a motorway… You can get a ticket. - If you park somewhere. The first being stolen is the gas tanks. Then you also are stuck on a mountain or a place with out anyone to help you. Because that is the place that has no gas stations. Not everyone can have Noraly aka Itchy Boots go by you, and come back later and ask you if you need gas. With the biggest smile and the blues eyes you ever seen. In One sec, you have not been so happy in our hole life before. Because you maybe heard that people call her an Angel… But her name is actually just what people call her… Her real name is Angel, or she actually is a real one.
Great review as always. Just got my self a 650, after thirty years out of the saddle. And loving the wee, definitely got my eye on up grading to the 1050 in the future. Fantastic bikes for the price ,just can’t go wrong with them.
Suzuki seem to have gone all budget and conservative with their bikes, no new engines for what seems like a decade, not sure if its a good strategy when there is better around for not much more. Have you changed your camera Mr Flyer?, it doesn't look as sharp as usual.
Very nice quality review. Loving the cut away scenes from riding to the specific feature your talking about in more detail. As for the bike, seems decent & typically Suzuki in that it's a good honest bike at a good price but maybe a bit unremarkable?
@@TheMissendenFlyer Yes, I can imagine it's a pain with editing etc but for me it gives it a classy quality feel. It's this sort of effort & attention to detail etc which elevates your channel imo. Keep up the good work TMF.
Loved this new edited format, and what a great bike. Already looking forward to hearing more in a few weeks time. The waistcoat airbag and Oxford jacket look like a must have, top quality products at affordable prices.
I don't understand why people say the Vstrom is not exciting. Set it with traction control off and A mode and see how it fares. It scared the heck out of me but I am a new rider, so maybe take this with a grain of salt.
I am almost 50, started learning to ride 12 months ago and my first bike is a 1050xt. Your ‘first ride review’ I believe is spot on. It is not a BMW or a triumph nor is it the best looking bike. Also a bit of a handful for a new rider like me. It is, however, a good all rounder with a nice engine and good value for money. The balance of your initial XT review, for me, validates all the other reviews and videos of yours I have watched over the last 12 months of having been into biking. Well done.
Before my GS, I owned a 2014 V-Strom 1000..... if the bike you had tested was available when I got my GS... I might not have gone for the GS... I miss the sound of that motor.
I had the pleasure of taking a V-Strom 1050 XT on a 2,000 mile road test across Europe to ride the B500. Cracking bike. I even ended up hiding from a down pour under the trees with a German guy on a GS.
Would have been informative if you tested out the ABC modes during your review and gave the cruise control a test as well. Looks just as good as any other ADV type bike and color looks more sporty than the others.
Great review from TMF, like always. Cannot say anything against. Anyway Suzukis are forever bikes, not trendy and hi-tech, but this model seems to be the opposite, except for the dash. :)
Love the 1050. Re cruise control, you do turn it on with your right, but then you set it with your left. So you don’t set it with the throttle hand :) Another great review!
Hi Andy. Thanks for the great reviews. Just a request from an an metric only country, Australia. Would you able to give power and fuel consumption figures in metric as well ? Just find it a bit odd that some figures are quoted in metric only and other are imperial only. Thanks .
I think this may be my next bike, I actually like the look of the updated 1050 over the 1000! I don’t love the dash, I wish they kept the analog tach with the smaller digital speedo, like the 650 still has, or like the Versys 1000, that dash is pretty slick. Thanks for another great video.
Most if not all reviewers Leave out the fact that this bike can be had at substantial discounts typically. In my area in the states an XT model can be had for as low as 12500. It’s not off road at all honestly besides dirt or gravel due to ground clearance. But at that price and included features it’s a steal for most people and will do the off road stuff people actually do. Hell the 850 sport is 12000. No imu, center stand, hill hold plus the 1050 has 20 more hours and 11 more torque. Great buy if you want a modern UJM. But if money is no option I’d look elsewhere
Seriously considered one of these, but went for the Crosstourer in the end. Main factors for me where shaft drive on the Honda, the quality of build is a notch above Suzuki. But, for the money can’t really argue against the v-strom, fantastic bit of kit. 👍👍
@@TheMissendenFlyer Very… it’s c300kg fully fuelled and it feels like it’s all on the top. Very top heavy feel to it and it’s a burden off road. Driveline shunt isn’t too great on it either. Yes, I have dropped it, purely because of the top-heaviness. I’ve had GS’s as well and it’s chalk and cheese. Fully fully loaded GS with tents, panniers and box etc feels ‘lighter’ than the Crosstourer does with 1/2 tank of fuel. V4 vs Flat twin I guess… 👍👍
Nice bike , but same as all other bikes we buy today, jam packed with electronic ( expensive ) shite probably most of us just dont want , apart from perhaps ABS . Also, that silencer, what an abortion that is . I would willingly have none of the gismos in exchange for a centre stand and less weight. Sorry for the rant TMF, still nice video though.
I don't understand anything about what you say on the power on the bike. It sounds like you are saying 174 PSI, and then the NM. And it goes way to fast. Have to play back 100 of times to understand what you are saying, when you say something. That do not work. Specially with people that think they got it all. And don't remember anything. They just make up there own story, and even more lies come out. It become a shitshow. it's not a good thing.
Hi if you shop around you can buy the base model new for £8400 and the xt for £1099 that makes them a proper bargain only thing I don't like is stupid screen adjuster and the awful colours of the xt the base model has far better colours. If you get chance just check what it's doing to the gallon .
Andy, do those earplugs have speakers in them and if they don't and you have speakers in your helmet, how is the speakers performance with the plugs in? Another great vid..
Can’t believe how much bike luggage is! Given a lot of them are box shaped which means construction is not difficult it feels like we are not getting value for money.
Fantastic bike for a long term loan! Looking forward to the in depth review! As for the looks, subjective as they are, in my opinion the vstrom 1050 and 250 are two of my favourite looking adventure style bikes, certainly favourite looking Suzuki bikes! The 650 not so much, just not as characterful or sharp compared to the others, maybe it’s just more out of date and it shows what my opinion of he 250 and 1050 will be in a few years…
@@chrishart8548 I think you’re onto a winner with that formula! Hopefully the 650 is suitably updated soon! That middle section is super competitive with some great bikes, just got more so with the new Triumph 660 Tiger!
Wicked Suzuki motorbike. Love the new side view camera angle when you riding, looks cool. Brilliant jacket, I thinking that would be great when out and about on my mountain bike. That’s nears I got to two wheels.
How the hell does that camera work on the right side crash bars - it seems to show its just floating in mid air - you don't see the bracket, strangely??? 'tis magic ?
I’ve got a 2015 1000, I keep talking about a new bike but just can’t come up with a better do it all. All my riding mates are on naked bikes, and the Vstrom never gets left behind. On the occasional dirt road….they don’t see where it went! They are a conservative machine and apparently boring, but gee they can just do anything. Looks like another 6 years for it in my garage!! And that engine…I love it.
Nice colour scheme and, erm, erm...sorry Andy, can't work up any enthusiasm for this one. Good review though as usual, and i like the useful fashion section at the end.
I think if Suzuki dropped some of the unwanted 'safety features' etc, and spent money on the styling for a change, they might start selling bucket loads of bikes once again!
![[UA] NAVI проти G2 Esports | Blast Premier Fall Final](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/QWlIm4FGESQ/mqdefault.jpg)
I like the change of format, where you jump in and out of showing individual features. Breaks everything up nicely and keeps it interesting. Must be more work to edit, but works really well. 👍
Thanks for that feedback Andy - I like it I must say although it is a lot more of a pain to film and edit - requires a bit more thought and planning but I’ll probably try and stick with it when I can….
I'm so confused by what is going on in both the bike and car market at the moment. People are spending more and more money to buy vehicles which are jam packed with things that they not only don't need, but also a lot of the time probably don't even want, and they only get it because other people have.
I like the base model v strom 1050 or even the 650 because they're just good, simple, honest bikes.
Fabulous review as always -
I do like this bike however Honda are about to unveil the NT 1100 which I understand is more of a sports tourer in looks and of course Suzuki have the new GSXS 1000 GT
Having owned a couple of Suzuki's I can bear testimont to the reliability of the brand so it wll be a tough decision what to go for next.
Yes I’m looking forward to seeing that..
Sometimes Suzuki seems to be stuck in the past ,but this seems like a great value ,and a really good looking bike.
Another comprehensive review, thank you. AS for the looks of the VStrom, you ask? I hope someone's eye beholds it, but it won't be mine, I think it looks a mess 😞
Hi andy can I recommend a chanel called biker stuff its fab and best wishes
Done 9000 miles on my 1050XT and owned for 20 months.
I came from a GSA and tiger 800 and have to say this is my favourite by far.
The engine is an absolute peach and can really wind it on when you want.
Good feedback - thanks for that Greg!
For most people this is as good as a GS on the road at a way cheaper price...
Yes and no. I owned the 2016 model for 5 years and nearly 30k. It’s much better value for sure, and basically half the price of the GSA. Reliability likely better too.
However… The GS, especially the 1250 really is a much better bike.
You’ve never ridden a GS😉, feels like a cheap rip off in comparison, good bike but the expensive GS sells for a reason.
@@IanTed certainly I have never ridden a GS either, unfortunately the GS will most likely be forever out of my reach! Where I live a new base model GS is nearly double the price of this Suzuki!
@@MoroMagrew if you really want a GS you can get it.. it’s just a matter of making clear, for yourself, what are your, priorities where you spend your money. I have the 750, and she just delivers. For the money I could get another bike more powerful, but the building quality and all the tech she’s got..it’s a great bike. Now is working and saving, for when the 3 years warranty go, get a big GS or GSA
True. But it’s just another bike on the road. Ok you can say the same about the GS, but just like MF says “riding a bike it’s, also how she makes you feel..”, and for me this one doesn’t cut it. Is ugly AF, and I look to it, and nothing moves me to get one. I rather ride my 750gs than a this 1000cc Suzuki
I really like this new format with the ride and walk around being alternating. Really pleasant to watch :). Your quality of video keeps getting higher and higher with the years.
Thank you! Glad you like it!
I’ve clocked around 30k on the 18 model (1000), good honest bikes, reliable and in comparison to this model it feels a bit more torquey lower down the range. They’re good budget tourers that get the job done without being flashy - reliability is probably their top strength but I can’t help feeling the competition have caught up and passed Suzuki and it’s high time we saw something new in this sector from them.
Same bike myself and agree with yr comments
The new GT maybe?
@@TheMissendenFlyer sans the body posture the new GT would be a better option for most people.
@@TheMissendenFlyer Certainly looks better VFM to me.
When you almost meet your namesake...
My friends’ neighbours have the 650’s, husband and wife. They regularly go from Vancouver (island) across Canada and south down to Mexico. They love them and as these a long trips, thousands of miles, says a lot for the bikes.
Indeed it does!
I took my 650 22,000 km camping across Canada and the US over 40 days in 2018. It carried me and all my stuff with aplomb and never missed a beat.
Yep, I’ve got a few bikes but the Wee ‘Strom is the one I rode solo from Prince Edward Island to El Salvador, including a few weeks travel in remote parts of Mexico. Also, on another run, the Wee circumnavigated Baja, mostly off road. A month ago, I took a Wee around the Trans-Labrador Highway - perfectly adequate performance. I know it’s a matter of opinion but, for me, a fully farkled Wee outshines the Big ‘Strom in almost every way.
@@UncleWally3 sounds like some great trips. Another thing for going to a 650cc, at least here in BC, is insurance costs. ICBC are expensive, as you may know. I’m looking forward to trying out the new Tiger 660, could just be the ideal bike for me.
Always interesting to hear GS owners.comment on other bike s looks 🤔😂
Absolutely love the DR BIG retro styling. Would love to hear a comparison to the Guzzi V85TT as an addition to the end of your in-depth review Mr Flyer👍. Which is more comfy, which is more "special" ... Is an event to take out, character, makes you feel good, even at 30mph, which is best at what as a multi functional motorcycles🤔
As a Guzzi fan, I second that :-)
Don't understand Japanese manufacturers,why they finish a bike like this to good standard with full electronics and put cheap nasty flexey rubber brake pipes, when ABS controls everything and you have 1970,s rubber brake pipes, even Royal enfield interceptor have solid plastic/ braided brake pipes. Even top shelf goldwing and busa have cheapo rubber pipes as well.
i read rhat aTFT replacement out of warranty can be £1000 + . LCD has its advantage down the road .
Good point…
I appreciate the review of the new V-Strom 1050 and as we typically have similar thoughts on bikes I was curious to see what you thought. I agree on the cheap LCD display and hard seat but don't agree the riding position is as sporty as you noticed. When I think of a sporty position I think of the BMR R1250RT which is not only sporty (read cramped) but the boxer engine makes placing your feet forward nigh impossible. I'd like a dedicated road touring bike but the RT won't work and the Goldwing is just a bit too expensive. And while you may not like the right hand activation button for the cruise control, remember that is only to activate the cruise control. To actually set or adjust speed you use the left hand as you prefer. I had to install the Suzuki heated grips on my bike but they work well even if the install took a few hours. Fuel range looks to be about 250 miles which is about the same as my 2018 GS.
Powerwise I think the V-Strom 1050 is very strong. It is not as powerful as the 2018 R1200GS I sold to buy the V-Strom. And yes you read that right I sold a GS to buy the V-Strom. My 2018 R1200GS had spokes on the rear wheel loosen while touring Europe; twice. By the time I returned to Washington State (NW of the US, not our miserable political capitol) a spoke was missing and there was a centimeter of free play in the wheel. At this time I had about 6,000 miles on the odometer and the camshafts had worn out. I had to fight several dealers to get them to pull a valve cover on the GS to discover this somewhat common problem. If you go to my page (I am not trying to get hits ) you can click on sound files of before and after to hear what I am referring to. The GS has since been repaired but I just did not trust it on any more long distance trips.
Before repair: ua-cam.com/video/SeELzPcZjLE/v-deo.html
So while I also agree it is a budget ADV bike (but as capable on gravel or unimproved roads as any other) I suspect mine will be much more reliable than the GS I sold. Ironically, the US market is super hot for used bikes and sold the GS for enough money to buy the V-Strom outright and outfit it with a full luggage suite. Looks are subjective but I bet if you could have landed one with the North American Color Scheme of Glass Blaze Orange you would like the appearance much more. suzukicycles.com/adventure/2020/v-strom-1050xt
www.rk-productions.net/Assets/Photos/bikes/2020%20V%20Strom%20New%20Bike%20Day/PendOrielleRide/IMG_7148%20(1).jpg
Either way, I enjoy your reports and hope you have at least a more positive than negative final opinion on the V-Strom 1050. If not, I totally get it and recognize that we all don't like the same bike. Ride safe and looking forward to your thoughts on the Multistrada V4S . . . soon I hope.
I've had the 650 2005and 1000 2003 and found them great . Didn't care about the looks just good comfortable capable bikes.
Peace and love brother 👍🏻☮♥️
I bought the XT tour myself about 3 months ago. I'm 6'2" and found the screen a bit too narrow, and made for noisy airflow more on the side of my helmet (top was OK). Changed for a Puig touring screen (which is slightly taller, but more importantly wider) and problem solved. Cruise control is only enabled with the right hand button, then you set the cruise speed with the left "set" control.
Neutral is also very easy to find. So much so, that it is easy to pop it in neutral when accelerating away and changing between 1st and 2nd, or is that just me not being positive enough.
I found the real world mpg around 50 and that's with 3000 miles done, but that has been done mainly on winding A roads, as when touring I avoid the motorways. So that might be a little on the low side.
Otherwise very happy with the bike, and the aluminium panniers are great too.
Took one for test ride today and the screen was the only thing I could find that was a fault ,good info on the Puig touring screen first thing to order cheers.
The 1050 V Storm has always struck as a very sensible bike. It’s not flashy, but it is super practical
Couldn’t agree more!
Also I chopped in my 1250gs for a VStrom 1050XT. No regrets, and I had money left over… which of course, I put towards another bike!
Very underrated.
Rode 40000 on a 650 all over Europe and loved it. She loved it on the back too.
Everything you need. More really.
Happy travels 👍
You don’t set the cruise control speed with your right hand; you are only activating it. Speed is set with your left hand, so the system is fine.
Yes I realised that and regretted it as soon as I mentioned it!!
Great review as always Andy. Two months’ ago I traded in my 2019 V-Strom 1000 for a new 1050XT in black (I think it looks much better than the colour you’ve been given here). I’m in the fortunate position where I can afford pretty much any motorcycle on the market, so I road tested a 1250 GS as well. IMO the only area where the GS really excelled over the V-Strom was the suspension (telelever front @ electronic rear) and the clarity of the dash (until someone steals it!). The big problem with the GS is that it’s impossible to buy a standard version unless you place a factory order & wait about 6 months. My nearest dealer had plenty of TE models in stock but all had other extras and were at least £19K. The GS sat nav prep would also be useless for me as I have my iPhone on the V-Strom cross bar as you pointed out. So I would end up paying for things I don’t want/need. Also, my Suzuki dealer offered me £700 more for my trade in and was more interested in keeping me as a customer than the BMW dealer was of gaining a new customer.I also really dislike the sound of the 1250GS boxer engine and as you mentioned in the video, the V twin in this Suzuki sounds brilliant. Suzuki have somehow made the Euro 5 version sound better than my previous Euro 4. I also get about 5 mpg more out of the new 1050 and find the engine smoother & more responsive than the previous model. I’m really happy with the upgrade. Other good points; LED headlight is miles better than the old halogen unit, cruise control works easily (after starting the engine just activate on the right switch before pulling away, then just one tap of your left thumb on the down arrow sets it), there’s a programmable change up light (really bright white LED at top of dash) & adjustable seat height. I’ve been all over Wales on my new 1050 XT since I bought it and I love it. My only complaint is the heated grips were a dealer fit option - surely all adventure or touring bikes sold in the UK should have them as standard.
Wow - thanks for the long comment!
Please a quick review of ktm 1290 super adventure s 2021. 👍👍
My daily commuter and I absolutely love it! Added Givi panniers and Denali running lights, now have 30,000 miles done with no issues. Air filter changes are a bit of a job though.
I don't think I could bring myself to twirl around, alone in front of a camera, in a public parking lot. I'm glad someone does it though. Thanks for all the reviews.
I’m sure worse things happen in public parking lots!
😂
I loved the 650cc v-Storm.
It’s on my list for a new bike, should I win the lottery.
I always sit on my bike when moving it around; much more control and much safer.
Suzuki’s last forever. Easy to use do it all bike.
i bought the 650 v strom after your review and really love the bike for my bimbeling around wales on the weekend. Dave & lisa
So glad you like it!
Agreed, the negative LCD display needs updating asap.
I liked the VSTROM so much I bought one. Great value.
Sorry, Andy
Not a big fan of the new edit.
Felt a bit disjointed, to me.
Hope you revert back to your well established style.
If it ain't broke...
Thanks for the feedback - you seem to be in the minority with most people saying they prefer this format….in reality I’ll probably “mix n match” in the future as my old format is much simpler to film and edit!
Great review as always thanks Andy, haven't really got into the adventure bike scene as have no intention of off roading, and as such Suzuki other new offering the GSXS1000GT really would interest me. Just back from a wonderful week touring Cornwall on the Ducati Supersport which was fantastic and made light of the 400 mile journey each way. Cheers TMF.
I have the XT in Marlboro colours, and love the bike. Yup, easy to manoeuvre around, very quick but not stupidly fast, 55mpg most of the time, insurance fine, amazingly stable at motorway speeds compared to many previous bikes I had. Have to be in 4th gear at least for cruise (would like to be able to use in 3rd for the 30mph areas) but use it all of the time, display is OK, readable in bright sunlight, but I still think Kawasaki have the best one (see Z1000SX). Suspension is pretty good, I prefer comfort over sport. Seat is fine for longer trips as long as you slide back in it, if you sit forward then it tends to be a bit hard. Screen is a bit too small, I'll change to either the Puig or the Givi Airflow one day - but I don't want to bust the looks of the bike, so am putting that off for the moment ! Had the 650 before this, that was also a brilliant bike, 70+mpg, half the insurance, a bit lower so easier to manage - I just liked the get-up-and-go of the 1050. Dealer is brilliant. Happy guy :-)
Good feedback thanks for that!
@5:58 that would be the weight for the "vanilla" one. The XT is 247 kilos.
Thanks for the clarification!
@@TheMissendenFlyer to be fair there is stuff accounting for that extra weight that some people would put on anyway, like the engine protectors (sorry, accessory bars :) ), center stand and so on.
Just got mine 2 weeks ago, have done 1000km.. am loving in and am just 5f5in.. no problem at all.. all good cruising around and busy road handle well during low ref. No regret despite my initial plan to get on GS
Congratulations!
Like the looks of this one. The previous colours were a bit 'Marmite'. Cracking bike and cracking value.
G'day Andy. I currently have the 2014 model (from new), with 98k kms on the clock. Great for touring as it is utterly reliable and comfortable. I have covererd a lot of different types of road surfaces and it handles them all very well. Cannot fault the big Vee so it is a keeper. The Vee will soon be sharing the garage with a new '21 Speed Twin. Life is pretty good. Great reviews as per usual brother. Stay safe
Cheers Andrew - thanks for watching!
I like how many people did not like the looks of suzuki katana's headlights so they put the same one on the V-strom lol
Yes funny that!
A very good motorcycle for road focused touring.
I've found most Suzuki are designed for shorter legs and long arms. Not to keen on the design personally but overall the vstrom seems like a good do it all bike for most riders. Not sure why they've styled it like an adventure bike when it has zero pretence of being an offroad bike. Guess that bike in the Suzuki range has been occupied by the new gsx GT.
I've got long legs and a short body. I could hardly make the reach to the handle bars on the v-strom 650
How does it compare to the versy 1000 0r nt100
Favourably - both seem very similar to me...both great value honest machines!
There was a recent article in MCN regarding the In&Motion airbag and it said that it deploys in 91% of accidents. 91%? That means there's almost a 1 in 10 chance of it not protecting the rider, surely a piece of safety kit should work 100% of the time? I hope the air bag in my car is better then 91% efficient.
Yes I saw that and was quite surprised too!
Had a GS 1150 (one owner low miler),dreadful bike ,was appalled by it's build quality yet the BMs i had in the 70's and 80's were much better built?
Made me appreciate the Suzook much more!!
The basic model makes a little more sense when your local dealer starts doing pre reg bikes for 8.5k.
Bargain!
The 1050XT is a really good bike but i think the 1000XT was the better package and the better deal. The 1050XT got features that are nice but not really necessary for a much higher price. It also is heavier and the display is new but hard to read. I also liked the low down torque of the older model more. But it still is a good bike. I prefer the yellow one!
Fair enough!
I sat on a white XT at Blade in Swindon and have to say I do prefer the looks at its predecessor 👍
Yes I think I do too….
Great review. This is bike which I've never paid a lot of attention to in the past, but I may have missed something, as it looks like a very good bike and excellent value for money. Being old enough to remember the DR 800 (Dr Big) models from the early 90's, I actually quite like the looks as well.
My first impressions were "KATANA". Not good. Designed & built by the 'B' team. An Africa twin isn't much more expensive, so it's a bike I'd walk straight past I'm afraid.
She was laughing at the jacket 😂 only kidding great looking jacket. I have never purchased Oxford products but will give them ago.
236kg… is not much at all. My Scooter is 275kg on a 500cc. It is just fine. And if you like it a littlebit smaller, a littlebit baller… Just not put that much gas in the tank. If it has 26 liters tank, you can put in 6 liter of gas, and the bike is 20 kilos (Kg) lighter.
But if the tank is smaller, you cant put extra gas in the tank, when its full. Trust me, you don't want to ride around with extra gas cans. They make a lots of problems.
Like you have to fill up on a motorway… You can get a ticket. - If you park somewhere. The first being stolen is the gas tanks. Then you also are stuck on a mountain or a place with out anyone to help you. Because that is the place that has no gas stations.
Not everyone can have Noraly aka Itchy Boots go by you, and come back later and ask you if you need gas. With the biggest smile and the blues eyes you ever seen. In One sec, you have not been so happy in our hole life before. Because you maybe heard that people call her an Angel… But her name is actually just what people call her… Her real name is Angel, or she actually is a real one.
Great review as always. Just got my self a 650, after thirty years out of the saddle. And loving the wee, definitely got my eye on up grading to the 1050 in the future. Fantastic bikes for the price ,just can’t go wrong with them.
Suzuki seem to have gone all budget and conservative with their bikes, no new engines for what seems like a decade, not sure if its a good strategy when there is better around for not much more. Have you changed your camera Mr Flyer?, it doesn't look as sharp as usual.
Nope -same set up as normal!
Brought my 650 xt new about 4 months ago liking it a lot.
Good to hear!
Very nice quality review. Loving the cut away scenes from riding to the specific feature your talking about in more detail. As for the bike, seems decent & typically Suzuki in that it's a good honest bike at a good price but maybe a bit unremarkable?
Glad you like the format RR - a bit more tricky for me to film but I think I may stay with this format in future…
@@TheMissendenFlyer Yes, I can imagine it's a pain with editing etc but for me it gives it a classy quality feel. It's this sort of effort & attention to detail etc which elevates your channel imo. Keep up the good work TMF.
For reliability I would but Japanese every time but they just don’t have the performance or innovation of their Euro cousins in the adventure world.
Loved this new edited format, and what a great bike. Already looking forward to hearing more in a few weeks time. The waistcoat airbag and Oxford jacket look like a must have, top quality products at affordable prices.
Cheers Sam more to come soon!
I don't understand why people say the Vstrom is not exciting. Set it with traction control off and A mode and see how it fares. It scared the heck out of me but I am a new rider, so maybe take this with a grain of salt.
I got 10% off Custom fit guards using the code. It is true and a great product, I purchased 2 sets as I am world class a loosing stuff 😁
I wonder if the wind around the shoulders is because it didn't have the barn door mirrors the 650 has
I am almost 50, started learning to ride 12 months ago and my first bike is a 1050xt. Your ‘first ride review’ I believe is spot on. It is not a BMW or a triumph nor is it the best looking bike. Also a bit of a handful for a new rider like me. It is, however, a good all rounder with a nice engine and good value for money. The balance of your initial XT review, for me, validates all the other reviews and videos of yours I have watched over the last 12 months of having been into biking. Well done.
Thank you and welcome to biking!
and rebound damping on rear suspension and anti stall assist
Yes I love that anti stall that Suzuki does, nice feature….
I had that helmet once, i do miss wearing an Arai.
Before my GS, I owned a 2014 V-Strom 1000..... if the bike you had tested was available when I got my GS... I might not have gone for the GS... I miss the sound of that motor.
Yes it is a beast isn’t it…
Front is quite Katana-esque I think. Prettier bikes around I reckon
Love the fashion segment but the Mrs. says to tell you that Freddie D does it better! 😎
Well Freddie is as cool as…..and is about half my age!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Ha Ha.... I still prefer yours though, so I can see what I might look like in the gear! lol 😀
isnt the right hand cruise control switch just for switching it on then you set it on the left maybe ?
I had the pleasure of taking a V-Strom 1050 XT on a 2,000 mile road test across Europe to ride the B500. Cracking bike. I even ended up hiding from a down pour under the trees with a German guy on a GS.
Did you shelter under his awning 😳
Would have been informative if you tested out the ABC modes during your review and gave the cruise control a test as well. Looks just as good as any other ADV type bike and color looks more sporty than the others.
Thanks for the suggestions and for watching!
Great review from TMF, like always. Cannot say anything against. Anyway Suzukis are forever bikes, not trendy and hi-tech, but this model seems to be the opposite, except for the dash. :)
Well I guess Suzuki have to go with the flow!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Agree on that. :)
Love the 1050. Re cruise control, you do turn it on with your right, but then you set it with your left. So you don’t set it with the throttle hand :)
Another great review!
Cheers - and yes I realised that as soon as I said it!!
Hi Andy. Thanks for the great reviews. Just a request from an an metric only country, Australia. Would you able to give power and fuel consumption figures in metric as well ? Just find it a bit odd that some figures are quoted in metric only and other are imperial only. Thanks .
Take 0.5 seconds out of your day and google the conversions
Love
- A fellow Australian
Sorry Martin - here in Blighty we do both metric and imperial, we can never make our minds up!!
I think this may be my next bike, I actually like the look of the updated 1050 over the 1000! I don’t love the dash, I wish they kept the analog tach with the smaller digital speedo, like the 650 still has, or like the Versys 1000, that dash is pretty slick. Thanks for another great video.
My pleasure Russo - thanks for watching!
Can't say it floats my boat, and it sounds asthmatic. I yearn for a Kawasaki Versys 750...
I’m surprised you think it sounds asthmatic - I really like the engine note!
Most if not all reviewers Leave out the fact that this bike can be had at substantial discounts typically. In my area in the states an XT model can be had for as low as 12500. It’s not off road at all honestly besides dirt or gravel due to ground clearance. But at that price and included features it’s a steal for most people and will do the off road stuff people actually do. Hell the 850 sport is 12000. No imu, center stand, hill hold plus the 1050 has 20 more hours and 11 more torque. Great buy if you want a modern UJM. But if money is no option I’d look elsewhere
Yes agreed all round Jamaal! Thanks for watching….
Seriously considered one of these, but went for the Crosstourer in the end. Main factors for me where shaft drive on the Honda, the quality of build is a notch above Suzuki. But, for the money can’t really argue against the v-strom, fantastic bit of kit. 👍👍
Do you not find the cross tourer a bit heavy?
@@TheMissendenFlyer Very… it’s c300kg fully fuelled and it feels like it’s all on the top. Very top heavy feel to it and it’s a burden off road. Driveline shunt isn’t too great on it either. Yes, I have dropped it, purely because of the top-heaviness. I’ve had GS’s as well and it’s chalk and cheese. Fully fully loaded GS with tents, panniers and box etc feels ‘lighter’ than the Crosstourer does with 1/2 tank of fuel. V4 vs Flat twin I guess… 👍👍
I wear an aiir vest OVER my jacket. Maybe your one is designed to go underneath..but logic suggests the inflation could be compromised.. i dont know.
Well this one is designed to go under but I've wondered that too!
Nice bike , but same as all other bikes we buy today, jam packed with electronic ( expensive ) shite probably most of us just dont want , apart from perhaps ABS . Also, that silencer, what an abortion that is . I would willingly have none of the gismos in exchange for a centre stand and less weight. Sorry for the rant TMF, still nice video though.
I love a good rant Roger!
I don't understand anything about what you say on the power on the bike. It sounds like you are saying 174 PSI, and then the NM. And it goes way to fast. Have to play back 100 of times to understand what you are saying, when you say something. That do not work. Specially with people that think they got it all. And don't remember anything. They just make up there own story, and even more lies come out. It become a shitshow. it's not a good thing.
I bet it’s not Gismo - thanks for the words of wisdom….
Hi if you shop around you can buy the base model new for £8400 and the xt for £1099 that makes them a proper bargain only thing I don't like is stupid screen adjuster and the awful colours of the xt the base model has far better colours. If you get chance just check what it's doing to the gallon .
Yes now they are good prices!
Andy, do those earplugs have speakers in them and if they don't and you have speakers in your helmet, how is the speakers performance with the plugs in? Another great vid..
They dont have speakers in but with my intercom at high volume I can hear it no problem….
1980s stereo. ROFL..
A Japanese Multistrada..
Glad you liked that one….
@themissendenflyer how would you rate the v-strom xt VS the Kwaker Versys 1000?
I've not ridden the latest one so can't really say - sorry....
Why do people suggest its not exciting? It's a 1000cc motorbike that gets you out there just like a ducati or bmw 😊
I agree!
Can’t believe how much bike luggage is! Given a lot of them are box shaped which means construction is not difficult it feels like we are not getting value for money.
Yes and these are some of the better value ones!
Great review.. Although the hand guards aren't extra on the XT model,they come as standard... They ARE extra on the non XT version thou
Fantastic bike for a long term loan! Looking forward to the in depth review! As for the looks, subjective as they are, in my opinion the vstrom 1050 and 250 are two of my favourite looking adventure style bikes, certainly favourite looking Suzuki bikes! The 650 not so much, just not as characterful or sharp compared to the others, maybe it’s just more out of date and it shows what my opinion of he 250 and 1050 will be in a few years…
If the 650 could get the same style as the new 1050 and a set of USD forks it would be an improvement.
@@chrishart8548 I think you’re onto a winner with that formula! Hopefully the 650 is suitably updated soon! That middle section is super competitive with some great bikes, just got more so with the new Triumph 660 Tiger!
Love love the color scheme on this one
Wicked Suzuki motorbike. Love the new side view camera angle when you riding, looks cool. Brilliant jacket, I thinking that would be great when out and about on my mountain bike. That’s nears I got to two wheels.
Superbly produced and honest review as always. Very nice to see that 360 cam providing another angle.👍😜
Wow coming from you Dave, that means a lot! Thank you so much!
Wondering what people are thinking when they see you filming yourself dancing round a bike in a car park. 🤣
In this game you have to suspend any self conciousness.....
How the hell does that camera work on the right side crash bars - it seems to show its just floating in mid air - you don't see the bracket, strangely??? 'tis magic ?
It is pure witchcraft!
v strom 650 2021 please
If even I watch your vlogs with sub titles it always say "Hi Mister fly here". 🪰. Lol.
I’ll take it - an improvement on Harry Hill…
I know this wouldn’t be a fair comparison (in terms of cost) but how does it compare to your GS?
Quite favourably given the price difference….
Which jacket is better, the Oxford Hinterland or Mondial ?
Depends what you mean by “better”!
Are you by any chance getting your hands on the GSX-S1000GT anytime soon? Looking forward to a “living with” / “5 things you love/hate” etc etc!
I’ve got a 2015 1000, I keep talking about a new bike but just can’t come up with a better do it all. All my riding mates are on naked bikes, and the Vstrom never gets left behind. On the occasional dirt road….they don’t see where it went! They are a conservative machine and apparently boring, but gee they can just do anything. Looks like another 6 years for it in my garage!! And that engine…I love it.
Nice colour scheme and, erm, erm...sorry Andy, can't work up any enthusiasm for this one. Good review though as usual, and i like the useful fashion section at the end.
I think if Suzuki dropped some of the unwanted 'safety features' etc, and spent money on the styling for a change, they might start selling bucket loads of bikes once again!
The catwalk can't be far away with those twirls in the clothing segment.😂
Just another of my many talents!