SUZUKI V-STROM 1050 XT: MODERN RETRO (VIDEO)

Electronic assistants take the adventurer into the 21st century

Soon after unveiling the next generation of its legendary V-Strom multi-purpose motorcycle in 2018, Suzuki released something even more novel for 2020.

The reason probably lies in the tightening of environmental requirements that came into force this year in Europe. Because of them, the same 1037cc 90-degree V-twin engine (known since 2014) has already been modified to comply with the Euro 5 emission standard. Now it reaches 107 hp. at 8500 rpm and 100 Nm of maximum torque at 6000 rpm. (previously had 101 hp at 8000 rpm and 101 Nm at just 4000 rpm). Another difference is that before the model was called V-Strom 1000 XT, and now it is 1050 HT. Otherwise, some changes in "walking" are unlikely to be found. Yes, you have a little more power here, but the maximum torque comes to you a little later, and it is one idea lower. However, as before, there is plenty of “soul” in the engine. As expected from a 1000cc machine. See, if you turn the knob, you will fly forward like a natural disaster.

If everything were based on just one modified chip in the engine, Suzuki would hardly call the model new, not just a facelift (although such opinions are still heard, because there is no difference not only in the engine, but also in the frame and suspension.) ...

Legends

Let's start with the obvious - design. He returns to the highly successful Suzuki DR-Z and especially the late 80s/early 90s DR-BIG SUVs to further highlight his adventure genes. There is nothing wrong with that, the previous generation had a fairly simple and indistinguishable design.

Now, things are gross, gross, and retro-attractive. The square headlight is a direct nod to the aforementioned hermits, but while it looks retro, it is now fully LED, just like the turn signals. The edge, which is no longer sharp, as before, and seems a little shorter, has also become a characteristic "beak" (front wing) for this type of machine.

The digital dashboard is also completely new.

It still looks retro, though, but not in a good way as it doesn't offer color graphics like most of its competitors and is still difficult to read in bright sunlight. On the other hand, quite informative.

Системы

The most significant innovations in the motorcycle are electronic. Gas is no longer wired, but electronic, the so-called Ride-by-wire. And while old-school racers don't like it very much (who respected the V-Strom precisely because of its puristic nature), it allows for much more accurate metering of the amount of gas supplied. In other words, nothing surprising. In fact, these are kicks, this is not entirely true, because the bike now offers three modes of riding, called A, B and C, which will radically change the nature of it.

In C mode it is the smoothest, while in A mode the e-gas becomes quite direct and responsive, reminiscent of the aforementioned “kicks”. Electronic traction control has also been added, also with three modes that can no longer be completely turned off, unfortunately for those who like to dig in the dust. But perhaps the most important reason for replacing the throttle with an electronic one is the ability to put cruise control. For an adventure bike built to cross continents, this system is now a must.

An important new assistant will be the assistant at the start on the slope, especially if you are riding on chukars. Earlier here you were supported by the easy-start system, which slightly increases the revs when the first gear is engaged and can be switched off without gas. She still has it, but her work with the bair is complemented by the momentary holding of the rear wheel so that you do not go backwards.

247 kg

In one aspect, the V-Strom lags behind the competition - a lot of weight. Despite the aluminum frame, it used to weigh 233kg and now weighs 247kg. In reality, however, this means that the engine is lighter than its predecessor, because 233 kg is dry weight, and 247 is wet, i.e. loaded with all liquids and fuel, and only 20 liters in the tank. The machine is so balanced that this weight does not interfere with you in any way even when maneuvering in the parking lot. See, if you drop it on rough terrain, things get more difficult. The seat is tall at 85cm, which makes for a very natural and upright riding position, but there is an option for shorter riders to lower it so they can still reach the ground with their feet.

Otherwise, everything is the same - engine thrust is transmitted to the rear wheel from a 6-speed manual gearbox. Here, too, there is an important assistant - a sliding clutch. Its job is not to block the rear wheel, with a sharper return and reckless transmission, the transmission accordingly interferes with the stop. The front suspension is equipped with an inverted telescopic fork introduced in the previous generation, which significantly improves handling on pavement and in corners. It also reduces front roll when braking, but because the suspension has a long travel (109mm), if you press the right lever harder, it still sags more than on pure road bikes. The rear suspension is still manually adjusted by a crane under the seat. Front wheel size - 19 inches, rear - 17. Ground clearance - 16 cm.

When it comes to stopping, we can't help but pay tribute to the built-in, also known as “cornering” ABS, developed by Bosch. It, except that it adjusts the brake pressure to prevent wheel locking, prevents slipping and straightening of a tilted motorcycle or motorcycle when turning when using the brake. This is done using wheel speed sensors, throttle, transmission, throttle, and traction control systems that detect the tilt of the motorcycle. Thus, the assistant decides how much braking force is transmitted to the rear wheel to balance the machine.

Overall, the V-Strom has become more refined, comfortable, modern and, most importantly, safer than before. However, he retains his raw adventurer character, which he is extremely adept at highlighting with his gorgeous retro designs.

Under the tank

Engine	2-cylinder V-shaped
Coolant
Working volume	1037 cube
Power in hp	107 hp (at 8500 rpm)
Torque	100 Nm (at 6000 rpm)
Seat height	850 mm
Dimensions (l, w, h)	240/135 km / h
Ground clearance	160 mm
Tank	20 l
The weight	247 kg (wet)
Price	from 23 590 BGN with VAT