2009 Suzuki V-Strom 1000 Preview

Introduction

The 2009 Suzuki V-Strom isn’t the result of intensive revising neither in the technical nor design category as the model has had its fair share of evolution during the years. That resulted into a mighty liquid-cooled 996cc 90 degree V-twin, DOHC 8-valve engine that is both reliable and capable to deliver the best of power and torque either you’re finding your way through tight traffic, cruise down the highway or decide to go your own way. Fuel injected and mated to a six-speed transmission, the torquey engine rarely begs for gear downshifts and the rush seems never ending.

Most chassis pieces are made out of aluminum for high resistance and light weight. The twin-spar frame, swingarm and rims make for ease of riding and proper exploiting of the engine and tranny and also set the base for those great ergonomics that are a V-Strom characteristic.

History

2002 DL1000 V-Strom

Suzuki used the TL1000S engine to power the 2002 DL1000 V-Strom, an all new motorcycle for the time. Taking the best of all worlds, the new bike’s fuel-injection system feeding the 996cc V-twin motor was derived from the GSX-R series and had much contribution to the 98 hp at 7,500 rpm and 104 Nm at 6,500 rpm that were developed by the very first production model.

But the Japanese manufacturer didn’t rest on its laurels and added fork preload adjusters and increased the alternator’s output to 400 watts. Also, the 2003 model year featured a new slave cylinder dust cover.

The 2004 Suzuki DL 1000 V-Strom received minor, but stylish modifications that improved life on board. It now featured a 50mm height adjustable windshield, new instruments with larger speedometer and tachometer as well as a new LCD displaying fuel level, engine temperature, odometer, tripmeters and clock. The engine undercover was slightly modified in order to increase ground clearance and the handguard was also redesigned.

In 2005, the frame started being black painted as well as the rear frame covers. The headlight now turned off during starting for less demand on the battery.

The 2007 model year saw new clear turn signal lenses and new swingarm pivot covers.

In 2008, the Blue color scheme was replaced with the Red one, which was to be ousted from the 2009 model year.

Competition

BMW R 1200 GS

Unlike its smaller sibling, the V-Strom 650, which competes with the Honda Transalp and the Kawasaki KLR 650, the biggest V-Strom finds its competitor an ocean away. By its name, BMW R 1200 GS, the machine is a greater alternative for riders seeking the possibility of going on a variety of roads, and even around the globe.

The beemer is powered by the notorious 1170cc air and oil cooled Boxer twin-cylinder engine that is not only an awesome torque provider (85 lb/ft at 5,750 rpm) and delivers slightly more power (105 hp at 7,500 rpm), but it is recommended by its incredibly powerful background (it was first designed in 1923).

But, with its MSRP of $14,750 the BMW R 1200 GS shows why the Suzuki is sometimes not even considered worthy of this fight, but we thought that it is worth doing this heading making it easier for you to take a decision depending on the price you are willing to pay for adventure.

Exterior

2009 Suzuki V-Strom 1000

Stylistically, the V-Strom is a combination between the different categories that inspired designers when they created it. So the bike has the elements of a sport-tourer (half fairing with integrated multi-reflector lights, adjustable screen, upright riding position, the V engine configuration) as well as characters and details generally found on enduro motorcycles (6.5 inches of ground clearance, engine protective shield, high-mounted stainless steel exhaust and hand guards).

The bike succeeds to meet the best of both worlds and still looks aggressive and tempting despite not being built for those purposes. Like on a veritable enduro motorcycle, the mirrors are mounted on the handlebars. The seat is flat and spacious giving a clue on the mile soaking abilities of the Suzuki V-Strom.

What I believe that would have made the difference in 2009 is a pair of spoke wheels, perfect for both on and off-road riding, but Suzuki stays true to the cast aluminum wheels that aren’t as efficient when the going gets tough.

Also, the Black color scheme carries on to 2009 as the only one available for this model. Oh, I almost forgot…the bike also has a little bit of cruiser in its genes so that is why probably they choose the Black over 2008’s Gray.

Price

Dreadfully cheaper than the 2008 BMW R 1200 GS, the 2009 Suzuki V-Strom 1000 comes with a suggested retail price of only $9,199 showing that buying an adventure riding motorcycle doesn’t necessarily have to make a hole in your pocket.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve read about our great appreciation for the V-Strom’s combined characteristics, but, most importantly, if you already planned on buying one, the only thing for you remaining to do is to draw a straight line on the map and simply follow it. I haven’t done that so if there are any volunteers, let me know.

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