The high and mighty always seem to have a way of reinventing themselves in a way that takes their name to a new level. If there was ever a bike that could lay claim to that, it’s the 2012 Suzuki V-Strom 1000. It’s got one of the most powerful engines on the market and, with that, has made a name for itself for itself as one of the most popular Suzuki bikes on the market today.
A lot of the cruiser’s popularity can be attributed to its 996cc liquid-cooled, Suzuki fuel-injected, 90-degree V-twin engine with four valves per cylinder, dual-overhead cams, and oil. This set-up not only provides exceptional low-end and mid-range torque for exhilarating performance, but also does it in a manner that makes every one of its competitors wince in terror. The V-Strom 1000’s impressive credentials allow riders to tap into an unspeakable power in every gear.
Joining the V-Strom 1000’s mighty powertrain is its impeccable handling capabilities, thanks in large part to a lightweight, compact, and rigid aluminum twin-spar frame and swingarm. Cartridge-style 43mm front forks with adjustable preload provides 6.3" of wheel travel allow for a comfortable ride while a link-type rear suspension featuring 6.3" of wheel travel and a piggyback-style shock absorber with adjustable rebound damping and a knob-operated hydraulic preload adjuster add to its handling capabilities.
As far as accessories are concerned, the V-Strom 1000 gets its fair share, including nylon Givi-style panniers, a top box, aluminum side cases large enough to fit a full-coverage helmet, a rugged accessory engine bar, and an adjustable windscreen.
Find out more about the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 after the jump.
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The 2012 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS was built with the idea of being the "Comfortable Adventure Tourer." Thanks to across-the-board improvements done on the bike by Suzuki, you could make a case that it’s become more than what it was being described to be.
Of the many new elements given to the 2012 model of the V-Strom 650 ABS, the most notable is arguably its new 645cc V-Twin engine that features broad torque delivery, signature V-Twin power pulses, and sporty quick-revving high rpm range power surges for full-range riding enjoyment. The V-Strom’s new engine also comes with a high-speed 32-bit ECU that controls Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) system, contributing to enhanced low-to-mid rpm range torque, a linear throttle response and lower emissions for a bike that performs as well as it does. Joining the V-Strom 650’s impressive new powertrain is a six-speed transmission that’s been tailored for active sporty rides with a tighter 1st through 5th gear ratios.
Meanwhile, handling is also a key ingredient in the V-Strom 650 ABS concoction, beginning with a lightweight and rigid twin-spar aluminum-alloy frame and swingarm, all of which contribute to smooth handling performance and excellent stability at high-speeds. The bike also features 5-way spring-preload-adjustable 43mm-telescopic front forks with 5.9" of travel working with a link-type rear suspension with 6.3" of wheel travel, stepless rebound damping adjuster, and a 5-way spring preload adjuster that can be adjusted by simply turning a knob, allowing the rider to set the ride depending on his taste and preferences.
Find out more about the Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS after the jump.
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It’s been quite the weekend for Suzuki, hasn’t it? On the same day that Nobuhiro “Monster” Tajima broke his own record at the 2011 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb while driving a Suzuki SX4 Hill Climb Special, the Japanese auto and motorcycle builder also went ahead and unveiled their latest product: the 2012 V-Strom 650 ABS.
Among the changes made on the new V-Strom 650 include a bevy of aesthetic and aerodynamic improvements that should get fans of the bike up and excited over the 2012 version.
For starters, the bike’s windscreen is now adjustable in three positions and the new V-Strom-embossed logo now sits 15mm higher than its predecessor, improving rider comfort by giving them the chance to stretch their legs a little more. Likewise, the air outlets on the both sides of the cowlings further improves the bike’s cooling and wind protection, while also giving it a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. Even the muffler and the rear luggage rack each sport new designs with the latter now made out of resin material, as opposed to the aluminum make of the existing model.
The new V-Strom 650 also gets a new liquid-cooled oil cooler, which should help in stabilizing oil temperatures, thus improving the bike’s engine reliability.
As for the engine, Suzuki also gave the 2012 V-Strom 650 a new V-Twin, 645cc engine that further improves the bike’s overall performance, especially in the low-to-mid rpm range.
All in all, the 2012 Suzuki V-Strom 650 takes all the elements of its predecessor and completely improves them. The new model is even 13 lbs lighter than the previous version, making for a lighter, more powerful, and more rounded bike.
About three weeks ago, Suzuki revealed the first teaser images of a new "Middle-class Motorcycle." And while the car won’t make its public debut until EICMA show in Milan this November, the company has decided to reveal the first images and details on their new "mystery" bike. It will indeed be the updated version of the V-Strom 650 as previously rumored.
For 2012, the V-Storm 650 will be powered by a V-twin engine that delivers a total of 68 HP at 8,800rpm and 60 Nm of torque at 6,400rpm, plus a 10% fuel consumption improvement over the previous model.
Design improvements include a reshaped and 15mm-taller seat, an updated upper fairing and three-position, a new muffler, and a height-adjustable windscreen. Three-spoke aluminum alloy wheels will be offered as standard together with a new multi-function instrument cluster with an analogue tachometer and a brightness adjustable LCD screen.
The new model will be offered in two different colors: Pearl Mirage White or Metallic Fox Orange. Prices will start at $8,099.
Suzuki’s popular V-Strom 650 adventure range sees the arrival of a new flagship model this month, with the launch of the V-Strom 650 XPEDITION.
Based on the hugely capable V-Strom 650 ABS model, the new tougher XP version, boasts a host of additions, providing a comprehensive list of practical accessories at unrivalled value.
Featuring hard-wearing black aluminum panniers with a total carrying capacity of 82 liters, the XP is the tough and effective alternative, thanks to the provision of engine and hand guards, centre-stand and an aluminum sump guard as part of its unique specification.
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