2015
Long term update: 10,000 mile round-up
27 November 2015 by
Nearly there… the odometer’s on 9998 and the last digit is heading towards 9. I can’t help but watch, waiting for the clock to ping into a perfect 10,000. I’ve never known why it’s so exciting to see...
Long term update: Can the V-Strom dig the dirt?
07 October 2015 by
I’ve been thinking about taking the V-Strom 650 XT off-road since I got the keys earlier this year. Suzuki reckon their V-twin can handle it too, that’s why they’ve attached a set of sturdy crash...
Long term update: A tale of two XTs
03 September 2015 by
My friend Bradley quit his job, left his missus, tucked his Honda Hornet in a garage and bought a Yamaha XT660R. He’s leaving next week for a seven-month ride through Europe and Turkey to Georgia. But...
Long term update: A fully loaded weapon
29 July 2015 by
With my panniers still fresh and in need of breaking in, I knew I had to use them at the next available opportunity. So when a group of mates and I decided to head to the New Forest for a camping...
Long term update: Is more bhp always best?
19 June 2015 by
As commutes go, my twice-weekly run from Slough to Peterborough is pretty boring; sat upright on motorways, longing for the respite of seven roundabouts, three sharp turns and one long right-hand...
Long term update: A quick change of screen
30 May 2015 by
I’m getting into the touring spirit. My V-Strom already has heated grips, a fat comfy seat, a pair of panniers and a top box with enough space to move house. There is just one hitch – the screen. It’s...
Long term update: Mongolia or Morrison's
22 May 2015 by
Adventure bikes are supposed to have panniers. How else am I supposed to carry my gear to the Mongolian Steppe, or bring my shopping home from the shops? Whatever we use them for, hard luggage is...
Long term update: The going is about to get tough
24 April 2015 by
I’m looking forward to spending a year with the V-Strom. It’s a practical bike, with a tried and tested motor, capable of serious mile-munching and hard slogs. It’s the mule of the old west, a...