World’s first test on Suzuki’s V-Strom

We’ve been riding Suzuki’s new TL-powered giant trailie, the V-Strom, on the world launch of this new challenger in an increasingly popular sector.

You’ll find a full test in MCN, out on Wednesday, February 20, 2002, but in the meantime, here’s our first impressions.

1. The V-Strom comes with high, wide bars, engine bashplate and a substantial top fairing. It looks the part, but it isn’t an off-roader.

2. Flinging the V-Strom around highlights its best feature – its handling. The beam frame gives it plenty of rigidity and keeps its 207kg (455lb) weight on-line perfectly. Its fairly relaxed geometry, and the 19in front wheel, mean it doesn’t steer too quickly, but the extra leverage of the wide bars more than makes up for that.

3. Ruts and bumps rarely get through to the rider thanks to the quality of the suspension. There’s an excellent balance of comfort and control offered by the forks and shock. You can’t adjust the forks at all and can only alter pre-load and rebound damping at the back.

4. Brakes can cause the front to dive, but that’s because they are so strong! Even one-finger braking can get the front tyre howling in protest.

5. The fuel-injected V-twin has loads of grunt which allows you to be lazy. Floods of torque are available regardless of how low it’s revving or what gear it’s in. But it runs smoother if you don’t let the revs dip below 3000rpm. The extra surge at 6000rpm is just too good to resist, though the twin does start to feel a bit harsh and unrefined when it’s being pushed hard.

6. The V-Strom scores top marks for comfort. As is typical of bikes in this class, the riding position is relaxed and roomy. And the fairing offers excellent protection.

7. It costs £7350 and is group 12 insurance.

More in MCN, out on Wednesday, February 20, 2002.