An adventure machine

An adventure machine

Suzuki has launched the new V-Strom 650XT. It has been redesigned to look like its litre-size sibling for 2018 model year. Proving itself to be a practical, sensible and dependable bike, the new one continues to be fairly large. Powered by a 70.7bhp 645cc, liquid-cooled V-twin engine that makes the right noises when called upon to do so, the V-Strom 650XT is an adventure machine on two wheels. 

LIGHT WEIGHT
The engine is nicely placed inside an aluminium twin-space frame, and contributes to the bike’s slim look. If the beak-like front mudguard and the head lamp fairing make up the front, and adds to the bike’s ‘adventure’ image, the minutely adjustable windscreen (it could be adjusted by 9mm) helps elevate the ride comfort. Unlike some adventure bikes that get a bit taxing because of their dimensions, the V-Strom 650XT, weighing 216kgs feels light. It weighs the same as the Versys 650. Its wheelbase is, however, a good 100mm longer than that of the Versys 650 at 1560mm. 

SPEED COMES WITH EASE
This strong performer offers a lot of fun on the tarmac, despite the bike not being very sophisticated with a ‘throw’ of electronics in the suspension department. This does not imply that the bike is not rewarding. It is fun, and a good deal of it comes from what the engine offers. There is ample feel, refinement and linear delivery. Willing to exert a strong pull, and which can be surprising at times, the V-Strom 650XT is very tractable. Coupling strong mid-range performance with an ability to support stress-free overtaking manoeuvres, the bike can sustain speed in the region of 120kmph with ease, and for long.

ERGONOMICALLY WELL SORTED
Extending a feeling of being rugged and capable as an adventure bike, the V-Strom 650XT has a 170mm ground clearance. Capable of off-roading, it does a good job of heading down a dirt track with as much confidence as it glides on the road. Riding on 19-inch dia wheel at front, and 17-inch dia wheel at the rear, the V-Strom 650XT is ergonomically well sorted. Providing plenty of feedback, it urges the rider to explore. As quick as it can be on the road, or travel at high speeds for long, the machine, even when crawling, makes for a relaxed ride. There are no hiccups or jerky responses. The low rpm-assist feature helps with cold starts and stable idle. It automatically raises the idle speed when the clutch is engaged, or when riding at a low rpm. Ensuring linear throttle response, the two-stage traction control programme provides support.  The dual-channel ABS also does a good job, and cannot be disengaged. The brakes, made up of a 310mm dia disc at front and a 260mm dia disc at the rear, are progressive in their feel. The bite is strong, but not exactly ‘reflex-quick’. 

VERDICT
At Rs 7.46 lakh ex-showroom, the V-Strom 650AT is not the most competitively priced adventure bike in its segment. However, it impresses with its ability to provide an amount of comfort to the rider as he explores the world on tarmac and beyond, and makes a good touring machine.

Pros: Performance, tractability, comfort
Cons: Not the most price competitive in its segment

Enjoyed reading The Bridge Chronicle?
Your support motivates us to do better. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay updated with the latest stories.
You can also read on the go with our Android and iOS mobile app.

Related Stories

No stories found.
logo
The Bridge Chronicle
www.thebridgechronicle.com