http://crosstrainingenduro.com http://tractionerag.com Our Suzuki V-strom DL650 review! My brother is selling his V-strom 650 soon, and everyone is asking for more mid range adventure bike reviews. So here our DL650 long term review, along with other owners comments, known issues, fixes, and a brief history. History first. Suzuki’s SV650 was introduced back in 1999. This bulletproof sporty V-twin had great handling was a favourite with amateur road racers and helped establish the every popular lightweight twins race class. In 2004 it was slightly detuned, gained a 19 inch front wheel and immediately became a favourite with adventure riders. It also became known as the Wee-strom as it was smaller than its big brother, the V-strom 1000. A wee bit of Scottish influence for some reason which we had to mention in this Suzuki V-strom DL650 long term review. The 650 is definitely a favourite, and apparently outsells the 1000 model by two to one. There were constant tweaks to the design, but generally there were three broad groups. Generation 1 ran from 2004 to 2011. Generation 2 got a higher seat, quieter gearbox, more power, more rear suspension, and was lighter. On very early models, failing stators were an occasional issue. Eventually Suzuki issued a recall of the DL650 and it was resolved a long time ago. Another problem on early models, on high beam the two lights used too much power through the switchblock and could fry the wires. I suspect all old models would have been fixed with a replay. So what about the modern versions? The front forks use the old rod style set up. While most Suzuki V-stromowners find these acceptable, more spirited riders will find their limit quickly and may want to fit Plex valves, intiminators or emulators to mimick a cartridge fork. The Suzuki V-strom 650 is on the heavy side. It’s 10kg heavier than its closest competitor, the Kawasaki Versys 650. Generation 3 gained a luggage rack, ajustable traction control, and throttle assist to reduce the chances of stalling. So what’s to like? Plenty it seems according to the Suzuki V-strom 650 reviews. After lots of discussion, and reading dozens of reviews, it can be summarised as the bulletproof budget priced all rounder. Some minor problems were fixed in the early years and the reliability of the twin engine is famous. Along with its competitor the Kawasaki Versys it’s the cheapest mid-sized twin cylinder adventure bike available that’s also comfortable for riding two up. And the handing characteristics make it equally at home for commuting, carving through the twisties, or roaming easy dirt roads. And unlike many Japanese bikes, nowadays, the Suzuki V-strom DL650 is still actually made in Japan. Anyway, there are plenty of rave reviews out there, I want to focus more on the known issues and problems, something most reviews don’t cover. The only problem was there almost aren’t any. And it took heaps of digging to find them. And comparable to the weight of most adventure bikes around the 800cc mark. I can’t find any cases of anyone actually damaging their oil filter but it does look quite exposed on the DL650. As does the exhaust pipe. Many fit a skidplate or pan plate if riding a lot of rocky roads. After that problems become very subjective. Average sized riders love the Suzuki V-strom 650 sitting position. Go figure. That’s it guys. If you are chasing a cheap rock solid twin cylinder mid sized adventure bike, it’s hard to go past the V-strom. Looking for something a bit smaller and not carrying a passenger? Check out our Honda CB500X review. Let us know your Suzuki V-strom 650 comments, especially if we missed anything. As always, we put important notes in our pinned first comment on the Youtube video. I’m very tall and found my legs felt a bit cramped, I would want to lower the pegs or raise the seat a bit. Conversely, very short riders can have trouble reaching the ground and may want to cut the seat down. Most riders find the seat very comfortable. But some say they feel themselves sliding forward toward the tank too much on the Suzuki V-strom 650. I felt this, my brother didn’t. So it’s probably height related. The windscreen falls into a similar category. Most love it, some hate it. I think it just depends on how freakishly tall you are. I was really scraping the barrel to find negative comments. Some riders feel the ignition key is too big. But oddly enough others like the Suzuki V-strom 650 size as its easy to find.
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Our trials channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/MOTOTRIALSTRAININGTECHNIQUES
Music: Courtesy of the amazing Marko Furstenberg, check his music out here.
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FURTHER NOTES: POTENTIAL ISSUES WITH FUEL FILTER Very rare, but I was told there's a high pressure fuel screen actually built into the fuel pump that can eventually become clogged. Apparently it's not serviceable (but there's a pre-filter that is, so stay on top of this). A popular mod is to bypass it and install an aftermarket fuel filter in the fuel line between the tank and the injectors. It doesn't seem to happen often but might be worth looking into if you do long rides in remote areas. Usual warning signs are loss of power at high revs, so it sounds as though normally you'll be able to ride home still.
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Certain 2017 and 2018 models had a recall for the pump mount spacer and o-ring. I worked on a ton of these for the last 3yrs or so and never an issue with fuel filters. Check with Suzuki to see if your bike was done.
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COMMENTS FROM OTHER OWNERS (WHO STILL LOVE THE STROM REGARDLESS)
The headset uses "ball" bearings. You may find the steering feels notchy at around 30,000 miles. Replace with tapered bearings which last longer. – Steph Liveright
Ergonomics don't suit standing, probably need bar and footpeg changes to suit if you like standing.
Very early generation one bikes had an oil cooler mounted very low, it needed protection.
On early models, ABS could not be turned off, possibly leading to some hairy moments (mods available).
Centrestand can apparently hit over big bumps (only one comment about this so far).
Air filter access is time consuming, avoid riding in dust and clean it less often!
Low ground clearance if you get seriously off road.
Be aware that models with cast wheels can be bent during serious off road (like all cast wheels).
One guy felt the service intervals were too long (I often think this with Japanese intervals and halve them!).
Stator recall mentioned in the vid was gen 2 apparently (check with Suzuki if yours has been done).
The only thing this bike lacks is the field repairability.
Mate I'm Scottish and rewound that 5 times to work out where the 'Scottish influence' was. Took me way too long to realise 'wee' was a Scottish word.
I absolutely LoVe my V-Strom.. ..Plenty of power , Great Fuel Economy and Fantastic Handling !
So how tall are you? I'm 203cm and the forums say this is a good bike for tall people.
This is the best all-rounder for sure most reliable and fun bike I've owned and this one is my favourite that does anything not excellently but everything very well I love my 650 DL
exactly the review i needed
Where I live, an 18 years old Wee-strom sells for 4000 Euros. I wouldn't call that exactly cheap 😭
Have one love it, except…a stiffening kit helps with windy days….and I'm tall so the knee geometry is crap for me.
I own three 650 vstroms all with many kms also have one BMW r1200 have had many failures and problems with the BMW to the point that I am afraid to tour with the BMW. Zero problems with the vstroms vs several breakdowns with the BMW. End of story except for the fact that I live in South Africa and breakdowns can be a disaster here. The closest dealer, BMW can be at times one thousand kilometers away. Not like the USA. A simple fuel pump speed controller failure will stop the bike dead, have had two. Shaft drive failures, dropped exhaust valves, failed clutches, electric gremlins all realities, however a fun bike to ride if you can carry sufficient tools and have the knowledge to do the repairs. Cheers
Great review, thank you so much for the informations!
Quick question, how tall are you?😁
This past month
In Sahuarita AZ
I met a guy who had 176,000 on the clock. Amazing. Engine had not been opened up
Absolutely agree with your comments. I had a Gen -1, 2006 V-strom sixfiddy that i purchased new, what a sweet ride it was. Owned it for 6 years, racked up 60K on it without a single issue, it never missed a beat. Sold it to upgrade, but if I was looking for a cheap reliable bike to do a lap around Oz or something similar, I would thoroughly recommend one of these. I could sit on the highway all day on 120 plus and it loved it. It was also quite at home on as you say, 'easy' dirt roads. I found it confident on dirt roads (just don't get into sand, you've been warned). I remember when i first bought mine, ppl were saying they were fugly, and I don't disagree with that, they did have a touch of that about them, but when u get on one and ride it, none of that matters.
I just bought a 2015 and I'm really loving it so far ❤
2007 first generation bike new. Never heard about the high beam problem And I never use my high beam as the low beamShines brightly. So far 55,000 miles. Only oil changes and tires chain and sprocket. That's all.
My 2019 dl650 abs is incredible. Can’t wait to set up it for off-road next year! Kinda need those nobbies for the terrain I’m after! The only down fall to this bike, the top end. 120 mph tops.
I don't know why ppl call any bikes cheap. There is no cheap bike except the old one under 1000euros. If you compare you can buy a new car with the same money. So, not cheap!
Own DL650 2007 found get an air flow on the seat will stop you sliding forward to the tank.😊
For the history generation 2 , V Strom from 2012 had 65 changes from the first bike with biggest being that the engine oil radiator (ugly and ready to be hit by anything the front wheel throws to it) is gone .
Wow… if those are the issues, I'm sold
A beautiful unit for any application.
As usual, an excellent review. You're one of the only blokes on youtube that really knows his stuff. Never even heard of a VStrom when I bought my '17 DR 650. Bought a '17 DL and rode the hell out of it. 5 years and 35 k miles plus. Not one problem, except for a low beam burnt bulb.Sold it to by a Z900RS. Kept the Z and missed the DL. Bought one of the last 650 Adventures for about 10k usd. Not the latest and greatest, but I love this bike.
Rode my 650 around the world with my wife as passenger. No issues at all in 43,000 miles.
I'm surprised I haven't seen this Vid before 🤷♂️.
Being a PO of an 012 model for 2+ years and 25k miles,, I can say with 💯 honesty that it was the best bike I've owned next to my current machine. An 012 Yamaha Super Tenere XTZ1200. Both Epic machines 👍👍.
And I would definitely consider purchasing another We-Strom!!
Cheers 🍻,, G. In beautiful Boulder City Nv. USA 🇺🇲
2012 with 79,000 miles (127,000 km). You just can't beat these for the money. They last and are reliable. No high tech electronic crap to tear up and their easy to work on. Suzuki is doing away with this engine so grab a new one while you can or save money and get a low mileage used one that will last you for years and years.
Great review
The XT with the 19inch front and spoked tubeless wheels is pretty sweet, and 214kg wet!
Thanks for the video!
Great video and great music! Thanks!
You can't beat these guys for an honest, real world review!!!!👍
0:44 you got the pictures switched.
I'm 1m89. I'm between the vstrom 650 and the nc750x. The vstrom seems to have better sizing for me and will be more comfortable for long distance. The nc750x has everything else: dct, frunk, lower center of gravity and more agile in curves and city and lower fuel consumption
I had the failed headlight issue on my 2012, a connector failed under the air box.
I had to bypass the failed pin.
Oh gosh, I had a buddy that sold me his farkled 04 for stupid cheap, and it was a great bike. Unfortunatley at the time I was more involved with hardcore dirt riding via 300 two-smokes and didn't really ride it all that much, though I really enjoyed it when I did. Had to sell it due to layoffs, and nowadays I'm kicking myself in the butt. Now I'm looking for a replacement Wee or Glee for the longer more road/ light dirt orientated trips and keep the DR for the light road/ harder dirt riding.
your review is making me want one of these now.. im trying to find out what kind of bikes would be reliable enough to do an around australia trip and this definitely looks like a candidate 😉
I have now a 2018 Versys 650 LT and a 2014 V-Strom 1000, sold the V-Strom 650 a year ago and the 1000 is for sale, i like the stiff suspension and better brakes from factory of the Versys, Ergo is a lot better for me on the Versys as the reach of the handlebar is a lot closer
It would be great if you could do a Versys 650 review, i did a 19 inch front wheel conversion on mine 😀
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Best bang for the buck! 💥
A well-maintained, garage kept, first or second generation DL650 with less than 40,000 miles on the clock might be the best "bang for the buck" bike in motorcycledom. They can be expected to last for over 100,000 miles and many years without major problems, and they can be bought for a song, relatively speaking. They are not the speediest bikes, but you probably will never experience a more satisfying and capable 70-ish horsepower on two wheels. As a matter of fact, the WeeStrom's 90 degree V-twin is one of my favorite engines of all time, and I've ridden avidly for 50 years and owned over 40 motorcycles.
I've owned a 2009 wee with abs for two years and just over 20000 km. I found the seating position was immediately more comfortable than my previous bike a bmw r1100rt, better fuel economy, similar power to weight ratio and a bit better in the twisties (the old r was surprisingly nimble once it got going) and much, much cheaper to run. I found I was using most of the suspension travel on the road and consistently bottoming out on even mild dirt road ruts and dents. This improved measurably after the forks were re valved and the shock replaced with a fully adjustable wilbers.
I find the ergonomics not too bad, the previous owner fitted pivot pegs and reversed (left to right and vice a versa) them to lower them about 10 mm. He also fitted mild bar risers which I found didn't help the reach and made the bars a bit too tall for siting.Recently I found the stretch over the tank to the handlebars uncomfortable on long days and yes standing is uncomfortable. I have just bought some rox risers which I hope will improve matters. I am not that tall (5' 11"). I am extremely comfortable using this as my all kinds of roads bike and I have recently bought a dr650 which I intend to fit out as my "oh crap this road is terrible!" bike. My overall experience with my 1st gen wee is extremely positive.
Hi can you recommended between Honda CB500x and V-Strom 650 Many thanks
Lov’n your Wee Scottish Accent 👍👈
1st gen had a luggage rack too😎
Bought my 2011 DL650 with 38,000ks six years ago now has 98,000ks. Very reliable, very comfortable have done many 700k plus days and several 1000k days. I also bought an immaculate 2007 Triumph Tiger 1050. The Tiger gets polished, the Vstrom gets thrashed, both get ridden. Never heard of the oil filter being damaged on any Vstrom despite it at first glance appearing vulnerable. Get one you wont regret it.
I like mine, bought it with about 52k miles on it. The only probelm is There is a knocking noise coming from the bike when the clutch is engaged to the trans. I suspect it is a counter-shaft bearing. I've had the bike for about 6 months and was only able to put about 2k miles on it so far 🙁
I bought my 2018 model ("adventure model" – armour, crash bars, panniers, etc) in 2019. Now at 11,000 kms. I had lower pegs fitted when I bought it and had the high seat raised more (higher high seat). This paid off, as I learned when riding another V-Strom 650 as a loaner – very uncomfortable riding position with my long legs (6' 2").
I enjoy this bike and plan on keeping it a long time. Good value, and lots of fun to ride.
Thanks for an informative video.
Great video mate what was the engine vibration like through the handle bars?
2020 Adventure 650 picked up a few days ago. Planning to ride TAT and BDR CO, WY, ID, NM, A few adjustments needed…bars too far for my short arms…maybe pegs too. Really enjoying it so far just 200 miles.
Suzuki in their lack of wisdom added the rev assist to prevent stalling (most riders do not need it). That's the reason I sold my 2019 DL650XT. It runs away down steep hills (doesn't matter the road surface), you just can not chug along in turns, etc. Apart from that it was a great bike and gave over 400k before reserve.