Suzuki DL650 V-Strom Xpedition

The engine makes a claimed 65.7bhp and 44.3ftlb of torque. What this means to buyers is there is plenty kick from the moment you twist the throttle. Exiting out from a junction and up to the national speed limit takes seconds – and not many more seconds to top an Autobahn allowed 100mph and a bit more. Plenty of guts, then, to propel its 223kg mass, with 22-litres of fuel, for safe overtakes and easy pillion work. Cruising at 70mph equates to 4000rpm on the tachometer, which isn’t stressing the motor one jot and returns 45-49mpg at this speed. It powers not just the present V-Strom range, but SV650 and the modern equivalent Gladius.  

Efficient and reliable are frequently used to describe 650 V-Strom. Yeah, even the chassis is spot on to give a solid feel to the ride allied with lazy but predictable steering. Sat up high on the seat with knees barely troubled you get a good view of the view ahead and perfectly laid out dash. Unfortunately you’ll also cop windblast from the screen with it set on the lowest of two height positions. Set on its highest gives ears a better time, but we’d still recommend the taller accessory screen.

As well as ABS braking, an array of Suzuki accessories is rigidly bolted as standard kit around the Expedition’s chassis: two removable and lockable aluminium panniers (82-litre capacity), aluminium engine bash plate, crash bars, centrestand and hand guards. Heated grips and taller screen would have been deal-sealing touches, maybe next year… Compare and buy parts for the V-Strom in the MCN Shop.