2014 INTERMOT: New Suzuki V-Strom 650XT unveiled

Based on the top selling V-Strom 650, the Suzuki V-Strom 650XT is visually very similar to its bigger sibling, the 1,000cc V-Strom. The heart is the same tried-and-tested 654cc V-Twin engine that is doing service on the standard V-Strom. New cam profiles, single valve springs and iridium spark plugs on the V-Strom 650XT are supposed to boost low and mid range power.

Apart from the engine, other noticeable differences from the 1,000cc V-Strom are the wire-spoked wheels and side by side dual headlight. Suzuki says the new V-Strom 650XT takes design cues from the 1988 DR-Z ridden by former motocross world champion Gaston Rahier. The beak, Suzuki says, was originally in the DR-Z and has had a major impact on adventure motorcycle design. 

ABS is standard on the bike through there’s no traction control. For riders, who may want to kit out their bikes, the adventure accessories are additional and include skid plate, crash bars, aluminium top and side cases and LED fog lights.