Long Term Suzuki DL650 V-Strom Ownership Review - 11 Years! 111,111km
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- čas přidán 23. 06. 2022
- I've had my 2008 Suzuki V-Strom DL650 for 11 years now and over that time, the bike has taken me on some awesome adventures. There have been a few minor mechanical issues and I've added loads of accessories to the bike. Overall the bike has been extremely reliable.
One issue that I forgot to mention in the video is that the starter button had a problem due to the headlights being powered through the switch, which started causing me issues after around 60,000km or so. But moving the headlight wires to a separate switch solved the issue.
Some of the travels my V-Strom have taken me on have been documented in video travel series, you can find them on my channel by scrolling through my playlists. czcams.com/users/MrAusadvent...
Any videos I've made showing the accessories I've added to the bike can be found here:
• How To & Product Revie...
Intro & Trailer Music Courtesy of Captain Cranky. An awesome musician and regular partner on motorcycle adventures.
Check him out here: / davy1960hill
Bikes: 2008 Suzuki V-Strom DL650, 2021 Suzuki DRZ400E
Cameras: Sony FDR-X3000, Git2, Insta360 One X2, GoPro Hero3+ White
Editing: Final Cut Pro X (early videos before Feb 2013 were edited on Windows Movie Maker. From late Feb to Nov 2013 all videos were created on iMovie)
Want to stalk me all over social media?
Facebook: / mrausadventure
Twitter: / mrausadventure
Instagram: / mrausadventure
I am the Australian distributor for the Helmet Hook, an amazing and simple accessory for your bike which is designed to protect your helmet from damage. You can get yours in Australia here: www.helmethookaustralia.com
I'm a proud supporter of the world's largest synchronised motorcycle ride. Sync The Planet. sync-the-planet.org - Auta a dopravní prostředky
At 238 000kms on the odometer, I bought a 'new' 2007 V-strom 650, officially retireing my 2004 model which I owned 11 years. It still runs, I sold it to a riding school for €250. Allthough the V-strom is considered to be a budget bike, it very very good at one thing: being a motorcycle.
It took me to work, to the Alps, winterrallies, the North Cape, etc. Never skipped a beat. Never even needed to adjust the valves in 200 000kms. At 199997 kms, I took it to the track to celebrate it's birthday.
My second V-strom will have big shoes to fill...but it will do it :-)
Wow! That is very cool! Impressive indeed! My Strom is only just run in then! HaHa!
It certainly is a great all round bike. ❤
Impressed, I am, young Padawan ! Cheers !
czcams.com/video/UMzlg7WNFtE/video.htmlsi=dzBuadSmUoQIIsjE
I think the V Stroms represent the original intention of adventure motorcycles. Many have gone in the direction of almost dual sport rather than ADV. Congrats on the all 11's.
Yeah, I have noticed that. The market seemed to go big for a while in terms of bike and engine capacity, but the trend has come back towards around 700 to 800cc bikes now that are more capable off road. I do get tempted by those bikes but I do love my Strom and also have the DRZ for those duties. I just need to ride it more! Thanks mate!
I was going to 👍….but there’s 11 already 😂
The original GS was the of intention of adventure bikes.
That little Suzuki 645cc v-twin is one of the motorcycling world's great engines. It has character to burn and takes as much as you can give it whilst coming back for more.
It certainly does all that! It has a long term great reputation for good reason.
You did us VStrom riders proud!!
Congrats on what looks like a World Record !!
Thanks!! Far from a world record though! HaHa!
@@MrAusadventure I really think so my friend...gonna search and see if there"s a way to find out.🍾🏅🏍
Got into an argument on line today. Someone was trying to make the case that an 800 CF Moto was great value at 500 bucks more than a 650 Strom because it has tyre pressure sensors and heated grips.
I looked on line and no one was claiming more than 18,000 km total, and had a list of things repaired as long as your arm. Major things. Blown up ECUs, failed fuel injection systems, snapped bolts, burst fuel tank. Things that mean a tow truck.
Then I come here and there's a host of Strom owners with one or two hundred thousand km and no issues, just like every other Strom forum.
I've only got 50k on my 2016 XT that I bought new superceded in 2017.
As you say, unexpected things. The lap never happened. The trip to New Zealand never happened. The last 3 years have been hard.
But the Strom is always ready. Always starts first prod. Always lightens the mood.
Very true. I've heard great things about the CF Moto bikes, but I wouldn't buy one as it doesn't have years of proven reliability behind it. But that is one thing the V-Strom is famous for. I've just had yet another weekend away on my Strom and with just the basic maintenance, it starts every time and performs flawlessly.
I loved your video mate, thanks for posting it. I purchased a 2017 model 650 XT new in April 2018. Done nearly 50,000 km now. I have dropped it a few times over the years but at 79 years old I can still pick her up. I guess when I can’t pick it up anymore it might be time to say goodbye. I really enjoy the VStrom, I ride regularly with the Brisbane branch of Ulysses. I have the Givi airflow windscreen crash bars and panniers. I got my motorcycle license when I was 17 and rode a Vespa to high school. After a couple of crashes, one with diesel on the road on a corner and another a dog ran out at me and brought me down. Mum got scared and helped me buy a car. Spent many years sailing and 23 years flying hang gliders, so never gave motorcycles a thought until my son purchased one , so in my early seventies I purchased a Suzuki Boulevard. VStrom is much better for me. I am sorry I didn’t get into it much earlier in life, but I am having a great time on my fantastic escape machine. Funny it is not as dangerous as I perceived it to be. I know I can come to grief anytime, however I have three things going for me to try and stay safe. I have got a throttle, a brake and a brain and I use all three wisely. When I purchased my first motorcycle and gave up hang gliding a friend said to me. So now you are trying to kill yourself riding a motorbike. My response , no mate I am riding a motorbike to live.
Thanks again for an enjoyable video, ride safe and keep having fun.
Well done riding at 79 still mate. That's awesome! I plan on still being on 2 wheels in another 29 years when I'm 79!
I agree with your sentiment about riding a motorbike to live. What kills people is when they have no spirit, nothing to live for. It sounds like you've always been into adventure so you need to keep that up and keep on living your best life.
The V-Strom is a great bike that you'll hopefully enjoy for many years to come Murray. Thanks for watching mate, glad you enjoyed it. Ride safe and keep having fun also!
You have encouraged me to hang on to mine. 72,000 miles and still going strong
That's awesome! Not far behind mine. I have 121,000km now which is 75,000 miles. Still going strong!
I have a 2010 Strom also in black, currently with 127,000kms. Still going strong with only normal repairs like fork seals, chain and sprockets, and brakes. I ride it on and off road, long multi day trips and daily commutes. Best bike ever! Great video mate! New sub!
That's awesome! You can't go wrong hey!
Thanks for watching and subscribing mate.
A set of fork boots really save the seals. They are susceptible to dust and leakage without them.
I'm in the UK and feel like a bit of a lightweight as I've only done 12,000 miles on my 2015 VStrom 650 since buying it in 2020. In my defence, we did lockdown due to covid a month after I bought the bike, yes I know, great timing. Since then we have been to the very North and South of the mainland, right around Scotland and Wales, and I have a lot more miles planned. The VStrom really is a great and very underrated bike and I really can't see me ever getting rid of mine.
Yeah, I haven't done as many kilometres since I returned from an 8,000km trip at the start of 2020. Covid and 6 months of wet weather have stopped me getting away for long trips as well as just not riding at all on many weekends this year.
I'd love to travel the UK on a bike. Having been there before in 1998 and now having an English partner, it is on the cards for possibly next year, but we'll have to see how that goes.
It certainly is a very underrated bike and I will definitely struggle to ever put mine up for sale that's for sure.
Great review of a brilliant bike, they're pretty bombproof. I've got a 2004 v strom 650 and it's still going strong. It puts up with a lot in the Scottish winter weather but has never let me down. I love it and just like you, I can't bring myself to change it. Stay safe and keep on riding 👍
Thanks mate. You definitely cannot go too wrong. I randomly found myself expectantly test riding a Ducati Multistrada a month or so ago and whilst it was an awesome bike to ride, I hopped back on my Strom afterwards and it felt like home again. Same to you over there in Scotland!
2016 V Strom 650. @117000km. Been across Canada but most miles in Quebec on bad roads that kill cars and bikes. Still not a bearing has been changed anywhere. Just goes and goes and goes.
How good is it! They do just keep going. I only really do the basic maintenance on mine most of the time. It's at 124,000km now and loving it! I just had yet another weekend away on it.
Congrats mate, an awesome 11 years and 111111 Km... you "one" the day!!!
It's been a huge pleasure to have been along for quite a few of those K's, and looking forward to many more together! Bromance isn't dead!!!
Remind me not to get your help in advertising a bike sale 🤣
Thanks mate. It has been a pleasure sharing many of kms with you. There are most definitely many more together coming up in the future.
Yeah, a bike salesman I am not! LOL
Im in Australia and have an 07 VStrom 650, bought it for $1850 with 74000 km as a covid project, Put in new fork seals and bushes, chain and sprockets, Arashi Front rotors, new pads all round, And a set of Shinko 705 tyres, it’s my go to bike now. Such an easy and comfortable bike to ride.Biggest ride so far is a 2400km 3 day ride to Adelaide and back. No complaints at all, great fuel range, easy on tyres and easy on the old body riding all day.
That's awesome mate! They are such a great and very underrated bike that's for sure. 2400km in 3 days is roughly what I've done on some big trips away and I agree it is comfortable for the old body! You'll get years more enjoyment out of your Strom!
I've had a 2007 since new, now 56,000, still loving it. I never understood the crowd that thinks they are ugly.
I've never understood that line of thought either. I'm always looking back at my bike and loving the sight of it!
My 05 650 has just done 107000 just got back from Wagga to Crescent head . I'm 105kg carrying 20 kg on the back no problem! Plenty of power for long trips.
Very cool! Such an awesome bike hey! Very underrated.
I have a Can Am Spyder RTL that I drive like a hooligan when one up (my wife is afraid of two wheels). I've been searching for a mountain muncher, that lives for curves, twisties, and a bit of off roading. I'm 6'2" 245 pounds and I need something that can deal with that without strain. I wonder if the Strom will fit that bill?
@@chuckkelley5894 your a big lad chuck maybe the v strom 1000 mite be a better fit for you.
@@rhett7716 Thanks Rhett. I think you’re right. The 1000 might feel to me like the 650 does to the lighter fellas. I appreciate your comment.
Love your review! Beautiful bike. I love how you're real and show us coming off it's better than the ones who act like they have never dropped a bike.
Yeah, the real world is that these bikes are heavy and they can fall over at times!
Absolutely loved the opening to your video, so damn funny! I bought a 2008 V-Strom 3 years ago with 17k miles on it for $4500. It was totally loaded with everything you can imagine, I got such a deal on this bike I can't believe it. I put some dirt tires on it and the wife and I have been beating the dirt roads and having a blast. You however have set a high mark for mileage, something I will probably not achieve due to my single track addiction with dirt bikes. Thanks again for your awesome video!
Thanks! HaHa! Glad you liked it.
Yeah, the bigger tours I've done have added to the mileage on the bike. Plus lots of weekends away. The dirt rides are definitely a lot shorter. I have my DRZ for a lot of that sort of riding now. It makes it a lot easier!
Thanks for watching!
I've had my 2017 since April. I've had many bikes and a lot of experience, and this thing feels good everywhere. It isn't the best at anything, but seems reliable and comfortable. I hope to have a similar experience as you.
That's a common comment about the V-Strom, it isn't the best at anything but it is capable and comfortable in a lot of different areas. Good luck and enjoy your time on your Strom!
I had a 2005 Vstrom 650 and regret selling it! Hopefully will be able to pick up another good used one next year! 👍🏻🙏🏻😀
I hope so too! There's always a good Strom for sale here and there.
Ah, those jumping out at you bollards, The Givi windscreen is also the best addition I had put on my bike. Many adventures have been had on that bike and I was glad I played a small part of some of them kilometres. RSM8
The bollard moment keeps finding its way into videos! 🤣
I am definitely loving the Givi screen. I wish I'd done it sooner!
It was an absolute pleasure sharing the road with you on some of those kilometres mate. 👍
Awesome video man! I've got the same 08 650 that's just tipped over 100000. I think of it as the Toyota camry of motorcycles cause it's just so reliable and doesn't feel like it wants to kill me. New sub here. Safe travels 🤙
Oh cool! Yeah, a Camry is probably accurate! HaHa! Lots of older people ride Stroms and also drive Camrys as well!
Awesome to have another Strom subscriber! Thanks! Ride safe out there and have fun!
or the toyota rav4 as its a bit more versatile than a camry ! 🙃
Appreciate your honesty, warts and all about the bike and your life.
Thanks so much!
I took a picture of my odometer with 111,111 miles, about 4,000 miles ago now. Love my V-Strom.
That's awesome! Such a great bike hey!
@@MrAusadventure yes, this is my second one. Sadly crashed my blue one in Oregon, the wind blew me off the road. Had 50,000 miles on that one. Went and got a fresh one right away when the doctor cleared me after three months of healing fractures.
@@TheBeaverWhisperer Oh no! That sucks! Glad you ended up with another one though. I crashed mine in 2012, did $4000 damage to it and needed 4 months recovery time before I was able to ride again.
That's an awesome endorsement of the bike and Suzuki!!
Yeah, they go well the old Stroms! It has done another 10,000km since then too!
@@MrAusadventure Controversial: What do you think of the new parallel twin 800 DE?
What an awesome adventure the V-Strom has had over the years, and many more to come by the sounds of it!
I recently found one of those helmet hooks that I've had for years somewhere in the garage, so I've fitted it to the Tiger. I forgot how useful it is to have.
It hasn't led a dull life that's for sure! Yep, plenty more adventures to come!
Oh cool! Yeah, the Helmet Hook is so handy! When I first bought my DRZ, it was doing my head in not having a Helmet Hook fitted.
Mate, absolutely loved your video. Very inspiring as i just ordered a brand new 2024 V-Strom 650XT in the blue and white colours. It is my first motorcycle so it's LAMS approved. After 3 years i will have it de-restricted and get the full power of it. But after many highly experienced motorcycle riders have recommended this bike as a great learner and all-round bike, i had to research. And i've been blown away at the endless positive comments and reviews of this legendary motorcycle. I know i've made a good choice, even though i don't know that much about motorcycles (yet).
I can't wait to get it and start riding it. I definitely will be doing long distance tours and some dirt roads (not as extreme as you). I had a 79 Series LandCruiser for years and have been all around Australia in that. But the bike world is a whole new world that i am looking forward to discovering. Thanks for sharing mate! Subbed.
The V-Strom is definitely an underrated bike by those who have not really looked into the bike, but those who have ridden one and most definitely those who have owned one, rate it very highly indeed as it is such a fun, reliable and very versatile bike.
Congrats on getting your bike licence! Welcome to the world of riding and the world of V-Stroms! You're in for an awesome ride!
@@MrAusadventure thanks mate! I think because it doesn't look like it goes a million miles an hour it doesn't appeal to a lot of people. But as you said, once ridden, it surprises people. I'm looking forward to having that same awesome experience once i get mine. Thanks again mate, cheers!
Thanks for the Video, I'm picking up a 2008 Vee650 same color and year as yours next week with only 4000 miles and like new. Nice to know it will give me years of adventures. Enjoyed the review.
Wow! That is insane finding one with that low mileage on it!
That's a bit like when I bought mine. I test rode one for sale that had over 100,000km on it, then I rode one with 3,000km on it and couldn't tell much difference in how they rode. So I bought the 3000km one on it with the plan to put 100,000km on it myself! Glad you enjoyed it!
You've really got that set up perfectly for you - sure sounds like a reliable bike and looks great for over 100,000km especially with the adventures you've taken it on. That is a bike that has really lived.
The bike has led a good life that's for sure! It is the perfect set up for me. I just need to get it out into the interior of Australia more into some of those areas you've road tripped. Thanks mate!
Wonderful journey man. That bike should be feeling lucky enough to visit that many places
If only the bike could talk hey!
My girlfriend got a 2005 dl650, with 135000km on the clock. Still runs great. Just came home from a trip to Norway. Didn't miss a beat.. Burns a little oil, but guess that's ok if you think of the milage.
That's awesome. You can't go wrong really, even with the higher kms. Has it had the valve clearances checked recently?
@@MrAusadventure No it hasn't.. It runs great, but burns a little oil.. 250ml/1000km
Great retrospective, as another Queenslander I’m looking at getting one of these and riding it down to tassie, interesting to hear you’ve done the exact same trip! They look like great do-it-all bikes, and as I only have space for one, this might be it for me once I get on my unrestricted license.
Thank you! They're an awesome bike. So reliable and comfortable on long trips. Definitely a great all rounder!
I have friends riding around Tassie at the moment and I'm so jealous! I can't wait to go back again. Where in Queensland are you? I've just become qualified and started working as a Q-Ride instructor.
Great review of a great bike! My Vstrom 650XT is only 2 years old, but I'm loving it - trouble free, handles like a dream and if careful I can squeeze out 60 mpg. I can't imagine a better bike for my purposes (mixed pavement & back roads). At 6' 3" I did lower the pegs oe inch and added wide pegs for standing, etc. Also added 2" Rox pivoting risers to the bars (just barely enough cable slack to work without modification). Only done short trips so far, but long enough to tell that the bike is quite comfortable. I did add a "Sit&Fly" mesh seat cover for summer air flow and a little extra padding. All 3 of my bikes wear the Sit&Fly covers now. Also easy to add closed cell foam, but I've not needed to do that on my road bikes. Would LOVE to ride Australia someday, but for now the Colorado Rockies will have to be my stomping grounds. Cheers!
Well done on getting a great bike set up for yourself. The Strom is definitely very versatile, you can do all sorts of things to it to suit your height and riding style. I love seeing all the different versions of basically the same bike we whenever we have had large V-Strom gatherings here.
Colorado must be awesome for riding! I've been there, but in April when it was still covered in snow!
Good stuff mate, looks like lots of fond memories.
Thanks mate. So many awesome memories.
That is remarkable, too funny, awesome video Mr Aus!!!! 😂
Thanks so much mate!
Got into your channel with the first review and been follow you since then and l have enjoy every video you have put out.. This is a propper long term review of the most under rated bike out there.
Great editing mate. 🤣🤣Never been dropped 😄
NB... Still waiting to buy a sticker 🇳🇴🍺😎
It has been a great pleasure having you along for the ride all these years mate. I always appreciate your comments on my videos and on Cranky's. Thank you my friend!
Nope. Never been dropped! HaHa!
Send me your address in a message on Instagram and I'll post you a couple. I always forget that I have them sitting in a draw! 🤣
@@MrAusadventure it has been a joy to join in on your trips all thise years, and through your channel l discovered CaptainCranky's grumpy television😀. Good to see you back again my friend. I send you my adress on insta. 😊
nice I have almost 60k miles on my 04 and its still probably the most reliable vehicle that I own lol
That's awesome! Yeah, it is nice and reliable when you look after it! Cannot go wrong!
Congrats on 11!!
Thanks! 👍
i love my 05 , i.ve got a month of work in september and am riding solo from the uk across germany to the north of greece then back up through albania and croatia throuth the alps and back home .........can't f@@king wait
Oh man, that sounds absolutely bloody amazing!
I rode 18,000 kim’s around Australia in 2018 as part of my RTW trip. Two up all the way and no issues.
That's awesome! Sounds like it was a great trip!
11 out of 10 then?
Great to have a bike that you love.
Yeah, 11 out of 10 works for me mate! HaHa!
After many enjoyable kms mine let me down one too many times. At 105,000kms I am not complaining, and I do miss its touring capabilities, but it had to go. The previous owner let it sit for far too long, and I paid the price. Corrosion was leading to silly issues that really are not a problem on a looked after Strom.
That is sad. Yeah, they have a reputation for awesome reliability when they're looked after. But I guess even the most reliable vehicle out there is still going to have issues when not looked after.
Hey MAA, this is wobbly_boot from the Stromtrooper forum, great review, congrats on the 111,111kms. I bought my K7 DL650 in 2012 and attended my first Gathering at Bingara, still got the Polo shirt lol. I reckon the V-strom were the most sensible bike ever made, great little tourer that can go off road a bit, were never designed to be a GS Beemer. One of the worst things about them though is when they took a tumble, you're forever having to replace front blinker lights, they are the first things that hit the dirt. Moving down to Albury in the new year, so looking for a replacement to do some Mountain rides. Whilst i like the newer XT shape, I still wouldn't say no to an original. I had to sell my K7 in 2019 as I needed a hip replacement. Liked and subscribed to your YT channel. Cheers Dave J.
Great to see you here mate. I haven't been on Stromtrooper for years! It was a great source of information for me when I first bought my Strom and met a few people through there.
Definitely sensible for the Aussie roads that's for sure. I reckon I made a good choice back in 2011 which is why I still love riding it 11 years later! Yeah, I've had to replace a few indicators over the years! Thanks for subscribing Dave!
Well after 4 years of non-Strom ownership, I've gone and got myself another one....2021 650XT and also came with Givi Panniers but were a bit worse for wear so I luckily came across a much newer pair. Now in my first post to you above, I commented on how everytime my old K7 fell over, it meant a new front indicator assembly, but these new ones are more flexible, I had my first getting to know it tumble last Sunday when I went to buy those newer panners, went over trying to find a park....lean over parking not recommended.....over on my right side, bike hit concrete driveway.....no busted blinkers...Yay!! took my mind off the other scuff marks on crashbars and hand protectors. Well I'm off to Tumut at the end of October with a few of the remaining Stromtroopers to ride the snowies....so if you're in the area on 27th-29th Oct, come and join us at the Imperial Hotel.....I'll be the one with the Woobly_boot 🤣 @@MrAusadventure
@@davidjohnston1374 That's awesome news that you're back on a Strom mate. I sometimes think about upgrading to a newer model. Shame about the drop, but glad the blinker survived! 😅
Yeah I saw the Tumut gathering. I'd love to be there but I'll be in Melbourne helping my mum sort out stuff that weekend. I wish I could go, but I look forward to seeing photos of the shenanigans! 🤣
Glad you're still tuning in to the Stromtrooper forum, yes the Tumut weekend is trying to get the Strom gatherings back after the 4 yr hiatus from Fires, Floods and Covid19, we were initially going to Cobar but most preferred to go somewhere not so far out west at this point....but we may go out west again next year...I'll let you know. The newer models like my XT are now throttle by wire not cable so one needs to go a little easier on the throttle at lower speeds otherwise they feel the same.@@MrAusadventure
@@davidjohnston1374 I have to admit that I don't get on Stromtrooper these days as often as I should. But I still do keep in contact with a few through Facebook and I had the event shared with me there. Tumut is a great area for riding, I stayed there on the bike this time last year. I'll have to test a new model at some stage, but I'm scared that I'll make the leap if I do, so maybe not just yet! 🤣
Excellent effort, what a bike !
Thanks Paul!
Gee Bill all that adventure and your original mirrors are still good, lucky!
Yeah, the fact they still work is amazing! They're scratched up a lot but are still solid!
Woah man. You’ve done serious miles. I bought my 2009 v strom 650 6 months ago and about to reach 7,000 miles. Had 27,000 miles when I got it. You’ve reaffirmed that I made the right choice!
You've definitely made the right choice, there's heaps of V-Stroms out there with more than double the mileage of mine. Happy riding! 👍👌
Good review of your bike. Mine older Vstrom 650. 48,000 KM. Excellent bike
Thanks! That's awesome!
Respect for video 👍🫡
Thanks so much! 😁
Great intro.mate & you deserve the aus.adventurer title.111111 wow talk about symbology. I've got the '17 strom650.Only done 22k & had no issues with except that it just goes.Oh yeah,dropped it a few times but don't fill the tank right up now. Thanks for vid.(chain coming off sounds scary.)
Thanks mate! I just got home yesterday from a 5,100 km trip 2 up over 16 days and the bike performed flawlessly once again. Sitting at 118,500 km on it now. One day I'll upgrade to a newer version. They are such a great bike!
Great video mate
Thank you!
Brilliant stuff 😉
Impressive longevity, great video testament to the reliability of these bikes. I ride a 2018 Vstrom DL650 and while I haven't managed to come close to your endurance - I enjoy the bike every time I get out to explore. I'll check out your channel as I'm interested in the noted helmet lock, pivot pegs and fork brace (type/link to items). I've got another 2k in mileage before changing OEM tires, but equally interested in the Motoz GPS Tractionators. Finally - did you find a real difference with the fork brace? Thanks for sharing!
It certainly is a great bike. There's a part of me that would love a newer model Strom, but then I think why, if my old one is still working well. The only thing I'd want on it is ABS.
The Helmet Hook is simple but awesome. After I did the video review on it below, I was offered the Australian distributorship. There's links to where you can purchase one in the description of that video. I'm not sure where you are located.
czcams.com/video/EfkeNfRDxtU/video.html
The Pivot Pegz are an Aussie company but I'm sure they can be found worldwide. pivotpegz.com.au
I am impressed by the Tractionators. I haven't used them in mud or clay yet, but in all other forms of terrain I've used them on, they perform just as well as my preferred tyre which are the Mitas E07.
This is the fork brace I bought. I thought that it did improve the handling of the bike but only slightly. It has been on there for years now, so I'd have to remove it and ride without it for a while to really see if there was a noticeable difference.
www.cosmo-accessories.com/brands-2/cf-moto/fork-brace-dl650-119-detail
@@MrAusadventure Helmet hook ordered, will look into the pegs. Appreciate the response and insight! Safe riding!
Nice one Mr 😎
Why thank you!
The suzuki vstrom will go down in history as the most versatile and reliable rice burner ever made.
Sounds like a great description to me! HaHa!
I had a second hand 2013 V-Strom 650 for one year. It was my first non- dirt bike for 40 years and I toured extensively on it for that year. It was fun setting it up for touring, albeit a costly exercise. It was a nice tourer.
I am used to cartridge forks , so the lack of suspension compliance on sharp edge bumps at speed was annoying to my wrists. The roads in rural Victoria are in terrible condition. I added the Cogent DDC valves and stiffer springs and a fork brace, which improved the fork action a bit. My major gripe was when I hit corrugations on a dirt road bend at speed, I could end up anywhere on the road by the end of the corner.
A friend asked me to go with him to test ride a Triumph Thruxton. The dealer encouraged me to test a Tiger 800XCx. Darn it! It was better than the V-Strom in every department, but $10K more than I paid for Suzuki. I took the most of the farkles off the Strom and sold it easily. After 5 years and 40K on the Tiger ( including lock down 2 years) I sold the Tiger and am back riding my DRZ400 again.
Just for fun, I am considering a Royal Enfield Himalayan as a cross over between a trail bike and a ADV bike.
I just rode to Victoria and back to the Gold Coast again. I agree, there were some shocking roads in rural Victoria, but there are just as many bad roads everywhere at the moment. I thought we had the monopoly on shocking roads up here, but nope, it seems it is the entire east coast right now! We were fully loaded 2 up and bottomed out the suspension many times.
I would love a Tiger but I'd have to sell both my bikes ( I also have a DRZ) in order to afford one. I have ridden an XCx and loved the feel of it. I'd love to get my partner on a Himalayan, but she doesn't like the look of it.
@@MrAusadventure For the worst roads in the country you have to travel within 100 km of Porland Victoria ( where I live) . The constant flow of B- Double trucks destroys the roads, until you cross the S.A. border. Then suddenly their road specifications seem to be up to the loads that the trucks carry. Even the road repairs only last a few months in Victoria. Strangely the closer you travel to Melbourne, the better the roads become! A second hand Tiger 1025-2019 era is a better option, before they messed with the triple motor to make it feel like a twin. I like the rugged look of the Himalayan and really don't care if it is slow.
G'day, nice review. Mine's a mkII what a versatile value bike aren't they. Concensus with valves seems to be if they're within spec at first check you're good for life unless, as you say, there's noticeable loss of performance. All the best from th UK...
Thanks mate. Yeah you certainly cannot go wrong with them!
Cheers, hoping to get to the UK next year maybe as my partner is English. If we do, we'll be looking to rent a bike and go off on a tour.
Ive been considering buying a V Strom 650 recently, I have a Transalp 650 with the last 5 years and i have loved the bike, but, actually had planned on buying a V Strom at fhe the time so a part of me srill wants to get the older one 2006-2011 🤔. Love your bike
I love it. Can't recommend it highly enough. I have 3 bikes and the Strom is my go to as my favourite for sure.
@@MrAusadventure Thanks, yeah I test rode the Strom and it's definitely a more powerful and enjoyable engine to the Transalp
A bit of touch up paint on the crash bars put on house brick and rotate the tyre backwards for a week and she will look new. Love the Vstrom I picked up the 1050XT and cruise control is awesome. Tassie trip on the bucket list and same goals not ride in the rain or drop it. lol
Yeah, I was only thinking about touching up my crash bars the other day. I should do it!
Yes! That old Ferris Bueller trick!
You'll love Tassie. So many awesome roads. 13 days there was not enough for me so I need to go back. I'm off to Victoria on a 2 week trip 2 up on Sunday, cannot wait!
@@MrAusadventure Stop by at Bald Hill and I'll ride down and say gday. Good spot for a coffee stop.
Looking good 👍
Thanks mate!
Loved the video, looking to Change My moto for v strom or go da nc750x , did 50000 km in 2 years and my curent moto ( Yamaha diversion F 2011) consumes alors and aint pratical for my day to day use.
Would like to do the adventures That you did myself !
Congratz and keep riding!
Thanks! You probably can't go too wrong with either bike to be honest. I'm off on another 2 week trip in a week's time. Looking forward to making more memories on this bike!
@@MrAusadventure Ride safe and enjoy! And thanks
It's great having a bike that goes everywhere and you don't need to baby it!
Are you using much oil? Mine's starting to use a fair bit these days (132,000k's)
Yeah, I've never babied it that's for sure. I'm loving seeing the transformation of yours. What a beast it is!
I've never recorded just how much oil I have left after an oil change, but I know that it is always less than what I put in. I'll have to take note next time. I'm not having to top up between oil changes or anything. I generally do them every 5 to 6K, including filter every time.
Great review, very entertaining! Just what i wanted to see as i just bought one with 30k miles (45k kms). I intend to ride it like you have, testing its off road capabilities sometimes. Better make sure I can pick it up!
Q - what soft panniers did you use?
Thanks. Glad you got the news you wanted to hear! It is a great bike. I have 124,000km on it now. The soft panniers are from Enduristan. They've held up well to the abuse!
@@MrAusadventure thanks I'll check them out.
Great vid and shared life on your Strom. What sprocket teeth have you gone with? I think we might have used the same BBQ grills for our radiator guards 😎
I've always kept the stock sprocket ratio but have often wondered how it would go changing it in order to lower the highway speed cruising revs. Cruising on 100km/h it sits on around 5000rpm.
I think a few V-Strom owners used the same radiator guard as I got the idea from the Stromtrooper forum. It has been great!
Curious...did your fuel pump every crap out on you? I have heard that the first generation 650s had issues...I'm on my second DL 650 (a 2010 with only 50K on it)...no fuel pump issues yet. My 2006 needed the fuel pump replaced after I sold it...at about 60K. Glad to see you are putting the bike to good use and having great adventures...keep up the informative videos.
No, mine has been fine. So far... Fingers crossed it stays that way!
Thanks! The bike has done 9000km since this video was made. Having loads of great adventures! Will do!
Nice review. I've got a 09' strom a few months ago as a first bike. I gotta say it's a great bike but for a new rider it is kind of heavy but I got used to it already. I wanted to ask for the mesh seat cover where'd you get it from? And is the fork brace really necessary/does it do anything? Thanks and greetings from Croatia!
Yeah, it is a bit heavy at first until you get used to the feeling of it. I actually dropped mine in the driveway the first time I arrived home with it! 🤣
I got the mesh seat cover from Ravetech but they've closed down. There are other companies that make them though, but I can't remember the name.
I really didn't notice much difference after I put the fork brace on, not sure if I'd notice it if I removed it and went for a ride.
Croatia is supposed to be stunning for riding! 👍
nice video (from the usa here), i had one visit to australia to melbourne area (not a pleasant visit as my father was dying), but nonetheless, i made it to australia! 20 hour flight! and did it twice. But yeah, its a bit uneasy driving on the opposite side of the road, didn't do any riding there, driving was enough, no accidents thankfully. And now thinking of getting a 650 v-strom (currently own an FJR1300 and a honda VFR), the FJ is bit heavy, just anxious will miss all that power? haha.
Thanks. Sorry for your loss. I've had to deal with that myself, but only interstate flights. I've been to the USA twice, the first time I was there for 5 months working so by the time I drove a car (I did a road trip across the country) I was used to the traffic being on the opposite side of the road and I found it easy.
I didn't ride over there but I have ridden on the right side of the road in Vietnam.
You'll likely miss a bit of that power but the 650 Strom has more than enough to get up and go and have some fun.
I'm considering one of these (650XT) to replace my GS1200, because I'm old and can't pick it up anymore. Just interested to know what happened when you lost the chain and oil leaked out? Was it something drastic and expensive to fix? Thanks
Ah. It was owner error, 100% my fault as I'd let the chain get too loose and as I accelerated out of the corner harder than I normally would, the chain jumped off the sprocket and as it flopped around, it snapped the clutch push rod and pulled it out of the seal. No damage to the engine casing. I was able to get a new push rod and seal for $12USD delivered and then I just replaced chain and sprockets which were due to be replaced anyway as they'd done 35,000km or so. A cheap fix!
hey man, i was just on a long trip with the same model bike. my rear brake has no metal shins, that go between the brake pads and the brake cilinder. it started making this wuwuwuwuw sound. do you have those shins on your rear brake and are they important? could it be the cause of this noise? the pads were evenly worn. thanks in advance
I got rid of mine after one wasn't put back in properly and it hit on my hub every time the wheel turned. I only rode a little bit down the road as I noticed it straight away. But it wore a little groove in my hub. They were bent after that, so I removed them with the next pad change I think.
hi enjoyed your report. i currently ride a gs500 and am looking at upgrading either to an sv650 or a v strom, but the strom is ticking more boxes at this stage. i noticed u mentioned thinking of changing up a tooth for highway running and yr currently pulling about 5000 at 100kph. is that 100kph fairly accurate as the gs is about 10% out at 100kph !
i went up one tooth to drop the revs a bit. does the strom suffer any vibes in the bars at highway speeds? ps. im in the northern rivers u up this way? cheers !
It isn't accurate. Speed traps at roadworks etc always read around 10% lower than what my speedo reads.
No vibes at all at highway speeds. I test rode a BMW GS650 before buying this and the vibrations at highway speeds were a big turnoff. My DRZ vibrates a lot but not the Strom.
I'm on the Gold Coast, so not too far away!
@@MrAusadventure ok thanks for the reply. so at an indicated 100kph your pulling 5k revs rougthly? thats similar to my gs. i dont have the original heavy bar ends on mine and they say they can mute vibs in the bars ?
im still trending towards the strom as its got that off road versatility without too many drawbacks. i am just looking for something with some more low to mid rpm grunt than the gs offers.
i usually have a ride on wends up to moobal for a bite to eat for lunch, will be out tomorrow as weather looking good. thats interesting about the gs650 as i had them on my list too but prob the 800cc twin !
cheers Rhett
@@rhett7716 Well, it is more like 110km on the speedo at 5k revs, so close to actually 100km/h
I think you'll be very happy with the Strom if you do go that way. Most people are pleasantly surprised by them from what I've heard over the years.
Mooball is always a popular spot for bikes, much less traffic on a week day I imagine! I think the newer GS650's are a lot better than the 2005 model I rode, but I think the 800's would be a better bike. But they do cost a bit more than a Strom.
I have owned a sv650 a very good motorcycle. Put 107,000km on it.
Now own a v strom. Both great motorcycles. Sv is lighter and a street machine. SV if taken off road, mine at low speeds engine temperature would start to raise. I seem to like doing too much lite off road on my SV, I then decided to buy a V strom. Was very happy I did . Opened a whole new world to me. V strom can crawl all day long and never overheat.
Yes SV is a great Motorcycle. V strom just gives you more options. Both satisfying motorcycle. Same motor just tuned a little differently. SV or DL crash the GS500. Note is actually started on a 2001 GZ 250 cruiser. smile
Trusty helmet hook lol I also did a video on them back in the day, good looking bike, appears to be as reliable as taxes 👍
Yeah I know! I have your video in my Helmet Hook playlist, as after I did a review on it, I ended up becoming the Australian distributor of them. I'm still selling them and loving my Hook! It is a very reliable bike. 125,000km now and still going strong. I'll be on it again within the hour headed to work. 😁
@@MrAusadventure wow!!! Small world, I’m looking into getting myself a dl650 and stumbled across your videos, keep it up, excited to see just how long that bike can last, ever get the valves checked again to see if they were still in spec?
@@DirtRider22a I still haven't done the valve check but I have everything here to do it myself. I was all set to do it a few months back, but then life got busy. Hopefully I'll get it done in the next few months! 🤣
It goes to 11, well done :-)
It does indeed! Thanks!
Great video, i loved all the nevers,🤣🤣🤣, proves these bikes are tough,😎😎
Thanks! They certainly are strong. Mine is still doing well, just about to click over 130,000km now and no issues.
Yes, the DL650 is a great workhorse...and fun as well. I made the big mistake of selling mine in 2018 to 'upgrade' to a CRF1000L... but managed to find another V Strom a couple of years later. I'll not make that mistake again!
That's great that you found your way back to the mighty Strom. I do like the Africa Twin and various other similar bikes, but after test rides, I always feel more comfortable back on my trusty old Strom.
Great review! Does your V-strom burn any oil?
Thanks! Not really no. I never have to top it up in between oil changes which I do every 5000km or so.
What is the sprung loaded lever you have as a "speedmaster" on your gas grip?
Looks fancy!
Does it still work?
Greetings from Germany! I ride a 2017 V-Strom 650 XT (basically 3rd gen) and made the 36k km a few days ago. So still a long way to go. =)
Nothing fancy, it's an Omni Cruise throttle lock. I've had it on there for years and it works well. Easy to use.
Cool. I'd love to ride in Europe someday. Enjoy the Strom!
That is an amazing bike by all accounts, it has taken you on countless adventures, with many more to come. We all have to put bikes on the back burner occasionally to deal with real life, we just have to remember the reason we ride is to have a life worth living.
Here is to the next review at 222,222km :D
It certainly has been an awesome bike for me. I'm so glad I chose it back then as my future adventure machine.
Wise words my friend. A life worth living is the main goal and what I have to remind myself of when I get up on cold winter mornings like today to go to work when I really don't want to! HaHa!
123456km is my next goal!
@@MrAusadventure :D
She's a good ole girl. Ya gotta keep her now, warts and all.
Yeah, I reckon so! We're off on another 5000+ km trip on Sunday. Looking forward to being on the road again!
Hey mate, how heavy are you? I’m looking at buying something like this after years of road riding , but I’m 120 kg and carry the kitchen sink with me. 6 ft 1 and short in the leg. Would it suit me do you think?
I'm only about 82kg and 179cm. I've known people heavier than 120kg riding a 650 Strom, but it depends on what you like. If you can possibly test both the 650 and the 1000 or 1050, then you will find if one is going to work for you. I think you should be fine on either though.
@@MrAusadventure Thanks for that. I have been looking at some litre bikes, but I don’t know if I trust myself or not……..😁😁😁
Chain taking out the Clutch Rod: brutal!! I made a couple of them off an old BBQ grill, Peace3ed
Yeah, it was brutal at the time as it meant a cancelled weekend away. That happened at the start of it. Thanks!
Good to see
My 2014 only has 11,000km
Oh wow! Plenty of fun left in that one!
Nice
You and cranky around australia 😍😍
HAHA! Can't see that ever happening.
@@MrAusadventure maybe not.. But its a dreamteam😄😄
Looks pretty good for the miles on it / age.
Mine really needs an oil change. It sits for months between rides and its been over a year since the last change.
In the last year I've probably only put about 200 Km on the dial.
I probably should sell it as it barely gets used and it's harder to get on these days , but when I do ride it I enjoy it.
I look at the rego I keep paying and the insurance I keep paying and think... If I ride it 5 times a year, is it really worth paying $800/ year rego/insurance for 5 - 6 rides ? If I do 200 Km for that $800 that is $4 / Km
Yeah, it has some scratches and dents but overall is pretty good condition I guess. Probably because it has been garaged.
Wow mate! Yeah it does get expensive with rego and all that. Why aren't you riding much anymore?
@@MrAusadventure I don't ride much anymore because I now have a car. It's so much quicker to just walk to the garage, hop in and drive. No getting the jacket out of the wardrobe, getting the helmet, changing the battery on the cameras, undoing the lock on the bike, putting on the jacket, putting on the helmet, putting on the gloves not to mention I'm older now. It is harder to get on the bike. Those group rides had to be at least 6 - 10 years ago now
There is also an increased number of crazies on the road (not sure about the Gold coast) and I don't want to be knocked off. Twice at stop/give way signs is enough.
@@roadmonitoroz Yeah, I get that. It is easier for me to just jump in my car to travel to work which is what I did 99% of the time when I lived closer to work. Now I'm further away, I take the extra time to get the bike out most days as the M1 can be crazy at times. I'm very careful of not putting myself into dangerous positions on the M1, but things can still happen. But when it is at a standstill, the bike makes it so much easier. Plus I can park closer to work on my bike.
Yeah, those group rides we used to do were indeed 6 to 10 years ago now! Crazy!
Suzuki, Yamaha, & Honda which brand engine is more durable for long term ??
They all just as good as each other I feel. It just depends on how well the owner looks after it.
I like the looks of the new model if i had the money i would buyed it brand new
Yeah, me too! I'd have to sell all 3 of my bikes to afford one new Strom!
@@MrAusadventurei own only one you are doing great
Lets see my 05 V Strom 650 only 69 xxx. Bought new in 2005 fall. So in Minnesota figure 5/6 months of hard winter that would explain such low miles. So in 18 years it got run apprx 9 years. Next summer 6th set of tires/chain/sprockets ect. Peace .
Awesome stuff! Yeah, you guys have to make the most of it when the warmer months come around! Winter is the best time for riding here.
I've been looking for a daily commuter/second vehicle to attach to our campervan for trips. I've been enamoured of these ever since I saw one in a driveway one day. I just saw a 2005 one at a local dealership with 15870miles for $2990 American. I'm not really financially solvent at the moment but do you think that's a sound investment? You make it sound reliable, I'm worried about another moneypit.
I can't speak for individual bikes obviously as I don't know their history, but in general, even though it's an old bike, that is very low mileage and with the good reputation of the V-Strom, I'd say that it would not be a money pit. I've never had to spend money on mine other than the usual wear and tear replaceable items. You really can't go too wrong in general.
Anyone there who also finds it annoying the heat from the 2cilinder burning your bum? At 😢least my 2020. heats me up especially when more than 25 degrees C. outside.
Not on mine. It does get hot in summer, but nothing too bad.
I'm surprised it took you a while to get the screen and the grips. As soon as I took my test ride on the new to me 09 wee.. I was like "that screen has to go!"
Yeah I know. A lack of finances and other priorities in life I guess. I do live in a very warm climate so the grips don't get much use. But I've loved them whenever I have used them! I had a screen extension for a few years but it broke.
Looks like it’s been a fantastic bike. did the exhaust give any performance benefit?
It certainly has been awesome!
No performance benefits that I noticed, but it is a lot lighter so I guess it offsets the weight I put on the bike when I load it up for trips a little. The main reason for it was to be heard a lot easier in traffic and just for my own enjoyment really.
😊👍🙏
Likeeeeee from Brazil 👍 🇧🇷
Thanks you! I'm currently watching @LaviandOllie who are riding their V-Strom through Brazil.
And I’m feeling bad about not having my valves checked and I have 21k miles. Runs perfect.
Yeah I wouldn't bother until at least double that mileage as you'll only be spending money you don't need to.
how many indicators have you been through
HaHa! Great question! I've replaced 2 front ones and no rear ones. Yet! 🤣
How tall are you for reference? Looking to buy one
I'm 179cm. I can get both feet flat on the ground.
I owned a 2012 DL650 and a 2014 DL1000. I cant see myself ever selling her. Love that bike.
Its a bike for real life.
Nice vid!
I like that! It definitely is a bike for real life! Not too fancy, but very practical. Couldn't agree more!
I have the father of v storm..the freewind Suzuki xf...just keep going
That's awesome! 👌
@@MrAusadventure love it)
Still running the original stator?
Yep. The 650's don't have the same stator issues that the DL1000's do.
@@MrAusadventure Interesting! I only ask because my 2008 DL650 burnt out it's stator at about 21,000 miles. I don't hear about them going very much on the 650s which is why I wanted to ask. I have the worst luck with stators.
@@sam2920 Oh wow! That sucks. Hopefully you don't have any more issues.
@@MrAusadventure Well since then I've gotten myself a voltage monitor hooked up for the peace of mind. Headed out for half of an 1100 mile (1800km) round trip tomorrow! Ride on.
I’d watch your starter button contacts at those kms. They wear which will cause problems. $200 fix for replacement on eBay.
I think I forgot to mention that I had issues with that about 4 to 5 years ago. I packed out the inside of the switch housing with some double sided tape which made the contacts meet again once screwed back together. Then it went on me again a year later causing it to either have no headlights and a starter button, or no starter and have headlights. I solved that by re-routing the headlight wires through a separate switch which cost me $14. It has worked a treat ever since.
Well don’t worry I put 5 hundred thousand miles on my v strom 650 and sold to a polish man and it’s still going
That is incredible! Nice one! 👍
@@MrAusadventure yep the engine is bulletproof I was a motor cycle courier in Dublin ireland I bought 2007 black And grey I am 6ft 1 inch 18 stone at the time the Japanese bike are only made for the weigh of a male in japan I have had every motor bike Honda Yamaha Kawasaki cb cbr xjr tdm ts rd hornet xt Dt non can beat the Dl 650 I still I have a Dl 650 xa but not couriering any more . Top bike . Except the small spring that are in the switches the polish that bought it said he was buying it because the engine heads would never brake because they had been hardened from so much mileage
my KTM DUKE 390 started throwing black smoke from exhaust at 14000 KMs only and engine head leaks engine oil😂😂
Oh wow! That's not good. You know what they say KTM stands for right?
Keep
Throwing
Money
🤣
@@MrAusadventure thats true. now i am riding 2009 my fathers yamaha 😅 now waiting for new Honda 750 Transalp or Suzuki new 700cc ADV