Suzuki has revealed its new V-Strom 800DE, a new middleweight adventure bike set to land around the same time as the new Honda XL750 Transalp, priced from $18,590 rideaway.
While the parallel-twin-powered V-Strom 800DE is likely to eventually succeed its V-twin-motivated V-Strom 650XT sibling, both will remain on sale in 2023 with the latter offered in both LAMS and full-power configurations from $14,990.
Meanwhile, the larger-capacity V-Strom 1050DE is expected to launch in March from $24,690, before the 800DE hits showrooms in July.
The new V-Strom 800DE was unveiled at the EICMA motorcycle show this evening alongside the new GSX-8S, with both bikes drawing power from a new 62kW/78Nm 776cc parallel-twin motor, signalling the discontinuation of the brand’s ageing V-twin powerplant.
The bike takes on familiar, yet refreshed styling, with dirt-focussed components like a 21-inch front hoop, Showa suspension (220mm travel), wide tapered handlebars and switchable ABS (rear only).
Other key features include hand adjustable preload for the rear suspension, twin 310mm front brake discs, a 20-litre fuel tank and Dunlop Trailmax dual-purpose tyres on the 21- and 17-inch wire spoked wheels (front-to-rear).
The bike also benefits from a special ‘gravel’ traction control mode, a 5.0-inch TFT screen, full LED lighting, three-way adjustable windscreen, a USB port as well as an up/down quickshifter fitted as standard.
As well as the current middleweight adventure bike heavy hitters like the Yamaha Tenere 700 and KTM 890 Adventure, the new Suzuki V-Strom 800DE will surely compete with the incoming Honda Transalp which was revealed today with a new 755cc parallel twin engine making 67.5kW and 75Nm.
Spencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
Call a spade a spade. And call a heavyweight a heavyweight. It’s the same weight as an Africa Twin and not in the same league as the T7 or TA.
You make a fair point here, but the context is in terms of sales performance. The Suzuki V-Strom moniker is highly respected and one of the least expensive in the segment. It may not beat the Tenere in a race but will surely pinch some of its sales due to its value and perceived reliability.
Exactly. Some people just want a comfortable bike capable of crossing some unpaved roads.
I totally agree