Vstrom 1000

[Toro5xi_imp]

Rainy day here in North East Ohio so I thought I would upload some pictures of my bikes and give a quick review of the new VStrom 1000.
I have been looking for an adventure style bike for a few months and actually had a deposit down on a Tiger 800 before stumbling across this left over 2014 DL1000 at a huge discount.
I have no illusions of taking this bike off road but have been on a few dirt roads so far and mildly over groan fields. The Vstrom has felt very solid but with the current tires on it even wet grass results in the back tire breaking lose too easily.
I think where this bike really shines is the spread out seating position and easy low end power. I grew up on dual sports and have always enjoyed the upright riding position and visibility of the road and ability to see over most cars due to the ground clearance. This bike is not nearly as tall as the larger Adventure bikes but it definitely feels taller and longer than the CB1100. The reach to the handlebars is similar to the CB1100 but the leg room is obviously greater.
It is slightly lighter than the CB and handlebars slightly wider so initiating turns feels a little easier but you feel like you are falling into the turn more as well. I am not a fast rider but think I feel a little more confident on the CB when making relatively quick transitions on the road.
When it comes to rough roads or expansion joints the Suzuki is great. With approx 6 inches of suspension travel you really do not get any sharp jolts. I can see why these make great long distance bikes.
If anyone is looking for a great commuter bike with plenty of power the Suzuki should be in the running, especially if price is important. Like the CB there are still some 2014s out there.




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[the Ferret]

2 years ago a buddy and I rode from Ohio to California and back, 5500 miles in 11 days. I was on my ST 1300 and he was on his Vstrom 1000. Other than having to stop a little more often for gas, and checking chain tension and some lube his Vstrom was the equal to my ST. We even got similar gas mileage. He really liked the Strom for that kind of traveling. Great bike for the money.

[redbirds_imp]

Good report Toro thanks.

Hey, I had an SL350 exactly like that one years ago, even same color. Got it in '71 I think.

[Cormanus]

Never heard anything bad about the Strom. Good looking bikes, Toro.

[Toro5xi_imp]

Good report Toro thanks.

Hey, I had an SL350 exactly like that one years ago, even same color. Got it in '71 I think.

I just love the old Hondas. I barely ride the SL but it is great for just running around the yard and keep hoping my son wants to start riding at some point.