THE ULTIMATE DO-IT-ALL.

2018 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT on Total Motorcycle:

Renowned for its versatility, reliability and value, the V-Strom 650 has attracted many riders who use it for touring, commuting, or a fun ride when the spirit moves them. It is a touchstone motorcycle balanced with a natural riding position, comfortable seat and a flexible engine character that produces stress-free riding during brief daily use or a high-mile adventure. The 2018 V-Strom 650XT ABS marries the looks of the V-Strom 1000 ABS and the tubeless-spoke wheels of the prior generation V-Strom 650XT, unifying the V-Strom family. This V-Strom boasts strong engine performance and great fuel economy while achieving world-wide emission standards. A number of engineering accomplishments result in low weight and a thin chassis, producing a V-Strom that is more versatile, more controllable, and more accessible to elevate its total performance so it’s simply “More V-Strom”. And that’s what a rider wants; more of a good ride.

Adventure, in All Directions – The V-Strom Family

With the new design concept “Solid and Smart”, the new model now has an updated look, in kin to its 1037cm3 brother bringing the V-Strom family together. Suzuki’s original “Beak” style has been further emphasized by making it a straight line from the tip to the top of the tank, expressing the DNA from the DR-BIG and the desert racer DR-Z. The heritage and history of Suzuki’s adventure models are further expressed, giving the owners pride of ownership. Champion yellow is a new color for the V-Strom series, relating to the off-road racing scene of Suzuki and providing owners with an active and challenging adventure feel.

Head Light and Tail Lamp

Contributing in giving the V-Strom 650 a totally new image is the head light and tail lamp, a common feature with the V-Strom 1000. The high and low beam of the light weight headlight is in a compact vertical configuration and realize brightness equivalent to the previous twin head lights, while when on high beam, both low and high bulbs illuminate providing a broader lit up area. The newly featured LED tail lamp, also in kin with its bigger brother, has a high visibility and contributes to weight savings.

Slimmer Tank, still with a 20L Capacity

The redesigned slimmer and smarter tank still holds a capacity of 20L, realizing a long riding range combined with the excellent fuel consumption. Also by eliminating the plastic covers on both sides of the tank from the previous model, the tank has become slimmer and is now able to accommodate magnetically attachable tank bags. The frame covers which wore positioned directly underneath the seat on the previous model have been slimmed down as well, allowing the rider to reach straight down to the ground, resulting in better access to the ground and more confidence.

Equipped for V-Strom 650“XT” ABS

Unique to the V-Strom 650XT ABS are the knuckle covers to support harsh condition riding, and the engine under cowling to give the rider that extra adventure feel, both as standard equipment.

Functional Comfort

An important feature on the V-Strom 650 is the ultimately comfortable seat, and although with the new design to match the update in cowling design, the reputation will continue. Also an appeal inherited from the previous model is that the tandem area is parallel with the rear carrier providing a large flat space to securely strap large baggage when needed.

Adventure with the Heritage

By installing the new design cowling with the vertical configuration headlights, sharing the image with the V-Strom 1000, the cowling is noticeably slimmer giving the rider a wider view and therefore a lighter impression when mounted on the seat. The “Beak” giving the image of the DR-BIG heritage, is sharp and slanted forwards motivating the adventure feel while acting as a functional component reducing the uplift by 9%.

Inheriting the Beak from the original DR-BIG, the V-Strom soars high, out of the city, over the mountains, and over all borders.

The heritage from DR BIG, is now ready to support your adventures, either BIG or daily.

BIG Heritage, BIG Adventures.

The unbeatable comfort of the seat and natural riding position are not the only things that makes the ride such a luxury. The stress free nature of the engine, the super-neutral handling, the acceptability of the whole bike is at a premium balance.

As the miles build up, the difference is obvious and the love will grow.

Slimmer and smarter, yet with more capacity, the three-part luggage system will support you and your partner at all levels of adventure. High seat or low seat, handlebar grip heaters or LED fog lamps, the wide range of accessories shall boost your V-Strom to the perfect tool for any task you intend, or not intend to face.

No matter what your intention is, the V-Strom 650 will measure up.

No matter how demanding your adventure is, the V-Strom 650 will respond to your expectations.

Sometimes offering excitement, sometimes just quietly doing it’s job.

V-Strom 650, truly, a masterpiece.

Controlling the Comfort

The windscreen has been extended 9mm upwards to reduce the windblast and buffering to the body, while the shape has been changed to control the wind flow rather than to simply create a wind-free zone. By making the boundary between the protective area and the not-protective area a blur, the rider will be able to move more freely due to less turbulence and feel a natural wind flow. The adjustable preset three positions are also available using four screws.

DC Outlet

With the newly adopted instrument cluster, the V-Strom 650 has gained a 12V DC outlet positioned directly below the instruments as standard equipment, supporting the rider for the use of satellite navigation systems and/or the recharging of mobile devices. An update for convenience especially on long distance touring.

Core of Comfort

The newly designed seat lives up to the reputation of the V-Strom comfort. While securing a wide flat area to support the rider when riding, the front of the seat is slim enabling the rider to easily reach the ground when stopping. Also the pillion seat has a wide and comfortable space, making sure the pillion rider can also enjoy the ride. When viewed from the side the plentiful padding is visually assuring, inviting the rider on a long adventure.

Aluminum Twin-Spar Frame

Combination of the light yet rigid aluminum twin-spar frame and swingarm is a feature unique to this class, and with the wide-rage engine, provides light and smooth handling and stability in various riding situations.

2018 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

Liquid-cooled 645cc, 90O V-Twin engine delivers strong torque in the low to mid-RPM range, yet provides a strong rush of high RPM power that’s ideal for any riding mission.

Suzuki’s rider-adjustable Traction Control* system, Easy Start system, Low RPM Assist feature, plus ABS** technology makes a great motorcycle, really incredible.

ADV fairing, with vertically stacked headlights and adjustable windshield houses a multi-function, illumination adjustable instrument panel that delivers a wealth of information.

Strong and light chassis has integrated mount points for unified Suzuki V-Strom luggage that’s is easy to clip on and off, and keeps the motorcycle trim when ready for touring.

Ready for real adventure, the V-Strom 650XT ABS has aluminum, spoke-style wheels with tubeless radial dual-sport tires, hand guards, and a protective lower engine cowl.

The Ultimate, to Do-It-All

Think of a challenge, an adventure. The answer to every thought. V-Strom 650XT. Road bends and stretches, two-up comfort, a tool that never lets you down.

The ultimate tackle to Do-It-All. Every day commuting, rough and wet conditions, B-Road twisties, long highway stretches, two-up comfort, the tool that never lets you down. Think of a task, a challenge, an adventure. The answer to every thought. V-Strom 650XT.

Performance V-Twin

The 645cc DOHC V-Twin is a masterpiece of Suzuki engineering which has an evolving history. For the new 650, this unit has been tuned for generous low-to-mid-range torque for practical use while maintaining an exhilarating top-end.

645cc DOHC V-Twin

Exhaust System

Dual Spark Technology

XT Extras

With two V-Strom 650 variants available, as standard the V-Strom 650XT is fitted with wire spoke wheels for better shock absorption and comfort, as well as knuckle covers and an under cowling.

Long Haul Comfort

The newly designed seat lives up to the reputation of the V-Strom comfort. While securing a wide flat area to support the rider when riding, the front of the seat is slim enabling the rider to easily reach the ground when stopping. Also the pillion seat has a wide and comfortable space, making sure the pillion rider can also enjoy the ride. When viewed from the side the plentiful padding is visually assuring, inviting the rider on a long adventure.

Aluminium Frame

The combination of the light yet rigid aluminium twin-spar frame and swingarm is a feature unique to this class, and with the engine providing such generous mid-range, the V-Strom provides light and smooth handling and stability in various riding situations.

New Wheels

The V-Strom 650XT features tubeless tyres and wire spoke wheels which absorb shock from the road better due to the flexible character of spokes, providing the rider with further comfort and exhilarated riding pleasure. The Champion Yellow coloured model features unique gold-anodised rims in contrast to the black-anodized items on the other colours.

Supple Suspension

Flexible and comfortable conventional telescopic forks have a forgiving character, allowing stress free long distance rides to an exciting run on twisty roads. The rear suspension is equipped with rebound adjustment and a remote preload adjuster which can be operated by hand allowing the rider to quickly setup the suspension to match the riding style or in a case of two-up riding or with a full load of luggage without any tools needed.

Brake System

Equipped with 310mm diameter twin discs with twin two piston calipers on the front and a 260mm diameter single disc with a single piston caliper on the rear, the V-Strom 650XT provides controllable and dependable stopping performance.

Slimmer 20L Fuel Tank

The redesigned slimmer and smarter tank still holds a capacity of 20L, allowing a long riding range combined with excellent fuel consumption. By eliminating the plastic covers on both sides of the tank from the previous model, the tank has become slimmer and is now able to accommodate magnetically attachable tank bags. The frame covers have been slimmed down as well, allowing the rider to reach straight down to the ground.

Advanced Rider Technology

The V-Strom 650XT is equipped with some of the most advanced rider technology available, including an Advanced Traction Control System², Low RPM Assist and Suzuki Easy Start System.

Advanced Traction Control System

Low RPM Assist

Easy Start System

Solid and Smart

With the new design concept “Solid and Smart”, the new model now has an updated look. Suzuki’s original “Beak” style has been further emphasised by making it a straight line from the tip to the top of the tank, expressing the DNA from the DR-BIG and the desert racer DR-Z. Champion yellow is a new colour for the V-Strom series, relating to the off-road racing scene of Suzuki.

BIG Heritage, BIG Adventures

Inheriting the Beak from the original DR-BIG, the V-Strom soars high, out of the city, over the mountains, and over all borders. The heritage from DR-BIG, is now ready to support your adventures, either BIG or daily. DR-BIG being the first Adventure model to have a “Beak”, the V-Strom brand has inherited that distinctive look. With the new design featuring a more direct line from the tip of the beak to the top of the tank.

Adventure Lighting

Contributing in giving the V-Strom 650XT a totally new image is the head light and tail lamp, a common feature with the V-Strom 1000XT. The high and low beam of the light weight headlight is in a compact vertical configuration and realise brightness equivalent to the previous twin head lights, while when on high beam, both low and high bulbs illuminate providing a broader lit up area. The newly featured LED tail lamp, also in kin with its bigger brother, has a high visibility and contributes to weight savings.

Optimised Screen Design

The windscreen has been extended 9mm upwards to reduce the windblast and buffering to the body, while the shape has been changed to control the wind flow rather than to simply create a wind-free zone. By making the boundary between the protective area and the not-protective area a blur, the rider will be able to move more freely due to less turbulence and feel a natural wind flow. The screen can also be adjusted to one of three pre-set positions using four screws.

Clean and Clear

The easy to see and easy to operate/understand instrument cluster provides rich information to the rider. The new instrument cluster incorporates a large analogue tachometer and digital readouts for the gear position and speedometer. The digital section below displays the odometer, twin-trip meter, clock, fuel level, coolant temperature, ambient temperature⁴, battery voltage, range on remaining fuel, average and instantaneous fuel consumptions, and traction-control modes.

Where the horizon ends, the adventure begins. Whether it’s a long-distance quest or a short-distance journey, the V-Strom is the versatile machine designed for the spirit of discovery.

2018 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

Engine Features

Using 2017 SV650 engineering, the V-Strom’s DOHC, liquid-cooled engine has new camshafts to deliver clean, strong power at any RPM.

Low-friction resin-coated pistons and SCEM-coated cylinders helps deliver high mileage for class-leading touring range.

The sleek two-into-one exhaust system routes below the chassis to reduce weight, centralize mass, and provide space for a narrow tail section (and optional luggage).

The exhaust system has twin catalyzers and employs O2 feedback to the EFI system to produce optimum combustion efficiency and reduce emissions to an incredibly low level.

The fuel injection system employs Suzuki’s innovative, SDTV (Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve) on 39mm throttle bodies. The secondary throttle valves are controlled by a servo motor for smooth power delivery.

Ten-hole; long-nose type fuel injectors on each throttle body improves fuel atomization for better combustion efficiency and while reducing fuel consumption.

Suzuki’s patented, Throttle-body Integrated Idle Speed Control (TI-ISC) stabilizes the engine idle speed and helps lower emissions. The system is compact and lightweight.

The TI-ISC on the V-Strom 650XT ABS has Suzuki’s Low RPM Assist feature that seamlessly adjusts engine speed during take-off and low-speed riding to smooth the power delivery and to help reduce the possibility of the rider stalling the motorcycle.

The Engine Control Module (ECM) provides state-of-the-art engine management and has enhanced settings to suit the updated intake and exhaust systems, resulting in better fuel economy and linear throttle response.

The engine has dual spark technology heads with two, high-energy, slim electrode spark plugs per cylinder, aid in combustion efficiency and power production.

The V-Strom 650 ABS is equipped with Suzuki’s advanced Traction Control System* which lets the rider control the throttle with more confidence in various riding conditions. It continuously monitors front and rear wheel speeds, throttle opening, engine speed, and the selected transmission gear to adjust engine output if wheel spin is detected.

There are three traction control modes (1, 2, and OFF) and the difference between the modes are their sensitivity to road conditions. Mode 1 is lowest sensitivity level most suitable for skilled riders or in conditions that have good road surface grip (riding on good, smooth roads). Mode 2 is highest sensitivity level suitable for road conditions where the grip may be limited (wet or cold surfaces). OFF disengages all traction control features.

The V-Strom also features the Suzuki Easy Start system which lets the rider start the motorcycle with a momentary press of the start button without pulling in the clutch lever when the transmission is in neutral.

The compact radiator is flanked by wind directing plates that enhance cooling efficiency and direct heat out of the side vents away from the rider’s legs.

The 6-speed transmission suits sporty rides with tight 1st through 5th gear ratios and a tall top gear (6th gear) for highway cruising.

Low-maintenance, long-life sealed O-ring drive chain is standard.

Chassis Features
The beak-style fairing, with vertically stacked headlights and new mounting structure helps the V-Strom 650XT ABS cut through the wind, protecting the rider in style.

The 3-way height-adjustable windscreen was wind-tunnel tested to reduce wind sounds, buffeting and rider fatigue.

The fuel tank has a generous 5.3 gallon capacity but is shaped to be thin at the rear to flow into the slimmer seat which aids the rider in touching the ground at stops.

The spacious two-up seat combines smooth and slip-resistant surfaces, plus an embossed V-Strom logo.

Lightweight, rigid twin-spar aluminum frame and swingarm contribute to smooth handling performance and excellent stability.

Spring-preload-adjustable 43mm front forks and link-type rear suspension with rebound damping adjustment and hand-operated spring preload adjuster.

Spoke-style wheels with anodized aluminum rims (gold or black) laced with stainless steels spokes absorb shock from irregular road surfaces well and accept tubeless tires.

Adventure-spec Bridgestone BATTLAX 19-inch front and 17-inch rear tubeless radial tires are mounted to the spoke-style wheels for good all-around performance.

Front dual 310mm-disc brakes and a rear 260mm-disc brake deliver controlled stopping power.

Compact Antilock Brake System (ABS)** system monitors wheel speed to match braking to available traction.

The lightweight resin luggage rack incorporates easy-to-grasp grab bars and aligns with the passenger section of the seat offering a larger surface for carrying cargo or luggage.

The V-Strom 650XT ABS is supplied with hand guards and a protective lower engine cowl.

Even with a variety of features and advanced engineering, the 2018 V-Strom 650XT ABS’s weight 2.0 pounds less than the prior generation V-Strom 6550 XT.

Electrical Features
The multi-function instrument panel is similar in appearance to the V-Strom 1000 ABS panel, but has functions unique to the V-Strom 650XT ABS.

The instrument set includes an analog tachometer and brightness-adjustable LCD speedometer and control panel.

LCD readouts include odometer, dual trip meter, traction control modes, gear position, coolant and ambient temperature, fuel consumption, fuel gauge and clock. Switching between readings can be done with the left handlebar switch.

LED indicators include an ABS alert and a freeze warning icon, which, together with the air temperature display, warns of possible icy road conditions.

Strong three-phase charging system supplies the 10Ah maintenance-free battery for easy starting and additional accessory power. A dedicated accessory fuse is located under the seat.

The stacked, 65/55W halogen headlamps illuminate the road when your ride stretches into night.

The LED tail and brake light is bright and vibration resistant. The turn signals use bright amber incandescent bulbs with clear lenses.

A handy 12V DC accessory outlet is mounted on the inner dash (was an option on prior model).

Additional Features
Genuine Suzuki Accessories includes side and top cases, engine guards, low and high profile seats, heated grips, hand guards and more.

12-month limited warranty. Coverage period and additional benefits available through Suzuki Extended Protection.

2018 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $9,299 USD

Engine

Engine  645cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC 90O V-Twin

Bore x Stroke     81.0 x 62.6 mm (3.2 x 2.5 in.)

Compression Ratio          11.2: 1

Fuel System       Suzuki Fuel Injection, SDTV-equipped

Starter  Electric

Lubrication          Wet sump

Drive Train

Transmission      6-speed constant mesh

Clutch   Wet, multi-plate type

Final Drive           Drive chain, RK525 114L

Chassis

Suspension Front             Telescopic, coil spring, oil damped

Suspension Rear               Link type, single shock, coil spring, oil damped

Brakes Front       Tokico 2-piston calipers, Disc, twin

Brakes Rear        Nissin, 1-piston, Disc single

Tires Front          110/80R19 M/C (59V) tubeless

Tires Rear            150/70R17 M/C (69), tubeless

Fuel Tank Capacity           20.0 L (5.3 US gallons)

Color     Champion Yellow & Pearl Glacier White

Electrical

Ignition Electronic ignition (Transistorized)

Ignition NGK MR8E-9

Headlight             12V 65W (H9 high-beam) & 12V 55W (H7 low-beam)

Tail light               LED

Dimensions

Overall Length   2275 mm (89.6 in.)

Overall Width    910 mm (35.8 in.)

Wheelbase         1560 mm (61.4 in.)

Ground Clearance            170 mm (6.7 in.)

Seat Height         830 mm (32.7 in.)

Curb Weight       216 kg (476 lbs.)

Warranty

Warranty             12-month, unlimited mileage, limited warranty*

Extensions          *Coverage extension and additional benefits are available

2018 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT – Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: $ CDN

TBA

2018 Suzuki V-Strom 650XT – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £7,899 GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)

Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).