Zane jetted off to Whanganui, New Zealand, to check out the Suzuki V-STROM 800DE. See how the new machine handled the tough conditions... Photos: Geoff Osborne, Steve Caudwell.

Suzuki’s new V-STROM 800DE is a far stretch from the humble beginnings the V-STROM range, which started in 2002, but it is a far stretch in the right direction… Suzuki sent us to New Zealand to put the all-new machine through its paces on some serious terrain.

Check out Zane’s full V-STROM 800DE review here…

2023 Suzuki V-STROM 800DE Tech Talk

Engine
The parallel-engine has a 270-degree crankshaft configuration with a patented Suzuki Cross Balancer – two balancers positioned at 90 degrees to the crankshaft – contributing to even smoother operation. The Euro5 engine, which is also used in the all-new GSX-8S naked roadster unveiled at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan, has maximum output of 62kW@8500rpm and peak torque of 78Nm@6800rpm. Wet weight is just 230kg, including 20 litres of fuel.

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V-STROM 800DE Engine Highlights:

  • Newly developed 776cc parallel twin DOHC engine delivers a fine balance of smooth, controllable power from low rpm and the pleasant feeling of free-revving performance through to the high end.
  • The 270-degree crankshaft configuration helps maintain a pleasant feeling in common with the model’s V-twin brethren.
  • Suzuki Cross Balancer, the first of its type on a production motorcycle, contributes to smooth operation and a compact, lightweight engine design.
  • Cooling system inlet control helps maintain consistent engine temperature and eliminate rough idle while warming the engine in cold weather.
  • The electronic throttle-bodies help achieve faithful response and a linear feeling to throttle action.
  • The 2-into-1 exhaust system features a dual-stage catalytic converter inside the collector that helps satisfy Euro 5 emissions standards, and a long, upswept muffler.
  • The six-speed transmission realises smooth shifting and improved controllability.
  • Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS) helps reduce fatigue on long rides and contributes to smoother shifting. 

Chassis
Suspension travel from the fully adjustable SHOWA suspension is 220mm at the front and rear, which is the same measurement for the ground clearance. Made from sturdy steel pipe, the V-STROM 800DE’S steel frame is engineered to provide all the strength needed for negotiating even the toughest terrain, and that also holds for the seat rails which feature a narrow profile that helps riders better control the bike with their legs.

Chassis Key Features

  • A rugged new steel frame developed for the V-STROM 800DE contributes to comfort, straight-line stability, and nimble handling.
  • The seat rails are engineered to withstand the rigours of riding on unpaved surfaces, even with the optional top and side cases mounted, and also feature a narrow profile.
  • Fully adjustable Hitachi Astemo (SHOWA) inverted front forks featuring a long 220mm stroke deliver a smooth, controllable ride.
  • Adjustable Hitachi Astemo (SHOWA) rear suspension with link, with its 220mm of travel contributes to agility and stability. The spring preload can be adjusted easily by hand, which is beneficial when preparing to ride tandem or carry a load.
  • The longest front and rear suspension stroke on any V-STROM model enhances performance on unpaved surfaces. Its 220mm ground clearance is the tallest of any V-STROM model.
  • Dual front disc brakes with 310mm floating-mount discs provide sure stopping power and controllability.
  • Wire-spoked wheels with corrosion-resistant coating on the spokes.
  • Large 21-inch front and 17-inch rear Dunlop TRAILMAX MIXTOUR adventure tires feature a new semi-block pattern and custom-engineered internal structure.
  • Adopts a uniquely shaped lightweight aluminium swingarm with enhanced torsional rigidity to support the increased suspension travel and contribute to straight-line stability.
  • The fuel tank features a large 20L capacity that helps deliver superior touring range.
  • Wide tapered handlebars use a strong yet flexible aluminium that absorbs shocks on rough surfaces.
  • The solid-mount rider seat is designed to withstand the input load of riding on unpaved, surfaces to be comfortable and to allow the rider freedom of movement.
  • The riding position is designed for comfort and to offer the rider plenty of room, even when riding tandem with the optional top and side cases mounted. The design also enables the rider to shift their weight forward for greater control on unpaved surfaces.
  • Wide rubber-covered steel footpegs feature a textured surface that prevents slipping.
  • The short windscreen is designed to maximise visibility when exploring gravel roads or trails, and also to protect the rider from buffeting when touring at higher speeds.
  • Fitted with a plastic under cover as standard equipment.
  • Rear carrier makes it easier to load gear or mount the optional top case.

Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.)
The Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) features a collection of advanced electronic rider assist systems. The rider can freely choose the settings for each system to best suit their level of skill and experience, and to optimise performance characteristics for the riding conditions and road surface at any given moment.

The Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) features a collection of advanced electronic rider assist systems.

The Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.) features a collection of advanced electronic rider assist systems.

 

V-STROM 800 Assist Highlights

  • Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) better supports the rider in matching performance to the conditions of the riding scene, road conditions, or preferred riding style.
  • In addition to its 3 standard mode settings (+ OFF), Suzuki Traction Control System (STCS) for the V-STROM 800DE introduces G (Gravel) mode as a fourth setting designed to help riders better negotiate gravel roads and flat trails.
  • Suzuki’s ride-by-wire electronic throttle control system realises throttle action that responds faithfully to the rider’s every intention.
  • Suzuki’s Bi-directional Quick Shift System (with ON/OFF settings) provides quicker, smoother, more assured shifting, without operating the clutch lever while in motion.
  • The ABS system features a choice of two mode settings for differing road conditions, as well as Rear ABS OFF mode, which offers more control over braking on gravel by letting the rider switch off rear ABS.
  • The Suzuki Easy Start System starts the engine with one quick press of the starter button.
  • Suzuki’s Low RPM Assist function helps maintain engine idle speed for smoother and easier starts.

Suzuki has maintained the distinctive V-STROM ‘beak’ on the 800DE, but it’s now positioned higher which they say is to convey the model’s exceptional ability to handle gravel roads and tough trails. The short – but three-way adjustable – windscreen is designed to maximise visibility off-road, as well as protecting the rider from buffeting at higher speeds.

V-STROM 800 Styling Highlights

  • Styling for the V-STROM 800DE aims to set a new trend and usher in a new era of functional beauty that symbolises the future of Suzuki design, even as it pays full respect to the distinctive features of its V-STROM heritage.
  • Stays true to the Suzuki design ethos of creating unique styling expressions that gave birth
    to the distinctive character of the V-STROM series.
  • The distinctive V-STROM “beak” is positioned higher to visually convey the extended suspension stroke and the model’s ability to handle gravel roads and flat trails.
  • The bodywork features flatter surfaces with sharp lines that emphasise the model’s look of
    toughness.
  • The headlight, rear combination light and long muffler accentuate the image of readiness to
    perform on unpaved surfaces.
  • Dynamic decals create an iconic presence that is instantly recognisable.
  • Riders can choose from trio of body colours carefully chosen to convey the appeal of the V-STROM 800DE’s distinctive character and accentuate its functional beauty.

Owners can customise their V-STROM 800DE by selecting options from the wide range of Suzuki Genuine accessories available for this model via the Build Your Bike online tool on Suzuki Motorcycles Australia. Items include three-pieces of branded hard luggage with optional locks which can be fitted for simultaneous use, engine and bodywork protection, heated grips, brake pedal height adjuster, side stand extension plate, centre stand and variable height seat units (+/- 30mm).

The V-STROM 800DE will arrive in Australia in July 2023 in a choice of three liveries: Champion Yellow No. 2, Glass Mat Mechanical Gray, or Glass Sparkle Black. The MSRP is $16,980 ($18,590 Ride Away*). Meanwhile, the existing V-STROM 650XT V-twin will continue to be sold locally, in both full-power and LAMS configurations.

2023 Suzuki V-STROM 800DE Specifications

suzukimotorcycles.com.au

Price: From $16,980 (+ORC)
Warranty: Two-years unlimited km
Colours: Champion Yellow No. 2, Glass Mat Mechanical Gray or Glass Sparkle Black
Claimed Power: 62kW@8500rpm
Claimed Torque: 78Nm@6800rpm
Wet Weight: 230kg
Fuel capacity: 20L
Fuel Consumption Claimed: N/A
Fuel Consumption (measured): N/A

Engine: Four-stroke, two-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 84.0mm x 70.0mm bore x stroke, 776cc, 12.8:1 compression, two-into-one exhaust Gearbox: Six speed Clutch: Wet, multiple disc

Chassis: Frame: Steel Frame
Rake: 28 degrees Trail: 114mm
Suspension: SHOWA inverted telescopic, coil spring, oil damped, adjustable (f), travel 220mm, SHOWA Link type, coil spring, oil damped (r), travel 220mm.
Brakes: Twin 310mm discs(f), Single 260mm disc (r)
Wheels & Tyres: Wire-spoked wheels, 90/90-21M/C and 150/70R17M/C 69H Dunlop TRAILMAX MIXTOUR tyres.

Dimensions:
Seat height: 855mm
Ground clearance: 220mm
Overall width: 975mm
Overall Length: 2345mm
Overall height: 1310mm
Max lean: N/A

Instruments & Electronics: Full-colour TFT dash, Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.), LED light all round.

Editor’s Note: If you are reading this article on any website other than BikeReview.com.au, please report it to BikeReview via our contact page, as it has been stolen or re-published without authority.

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