Suzuki have just announced the 2023 V-STROM 1050 & 1050DE tech updates. Check out all the changes, spec's and Australia rideaway prices to this awesome adventure machine below...
Suzuki’s raised the adventure bar yet again with the Suzuki V-STROM 1050 platform that includes a flagship model dedicated to maximising off-road performance with a 21-inch front wheel, switchable ABS and a special gravel traction control mode!
The two new-generation models are the V-STROM 1050 and the harder-edged V-STROM 1050DE, which will go on sale in Australia by March 2023. For customers who pre-order, there’s also a mouth-watering hard luggage bonus offer.
Check out our 2021 V-Strom review here…
The V-Strom 1000 (DL1000) was released in 2002 as a new generation sports adventure tourer. Its liquid-cooled four-stroke 90° V-twin DOHC engine with four valves per cylinder paired with a lightweight aluminium twin-spar frame soon earned it popularity as a highly versatile tourer. The V-Strom 1000 was powerful, agile, reliable, comfortable and fun to ride.
Suzuki now introduces the V-STROM 1050/DE as a new iteration of the top-end model that offers riders an even greater range of long-distance adventure touring possibilities. The new V-STROM 1050 carries over all the strengths of the previous model, while adopting new or updated features that further comfort and utility. In contrast, the V-STROM 1050DE is a new offering packed with distinctive features aimed at enhancing its ability to confidently negotiate gravel and the other unpaved surfaces of country roads, green lanes, and camp trails.
Engine
The 2022 V-STROM 1050/DE is powered by the latest iteration of Suzuki’s distinctive liquidcooled, four-stroke, 90° V-twin DOHC engine. The product of many years of development by a dedicated team of passionate engineers, this engine has long enjoyed a reputation for delivering power and reliability!
Notable changes to make the engine even more comfortable and easier to control include the introduction of Suzuki’s Bi-directional Quick Shift System and an update to the transmission. These combine to deliver smoother, easier shifting and greater riding fun with a more linear shift feel when going through the gears. The 2022 V-STROM 1050/DE also adopts an even more robust collection of the advanced electronic controls of the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (S.I.R.S.), which includes and update to the Traction Control System that brings a new G (Gravel) mode to the V-STROM 1050DE.
Outstanding characteristics make the 90° V-twin engine a perfect fit for the V-STROM 1050/DE. Its
design provides perfect primary balance, with each of the two cylinders cancelling out the vibration of the other. This eliminates the need for any balancer shafts, preventing the mechanical loss associated with them, and this connects to improving thermal efficiency for higher power output. The layout of the V-twin engine allows for a slimmer chassis design with a lower centre of gravity, and this contributes to nimbler handling and greater manoeuvrability. Because each cylinder is independent, each can be optimised to facilitate the use of dual-plug heads, improving combustion efficiency and power output, while contributing to lower fuel consumption.
New for 2023, The V-STROM 1050/DE is the first Suzuki motorcycle to employ hollow sodium-filled exhaust valves. They help reduce temperature in the combustion chamber, which not only results in better loading efficiency and a better feeling, but also contributes to improving durability.
Existing Engine Features
- Dual Spark Technology which utilises two iridium spark plugs per cylinder.
- Optimised exhaust and intake cam profiles combine with cam timing to provide combustion efficiency that contributes to high power output, low fuel consumption and Euro 5 emissions standard compliance.
- The cylinder bores inside the aluminium die-cast cylinders are plated using Suzuki’s SCEM process.
- Highly-rigid, lightweight forged pistons engineered using FEM (Finite Element Method) analysis.
- Each of the two cylinders is fed by independent 49mm large bore electronic-controlled throttle
bodies. - 2-into-1 exhaust system.
Transmission
The updated six-speed transmission adopts a high-geared first and sixth gears that make shifting into second, and from there through fifth gears, smoother. The updated gear ratios also combine well with the operation of the new Bi-directional Quick Shift system.
Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS)
The slipper clutch partially disengages when downshifting to decelerate to mitigate the effect of engine braking. By helping to prevent the rear tyre from hopping and providing smoother deceleration, this function enables the rider to shift down with greater confidence and maintain better control.
The assist function leverages precision-engineered ramps to force the clutch boss and pressure plate together and efficiently transfer torque to the rear wheel under acceleration, all while using softer clutch springs. The resulting benefit is the realization of a far lighter touch to clutch lever operation.
These assist and slipper functions work harmoniously with the new Bi-directional Quick Shift system to deliver an additional benefit by bringing the advantages of SCAS to Quick Shift’s clutchfree upshifting and downshifting.
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 optimize performance characteristics for the riding conditions and road surface at any given moment.
S.I.R.S. electronic systems employed by the 2022 V-STROM 1050/DE
- Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS)
- Suzuki Traction Control System (STSC)
- Cruise Control System
- Ride-by-Wire Electronic Throttle System
- Bi-directional Quick Shift System
- Suzuki Easy Start System
- Low RPM Assist
- Combined Brake System
- Motion Track Brake System
- Slope Dependent Control System
- Load Dependent Control System
- Hill Hold Control System.
Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) fully leverages Suzuki’s electronic throttle control system to offer a choice between three modes that deliver different power output characteristics to match the conditions of the riding surface conditions, or preferred riding style for any given outing. The settings for each mode were custom-tuned and tested to maximize the V-STROM 1050/DE’s capabilities.
Mode A (Active): provides the sharpest throttle response at low to mid-range speeds and reaches the top of its power curve at lower rpm. Settings for torque characteristics are tuned to deliver exciting acceleration and fully leverage the V-twin engine’s power. It is well suited for enjoying aggressive runs on winding road surfaces in good weather.
Mode B (Basic): reaches the same level of maximum output, but features a more linear curve with softer throttle response at low to mid-range speeds. Planned as an ideal setting for touring, this mode aims to make the bike more controllable and instil confidence in the rider when accelerating, and to make a good fit for a wide range of riding styles and road conditions.
Mode C (Comfort): provides the softest throttle response and more gentle torque characteristics, while delivering power in a linear fashion that eventually reaches the same level of maximum power output at high rpm. The gentler throttle response and limited torque production at low through mid-range speeds makes the V-STROM 1050/DE more obedient and controllable when touring for long distances, when riding with a passenger, when riding on wet or otherwise slippery surfaces, when road conditions are bad, or even when the rider wants to relax and enjoy a ride home after a long outing.
Suzuki Traction Control System (STCS)
STCS for the 2022 V-STROM 1050/DE enables the rider to better control the bike in diverse and varying conditions. The higher number the mode, the faster the control takes effect and the more proactive the system is in limiting wheel spin. As such, Mode 1 is for sport riding with minimal intervention from the system. Mode 2 offers a balance that is ideal for city riding and regular road conditions. And Mode 3 is well suited to wet or otherwise slippery road conditions. The system is programmed to continuously monitor front and rear wheel speed, engine RPM (as calculated using data from the crank position sensor), throttle position and gear position. It is designed to immediately limit power and help prevent slipping when an imminent loss of traction is detected by retarding the ignition timing and limiting the throttle opening.
New G (Gravel) mode (V-STROM 1050DE only)
In addition to the 3 modes (+ OFF) of STCS, the V-STROM 1050DE introduces a new Gravel (G) mode setting that retards ignition timing to help the rider better negotiate gravel roads by allowing some slip when riding on unpaved surfaces. This is accomplished by continuing to deliver power to the rear wheel without interruption, and suppressing it only enough to help prevent excessive wheel spin.
Cruise Control System
Updated settings for the 2022 V-STROM 1050/DE allow the speed to be set when riding in 2nd gear or higher at engine speeds between 2,000rpm and 7,000rpm, which translates to vehicle speeds of roughly 25km/h to 160km/h. The handy resume function re-engages the system and accelerates to the most recent speed setting after cancelling.
Ride-by-Wire Electronic Throttle System
Suzuki’s electronic throttle control system takes advantage of the 32-bit ECM to control the action of the throttle valves and make it possible for settings to more finely control the relationship between throttle action and engine output characteristics. One benefit is that individual settings can be tuned and thoroughly tested to match each of the SDMS modes and realize throttle action that responds faithfully to the rider’s intention across the range of mode settings. It also allows for the introduction of the other advanced systems of S.I.R.S.
Throttle grip action is set to be slightly stiffer on the 2022 V-STROM 1050/DE, particularly when first opening the throttle. This improves controllability with the faithful response of more linear control, particularly when riding on gravel roads. This new setting also makes throttle action feel more natural to riders not yet accustomed to systems that do not employ a mechanical cable. Adding to the benefits, the system is simpler and more compact than previous mechanical systems and eliminates cables that would otherwise add clutter to the right side of the handlebars.
ABS unit
The V-STROM 1050/DE is equipped with a new Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) unit from Bosch that is even more compact and lighter in weight than the unit it replaces. Working in conjunction with the IMU, the ABS unit realizes features such as the Motion Track Brake System, Slope Dependent Control System, Load Dependent Control System and Hill Hold Control System
Twin-spar aluminium frame
In 1983, Suzuki became the first to mass-produce a motorcycle with an all-aluminium frame. Work on developing the best performing frames has continued throughout the subsequent decades, to the extent that aluminium frames have become an integral part of the company’s engineering DNA.
The challenge continues with the twin-spar aluminium alloy frame for the V-STROM 1050/DE. It incorporates aluminium castings along with extruded aluminium sections that lend the right amount of suppleness and strength to an overall rigid alloy frame structure. While more costly and demanding to fabricate, extruded aluminium sections allow for the use of thinner material while maintaining a high level of strength.
The result is a lighter, stronger frame that handles brilliantly and is easier to manoeuvre, even on city streets, that delivers excellent straight-line stability, and that features tried and proven reliability. The frame’s updated seat rails add battery and rear fender mounting brackets that better support the input load from unpaved surfaces.
The V-STROM 1050DE gets its own dedicated chassis geometry with a longer wheelbase, longer rake, more ground clearance and a wider handlebar grip. The purpose is to improve stability and controllability when riding on unpaved surfaces and to provide a comfortable riding position that effectively distributes weight to the front and rear. Specifically, the V-STROM 1050DE adopts a longer swingarm to offset the larger front tyre and lengthened front suspension, and thereby retain the same level of stability and nimble handling as on the V-STROM 1050.
The V-STROM 1050DE adopts a new longer version of the proven rugged and light design of the VSTROM 1050. While retaining the same level of vertical and lateral rigidity that provides nimble handling, it also increases torsional rigidity by approximately 10per cent to support straight-line stability in keeping with the model’s chassis geometry and longer wheelbase.
Optimised front and rear suspension
Fully adjustable KYB inverted front forks with 43mm diameter inner tubes deliver a smooth, controllable ride. The spring preload and compression/rebound damping can be adjusted, allowing the suspension to be set to best match the rider’s preference or the usage conditions.
The link-type mono-shock KYB rear suspension contributes to agility and stability. In addition to adjustable damping force and spring preload, the rear suspension’s preload can be adjusted by simply turning the dial by hand. This is particularly beneficial when preparing to ride tandem or carry a load.
The front and rear suspension spring rate, valve, and piston settings were custom-tuned for the
V-STROM 1050DE to maximise performance and comfort when riding on unpaved surfaces.
Updates to the front and rear suspension also realize a longer 170mm front fork suspension
stroke and an extended 168mm of rear wheel travel.
Wire-spoked wheels and semi-block pattern tyres The V-STROM 1050DE rides on wire-spoked wheels and adopts a 21-inch aluminium front rim for greater stability and better control when tearing up gravel roads. The 90/90-21 Dunlop TRAILMAX MIXTOUR tyre in the front and 150/70R17 Dunlop TRAILMAX MIXTOUR tyre in the rear feature a semi-block pattern and an internal structure is designed exclusively for the V-STROM 1050DE. These new adventure tyres are built to provide solid performance on the road, as well as good grip and nimble handling when exploring gravel roads and trails.
The V-STROM 1050DE adopts wider (20mm per side) new tapered handlebars made from thicker tubing and a softer grade aluminium than the V-STROM. The 1050DE seat features a fixed-height design with a new bottom shape that not only reduces weight by 706g, it also achieves greater rigidity.
The V-STROM 1050DE gets its own smaller smoke-tinted windscreen. While 80 mm shorter and slightly narrower than the V-STROM 1050 windscreen, it has been thoroughly tested to assure comfort for the rider and prevent the rider’s helmet from being buffeted by the wind.
V-STROM 1050DE adopts a rugged looking aluminium engine protector to match its tough image, as well as new side and centre stands designed to match the taller ground clearance of the VSTROM 1050DE’s custom chassis geometry.
A custom new 5-inch full-colour TFT LCD multi-function instrument panel features a clearly legible display of a rich variety of information. Not only does it keep the rider fully aware of all the bike’s systems and settings, it also supplies critical real-time operating status information.
The V-STROM 1050 will be available in a single livery – Metallic Reflective Blue/Metallic Matt Black – and retail for $22,990 ride away.
There’s a choice of three two-tone liveries on the V-STROM 1050DE – Champion Yellow/Metallic Matt Sword Silver, Pearl Vigor Blue/Pearl Brilliant White or Glass Sparkle Black/Metallic Matt Black – and the premium model will go on sale for $24,690 ride away.
Genuine accessories include aluminium hard luggage, heated grips, a high screen, tank bag, mirror extensions, fog lamps, protection foil, frame protection and larger footrests.
Australians can reserve their V-STROM 1050/DE in a special on-line pre-order campaign – and score big! V-STROM 1050DE customers will receive a free genuine aluminium luggage kit (hard panniers and top box), while the V-STROM 1050 will come with a free genuine aluminium top box.
Interested customers are encouraged to build and reserve their new V-STROM 1050 by visiting suzukimotorcycles.com.au and experiencing the ‘Build Your Bike’ feature. Â
2023 Suzuki V-STROM 1050 [1050DE] Specifications
Price: $22,990 [$24,690] Ride Away
Warranty: Two years/unlimited kilometre
Colours: Metallic Reflective Blue/Metallic Matt Black  [Champion Yellow/Metallic Matt Sword Silver, Pearl Vigor Blue/Pearl Brilliant White or Glass Sparkle Black/Metallic Matt Black]
Claimed power: 79kW [106hp]@8500rpm
Claimed torque: 100Nm@6000rpm
Fuel capacity: 20L
Engine: 90-degree V-Twin, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, four-valves, 1037cc, EFI
Gearbox: Six speed
Clutch: Wet multiplate slipper
Final drive: Sealed chain
Chassis: Twin-spar aluminium frame
Rake: 25.4 degrees, Trail: 110mm [27.3 degrees, 126mm trail]
Suspension: Fully adjustable 43mm KYB USD forks, KYB remote shock, preload and rebound adj, 160mm travel
Brakes: Dual Tokico radially mounted four-piston calipers, 310mm rotors, single 260mm rear rotor and Nissin caliper, combined braking system, cornering ABS
Wheels & Tyres: 17in tubeless spoked alloy rims, 110/80-19 – 150/70-17 tyres. [Wire wheels, 90/90-21MC and 150/70-17MC]
DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 1555mm [1595mm]
Seat height: 855mm [880mm]
Overall length: 2265mm [2390mm]
Height: 1515mm [1505mm]
Width: 940mm [960mm]
Instruments & Electronics:Â LCD display, ABS, Cruise, Traction Control, LED Lights, Ride Modes, Hill Hold, S.I.R.S
2023 Suzuki V-STROM Gallery
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.