Suzuki DL650 VStrom

Following their introduction of the DL1000 in 2002 (verify), Suzuki introduced the DL650 V-Strom in 2004 as a dual-purpose motorcycle, emphasizing the bike's on-road rather than off-road capability.

For the purpose of further distinguishing the two bikes, members of two large enthusiast groups (Vstrom.info and Stromtrooper.com) often refer to the DL1000 as the "Vee" or "Vee-Strom" and the DL650 as the "Wee" or Wee-strom."

With a 6-speed transmission mated to the fuel-injected and slightly re-retuned 650cc V-twin engine from Suzuki's own SV650 sport bike, the DL650 provides a combination of light weight, energetic acceleration and agile handling. These qualities -- along with the bike's price, fuel economy, large fuel capacity and upright riding position -- combine to make the V-Strom 650 adaptable to a wide range of applications from commuting to off-road and touring duties. For 2007, Suzuki offers ABS for the DL650, reinforcing the bike's capability.


Suzuki's DL650 has found a following across Europe, Oceania and the America's, including new and re-entry riders, riders down-sizing from unwieldy heavier bikes and adventure-touring riders who recognize despite the Wee-Strom's prosaic styling and humble specification a bike of broad capability.

Twice consecutively, the DL650 has earned the title Alpenkoenig, winning the German magazine Motorrad's grueling trans-alp multi-bike test in 2005 and 2006.

In a September 2006 article, Cycle World magazine declared the DL650 "may just be the most shockingly competent machine in the world today."