It looks like the 1050 'Stroms are getting a new lease on life. Odd colors, though. Photo: Suzuki
This year, the big V-Strom celebrates 20 years and well over a quarter of a million sales worldwide. For its 21st birthday in 2023, Suzuki has announced a more diversified Suzuki V-Strom 1050 platform that includes – for the first time – a flagship model 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. With its 19-inch (front) and 17-inch cast-aluminium wheels and height-adjustable seat and screen, the V-Strom 1050 is aimed at the adventure-touring segment by emphasizing comfort and road handling over long distances, while the ‘tougher’ V-Strom 1050DE offers features aimed specifically at enhancing off-road capability.
Accessories include full luggage kit. Photo: Suzuki
In addition to the 21-inch front wire-spoked wheel, gravel traction control mode and the means to switch off ABS at the rear, the V-Strom 1050DE has a longer wheelbase, wider handlebars, steel footpegs, less aggressive steering geometry, a stronger drive chain, solid-mount seat, aluminium engine protection, a new front fender and a standard-equipment protection bar. The V-Strom 1050DE also has longer suspension travel and more ground clearance than the plain 1050, as well as a smoke sports windscreen.
The gravel mode retards ignition timing to allow slip when riding on unsealed surfaces for greater confidence and, Suzuki says, added fun. The traction control can be switched off on both models. Standard seat heights are 855mm (V-Strom 1050) and 880mm (V-Strom 1050DE).
Both bikes also feature a new bi-directional quickshifter and five-inch TFT screen, updated cruise control, a slightly stiffer twist action on the ride-by-wire electronic throttle for a more natural feel, and revised ratios for first and sixth gears. There’s also vertically stacked LED lighting and USB/12V charging portals. Other electronics under the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS) umbrella are the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS), Suzuki Easy Start System, Low RPM Assist, Combined Brake System and Hill Hold Control.
The duo is powered by Suzuki’s venerable 1037cc 90-degree V-twin (79kW/100Nm) carried over from the outgoing V-Strom 1050XT, but now with hollow sodium-filled exhaust valves to help reduce combustion chamber temperatures. Ready for the road. Photo: Suzuki
Ready for the road. Photo: Suzuki
Genuine accessories include aluminium hard luggage, heated grips, a high screen, tank bag, mirror extensions, fog lamps, protection foil, frame protection and larger footrests.
In Australia, the V-Strom 1050 will be available in a single livery – Metallic Reflective Blue/Metallic Matt Black – and retail for $A22,990 ride away, a A$1000 premium over the outgoing model. 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 $A24,690 ride away. We have not yet seen Canadian or American pricing for the new model.