I recently embarked on an adventurous 350-mile journey from Munich, Germany, to Venice, Italy, on the Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT.
As a seasoned rider, I was eager to put this motorcycle to the test and see how it performed on various terrains and conditions.
This review is intended to give potential buyers an insightful look into the V-Strom 1050XT’s features, reliability, performance, fuel efficiency, comfort, and luggage space.
Comfort
The Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT offers a comfortable riding position, thanks to its upright seating and wide handlebars.
The adjustable windscreen effectively reduced wind turbulence during the journey, while the heated grips provided extra comfort during colder rides through the Alps.
The seat is well-padded and can be adjusted for height, which made long-distance riding more enjoyable.
The space available for a pillion passenger is adequate, and my companion found the seating comfortable during our journey.
Performance
Equipped with a 1037cc, V-twin engine, the V-Strom 1050XT delivers 106 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque.
The power is smooth and linear throughout the rev range, with enough punch for overtaking and tackling steep inclines.
The bike’s handling is agile and confidence-inspiring, making it easy to navigate through twisty mountain roads and busy city streets.
The suspension is adjustable, providing a good balance between comfort and sportiness.
The braking system is efficient, offering good stopping power and feel.
Fuel Efficiency
On our journey, the V-Strom 1050XT averaged around 45 miles per gallon.
This level of fuel efficiency is competitive within the adventure touring range of bikes, allowing for longer stretches between fuel stops.
The bike’s 20-liter fuel tank provided a range of approximately 200 miles, which was more than adequate for our trip.
Luggage Carrying Capacity
The V-Strom 1050XT comes with a sturdy and spacious luggage system, including aluminum panniers and a top box.
The panniers have a combined capacity of 82 liters, while the top box can hold 55 liters.
This provided more than enough space for our luggage during the journey.
The bike also features a rear rack, offering additional storage possibilities for soft bags or other accessories.
What we like
- Comfortable seating and riding position
- Smooth and powerful engine
- Good fuel efficiency
- Agile handling and efficient brakes
- Spacious and sturdy luggage system
What we don’t like
- Windscreen adjustment requires tools
- Heavier than some competitors
- Limited off-road capability
Conclusion and final thoughts
The Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT is an ideal choice for long-distance journeys.
It combines comfort, performance, fuel efficiency, and luggage carrying capacity into a versatile package that can tackle various terrains and conditions.
Though not perfect, the V-Strom 1050XT is a reliable and enjoyable adventure tourer that will not disappoint those looking for a bike to take them on their next epic journey.
