Suzuki unveils V-STROM 800DE
V-STROM family expansion
The Suzuki V-STROM 800DE comes in between the V-STROM 650 and the updated V-STROM 1050. The 800DE features an all-new 776cc parallel-twin, a stiff and light frame and adjustable SHOWA spring-damper elements with the longest suspension travel in the V-STROM family.
Design concept ‘Adventure of a New Era’
Suzuki’s new adventure tourer is designed according to the “Adventure of a New Era” design concept. It is Suzuki’s design language of the future, with a nod to the styling of Suzuki crossovers of the past. The V-STROM 800DE has an attractive, radically new and modern look.
Sharp beak
Its sharp, new “beak” stands high above the large 21-inch front wheel. Its distinctive, hexagonal LED headlight unit accentuates the slim, light and compact appearance, in which the sturdy gold-colored upside-down fork also immediately catches the eye.
Comfort on long tours
The saddle of the Suzuki V-STROM 800DE is designed for optimal comfort on long touring trips. The short windshield is adjustable in three positions, in 15 mm increments. Standard features of the V-STROM 800DE include hand guards, wide footpegs with rubber blocks, a luggage rack with passenger grips, radiator protection and a plastic sump guard.
Suzuki V-STROM 800DE with new engine and transmission
The V-STROM 800DE is powered by Suzuki’s all-new 776cc parallel-twin with dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder. Maximum power is 62 kW (84.3 hp) at 8,500 rpm, but there is also a 35 kW (47.5 hp) version for A2 licence holders. This engine also offers a powerful 78 Nm of torque at 6,800 rpm. From about 3,000 rpm, some 95 percent of that torque is already available.
270 degree crankshaft
Suzuki equips the new powerplant with 270° crankshaft, as its ignition interval guarantees a smooth ride with abundant torque and positive traction combined with a pleasant-sounding roar. The sound and engine character are similar to that of a V-twin, as is thus the case with the V-STROM 650 and V-STROM 1050.
Scoop: Suzuki Cross Balancer
The Suzuki Cross Balancer mechanism consists of two crankshaft-driven balance shafts – mounted at a 90-degree angle. These eliminate vibrations. The system is unique and patented by Suzuki.
Three riding modes
The character of the new parallel-twin is customizable with three driving modes via the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS). There is a choice of driving mode Active, Basic and Comfort. The parallel-twin is always paired with a Bi-directional (up & down) quickshifter, making shifting fast with the all-new six-speed transmission.
Coupling with slipper function
The Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS) with slipper function provides light clutch control and prevents rear wheel slipping or bouncing when downshifting. Thanks to the Suzuki Easy Start System, all it takes is the push of a button to start the engine. The Low RPM Assist feature slightly increases the engine’s RPM when releasing the clutch lever to drive off smoothly from a standstill, even on a slope.
Adjustable ABS and Traction Control
The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is adjustable in two modes as standard. In mode 1, there is minimal intervention. That mode is therefore suitable for riding on gravel trails. Mode 2 is ideal for normal road conditions. Rear ABS Cancel Mode disables the ABS on the rear wheel for desired braking control on gravel and other unpaved surfaces.
Gravel mode
The Suzuki V-STROM 800DE also features a special Gravel mode (G-mode). In this mode, the ignition timing is delayed to allow a limited amount of wheelspin. This keeps the motorcycle manageable and still provides the desired power delivery to explore dirt roads and trails with more confidence.
TFT display
The V-STROM 800DE is equipped with a 5-inch color TFT display. The tachometer also serves as a programmable shift indicator, blinking when the engine reaches the set rpm. The shift indication setting is possible in 250 rpm increments between 4,000 and 9,250 rpm. Operation of the functions and settings for the electronic assistance systems is done with the switches on the left side of the steering wheel.
Available colors
The Suzuki V-STROM 800DE is available with a choice of three different color combinations. Iconic is the yellow-blue combination, this color – Champion Yellow – provides a nice contrast to the dark blue side panels. Another option is the combination of the gray Glass Mat Gray and yellow accents on the front. Both colors are inspired by Suzuki’s rich motorcycle history. The third color combination consists of the black Glass Sparkle Black and dark blue side panels. This makes the V-STROM 800DE look tough and aggressive.