Unlike some of its rivals, Suzuki has never really had a break from the adventure bike scene. From the DRs of the ’80s, when the dual sport scene was first taking off, to the touring-focused V-Stroms of the ’00s, Suzuki has continually produced capable and reliable machines for adventures great and small.
And with the introduction of two new models in 2023, the 1050DE and the 800DE, we reckon this is the strongest adventure bike line up Suzuki has ever produced. Yes, it’s a bold statement, so let’s take a look at why Suzuki is on its most adventurous streak in nearly three decades.
For 2023, Suzuki has decided to enhance its V-Strom range, with updates to the big-bore 1050 and the introduction of an off-road biased version, the 1050DE. In the mid-capacity segment, Suzuki has also released one of the most exciting new adventure bikes of this year, the V-Strom 800DE.
We’ve ridden them all, and here’s everything you need to know about the Suzuki’s V-Strom range for 2023.
V-Strom 1050 and 1050DE
At the top of Suzuki’s adventure bike range are the V-Strom 1050 and the 1050DE.
The V-Strom has always been excellent value for money, and the new 1050s are no exception. With the standard 1050 starting at £12,999 and the 1050DE from £13,699, these big adventure bikes offer plenty of bang for your buck.
So, what’s new in the 1050 line-up?
The key changes to the standard 1050 from the previous year’s model is the new 5-inch colour TFT dash, and the inclusion of a quickshifter, updated electronic rider aids, cruise control, and a centre stand (all of which are also included on the 1050DE), making what is essentially the entry-level model absolutely bursting with high-end features.
This is alongside the same 1037cc engine found in the previous 1050, although new exhaust valves have been added to the engine which Suzuki says improves longevity and reduces heat.
The 1050DE, however, has even more new features to make it more capable off-road.
This includes a larger 21-inch front wheel, longer travel fully-adjustable KYB suspension, and 25mm more ground clearance than the standard 1050.
It also has a 40mm longer wheelbase, thanks to a new aluminium swingarm, as well as chunkier foot pegs, crash bars, sump guard, wider handlebars, and a centre stand all fitted as standard.
Changes can also be found on the electrical side of things, with a new ‘G’ ride mode which is designed for gravel trails. This allows more rear wheel slip before traction control kicks in, giving you more control while riding on loose surfaces.
And, according to ABR editor James, who test rode the 1050DE in Greece, it performs on the road too. In his review of the bike in ABR magazine, James said:
“The DE won me over on and off road with its easy going road manners and commanding riding position. If you fancy adding some green lanes and military roads to your next adventure, the 1050DE is more than up to the task.”
Click HERE to find out more about the V-Strom 1050 and HERE to find out more about the V-Strom 1050DE.
Suzuki V-Strom 800DE
While the 2023 1050 and 1050DE bring some welcome changes and updates to an existing platform, the V-Strom 800DE is a completely new and rather exciting bike.
At its heart is the new 776cc parallel-twin engine (the ‘V’ in ‘V-Strom’ has never stood for V-twin, but rather ‘Versatile’), which is lively and engaging at both low and high revs.
The new engine utilises a 270-degree crankshaft configuration, which imitates the power delivery and character of a V-twin, and with a specialised cross balancer system, the engine is smooth and plentiful across the power range.
Coupled to a buttery transmission with a quickshifter equipped as standard, and you’ve got a seriously enjoyable platform to work with.
But the 800DE doesn’t stop there in the fight to outdo its rivals. It comes well packaged will fully-adjustable Showa suspension providing 220mm worth of travel front and rear, and Nissin brake components that offer responsive control both on and off the road.
Alongside the hardware, the new V-Strom comes packaged with the same Gravel mode as on the 1050DE, along with three-level throttle control, three ABS modes, and five different traction control settings, including Gravel mode.
These are all presented in a clear and concise 5″ TFT display. All together, you get a bike that’s capable across a variety of riding surfaces and can be tailored to to suit your level and style of riding.
You can read a full breakdown of the new V-Strom 800DE here, but here’s what ABR Chief Bike Tester Julian had to say when he rode the bike in Sardinia earlier this year:
“In the 800DE, Suzuki has made a truly capable and enjoyable bike, with confidence inspiring handling away from the blacktop, and a beautiful new motor that just keeps delivering the goods.”
You can find out more about the V-Strom 800DE here.
Suzuki is also releasing the V-Strom 800RE soon, which you can find out more about here.
V-Strom 650 and 650XT
Thankfully for V-Strom fans both old and new, the 650 still remains in 2023 as it has since 2004, albeit with a number of changes throughout the years.
It still offers the same approachable build and all-round capabilities as it always had, and the continued sales success of the V-Strom 650 and its adventure-specced brother, the 650XT, highlights the popularity of the V-Strom range.
Believe me when I say the 650 isn’t to be underestimated. If you’re looking for a bike that will do it all while offering outstanding value for money, the 650 is a great option. In fact, we like it so much here at ABR, we bought one.
You can find more info about the V-Strom 650 HERE and the V-Strom 650XT HERE.
Find out more about the Suzuki V-Strom range
So there you have it, Suzuki’s adventure bike line-up for 2023, with some returning faces, some fresh looks, and an entirely new model.
Even counting the Dakar days of the 1980s and the DR Big series, we reckon that this line-up is Suzuki’s most adventurous yet. Having said that, we would definitely be glad to see a return of a big thumper to complete the range and satisfy fans of the DR series on this side of the pond, myself included. Over to you, Suzuki.
But, whether you’re looking for entry-level all-round ability, big-bore touring comfort, or middleweight go-anywhere fun, there’s a V-Strom for you, and I suggest you take one for a test ride.
Head over to Suzuki’s website here for more information.
