Suzuki V-Strom (VStrom) Owners Club DL250, DL650, DL1000 & DL1050
V-Strom specific discussion => V-Strom specific discussion => Topic started by: Pickaxe on August 26, 2014, 13:16:01
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Having recently taken several bikes out on test, including the V-Strom 1000, I honestly think the write ups in the press are misleading and wrongly praise the V-Strom 1000.
Compared with the smaller V-Strom, the larger bike is no better in most areas except power output and in several key areas, a lot worse. In fact thinking that you'd be getting a bigger, better version of the 650 is probably the worst presumption you could make.
Anybody looking for a bike in this class should try the KTM 1190 Adventure. It's worth every single penny of the £4000 extra.
The 650 has very little kudos, but is a gem of a bike at a bargain price. My search for a new bike continues..
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What other Bikes are you looking at to compare with the KTM ?
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Timmo, I've tried the V-Strom 1000, Kawasaki 1000 Versys, Triumph 1050 Tiger Sport and KTM 1190 ADV & ADV R. Yet to try BMW R1200GS and Ducati Multistrada.
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Hope you put them on the forum when you demo them,like to hear your thoughts especially the Multistrada.
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I wanted to like the bike and after reading many reviews, fully expected that would be the case.
It's often difficult to qualify or quantify the various virtues of different machines and it comes down to an individuals impression.
I'm not expecting anybody to be influenced by what I've said, but I would urge a prospective buyer to road test the bike first.
I didn't think there'd be so much difference between the high and low end bikes in this sector, but so far it seems there is.
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Without pressing the dreaded quote button, I would refer you to again to Ali,s post. What was it you did,nt like? The handling, the ride, the brakes? The bikes you praise are all roughly 50% more expensive than the new Veek. Are they that much better, faster, better equipped or comfortable, I think not. My opinion, like everyone else's is worth exactly what you paid for it but for the sake of prospective buyers, if you're going to criticise, make it constructive..
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The reasons why personally, I wouldn't purchase a V-Strom DL1000:
1. There was a vibration throughout the rev range the bars that caused my hands to numb.
2. Seat uncomfortable for distance work.
3. Screen/fairing not sufficiently protective for touring.
4. Fuel injection glitchy/fierce.
5. Too expensive for what you get.
Every other aspect of the bike (brakes, handling etc.) was acceptable.
And yes, in my opinion the KTM is everything the V-Strom should be and worth the extra.
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Fair comment Pickaxe, If I had experienced points 1 to 4 on my test ride I would have looked elsewhere too. The seat and screen are purely down to the individual but the vibes and crappy fuelling once again begs the question why are some dealers setting the bikes up properly and some not. Basic rule of business surely, present your product at it's best. Admitted the new Veek is not going to blow your socks off compared to the 150 bhp of the KTM but I think 8 grand for a modern litre v twin with fully adjustable suspension, radial 4 pot brakes, Abs and traction control is a fair price in today's market.
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Ali,
I didn't say I'd buy the KTM and I actually fancied the Suzuki. As you say, they can have reliability problems (as do BMWs), but that's a separate issue. I spent 20 odd years being paid to ride BMWs and ST1100s. Never had reliability problems with the Hondas, but the BMWs had much more character, albeit more time off road.
Not all V twins vibrate in a bad way, by comparison the KTM doesn't suffer from intrusive vibration and puts a smile on your face (well mine anyway) when you ride it. I was surprised with the vibes on the Veek because I put my hand on other parts of the bike and couldn't really notice any vibration.
At the moment I'm sticking with Glee. :)
Regards
Dave
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When you read many of the Threads on this Forum it comes across that there is a desire in certain quarters to dislike this bike.
Ali, that's just daft :GRR:
People will either like it or not, they may have ridden one, they may not, they may have just seen the extremely poor finish close up and that was enough to put them off.
Either way, people are free to express their views. Nobody sets out deliberately to dislike a bike.
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I wanted to like the bike and after reading many reviews, fully expected that would be the case.
It's often difficult to qualify or quantify the various virtues of different machines and it comes down to an individuals impression.
I'm not expecting anybody to be influenced by what I've said, but I would urge a prospective buyer to road test the bike first.
I didn't think there'd be so much difference between the high and low end bikes in this sector, but so far it seems there is.
I must be missing something, does ANYONE buy a bike without test riding it first?........
And YES I also think there is a bit of 'anti-new strom' sentiment on this site!
IF I'd bought one, I'm not even sure I would have mentioned it here...and that's a shame!
I've'e test ridden one 3 times now -and thought it was great, my only comment is that (unfortunately) I cannot justify it to myself..... yet!!
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I test rode the bike and thought the ride was great with none of the issues reported on here. However to me the bike is ugly so I wouldn't buy one at present. Maybe it'll grow on me maybe it won't?? If I loved the look I'd have bought it at a price I'm happy with.
I like my Glee but my brother doesn't even though he's ridden it and says it handles great, he still wouldn't buy one, it's just not for him.
I don't think anyone is anti-Veek per se, just for some they were disappointed with the product and as a result wouldn't pay what Suzuki were asking for it, but that's their choice.
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Strange kwarr, I got the impression that the tide was turning in favour of the Veek on here. I know some have had (or are still having) set up issues but I would have one, based on what I have read and after sitting on one at the NEC. Yes, I would have to test ride one and yes, at present I can't afford one, but I won't let that get in the way of me really liking them! :)
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However to me the bike is ugly so I wouldn't buy one at present..
I don't think anyone is anti-Veek per se, just for some they were disappointed with the product and as a result wouldn't pay what Suzuki were asking for it, but that's their choice.
Two very good points that sum up exactly what I think of it too.
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I must be missing something, does ANYONE buy a bike without test riding it first?........
Back in the day you couldn't test ride new bikes. They simply didn't have demonstrators.
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However to me the bike is ugly so I wouldn't buy one at present. Maybe it'll grow on me maybe it won't?? If I loved the look I'd have bought it at a price I'm happy with.
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I like the looks of the 1000 and find my glee a bit challenging in the looks dept :)
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Interesting debate - I like to look of the Veek but haven't had a test ride yet. How does it compare size wise with the R800GS?
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I find the sentiments expressed here quite interesting. I have a 990 Adv and owners of them despaired at the 1190 release, and still do: poor build quality, reliabilty, being too road oriented and hugely overpriced being the usual gripes. However, the 990 is slated by those who have a 950 due to them being unreliable, snatchy as hell, more road oriented and have a drink problem....
I have yet to try an 1190 and I'm really in no hurry as it really doesn't do it for me.
I did take the opportunity to ride the Veek and some bits impressed me, others disappointed me - much the same as when I tried the 990 before I parted with a pile of notes. It will be a very capable bike in it's own right but I think it just lacked a defined character: it's the plain kid at the back of the class who just gets on with everything while one day hoping for a facelift - the 990 is the class hooligan who ends up spending time in detention (read workshop).
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IF I'd bought one, I'm not even sure I would have mentioned it here...and that's a shame
Why not mention it here? Overall I think the bike is in positive territory on here. Some folk don't think much to it, for various reasons, and some folk have bought one. The negative opinions seem to invite robust replies, however, the positive comments don't receive similar treatment from the opposite camp.
So, mention it here, please. Does anyone really think that an entire section of the community is going to pounce with ridicule for buying a particular bike?
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I can understand why people might think there is an anti-Veek feeling.
Most owners of the previous 650/1000 models loved their bikes. They may not have been at the cutting edge, but they were bargains, and you could spend a few quid sorting them to your own requirements and they were still bargains.
The new Veek came out and, I for one, had high hopes in would be in the same mold. Not necessarily cutting edge, but a decent price like the versys 1000 allowing the owner to spend a few quid on it and still feel like they had a good bike at a good price point.
When it hit the market at a significant premium to the versys 1000 at a very similar spec, and a similar price to other litre adventure bikes that offered more in different ways there was disappointment.
Like most bikes launched in recent times it has a few niggles to sort out, not least the inconsistent fueling that appears to accompany many of the bikes. I've no doubt Suzuki will sort the niggles over the next year or two, and that the bike will reach the price point the market feels fair.
This is not an anti-Suzuki or anti-new bike site, just look at how the glee was received.
Jacko is right, we don't ridicule people's bike choices on here, we might warn people what to look for when considering other bikes, but when they buy their new steed we wish them the best, a prime example being the recent new owner of a BMW GS who posted on this forum in the last week.
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@Ali,
Please continue to post your views and opinions, all are valid regardless of your position on the new V-Strom (it's the primary purpose of the site).
I won't add to the two posts from Jacko and Frez because they summarise perfectly.
We want to hear about owners experiences with the new DL1000.
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No I did the full 30 year life term but only 20 was on bikes.
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We'll better book your next demo, KTM 1290 super adventure on front page of MCN. I am waiting for Suzuki to straighten out the DL1000 but can dream about this new Bike in the ring. Will it do the GS ? I would also like to say that if people keep asking for a qualified account of the new 1000 then it will seem like a bad criticism which is not the case,simply an opinion is OK.Suzuki listens to opinions hence the Veek and did you fill in the forms about inside leg measurement? Hence the seat I want to buy a Veek but whatever the cost I do not want a new Bike that I have to fettle.
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The Veek is a nice bike and the problems will eventually be ironed out in future models . I own a Vee but I like the looks of the glee so I put this question out there . Why didn't Suzuki make a glee with a litre engine and all the mod cons of the Veek ..? Surely this would have been a cheaper option to Suzuki and perspective buyers ? :shrug:
Imagine a litre glee with upside forks, better rear shock , radial brakes and traction control ..!! :shock: .. I would seriously go out of my way to own one . :grin:
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Noooo, surely fettling is half the fun? :-)
Isn't there a rumour that Honda are about to bring out a new Africa Twin? That might be interesting..
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kwackboy, a litre Glee would have been amazing. I'd be in the doghouse with the missus for having bought one.
New African Twin would be interesting, as will the MT09/07 based tourer.
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A new Africa twin would be amazing but Honda should tread carefully doing so. It would have to be the ultimate adventure bike because the old one is legendary.
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Have a look at review blade just posted. We have a New Suzuki to look at apparently.
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Sorry, I missed all this. I was out enjoying riding my Veek.....
Tim
(https://scontent-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10484228_292997364211808_6108392781223724837_n.jpg?oh=568fc116f2143c78705d0a0677604e4f&oe=545B1AC4)
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Me too. I've had the Veek two weeks now and l love it.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/29/ry6uquba.jpg)
I had the wee and covered 34k miles in under 3 years. I've upgraded to the Veek and l love it. Yes it looks different. Yes the build quality could be a bit more refined. This is still a great bike that handles well. The brakes are amazing compared to the wee and I don't regret buying one.
Me and the good lady have just returned from a few days in the lake district and the bike has impressed us both it has coped well with all the little lanes with the tight bends and steep hills we even did hardknott pass two up without a hitch the handling gave me condidence to do more and more in all we've done over 900 miles and returned 56.6mpg.
My bike doesn't seam to suffer badly from the throttle issue that some have, I can make it do it but with fine throttle control I can also prevent it from happening this doesent mean I think its all rider error though I can only speak as I find it on my bike.
In all I'm loving the Veek and enjoying the extra performance, much better braking and improved handling.
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I must admit, they do look good in red and they are getting some good write ups lately. I can't miss what I've never tried though.
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hillbillyscott, check the slack in the throttle cable first. Take out as much as you can, without getting any interference when you move th handlebars. Then get your dealer to do a throttle body re-balance. Suzuki might also suggest a Throttle Position Sensor adjustment, but that just changed my problems, so mine has gone back almost to where it was. A couple of us have also had ECU remaps done, which is probably overkill, but I have to say the change in my bike has been great as a result. I still have to get the balance done, but my bike is way, way better than it was. I had just the same symptoms, and they are all but gone now.
Enjoy the bike!!
Tim
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I have the new vee and have had BMWs I find the V Strom smoother It does not make my hands numb like the Bms did, the screen is better for me I have it on the lower setting and fully back,I have the lower seat and find it fine I have done 200 miles without stopping and the fuel economy is brill it allways returns over 60 mpg,It feels light on the go and is easy to push around, No bike is perfect for everyone the first time I rode the Vee I thought the screen was buffiting but with the lower seat it's fine with the stock screen.
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As my user name implies I have been riding bikes for a very very long time and my DL650 (new shape) is my 37th motorcycle, I had a K9 and realised that it lacked something, when the new one came along I arranged a demo as my neighbour use to sell them for Thunderroad, the difference was immediately noticeable, handling, performance, comfort and screen improvements was enough for me to buy one, I commute weekly to Reading from Newport and it is a joy to ride, it is fully enhanced to suit me with every extra you can think of.
Now the gritty bit, I recently rode the DL1000 on an extended demo, how any one can say that it is nothing more than a big engine 650 is quite frankly bonkers! The engine, brakes, suspension, handling and general ambiance of the 1000 is at least two levels better than the 650, also I have a good friend with the same level of biking experience as me who bought a KTM and returned it to the dealer and got his money back because of the problems he had with it, an isolated case maybe but it shouldn’t have happened.
I think what I am trying to say here without wanting to get into a bun fight, is that the new DL1000 is a lot of bike for the money compared to the competition, yes it will suffer from the normal Suzuki foibles such as thin paint and fastener corrosion and it is very difficult to pin down a price at the moment, in summary if you are interested in one forget the cost for a couple of hours and get to grips with what the 1000 can do.
My 650 will be on the forum for sale in a couple of days so if you are looking for one this could be it !
:)
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Just read through all the comments with interest, I for one have only seen photo's of the Veek but really like it. I am new to v stroms having just bought a Glee (and I like the look of that too!), when I test rode one enjoyed riding much more than I have for a long time. The only thing that would stop me seriously considering a Veek is the weight, but that is personal to me and not a fault of the bike. Had a look at a year old triumph 800 explorer yesterday whilst using Destination Triumph as a pit stop and does not do it for me, neither does the KTM, but again that is personal, and degradation of cycle parts seems no better than Suzuki's IMHO. Bought the Glee knowing adjustments and improvements needed to be made to suit me and sure would be the same for a Veek. Now, need to go and see a Veek in the flesh and make sure I leave my wallet at home!!!
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Why would the weight of the Veek concern you, I thought it was lighter than the Glee? :shrug:
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Why would the weight of the Veek concern you, I thought it was lighter than the Glee? :shrug:
Veek is 14kgs heaviver according to the specifications on the Suzuki website.
Got to agree that that much difference is nothing compared to the Veek vs the S10.
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I stand corrected :) I bet you could almost even it with the Glee if you put on an aftermarket exhaust lol
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Interesting reading some of the comments here! As I have said in other posts, I've had my new 1000 now for 5 days and ridden 400 miles on it mainly on rural B roads amongst farms with the odd short sprint down a dual carriageway. I'm no newbie to the Vstrom. I've been riding a wee for over 5 years including some big tours across Europe (check my youtube channel). I'm keen to do a new owner report as I know fellow strommers are taking note.
I'm 6ft 2'' and of quite large build. The new Strom is a totally re-engineered package. It is without a doubt much more planted on the road. The cornering stability even on worn potholed roads is excellent. The suspension has far more adjustments than I've been used too and the forks simply soak up everything. The suspension feels of a high quality. The rear shock and forks are much more adjustable certainly better for two up and heavy luggage. The front brakes are extremely positive, literally one fingered braking. Infact they feel like similiar control I have on my mountain bike brakes, very light but a very positive feel. Certainly feel more confident now as I recon my braking distance has significantly been reduced on the new 1000. Its been pretty wet up here this week and not once has the bike flinched on the B roads. And I ain't been hanging about either
As for the comments regarding vibration I have to strongly disagree. The New V 1000 when ridden moderatley actually feels as smooth a 4 cylinder. Even upto 70mph around 3000 - 4000RPM the motor is very smooth. I ride with summmer gloves so no real padding as I like to feel the bars and the levers. (I've only got short fingers!). When the engine is laboured ie accelerating in 5th from 3K RPM yes there is some strong vibration. But ride properly ie don't labour the engine but let it freely accelerate and its winds up as smooth as sewing machine. I'm getting about 55MPG too, which is a little up on my Wee.
I've gone for the tall seat exchange. It feels like a gell seat, not sure if it is. But its very comfortable and has a type of memory foam.
The clutch assist (from the Hayabusa) is great. I initially was a little concerned with the downshift and the snatch of the big V. But the clutch assist just drops the gear changes in very softly and easily. Very smart.
The headlight is very effective on dipped main and high beam. I also like the instrument display, with Voltmeter, air temp, fuel remaning, MPG, Average MPG etc etc
Verdict is it overpriced? Initially I thought it was.But now I think its worth every penny.
There has clearly been a lot of positive refinement on this new bike. The traction control, braking system, refined engine and ECU, Suspension capability and shear riding pleasure for me tick all the boxes. It is a very different bike and a great one at that.
Thanks for reading. :thumb:
Oh and it looks great ;)
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<snip> As for me, it may be new bike time next year. The new Vee is on my shortlist. I don't consider it too cramped for two up riding, which I do a lot of, but to date I have only sat on one. I'll see Ziggy out here in just under a couple of weeks and get a go on his hopefully. Another one is arriving here next Tuesday - https://www.facebook.com/Motobikechallenge (https://www.facebook.com/Motobikechallenge) so I'll get to check that one out as well. If all is not well, Tracey will tell me. <snip>
Ali, did you get to try it and if so, what was your impression?
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I actually do believe that there are some out there knocking the bike for some misguided reason. Not all, just some.Maybe its envy.
From what I've read here, the people who criticise the new DL1000 have done so in a structured way with valid points of view. Just because they (including me) don't share your views doesn't make us misguided. All reasonable points of view are welcome on this site, it's a discussion forum, discuss.
Envy? yes, that's it. I wish I could afford a new bike.
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You need to add your KTM to your profile, Mr. Rat :)
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and remove the K2 DL1000.
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Are you picking on me?
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Not any more :neen:
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I had a long test ride on the new Veek at my local friendly dealer a few months ago and I really liked it. It was a bit more grunty than my Wee and looked a bit smarter and with 'free' panniers and a generous trade-in I was very tempted to do a deal. The only things I didn't like compared to the Wee were the clutch and the gear-change, but maybe these had not bedded in on the low mileage demo bike.
The biggest problem for me is that I have grown to really like my Wee over the 3 years of ownership and although it could do with a bit more grunt when overtaking 2-up with luggage, it is a hugely capable bike and it felt so comfy and perky as I was riding home from the dealer that I knew it was not time to change it. Maybe in a few years I will, and it will probably be for the Veek.
So for me I don't think the Veek is over-rated and over-priced (with the free panniers, etc, anyway) it's just that my Wee is so capable and under-rated and under-priced for what it does I just could not see the point in changing.
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Santah,
My views are my own, I'm glad you like the new DL1000 and I'm sure Suzuki are too.
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:violence-smack:
My DL1000 has just over 3k on it now. The seat which I admit was uncomfortable when new, has improved with mileage. The fuel consumption is good if you don't gun it everywhere. The traction control on 2, seems to make the bike use more fuel. The handling is the best attribute of the bike, whether high speed getting your knee down, or town work. I haven't try it 2 up yet, so couldn't comment.
The downsides are, the fuelling issues at slow speed, the lack of internal pannier space, and rack weight limit. If you breathe on the bike, it scratches. The brakes are good but lack feel, either on or off sometimes. As a tourer, its disappointing, the rack with topbox/panniers has a limit of 10kgs which is just over 20 pounds, not a lot. Unfortunately, its neither a practical tourer or a dedicated roadster, but a mismatch of the two.
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What did you replace with the DL1000?
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Don't worry about the 10kg 'limit' on the back, my Glee has had probably 25kg+ on the back with no issues. Probably more to do with lawyers than capability.
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Where has santah gone? I re-read this thread and can see his message quoted but can't see the original and his username doesn't exist any more.
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Busy preparing for his Christmas rush.
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:grin: Very good Jacko!
I guess he's another who's been liquidated then.
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I was in Wheels in Peterborough on Sunday, this was on the brand new 1000, looks like they've made it the official price now, at Wheels at least. This one was the standard bike, there was also one with a load of accessories on for 9.5k.
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/10/21/6b95c162a621e6c1a8b5aeb4b07fa4e1.jpg)
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I was in Wheels in Peterborough on Sunday, this was on the brand new 1000, looks like they've made it the official price now, at Wheels at least. This one was the standard bike,
Same price on ebay for the bare bike:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2014-Suzuki-D ... 3387453d9d (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2014-Suzuki-DL1000-/221312794013?pt=UK_Motorcycles&hash=item3387453d9d)
though if you can stand going down to London, it's cheaper:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Suzuki-V-Stro ... 2596fe154f (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Suzuki-V-Strom-DL1000-/161447023951?pt=UK_Motorcycles&hash=item2596fe154f)
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I was in Wheels in Peterborough on Sunday, this was on the brand new 1000, looks like they've made it the official price now, at Wheels at least. This one was the standard bike,
Same price on ebay for the bare bike:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2014-Suzuki-D ... 3387453d9d (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2014-Suzuki-DL1000-/221312794013?pt=UK_Motorcycles&hash=item3387453d9d)
though if you can stand going down to London, it's cheaper:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Suzuki-V-Stro ... 2596fe154f (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Suzuki-V-Strom-DL1000-/161447023951?pt=UK_Motorcycles&hash=item2596fe154f)
that's more like it.
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Don't worry about the 10kg 'limit' on the back, my Glee has had probably 25kg+ on the back with no issues. Probably more to do with lawyers than capability.
and givi rack add also two metal reinforcements to that crappy silver plastic rack..
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I was in Wheels in Peterborough on Sunday, this was on the brand new 1000, looks like they've made it the official price now, at Wheels at least. This one was the standard bike, there was also one with a load of accessories on for 9.5k.
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/10/21/6b95c162a621e6c1a8b5aeb4b07fa4e1.jpg)
Looking at what the S10 costs, especially when compared to the new Veek, and saw an interesting price comparison in this advert on ebay:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/131323731985? ... EBIDX%3AIT (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/131323731985?_trksid=p2060778.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT) in the second picture.
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That S10 does look nice... (must stop looking!!)
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As a recent purchaser of the new V Strom DL1000A, I personally do not think it's either overrated or overpriced. Yesterday took the new bike out on a 200 mile journey from St Andrews out to the Green Wellie Stop in Tyndrum and back again. Even though I was still running in the bike in it was a fun filled ride (except for the pine needles on the corners) and look forward to be able to open up the throttle more.
Also I found as a tall person 6 foot plus the riding position was extremely comfortable for a old git like me, arthritis in the knees and a knackered back! On my return home I was still able to walk and no numb bum.
In summary I think it's well worth the money I paid even got the panniers thrown in, I did look at the GS1200 but thought I'm not going to pay that much!!
:lala:
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I bet you didn't pay the £10K plus that the bike was released at (without panniers) though?
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Bertie congratulations on your choice a great bike I have now done 14.000 miles on mine. Only those posting negative comments do not have one.
Just ride it and enjoy it.
:)
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What about those reporting fuelling issues?? :stirpot:
:neen:
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There is no fueling issues as I see it.
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(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7464/15695553662_4bd7509164.jpg)
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I find that if you twist the black thing on the right hand bar it takes care of any " issues" :stirpot: :neen:
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This is becoming boring.
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I happened to think the bike rode fine BTW and after seeing HillBillyScots I'm almost not seeing the beak anymore...
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This is becoming boring.
Simon (and all new DL1000 owners),
What is getting boring is the early adopters of the DL1000 and the way they are behaving in such a defensive/protective manner. The idea of this place (and sites like it) is to share information and experiences on the V-Strom, good and bad, so others can benefit and perhaps make informed choices when buying.
I am stunned by the way some of you are reacting to criticism of the new DL1000, why would any of you care if I liked it or if 3000 of the other members here liked it? It's your bike, your choice and your money.
I don't see owners of the older DL1000 crying in their beer each time a post is made when a Clutch Basket fails, the wiring goes to shit or something corrodes.
Based on the amount of posts here and elsewhere it is obvious the new bike DOES have a fueling related issue, the fact that it doesn't affect all bikes is probably more of a worry than if it was common to all. That doesn't make it a bad bike, it makes it a new bike that needs some bugs ironing out!
I can't comprehend why owners are in denial, if it doesn't affect your bike that's great (for you) but let's encourage open discussion so people can be helped. Also, sing the praises of what is right about the bike.
For feck sake people, get a grip.
Oh, and Ziggy. You're right, I don't own one, I have ridden one, I have spent an age up close and personal (numerous times) because I really wanted one. However, I'd like to think that I have enough experience of ownership over the years of every other V-Strom variant to have an opinion on the new DL1000. That also goes for many of the other members here. Let's encourage the discussion not shy away from it.
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Over the last few years I've come to completely disregard anything a modern BMW owner says about his bike or the marque if he won't at least admit that they're not without their problems. Their view has become skewed and closed, as a result their opinions, to me, are untrustworthy. Just saying.
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2000 miles now on my V2, yes I actually own one you know ;) Not a keyboard warrior and I like to find things out for myself, no bulls**t here :neen:
Went out for a long ride yesterday 190 miles to be exact to the Yorkshire dales. Managed 190 miles on one tank (20ltrs) and still had 30 miles left on my tank range. Felt as fresh as a daisy when I got back. Infact my riding buddies, one on a Glee wanted to do it all again. No problems to date with the V2 getting to know the bike well, along with the ocasional motogp action with fellow strommers! The engine is getting better and better as it loosens up. No fuelling problems whatsoever , just bags of huge torque :lala: out accelerates most things and the handling out does the wee and glee! After yesterdays ride Its official. Two up - when my lad jumps on the rear the bike doesn't feel any different.
Its a winner! :auto-dirtbike: :thumb:
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There is one fault though however....
When I accelerate...my 12V USB socket pops out of the dash!
Would be nice to have a bayonet type socket or twist release . But it is nice that I don't have to purchase an adaptor to fit my standard cig socket accessories unlike some manufacturers who fit a smaller socket.
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I'm not being defensive nor protective, nor am I in denial, as you can see from my posts. I don't care if anyone else likes the bike or not - I bought it for me. Some of the new bikes obviously have a fuelling issue (or what looks like a fuelling issue) and some don't. Mine seemed to have an issue with an "on/off" throttle with TC set to 2, which was unpleasant (as I said in my original write up).
I would have preferred that it was cheaper and I think it was originally priced slightly too high compared to other similarly-styled/sized bike for it to sell in high volumes. The way the plastic cover just under the tank doesn't run parallel to the frame irritates me. It also irritates me that Suzuki couldn't spend just 30 seconds longer when prototyping to tuck one of the electrical connectors behind the radiator instead of leaving it facing all the crap coming up off the road. Piss poor QC and attention to detail. The panniers are either shit or brilliant, depending on whether you want to go away travelling for a few days or just need to cart some stuff to the office and back.
I love the way it handles - some days when it clicks it just flows so nicely it's like surfing. I like the fact it doesn't way a tonne like the S10 does, for those times I have to paddle it backwards on a country lane to let a car go past. I love the fact it has a chain drive, so I can see how it looks, when it needs lubing and changing. I like the fact it doesn't have a whole load of electronic gizmos to potentially go wrong and deny me my freedom at 7am on a Sunday. Like you need electronically adjustable suspension for riding UK roads - ha! (And those electronic gizmos *will* go wrong.) I love the fact I don't have to plan overtakes like you have to on the 650 - you just decide and go. The economy is pretty good - I'm getting 55 mpg avg I would guess, though I wish it had a bigger tank just to save having to fill up as often. My tyres have squared off a bit early at 3.5k I think so maybe I'll put something different on next time (I've got no idea what's on there). I wouldn't choose to go back to the 650 and don't miss anything about it. I also don't regret not buying the S10 (too heavy, horrible engine), R1200GS (was poised to buy, desperately wanted to like it, put off by too many problems and by the nearest dealer being 45 min away), KTM (too off road for my needs), Triumph (not great stories about the dealer, don't like the look of the Explorer, other reasons), Kawasaki (seriously ugly, rushed "me too" to market), Ducati (an upright racing bike - WTF?), Aprilia (the racing bike company? Do they do an adventure bike then?), Moto Guzzi (still waiting (2 years) for the nearest dealer to call me back with a price). Warts and all summing up of the DL1000: great bike, Suzuki should drop its delusions of grandeur or up the quality, shame some seem to have fuelling issues, idle hammer's a minor irritation when I remember to listen for it, accessory prices seem to defy logic (£500 fog lights? Seriously?). Dropping the price, upping the quality and marketing it better could have been a genuine game-changer.
I'm all for open debate on the pros and cons but covering the same old ground (about anything) with nothing new to say is just ... boring. Some people think it's overpriced, some don't, some have fuelling issues, some don't. Just repeating any of those things isn't open debate, it's just going over old ground.
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There is one fault though however....
When I accelerate...my 12V USB socket pops out of the dash!
That just reminded me - that's another irritation/design oversight. WTF is the point of going to the trouble of fitting a 12v socket on the dash and then only rating it at 3 amps? So you can charge a phone but you can't power a compressor. Another example of a bit more thought, a couple more minutes, a slightly heavier gauge feed and it suddenly goes from being occasionally handy to bloody useful.
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For feck sake it's a motorbike, not a power station! :auto-dirtbike:
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:wtf: I don't really know what point you're trying to make there. My point is that I might need to pump a tyre up on a country lane miles from a service station (having repaired a puncture), and the factory-fitted 12v socket isn't rated highly enough to power the pump. All they needed to do was use a heavier gauge wire at the factory and it would be capable, but instead I have to buy an alternative after-market socket to do the job.
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I didn't know it was only rated at 3A...On long tours I use a multi adaptor for charging GPS, Phone and GoPro batteries of which all when plugged in will be proabably close if not over 3A. AND when my buddies use my 12V socket to plug in their air bed air pumps! Looks like this could be the first mod on my V2 uprated socket with a better retaining clip for the plug
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Well that created some far more interesting and informative posts didn't it. :)
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BM 1200GS accessory socket is 5 amps, so I'd guess most other bikes will be the same. :angry-tappingfoot:
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Does anyone find the wires from accessory socket to above dash satnav gets in the way of the clocks? Can't understand why it wasn't offset rather than in the middle? Good to know about amp rating BTW as wouldn't have occurred to me. Guessing wiring won't allow uprated fuse?
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Personally haven't had a problem, besides I follow the speed on my GPS not the Speedo!
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I know I should have just ignored it but I can't help myself so apologies in advance if I upset anyone.
Why would you upset anyone?
Isn't that (your post in its entirety) a contradiction? Positive comments by actual owners are being dismissed.
Absolutely not! In fact, after my test ride I posted positive feedback on the engine, gearbox & handling :shrug:
Many actual owners who have many miles on them under their belts haven't had any issues but in saying so are accused of being deaf, dumb and blind to the issues they should apparently have experienced.
The deaf, dumb and blind post was aimed squarely at Ziggy who refuses to acknowledge the fueling related issue. Whether this is affects a small quantity or not (we can't know that as all owners of the new DL1000 aren't here).
Although not ideal, it is common for a new product to initially have some issues. That doesn't mean to say it should always have those issues
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We agree, read my post again "Based on the amount of posts here and elsewhere it is obvious the new bike DOES have a fueling related issue, the fact that it doesn't affect all bikes is probably more of a worry than if it was common to all. That doesn't make it a bad bike, it makes it a new bike that needs some bugs ironing out"
Are later buyers of the new DL1000 still experiencing the same issues some early buyers had or has it been addressed? Again, I don't know and am asking but if it has been resolved is it fair to keep bashing the bike for an issue that doesn't exist?
There are still posts popping up on various forums so I'm guessing there is still an issue. This is why it's important that people keep posting their problems/fixes. NOBODY is bashing the bike because of teething problems, my criticism has always been Price & Quality.
Thank god we are all different. I have ridden many bikes I didn't like but which had a good following. But then I never felt the need to proclaim my dislike to the world.
But this is a V-Strom forum, I can't think of a more relevant place for the OP to make his point :shrug:
(AFAICR) I have had 5 new DL1000's come through here this summer and most had done or were doing significant mileage in a short space of time. Without exception all were very happy with their bike.
That's good to hear, let's hope that the vast majority are the same.
I formed my own opinions on a bike but wouldn't push them on someone else as gospel.
I don't see anyone doing that here, people are free to express their opinions, whether that be an owner who has done a 100k miles or someone who has walked by a showroom window.
...... and now I am being boring but as I have said before reading through these forums they do come across as there being a desire in some quarters to dislike the bike regardless and that reduces the value in some of what is written in my eyes
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This has been answered a few times and is still as ridiculous. There are some (like me) who were really looking forward to the new DL1000, I had money burning a hole. What was produced in the 2014 model annoyed me, the quality, in my opinion, was so poor in some areas that it put me off the bike completely. That is my experience and my disappointment, other people will have different views and different expectations, we are all (thankfully) different.
That is the beauty of using many sources for information and in my book a first hand account takes a lot of beating. Many might not agree but it is an opinion I choose to share for what it is worth
We agree again, so once again I encourage owners to not make ridiculous statements like 'there are no issues' and get involved in meaningful conversations about the teething problem the bike has (yes like many new bikes have), even if their own bike isn't affected.
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Just to throw in my 2c:
Yes, there is fueling problem on low revs, or I'd rather call it accelerator problem. It's a bit on/off and it makes it difficult on manouvering at low speeds.
2000 km since purchased new, I fell much less of this problem, but not because accelerator got better. It's because I adjusted my riding to the bike, the bike will never adjust itself to my riding.
So, after 2000 I almost don't have this problem anymore as I slip my clutch much more now then I did on my Glee. But yes, I'd love to solve it for good. (slack adjustet already, all TC settings tested.. all known adjustments tried...)
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The following posted by Fat Rat
The deaf, dumb and blind post was aimed squarely at Ziggy who refuses to acknowledge the fueling related issue. Whether this is affects a small quantity or not (we can't know that as all owners of the new DL1000 aren't here).
Why do I refuse to acknowledge that there is a problem? That is simple there is not a problem. If a owner has a problem take it back and get it sorted not post often rubbish on a web site about it. Just give it back to the dealer and do not except it back unless its fixed. There may be the odd lemon about for this reason take it back and if they cannot get it right to the owners satisfaction refuse that bike back or insist on a refund. Simples.
To hear of some bikes being messed about with rolling roads is asking for trouble re warranty etc in my opinion, let the dealer put it on a rolling road if they feel it necessary.
I know of another two owners and these both speak highly of their bikes.
I will say I sometimes wonder if some new owners who have not owned big V twins before think they run and ride like a 4 cylinder machine. Wrong.
This is now my last word on this subject. I will enjoy my bike in peace.
:)
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I still want one :grin:
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Ali,
You seem to have an uncanny knack of writing lots of words but not actually saying very much.
If you are simply looking for an argument I'm sure there are forums that thrive on that, but it's not here.
My posts are clear, I write in English. read them. I don't mind very much if you like the content or not.
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Does anyone find the wires from accessory socket to above dash satnav gets in the way of the clocks? Can't understand why it wasn't offset rather than in the middle? Good to know about amp rating BTW as wouldn't have occurred to me. Guessing wiring won't allow uprated fuse?
Will it take a 5 amp fuse or will it dissolve the loom?
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I wouldn't risk it. If it couldn't handle 5 amps I'm sure they'd have put a 5 amp in there. Rewire with thicker wire or fit a secondary socket else where. I'd go with having another, less hassle. I like having one under the seat so I can lock a phone in there charging.
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I wish those that have had issues especially fueling would come back and tell us what they did to resolve them. If there are some lemons out there surely they have been fixed by now. I would have thought the frame chaffing through the wiring harness on the Glee would have been unforgiveable but it seems the Veek gets a lot more stick for minor fixes.
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I don't mind what you do, although, doing it quietly would be appreciated.