Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE first ride review: Every bike you’ll ever own

If you follow the motorcycle market, you may have noticed a paradigm shift in the ADV segment. Until recently, most mid-sized ADVs on the market were more suited to touring than true off-roading. While there are models like the BMW GS and Triumph Tiger, there are no Japanese options. Also, there is nothing anywhere near the Rs 10 lakh mark. Suddenly, things changed, Honda introduced the XL750 Transalp and Suzuki introduced the V-Strom 800DE. But are they any good? Well, today we will test the V-Strom with Suzuki as the center. Honestly, I can’t wait to see if it can do more than just look cool on city streets. So, let’s put on the gloves and start riding.

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Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE first drive review: City and highway performance

My first experience with this Japanese ADV was on my way home from the office during rush hour traffic. In those slow-speed scenarios that define a typical commute, it feels a little lacking. It has the necessary grunt to move, but feels a little tame at mid-range. However, when I hit the open road, I realized this engine likes to stretch its legs before unleashing its performance. As you twist the throttle, climb into the gears, and watch the revs and speeds change, you realize how broad and well-spaced its powerband is. In traffic, I’ve only scratched the surface of its capabilities – the real excitement begins when the engine completes its stretch and the needle passes the 4,000rpm mark.

The motorcycle is powered by a 776cc parallel twin-cylinder engine with a 270-degree crankshaft that delivers 84 hp and 78 Nm of torque. It’s a versatile setup that allows you to choose between three riding modes – Active, Basic and Comfort (A, B and C). Additionally, there are four levels of traction control to suit your experience or needs – Mode 1, Mode 2, Mode 3 and Gravel Mode. There’s also the option to turn off traction control entirely. Additionally, you can select the level of ABS intervention or even choose to disable rear ABS entirely.

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On the road, I chose to stick with Active Drive mode, which also offers the quickest throttle response. The bike also comes with a two-way quick shifter for quick gear changes, which works quite well, although downshifting can be a bit difficult at low speeds. The engine itself is very smooth – there’s barely any vibration, thanks in part to twin balancer shafts. Even at high revs, the engine doesn’t feel stressed – unless you’re driving at silly triple-digit speeds – and delivers progressive acceleration. All of this ensures a predictable feel as you continue to press the throttle.

Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE first ride review: handling and off-roading

In terms of handling, the V-Strom continues to impress. Suzuki has designed a motorcycle with an extremely balanced chassis – so good, in fact, that you can stand on the pedals and drive through heavy traffic. On twisty roads it feels nimble and nimble. The rear suspension can feel a little soft in tight corners, but it’s still manageable and doesn’t overwhelm you.

While its on-road performance and handling are commendable, it does excel off the beaten path. Despite its heavy weight, its chassis balance and suspension components inspire confidence when you venture off-road. Suspension hardware includes adjustable telescopic Showa forks up front and a linked monoshock with remote preload adjuster out back.

In off-road settings, Active or A mode can be very unstable on tight trails or technical off-road sections. Comfort (C) mode works best here, allowing you to gently release power and maintain traction unless you’re deliberately trying to slide. For those who prefer to slide, Gravel (G) traction allows a certain amount of sliding before regaining control, preventing any accidents. The suspension setup is a little difficult for tarmac, but ideal for off-road use. No matter how hard you push, it feels pliable and prevents bottoming out.

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The bike comes standard with Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tires, which perform well in a variety of conditions. Whether you’re riding on a gravel bed, loose surface or dirt, they provide good feedback and enough traction to keep you in control while having fun. The bike’s ground clearance is also quite impressive. During testing, I was able to overcome tall obstacles without scratching the bumper.

Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE first ride review: design, features and ergonomics

No matter how good a bike rides, if it doesn’t appeal to consumers aesthetically, it won’t find many buyers. When you consider the 800DE’s market segment and price, aesthetics become even more important. Simply put, it must look like a million bucks, and it is. From the eye-catching paint choices to the classic Dakar-style front fairing, the V-Strom 800DE looks ready for adventure even at a standstill. While I’m riding my bike, many people come up to me and ask me where I’m from and where I’m going, and all I can say is “office.” In my opinion, this is a handsome motorcycle. The gold trim, enduro styling, loud paint scheme and seat design all come together beautifully. While the rear overhang may be a bit too large for a completely sleek design, this is more of a personal preference.

In terms of functionality, the biggest highlight is the clear 5-inch color TFT display, which is well laid out and makes it easy to navigate menus and change settings even while riding. Traction control, ABS and ride modes can all be selected on the go. Since long-distance travel is its primary function, it has a height-adjustable windshield, full LED lighting, and a USB charging port. However, it surprisingly misses out on cruise control and tubeless rims, which are very important for adventure enthusiasts. Even adjusting the windshield requires loosening, adjusting, and retightening bolts, which can be a bit of a hassle. Therefore, it is not without its drawbacks.

Also read: Suzuki V-Strom 250 SX vs Royal Enfield Scram 411 Comparison: Identity Crisis!

Now, let’s talk about ergonomics. If you’re wondering whether riders under six feet tall will be comfortable riding this motorcycle, let me clear up any doubts. I’m 5’6″ and found this motorcycle to be a good fit for my height and build. The handlebars are a good height, comfortable to reach from a seated position, and even feel natural when riding off-road while standing. The V-Strom 800DE feels a bit wide near the waist (where the seat meets the tank), but this shouldn’t be an issue for experienced riders. However, I found the footpegs a bit narrow and the handguards a bit too flimsy for hardcore off-road use.

Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE first ride review: Is it worth it?

Well, what’s the final verdict on the new Suzuki V-Strom 800DE? First of all, it looks fantastic and the asking price of Rs 10 lakh is worth it if it’s road presence you’re looking for. Besides its good looks, it performs well both on and off-road and offers quite a few creature comforts for adventure travel. However, it does have its fair share of shortcomings, but I believe it makes up for them in other ways. Its biggest selling point is its versatility – it can travel all day, cover hundreds of kilometers, and with a few tweaks, it can transform into an off-road machine without hesitation. It’s easy to ride, builds confidence in all conditions, and helps develop your skills for handling bigger bikes in the future. For me, this dynamic machine has definitely made its way onto my must-have motorcycle list.

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It has an extremely balanced chassis and feels nimble and nimble on twisty roads.

I’m 5’6″ and find motorcycles suit my height and build