LONG TERMERS: Suzuki V-Strom 800RE

Mossy keeps us up to speed with how he’s getting on with the Strom…

On paper, the differences between the DE and RE versions of the V-Strom 800 shouldn’t amount to as much as they do. The fact is, changes to the chassis geometry and dimensions of some key components give the bike a distinctly different personality, triggering an alternative side of my own!

Feeling distinctly sportier, the quicker steering RE has brought out the racier side of its rider. Eager to get more of a move on, I’ve really enjoyed riding the Suzuki more briskly at times. Though before any of you feel the need to berate me for my speedier rate of progress, let me quickly add it’s all been done within the rules and without increase in risk.

If I was asked to point out a single reason for the RE’s power to entertain me more, it’s the smaller 19” front wheel. From a personal point of view, the way a bike turns affects its overall appeal and personality just as much as the way its engine delivers its power. The keener way it changes direction gives the 800 a notably more agile feel. Better still, the improved feedback from the front tyre really boosts confidence, allowing me to push on and even happily trail brake deeper into bends. There’s no doubt my decision to change the tyres before I even took ‘ownership’ has helped me to feel more at home when riding more swiftly. With appreciably more grip and feedback, the Dunlop Mutant rubber allows me to explore the handling abilities of the V-Strom quite a bit further. The OE Dunlops just can’t match the aftermarket Mutant alternatives, especially in poor weather conditions. And with virtually every longer ride I’ve done on the Suzuki involving rain of varying levels at some point, that advantage has made me a lot happier and more able to deal with the adversity.

That bonus was more evident on a 300-mile round trip to the Peak District. It’s a journey I’ve made countless times, and as it includes such a wide variety of road types, it’s a great test of the V-Strom’s versatility. As expected, it gave a great account of itself, never really drawing any sort of significant complaint from me.

With all the key boxes ticked, the 800’s the sort of bike you can enjoy virtually all the time. I particularly like the bike’s comfort, its plush seat and roomy riding position influencing its ability to venture far with ease. 

I need to keep my feet tucked in a bit to keep the worst of the weather tarnishing the appearance of my boots, but the protection above that point is excellent. The tall screen shelters me well, even if it would be better if its adjustment didn’t require too much time with tools. 

I’m constantly praising the accessory handguards I’ve had fitted, which not only keep my hands drier, but also allow me to wear a lighter type of gloves. Suzuki’s heated grips make sure my fingers don’t suffer too much either. The big tank range is very useful and though filling it can cost nearly £30 these days, I like the extra convenience of not needing to interrupt journeys too often.

Chris Moss / 2000 miles / 3 months