Suzuki has launched the XT variant of the V-Strom 650 in India at Rs 7.46 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The adventurer tourer is the third bike from the motorcycle maker to be locally assembled, after the Hayabusa and the GSX-S750.
The styling of the V-Strom 650XT is inspired by its larger sibling, the V-Strom 1000. The smaller-engined motorcycle gets premium anodised wire-spoke rims shod with Bridgestone Battlax Adventure A40 tubeless tyres. Its twin-spar alloy frame is suspended on a conventional telescopic fork at the front and a monoshock with rebound adjustment and remote preload adjuster at the rear. The seat height of the V-Strom 650XT is 835mm, as opposed to the 840mm of the its main rival, the Kawasaki Versys 650. At 20 litres, the Suzuki’s fuel tank is quite generous, and the motorcycle tips the scales at 216kg (kerb weight).
Commenting on the launch, Satoshi Uchida, managing director, Suzuki Motorcycle India, said, “We are delighted to offer the ultimate adventure-tourer Suzuki V-Strom 650XT ABS to Indian customers as a Completely Knocked Down (CKD) unit, assembled in India. Off late, motorcycles have evolved as an extension of its owner’s personality. Individuals are now ready to invest to get an experience they were longing for. With its all-round capabilities, the V-Strom 650XT ABS is the apt motorcycle for adventure enthusiasts who want to be able to ride the same motorcycle for daily usage as well.”
The bike is powered by a 645cc, V-twin engine that makes 71hp and 62Nm of torque, and is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. Meanwhile, the Kawasaki Versys 650’s engine makes 69hp and 64Nm of torque, and also uses a 6-speed transmission. The V-Strom 650XT gets a three-stage traction control system (two levels and a disengage option). Other features include a three-way, height-adjustable windscreen, Suzuki’s useful Easy Start System and standard ABS (off-road enthusiasts will be disappointed to know that it cannot be disengaged).
The Kawasaki Versys 650 retails for Rs 6.69 lakh (ex-showroom, India), which is significantly cheaper than the pricing of the V-Strom 650XT. The Versys 650 sold in India is a more road-oriented model and features fully-adjustable suspension. However, it doesn’t come with the V-Strom's expensive wheels or electronic aids like traction control, and this can work to Suzuki’s advantage.