2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050 and V-Strom 1050DE | First Look Review

Following the June announcement of returning sport, dual-sport, supermoto, and off-road motorcycles for 2023, Suzuki has announced new and updated models in its V-Strom adventure lineup: the 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050, 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE, and 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE Adventure.

Suzuki’s 2022 lineup included the standard V-Strom 1050 and the up-spec V-Strom 1050XT and V-Strom 1050XT Adventure, with the Adventure version featuring aluminum panniers, fog lamps, and heated grips.

Related Story: Suzuki Announces 2022 Returning Models

For 2023, the V-Strom 1050 returns with numerous updates, and the V-Strom 1050XT and V-Strom 1050XT Adventure will be replaced by the V-Strom 1050DE and V-Strom 1050DE Adventure.

Previously available only on the XT models, all V-Strom 1050 models now feature a 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) and the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS) electronics suite, which includes ride modes, cornering ABS, multimode traction control, cruise control, and braking systems that compensate for hill starts, slope, and load. Supporting these electronic systems are an updated throttle-by-wire system, a new ABS control unit, a new CAN (Controller Area Network) wiring system, and a new 32-bit ECM (Engine Control Module).

Other changes common to all V-Strom 1050 models include an up/down quickshifter, a new 5-inch TFT display, a new windscreen that’s hand-adjustable to 11 different positions over a 2-inch height range, a new 12-volt power outlet under the passenger seat, revised mirrors, and revised LED turnsignals and taillight.

The standard V-Strom 1050 features a new dual-height seat (33.7/34.5 inches), while the V-Strom 1050DE and V-Strom 1050DE Adventure models feature a new fixed-height seat (34.6 inches).

Inside the engine are new sodium-filled exhaust valves, which reduce temperature in the combustion chamber for improved flow efficiency and durability. The 6-speed transmission has higher ratios for 1st and 6th gears that smooth the shift action into second and higher gears and contribute to smooth operation of the quickshifter.

V-Strom 1050 models use durable steel sprockets and feature a new stronger and longer O-ring drive chain. Under the bike is a new cowl that protects the oil filter, exhaust header, and engine, as well as a more sure-footed centerstand.

All V-Strom 1050 models are powered by a liquid-cooled, 1,037cc 90-degree V-Twin. When we tested the 2020 Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT, it made 96 hp at 8,500 rpm and 66 lb-ft of torque at 6,300 rpm on Jett Tuning’s rear-wheel dyno. The 1050XT has a 5.3-gallon fuel capacity, and during our 2020 test, we averaged 49.8 mpg and 264 miles of range.

2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE and V-Strom 1050DE Adventure

Joining the standard V-Strom 1050 are the new V-Strom 1050DE and V-Strom 1050DE Adventure, which are geared toward more off-road-oriented adventures. The DE models feature a 21-inch front wheel for rolling over obstacles with a tube-type rim for maximum durability. The 17-inch rear wheel is tubeless, and the DE models are shod with Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour adventure tires.

To improve control and handling off-road, the DE models have unique features in the Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS), including new Gravel (G) traction control and the ability to switch off ABS at the rear wheel. They also get their own dedicated chassis geometry with a longer wheelbase (62.8 inches vs. 61.2 on the standard V-Strom 1050), longer rake (27.3 degrees vs. 25.4 degrees), more trail (4.96 inches vs. 4.33), more ground clearance (7.5 inches vs. 6.5), and a handlebar grip that is 1.6 inches wider.

To further enhance their off-road capabilities, the DE models get a dedicated suspension system with unique spring rates, damping force valving, and piston settings. The adjustable 43mm inverted fork and rear monoshock also have more suspension travel than the standard V-Strom 1050, with 6.7 inches of front travel (vs. 6.3) and 6.6 inches of rear travel (vs. 6.3).

For added stability, the DE models also have a longer swingarm with 10% more torsional rigidity. They also feature a new three-piece front fender assembly that combines the effectiveness of a conventional fender with the protection of fork guards like those used on a motocross bike.

To maximize visibility during off-road riding, the V-Strom 1050DE and V-Strom 1050DE Adventure have a unique smaller windscreen, which is more than 3 inches shorter and slightly narrower than the V-Strom 1050 windscreen. The wider handlebar on the DE models is cast in thicker tubing from a softer grade of aluminum than the V-Strom 1050 handlebar, which allows more flex and better shock absorption.

The DE models feature a new, more durable fixed-height seat (34.6 inches) with a new bottom shape that increases rigidity while reducing weight by 1.5 lb (a 37% reduction in mass). According to Suzuki, the rider and pillion seats provide a comfortable upright riding position, and the sides of both seats are covered with high-grip texture material to help the rider and passenger stay connected to the motorcycle.

Given their higher stance, the V-Strom 1050DE and the V-Strom 1050DE Adventure feature longer, model-specific sidestands and centerstands. They also feature a new engine protector made of 3mm-thick aluminum plate that shields the front and bottom of the frame, exhaust header, and engine from trail debris.

Unique to the V-Strom 1050DE Adventure are a set of 37-liter aluminum panniers with an anodized silver finish that attach to powdercoated, stainless-steel carriers. Constructed from 1.5mm-thick aluminum plates with strong, no-pierce rivet technology, the panniers feature hinged lids that stay in place when open, internal and external tie-down points, keyed stainless-steel latches, and quick-release hardware. Built to be waterproof with rubber-sealing lids, the panniers have powdercoated interiors that avoid transferring aluminum stains to cargo.

The 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050 will be available in Metallic Reflective Blue / Metallic Matte Black with black wheels, the 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE will be available in Pearl Vigor Blue / Pearl Brilliant White with blue rims, and the 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE Adventure will be available in Champion Yellow No. 2 / Metallic Matte Sword Silver with gold rims.

Pricing and availability have not yet been announced. For more information, visit the SuzukiCycles.com.

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