I received an inquiry from a fellow rider in search of his next motorcycle. Bryan wants to know what makes the V-Strom the best motorcycle on the planet.

I have questions about the V-Strom 1000 since I am considering buying one. I have been riding motorcycles almost 40 years now, and I love all bikes. Why do you guys love the V-Stroms? Seriously! In some ways they look a little nerdy and like they have antiquated suspension. They look like a bike for amateurs. They have a cool motor, and when I sat on one it felt very comfortable similar to my dad’s 1200GS. Is it because some of you ride on gravel roads in your touring or what? It would seem like there are other better, faster, nicer bikes out there for someone who spends most of the time on pavement such as a 1300ST along with many more. Almost every time I ask someone how they like the V-Strom they go off the deep end about how great it is–reminds me of the Harley crowd in that respect only. Do you guys think of it as as poor man’s BMW or what? Now I said I’m considering it so don’t think I’m attacking your society of V-Stroms but I just really want to know what is so great about them! I look forward to your comments I hope! Thanks!!

Bryan R.

Bryan, baby, did you take it for a spin? It only took me one ride to make my decision. I commuted for one week before a 1,400 mile run down the east coast. If you are even considering the V-Strom, you can’t possibly be concerned with looks. After 40 years, I shouldn’t have to remind you that riding a motorcycle isn’t about looking rad.

Whether you are riding this machine two minutes or two days, the mixture of power and comfort is highly gratifying. The V-Strom is built around the bulletproof Suzuki v-twin motor, and features upgraded cylinder sleeves among other changes from the similar SV power plant. If your image is a major concern, this v-twin sounds amazing through any exhaust can.

Its standard riding position makes the V-Strom far more comfortable than any cruiser over distance, and its dual sport aspirations make rough roads very manageable. You might even enjoy yourself. I think the 32 inch (plus!) seat height and higher center of gravity make the V-Strom a formidable challenge to amateurs. Have you seen the rack space on this thing? The cargo capacity is much greater than most bikes, especially something like the 1300ST.

I don’t consider the V-Strom a poor man’s anything. Buying my 1000 was the best riding decision I have ever made. Price does matter, and the V-Strom is a serious value play. I think the BMW you have in mind is about 6,000$ more, right? That’s almost enough to buy a 650 and a 1000.

Give the V-Strom another look, and consider riding the beast this time. I hope my readers don’t run you out of town after that Harley comment :) Just to make it interesting, I’ll send the best commenter some free stuff. What do you think?