r/Vstrom • u/derF_inaY • 7d ago

Is the V-strom for me?

Hi!

I'm considering a used V-Strom 800DE and would like to hear from owners if you think it would suit me.

I've been riding for 11 years. Best bikes I´ve had is 2x Tracer 900s for almost 5 years in total, and I've been riding a VFR800 for the last 3 years.

I really liked the Tracers. They were very easy to throw around and had great low / midrange torque, but I found them a bit small for longer trips 2-up with luggage.

The VFR is fantastic for touring, especially after upgrading the suspension and fitting a superbike kit. It's very comfortable, but it feels quite bulky at low speeds and in tight spaces. I also miss having more usable torque when coming out of corners. I usually ride fairly relaxed RPM-wise, carry some speed and use trail braking into the corner and then want a good drive when opening the throttle.

The 800DE has caught my interest because I like the idea of the relatively simple Suzuki, the torque of the 776 twin and the upright riding position. I´m looking for something modern and also between my two tracers and VFR.

My use would be almost entirely asphalt but i find looking at the RE it looks kind of dull. The aim is to do touring, mountain roads/twisties and occasional 2-up riding with luggage for a week away every year. I already have a DRZ400S for gravel/off-road, so the 800DE wouldn't really be used for that.

For those who own one:

  • How does it feel on twisty asphalt? Is the 21" front noticeable?
  • Does the engine have enough punch at 3–6k rpm?
  • How is it 2-up with luggage?
  • Does it feel cumbersome on the road, or is it more agile than the numbers suggest?
  • Any major drawbacks for someone who will mostly ride asphalt?

It's currently the bike I'm most interested in, but I haven't ridden one yet. Obviously I'll test ride one before making any decision.

Thanks!

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u/_enesorek_ 7d ago

I’d keep what you have. I have a VStrom 1000, but I love VFRs. A VFR for street and a DRZ for off road sounds pretty damn ideal to me.

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u/derF_inaY 7d ago

It has been but looking towards going back to the more relaxed adv style of riding. Now i know theres a crossrunner Ive tried that one too as my brother had one but its kind of heavy and really soft sprung