Suzuki V-Strom 650A XP

Suzuki’s range of 645 cc V-twin middleweights continues to expand. Following the re-launch of the SV650S back in May, there’s now another member of the V-Strom family.



The V-Strom 650A XP - to give the new arrival its full title - is based on the existing ABS-equipped model. What makes the XP unique is all the extras that Suzuki has thrown at it, in an attempt to appeal to serious touring / adventure riders. So, standard kit includes black aluminium panniers (with a total capacity of 82 litres), a centre stand and plenty of guards (for the engine, sump and rider’s hands).

Available from the end of August in a choice of Candy Max Orange or Metallic Oort Grey, the V-Strom 650A XP has a UK retail price of £7,300, which translates to £7,425 on the road.

An obvious competitor will be the BMW F 650 GS which, with the optional centre stand and ABS specified, costs £7,210 OTR. Of course, at that price it still lacks the various guards and panniers of the V-Strom, but the BMW still has two things in its favour that may appeal to certain riders.



The first is weight, because the F 650 GS weighs 199 kg ready to ride and fully fuelled. That’s considerably lighter than the Suzuki which, in standard V-Strom 650A guise, has a ‘kerb mass’ of 220 kg. Data for the XP version has yet to be released but, given its additional equipment, expect it to be even heavier.



The second is seat height. Although both bikes have standard seat heights of 820 mm, the BMW can be ordered with a 795 mm low seat at no extra charge. Alternatively, for £165 the F 650 GS can be built with tweaked suspension that lowers it down to 765 mm.