Gear up, motorbike enthusiasts! The highly anticipated Suzuki V-Strom 800DE is set to roar onto Indian soil soon. This middleweight adventure touring machine promises an exhilarating ride, whether you’re carving through city streets or exploring uncharted territories.
Built to Explore: Engine and Chassis
The heart of the V-Strom 800DE beats with a powerful, liquid-cooled 776cc, 270-degree crank parallel-twin engine. This refined powerplant pumps out a healthy 84.3hp and 78Nm of torque, ensuring you have the muscle to conquer any terrain. The chassis is derived from the GSX-8S naked bike, but with a strengthened subframe designed to handle the additional weight of luggage and a pillion rider. With a 20-liter fuel tank, the V-Strom 800DE offers decent range, while the 230kg weight keeps it reasonably nimble.
Tackle Any Terrain with Confidence: Suspension and Brakes
Suspension duties are handled by a fully adjustable Showa fork at the front and a Showa monoshock at the rear with remote preload adjustment. Both offer 220mm of travel, allowing you to soak up bumps and conquer challenging off-road sections. Braking performance comes courtesy of a set of 310mm discs with four-piston calipers at the front and a single-piston caliper gripping a 260mm disc at the rear. Dual-channel ABS ensures controlled stopping power in all conditions, with the option to switch off the rear ABS for more adventurous riders.
Modern Tech for the Modern Explorer
Unlike its smaller sibling, the V-Strom 650XT, the 800DE embraces the digital age with a comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids. A bi-directional quickshifter allows for clutchless gear changes, keeping your focus on the road ahead. Four riding modes, including a dedicated “Gravel” mode, let you tailor the bike’s performance to match the terrain. Three traction control settings offer varying levels of intervention, while dual-channel ABS provides a safety net. All these features are intuitively controlled through a brand new 5-inch TFT instrument cluster that displays vital information clearly.
Designed for Indian Conditions: Smart Features
Understanding the unique challenges of Indian riding conditions, Suzuki has equipped the V-Strom 800DE with features that enhance your experience. The Low RPM Assist system prevents stalling by raising the engine revs slightly when starting from a standstill, a lifesaver in heavy traffic situations. Additionally, Suzuki’s Easy Start System allows for effortless single-button ignition.
Expected Price and Competition
The launch of the V-Strom 800DE in India is imminent, and price expectations hover around the Rs 11 lakh mark (ex-showroom), placing it directly in competition with the Honda Transalp 750. It will also battle for market share with the slightly more expensive Triumph Tiger 850 Sport.
A compelling Adventure Package
The Suzuki V-Strom 800DE presents a compelling proposition for Indian adventure tourers seeking a versatile and capable machine. Its potent engine, comfortable ergonomics, advanced technology package, and features specifically tailored for Indian riding conditions make it a strong contender in the middleweight ADV segment. With its launch just around the corner, the wait to explore the great outdoors on the V-Strom 800DE is almost over!
Table: Suzuki V-Strom 800DE Specifications (Indicative)
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 776cc, Liquid-cooled, 270° crank parallel-twin |
| Power | 84.3hp |
| Torque | 78Nm |
| Chassis | Steel frame |
| Suspension (Front) | Showa Adjustable Fork |
| Suspension (Rear) | Showa Monoshock with remote preload adjustment |
| Brakes (Front) | Dual 310mm discs with four-piston calipers |
| Brakes (Rear) | Single 260mm disc with single-piston caliper |
| ABS | Dual-channel (Rear switchable) |
| Seat Height | 855mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 liters |
| Weight | 230kg (kerb) |
| Expected Price | Rs 11 lakh (ex-showroom) |
