Went to Motorcycle Live this saturday at the NEC in birmingham.
I saw the new V-Strom 1000 but I couldn't sit on it because it had a glass box over it!
Very nice looking bit of kit though. Brakes looked good and apparently they are very good (overhauled the brakes on my DL650 K9 because I thought they were terrible!). The 1000cc engine has overgone a massive overhaul not only to meet the EU regs but also to make general improvements. I seem to remember reading a fair few negative comments about the current 1000cc twin, some blokes have even traded in for a DL650 because the Vee was just too gumbly and grouchy?
Why do Suzuki insist on fitting Battlewings as standard? I've had them in the past - no complaints on a dry debris free road but as soon as it gets wet or gritty they are shocking. Anakee 2's are worlds ahead! And why do the wheel rims have to be in black? Don't know whether anyone has noticed that some model years of the DL650 had silver rims (my K9 included), personally I think they look a lot smarter than the black. Okay they show the dirt after about 100 miles but nothing a bit of elbow grease can't solve! Belly pan looks like it could be a real dirt trap, and difficult to clean out.
Love the new exhaust (better the massive industrial strength gurder on my k9 and other models ). Luggage looks half decent too, although it'll probably set you back a year's income, an arm and a leg (or two)....so I think I'd stick with Givi or similar. Good to see they kept the original mirrors which are great for studying your jacket.....extenders still needed!
Copying BMW with the little mudguard thing in front of the headlight. Still don't understand what it actually achieves....other than adding weight to the bike. It's already got a mudguard so.... :wtf:
Not sure about the shape of the headlight either. I'm sure some blokes will like it and I'm not saying I don't, but it may take a while to grow on some.
2013 BMW R1200GS looks amazing but not a great deal different to current. Water cooled boxer engine! (probably the best touring engine just got better!)
Sorry, never really liked KTM. Nothing against them, just never liked them. Suzuki and BMW far better in my books!
Anyway that my take on the situation. Overall, despite some minor dislikes I love the new DL. Will test ride as soon as I can!