Not too sure about that. I've ridden but not owned many Strom 1000's and 650's of all ages, they are all great bikes especially the 1000 that I rode that had 94,000 miles on the clock and was all original too. It went fine and inspite of a hard life the finish looked good. I prefer the instrument binnacle and screen on the later models I have to say. I own a k8 DL1000 GT. My bike is two years old and in pristine condition, inspite of me using it in all weathers, snow, ice, rain etc etc. In fact at work it stands out in the rain all day and every day, or in the blazing sun in the summer. My luggage has never leaked, and seems OK for everyday use. I think for long distance touring you may want to invest in bigger and maybe more sturdy stuff, but generally I've found it OK. I have my laptop, full change of clothing and all sorts of other stuff with me on the bike all the time and no problems. The finish on it is actually very very good. According to my dealer, there is some evidence to suggest that the later models are better finished ie: deeper richer paint, better welds and some fixings are better too. But I've never noticed. All Suzuki's are pretty darn good on the finish front...I think!
