Open road expressions
A few months back we ha the opportunity to test the latest adventure touring machine from Suzuki on its official launch here in SA. Demand for the bike has been so high that the actual press test unit took quite some time to get to us here at Autotrader Bikes. We finally managed to lay our hands on a touring-ready model and spent a weekend exploring the lesser-seen side of Gauteng.
Related: Suzuki DL1050DE V-Strom (2023) Launch - First Ride Review
Large open expanses of veld, roads that went on for kilometres with very little in sight and a cracking two-wheel machine beneath you do wonders for the soul and the DL1050 machine is the neat perfect accompaniment to that ride.
Styling
Our tour model was resplendent in its Championship Yellow colour card and fitted with a set of full-size hard panniers. This machine has been equipped to deal with a few thousand kilometres of adventure touring travel and unfortunately has a few scars to prove it. A few scratches, dings and dents don't sully the appearance but rather add to its character shows that this machine has seen some mileage and been to some exciting places.
Tech and Features
The DL1050 gets a full electronics package, similar to that found on the S 1000 GT road tourer but with added Traction Control levels and a Gravel mode wherein one can adjust or disable the ABS to get the rear out in the loose stuff.
There is a 21" tubed front wheel, wider handlebars, a non-adjustable windscreen and slightly longer travel suspension. The engine has also seen some internal work, with longer gear rations and balancing shafts that smooth out its operation.The bike retains a familiar feel and weight that inspires confidence when pushing on.
Engine and Drivetrain
Perched beneath the 20l fuel tank, you will find Suzuki's 1037cc 90-degree V-Twin. The power plant punches quite above its weight delivering a silky smooth power delivery with a delicious rumble from the tuned exhaust system. Power goes to the 17 rearwheel with chain drive via 6 speed sequential box that has one of the best bi-directional quickshifters on the market.
Suzuki unveils two new models at EICMA 2023
Let's Ride
When the open road calls, one must answer and being able to do it on a DL1050 is quite a treat. The riding position is comfortable with the bars being just the right width for the best long-distance rider pose you can imagine. In and around towns the DL was well behaved with plenty of torque to drive you through corners and around pesky traffic. The only fault we found was once we'd made our way out of town and opened up on long stretches of road, the DL became a little unstable, developing a shimmy at higher speeds. This is most likely due to the pannier boxes catching quite a bit of wind, moving the back end around.
Hundreds of KM's were easily covered, with 3 provinces visited and the DL didn't skip a beat. Its comfy, frugal and has plenty of low-down grunt when you need it, in short a fantastic ride every time.
Pros and Cons
- Comfortable
- Torquey
- Economical
- Panniers upset the bike at speed
- TFT screen is not always easy to read in certain lighting conditions.
Model and Pricing
| Suzuki V-Strom 1050 DE (2024) | R 259 900 |
Verdict
I do have a soft spot for the DL1050. Are there better adventure machines out there? Yes, there are. Are there bigger and more powerful machines? Yes but if one takes a look at total costs of ownership, the DL beats all hands-down! Parts and services are cheap, the ride is sublime and worry-free and it can proudly keep company with the Bavarians and Austrians. The DL is our benchmark that all others are measured by and more people should be riding them.
