Touring Upgrades: SUZUKI V-Strom650XT Custom

Webike's Opinion

Here is a "SUZUKI V-Strom650XT" custom by Webike community user "Shoson". After getting his full motorcycle license and searching for an upgrade, the owner was drawn to the newly released (at the time) 2018 V-Strom 650XT. He considered both the 1000 and the 650 but, after test riding them, found that while the 1000 was well-suited for long-distance touring, it felt excessive for everyday riding, so he chose the 650 for its versatility. What led him to choose the XT model was the spoke wheels, which strongly appealed to him.

As for ride comfort, the owner sums it up in one word: effortless. The seat is firm yet flexible, providing good support even on 500 km rides without discomfort. In fact, he jokes that highway riding is so smooth, it’s almost sleep-inducing. Despite the bike’s already impressive comfort, he sought to improve it even further with a few key customizations. He installed an SW-MOTECH EVO Footrest Kit with 36 adjustable positions and KIJIMA Grip Heaters. These heaters warm the entire circumference of the grips, ensuring heat reaches all the capillaries in the rider’s hands. He also added a HURRICANE Setback Spacer, moving the handlebars 20mm closer and 25mm higher. This helps reduce strain on the lower back and makes long tours more comfortable.

For touring luggage, he equipped GIVI TREKKER OUTBACK cases, two 48L side cases and a 58L top case, providing ample storage capacity while adding a rugged, adventure-ready look to the bike. However, there are a few drawbacks. Headlight maintenance is complicated, as replacing the bulb requires removing the meters. Additionally, while the ride is excellent overall, the rear suspension is too soft, causing the rear end to sag under heavy loads. This in turn raises the headlight beam, he says.

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