Regarded as a well-balanced bike by the powersports media as well as motorcycle consumers, a notion supported by sales figures far in excess of its 1000cc counterpart, the V-Strom 650 continues its legacy with the 2012 iteration. Engine, suspension, aesthetics and accessories, all receive tweaks aimed at improving the V-Strom’s performance, comfort and versatility.
Hot off the 2011 V-Strom 650 ABS press bike parked in my garage, certain characteristics were immediately obvious after boarding the 2012 Strom, the first being new suspension settings. Besides coming from the factory with more preload applied, the V-Strom’s fork is otherwise unchanged. The rear shock, however, boasts an increased spring rate.
With a curb weight of 472 pounds (not including optional luggage) the 2012 V-Strom 650 ABS is still a little hefty, but new refinements improve its off- as well as on-road capabilities.
The changes may not sound like much, but the better-suspended V-Strom exhibits improved handling during quick transitions between paved corners or when tackling bumpy off-road obstacles. There’s also less forward and aft pitch when braking and accelerating aggressively. Preload settings for both front and rear suspension components can be adjusted, the rear with an easily located hand dial beneath the seat on the right side of the bike.
Suzuki engineers differentiated the Gladius-sourced engine in the Strom by revising intake camshafts. This version of the Gladius engine also boasts new pistons, rings and cylinders (with Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Material plating), and two iridium spark plugs each, and single instead of double valve springs — all conspiring to reduce frictional loss and increase fuel efficiency by a claimed 10%.
