Suzuki V-Strom 650: specifications, pros and cons, compatible accessories
Twenty years of loyal service, and four cruise controls not to be confused
The 645 cc V-twin is one of the most reliable engines ever fitted to a touring motorcycle: it uses little fuel, does not break down, and keeps going for a hundred thousand kilometers. Our catalog for it is essential and focused on long journeys: four versions of mechanical cruise control, a mount for the SoundBomb horn, and tank stickers.
- In summaryA high-mileage motorcycle with a short, focused catalog.
- Do it right awayMechanical cruise control, the right one for your motorcycle.
- AttentionFour Kaoko codes: they depend on the handguards and heated grips.
- Not in the catalogCrash bars, pannier racks, and a stand plate for this model.
- BrandsKaoko, DENALI, Eazi-Grip.
Who it is recommended for
It’s the right motorcycle if
- You value reliability above all else: it is one of the most proven engines on the market
- Ride many miles and care about low fuel consumption
- Want a touring motorcycle that is inexpensive to maintain too
- 71 horsepower is enough for you, which is more than sufficient on the road
- You look at used bikes: twenty years of production mean a huge supply at affordable prices
Look elsewhere if
- Want to do real off-roading: even the spoked-wheel XT remains a road-oriented crossover
- Need crash bars, pannier racks, or a stand plate from us: they are not in the catalog for this model
- Looking for modern electronics: it is deliberately basic here
- Want performance: the V-Strom 1050 has thirty-six more horsepower
- Order cruise control without checking the handguards and grips: there are four codes
In short: it’s the touring motorcycle that won’t leave you stranded, not one to build up. If you want the same use with a 21-inch wheel and a complete accessories catalog, the V-Strom 800 DE is the modern choice; if you need more engine while staying on the road, the V-Strom 1050.
Technical specifications
| Engine | 645 cc V-twin, liquid-cooled |
|---|---|
| Power | 71 hp at 8,800 rpm |
| Torque | 62 Nm at 6,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed, chain final drive |
| Wheels | 19 inches front, 17 rear; spoked on the XT version |
| Fuel tank | 20 litres |
| Seat height | 835 mm |
| Production | since 2004, major restyling in 2017 |
What to fit, in order of priority
On a motorcycle built for long stages, cruise control is the most noticeable expense.
- 1
Kaoko mechanical cruise control, four codesA ring on the handlebar end that keeps the throttle open, without electronics. The choice depends on what you have fitted: with original handguards, without handguards, with or without heated grips, or the code that also covers the DL1000 and DL1050 with standard handlebars. - 2
Dedicated SoundBomb horn mountThe SoundBomb is bulky and does not fit in place of the original horn: this bracket makes room for it without drilling. - 3
Tank anti-slip stickers, from 2017Post-restyling series profile: improved knee support and protects the sides of the tank from jacket zips. - 4
4.5-6.5-litre tank bagExpandable, the most versatile size for a touring motorcycle. It must be used with the mounting ring. - 5
Aluminium top caseOn a motorcycle without pannier frames in the catalogue, a top case on the original luggage rack is the simplest way to add capacity. - 6
Folding mirrorsThey fold back in traffic and do not snap at the stem on first contact. With the adapters, any model can be fitted.
Rounding out the range are the other tank bag sizes up to 10 litres, the Wanderer semi-rigid panniers, which require no frame, and the motorcycle cover.
See all accessories for V-Strom 650Compatibility table
It shares only one code with its sisters, and it concerns the cruise control.
| Accessory | V-Strom 1050 | V-Strom 800 DE |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise control with standard handlebar | yes, same code | no, dedicated code |
| Other Kaoko cruise controls | no | no |
| SoundBomb horn mount | no, DL1000 code | no |
| Tank stickers | no | no |
| Kickstand plate | not listed for the 650 | no |
| Crash bars and pannier racks | not listed | only on the 800 DE |
| Soft luggage and mirrors | yes | yes |
Brands with dedicated accessories
KaokoFour cruise control codesThe choice depends on the original handguards, heated grips, and handlebar type: it is the most delicate decision on this bike.
DENALIHornDedicated mount for the SoundBomb horn, installed without drilling.
Eazi-GripTank gripTank grip stickers for model years from 2017 onward.
Frequently asked questions
Which Kaoko cruise control should I get?
You need to know three things about your bike: whether it has the original handguards, whether it has heated grips, and whether the handlebar is the standard one. There is one code for bikes with OEM handguards, one for those without them, with or without heated grips, and one for the standard handlebar that also fits the DL1000 and DL1050. The part screws onto the end of the handlebar, so those differences matter.
Do you have crash bars or pannier racks for the V-Strom 650?
No, they are not listed for this model. For luggage, there is still the top case on the original luggage rack, semi-rigid strap-on cases, and soft bags.
Do the tank stickers fit all model years?
The catalog code is listed for model years from 2017 onward, meaning after the restyling that changed the tank. The shape is different on earlier models.
XT or standard: does anything change?
Not for the accessories we carry: cruise control, horn mount, and stickers fit both. The XT stands out with its spoke wheels and standard skid plate.
How many kilometers can this engine handle?
It is one of the longest-lasting twin-cylinder engines on the road, and it is not uncommon to see examples with over one hundred thousand kilometers. That is also why it is worth spending on cruise control and comfort: the bike lasts longer than you might imagine.