Introduction: Enter the New Contenders

After years of silence from Japanese manufacturers in the entry premium adventure bike segment, two exciting options have emerged: the Honda Transalp 750 and the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE. In this review, we’ll dive into the details of the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE, comparing it to its closest rival, the Honda Transalp 750, and see if it truly offers all the adventure riding you need.

On Paper: Similarities and Differences

At first glance, the V-Strom 800DE and the Transalp 750 appear quite similar. Both bikes sport around 750cc engines, come with a price tag of approximately 10 lakh rupees ex-showroom, and are designed with off-road capabilities in mind, featuring large 21-inch front wheels and decent suspension travel. However, despite these similarities, these bikes cater to slightly different buyers and offer distinct riding experiences.

Off-Road Capabilities: V-Strom Takes the Lead

Spending even a limited amount of time with the V-Strom 800DE, it quickly becomes evident that it is more suited for off-road riding compared to the Transalp. With greater suspension travel at both ends (220mm) and higher ground clearance, the V-Strom is equipped with a bash plate—albeit a plastic one with a solid bracket underneath. This makes it a more robust option for off-road enthusiasts, though serious riders might want to upgrade to a heavier-duty bash plate. The bike handles off-road conditions with more confidence, absorbing bumps and obstacles with ease.

Suspension Adjustments: Fine-Tuning for Performance

The V-Strom’s suspension is initially soft and squishy, which can lead to bottoming out when tackling multiple obstacles in quick succession. However, Suzuki provides fully adjustable suspension at both ends, allowing for customization of rebound damping, preload, and compression. After some on-the-spot adjustments using the under-seat toolkit, the bike’s performance improved significantly, offering a more confident and controlled ride. While not as sophisticated as more expensive models like the Tiger 900 Rally or Ducati DesertX, these adjustments make a notable difference. This flexibility means that riders can fine-tune the suspension to suit their specific needs, whether they’re tackling rugged trails or smooth highways.

On-Road Experience: Heavy and Substantial

Transitioning to on-road riding, the V-Strom 800DE feels heavy, tipping the scales at over 230 kg—similar to previous generation Tiger 800s and heavier than the new-gen Tiger 900 and Ducati DesertX. This weight gives the bike a substantial, solid feel, which can be appealing to larger riders. However, it also means the V-Strom feels more cumbersome and less nimble than the Transalp. While this might be a downside for some, others may appreciate the V-Strom’s stable and planted feel, especially on long-distance rides.

Comfort and Seating: Room for Improvement

Despite its size, the V-Strom’s seats are surprisingly less spacious than expected. For taller riders, like myself at over 6 feet, the rider seat feels snug, and the pillion seat is comfortable but not very long, making long-distance rides with a passenger less ideal. The 850mm seat height adds to the challenge, making the bike feel taller and less accessible compared to the Transalp. This could be a drawback for shorter riders or those who prefer an easier mount and dismount experience. Additionally, the seat itself, while wide and comfortable, might not offer the same level of long-distance comfort as some of its competitors.

Engine Performance: Smooth but Less Punchy

The V-Strom’s 770cc engine, producing slightly less horsepower than the Transalp, offers excellent bottom-end torque and smooth throttle response. However, it requires higher RPMs for highway cruising, leading to more vibrations above 5,000 RPM. Despite this, it remains a capable and tractable engine for various riding conditions, though it lacks the immediate torque punch of the Transalp. In city conditions, the engine performs admirably, with good tractability and a smooth throttle connection. However, the clutch feels a bit heavier, and the steering isn’t as light as the Transalp’s, making it a slightly more cumbersome bike to navigate through urban environments.

Handling: Stability Over Agility

In terms of handling, the V-Strom feels like a large, somewhat soft motorcycle. It doesn’t carve through corners as effortlessly as the Transalp, making the rider more aware of its weight, especially during braking when the front end tends to dive. However, the suspension adjustments significantly improve road performance, enhancing responsiveness and stability. While it may not offer the sharp, agile handling of some of its competitors, the V-Strom makes up for it with a comfortable and composed ride, even on less-than-perfect roads.

Braking and Tires: Adequate but Not Exceptional

Both the V-Strom and the Transalp use similar braking systems—simple axial calipers and master cylinders—which are adequate but not exceptional. A major drawback is the V-Strom’s tube tires, which, despite their aesthetic appeal, are a dealbreaker for many at this price point, unlike the tubeless tires of the previous V-Strom 650. This means that riders may have to deal with the inconvenience of tube punctures, which can be a significant downside, especially on long-distance adventures.

Electronics and Features: Practical and User-Friendly

Suzuki excels in the electronics department with a straightforward TFT display, offering easy access to traction control, ABS, and engine power modes. These settings can be adjusted on the move, and the system retains preferences even after the bike is turned off. This practical, non-intrusive setup is a highlight, making the V-Strom user-friendly and convenient for everyday use. The bike’s interface is clean and intuitive, allowing riders to focus more on the road and less on navigating complex menus. The ability to easily change settings on the move is particularly beneficial for adventure riders who may need to adjust their bike’s performance based on varying terrain conditions.

Additional Features: Well-Equipped for Adventure

The V-Strom 800DE comes packed with features, including a remote preload adjuster, up-and-down quick shifter, fully adjustable suspension, and a 20L fuel tank—larger than the Transalp’s. The bike’s design is more adventurous and attention-grabbing, with durable, color-injected plastic bodywork that adds to its rugged appeal. The larger fuel tank is a significant advantage for long-distance touring, reducing the frequency of fuel stops and allowing for longer, uninterrupted rides.

Price and Value: Competitive Edge

At an introductory price of 10.3 lakh rupees ex-showroom, the V-Strom 800DE offers great value, especially since it includes many features as standard that the Transalp requires as accessories. However, Honda’s superior service network and unbeatable maintenance costs remain significant advantages. Despite this, the V-Strom’s competitive pricing and well-rounded feature set make it a strong contender in the entry premium adventure bike segment.

Conclusion: A Well-Rounded Adventure Bike

In conclusion, the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE is a great all-rounder, excelling in various aspects without being outstanding in any one area. It will appeal to many riders as long as they understand its strengths and limitations. For those looking for a capable, feature-rich adventure bike at a competitive price, the V-Strom 800DE is definitely worth considering. Its combination of off-road capability, practical features, and solid performance makes it a versatile choice for adventure enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts

While it may not surpass the Honda Transalp 750 in every category, the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE holds its own with its off-road prowess, practical features, and value for money. It’s a compelling option for adventure enthusiasts seeking a versatile and dependable ride. Whether you’re tackling rugged trails or cruising on the highway, the V-Strom 800DE offers a well-rounded package that is sure to satisfy a wide range of riders.