Although the new 2023 V-Strom 1050DE lineup has grabbed the headline, it’s worth remembering that street-oriented ADV enthusiasts will be interested in the updates to the standard 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050. With the DEs taking care of the off-roaders, the V-Strom 1050 retains its focus on pavement performance with ADV styling and ergonomics. While the updates aren’t as extensive at the XT-replace DEs, there is still quite a bit new on the 2023 V-Strom 1050.
- There’s a new electronics package for the 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050. At the system’s heart is a six-direction IMU that interacts with the 32-bit ECU. Using CAN technology, all the digital wizardry is tied together independent of the wiring harness.
- There are several new electronic rider aids in the latest V-Strom 1050. You get cornering-aware ABS and traction control, grade-aware rear-wheel lift mitigation, weight awareness, hill hold, an up/down quickshifter, and cruise control. Also, the ride-by-wire throttle gets retuned, and the grip return tension is adjusted.
- There are three levels of traction control on the street, plus it can be turned off for dirt excursions.
- The two-level cornering-aware ABS is upgraded. It’s always on, with the more aggressive mode 2 providing more intervention than in previous years.
- There are three power modes, and they are tied in with the traction control setting. All three modes have the same maximum power, with the throttle response moderated.
- The cruise control can be set over a wide range of speeds. You can set it for any speed from 15 to 100 mph, though you have to be in 2nd gear or higher.
- The new quickshifter is matched to a revised six-speed transmission. Suzuki has raised the ratios for 1st and 6th gear to smooth out the quickshifter’s action, and that’s aided and abetted by a new gear position sensor. The clutch has assist and slipper functions, plus Suzuki’s proprietary Low RPM Assist System that helps prevent stalling when pulling away from a stop.
- A new five-inch TFT dash allows the rider to monitor the 1050s systems. There are two modes—Day and Night—and you can adjust the brightness of each either manually or automatically. There’s a 2-amp USB charging port on the side of the instrument panel. It is joined by a 12-volt, 36-watt DC socket under the passenger seat.
- The ergonomics of the 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050 are updated. There are two seat-height positions—33.7 and 34.5 inches. The new 11-position hand-adjustable windscreen moves over a two-inch sweep. Plus, the mirrors are new, with a dual focus on style and rearview function.
- LED lighting is everywhere—headlight, turn signals, and tail/brake light. The LEDs are brighter than the bulbs they replaced.
- A centerstand is standard, simplifying maintenance.
- A cowling on the lower front of the frame keeps debris from striking the engine, exhaust header, and oil filter.
- The graphics and color combo are new, as is the new beak.
- Returning are the KYB suspension and pavement-friendly Bridgestone Battlax Adventure A41 tires mounted on a 19-/17-inch wheel pairing.
- We don’t have a price or arrival date for the 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050. As soon as we get a chance to ride one, we will!
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050 Specs
ENGINE
- Type: 90-degree V-twin
- Displacement: 1037cc
- Bore x stroke: 100 x 66mm
- Compression ratio: 11.5:1
- Valvetrain: DOHC, 4vpc
- Fueling: EFI w/ 49mm throttle body
- Ignition: Two spark plugs per cylinder
- Cooling: Liquid and oil
- Transmission: 6-speed
- Clutch: Web multi-plate w/ assist-and-slipper functions
- Final drive: RK 525 O-ring chain
CHASSIS
- Front suspension; travel: Fully adjustable inverted 43mm KYB fork; 6.3 inches
- Rear suspension; travel: Linkage-assisted, rebound-damping and spring-preload adjustable KYB shock; 6.3 inches
- Wheels: Cast aluminum
- Tires: Bridgestone Battlax Adventure A41
- Front tire: 110/80 x 19
- Rear tire: 150/70 x 17
- Front brakes: 310mm floating discs w/ radially mounted 4-piston Tokico calipers
- Rear brake: 260mm disc w/ 2-piston Nissin caliper
- ABS: Standard, IMU-supported
DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES
- Wheelbase: 61.2 inches
- Rake: 25.7 degrees
- Trail: 4.3 inches
- Seat height: 33.7 or 34.5 inches
- Ground clearance: 6.5 inches
- Fuel tank capacity: 5.3 gallons
- Curb weight: 534 pounds
- Color: Metallic Reflective Blue / Metallic Matte Black No. 2
2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050 Price: $TBA MSRP
