The Suzuki V-Strom 650 has been launched in India,
exclusively in the XT variant, for a price of INR 7.46 lakh (ex-showroom
Delhi). The adventure tourer is the third model from the company to be locally
assembled in the country using CKD kits.
Bookings for the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT are already
open for a token amount of INR 50,000. The model was showcased at Auto Expo
2018 in February. It will primarily compete with the Kawasaki Versys 650, the
upcoming SWM Superdual T and the Benelli TRK 502 among others.
The Suzuki V-Strom 650 shares its design with the
flagship Suzuki V-Strom 1000. Globally, it is available in two variants -
standard and XT. The Indian-spec XT variant is equipped with dual-purpose
Bridgestone Battlax Adventure A40 tubeless tyres that wrap on aluminium wire
spoke rims. It has fairing protection guards, engine belly guard and
handguards. It comes with a range of optional touring accessories as well, such
as hard-plastic panniers with saddle stay and a top-box.
The motorcycle has a saddle height of 835 mm, and it
tips the scales at 213 kg (kerb). It has a large 20-litre fuel tank and
semi-fairing with a high-set windscreen. Electronic wizardry includes
switchable traction control, Suzuki Easy Start system, two riding modes and a
low-rpm assist. The bike also comes with a 12V DC power socket for charging a
Smartphone, navigation systems and the likes.
Powering the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT is a 645 cc,
90-degree V-twin, four-stroke engine with liquid cooling. The fuel-injected
motor is capable of churning out a maximum power of 70 bhp at 8,800 rpm and
generating a peak torque of 62 Nm at 6,500 rpm. It works in harmony with a
6-speed gearbox with a final chain drive. The claimed fuel economy is 24.3
km/l.
The Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT's suspension hardware
comprises telescopic forks at the front and a rebound adjustable rear
mono-shock with a remote preload adjuster. Braking force is provided by twin
disc brakes at the front and a single rotor at the back. Dual-channel ABS is
standard. Two colour options are available in our market: Champion Yellow Color
No. 2 and Pearl Glacier White.