Suzuki DL1000 GT

IF only everything in life was as reliable as a V-Strom. Suzuki's big 'enduro sport tourer' has gained a loyal following since its introduction back in 2002. And having just spent a week with one, I can really see why.

The model I tested was the top spec DL1000 GT, which comes fully kitted out with cavernous colour-coded luggage, adjustable windscreen and heated handgrips which, given how cold it's been of late, were a welcome addition.

In fact, I came to regard the V-Strom as something of a friend. It's not out to dazzle you, and it won't have you laughing out loud in your helmet. But what it will do is everything you ask of it without giving you any grief. It's eager to please and more than able. Shopping runs, long motorway blasts or even cross-channel exploits are all well within its ample range, and the big V-Strom even behaves itself when the going gets slightly rougher.

But the DL1000 lulls you into a false sense of security. Negotiating my way from George White's in Swindon and down the M4 back to Bristol, I never once threatened the red line. I was content with mastering the way the 19-inch front wheel pitches into roundabouts, while the upright riding position, comfy seat and heated grips made my riding flowing and relaxed, rather than fast and furious.

A couple of days later, however, I was in for a surprise. Having made a conscious decision to go out thrill-seeking, rather than just using the DL to commute, the smooth 1,000cc V-twin began to show its heritage. Based heavily on the tried and tested motor which once powered the frankly lunatic TL1000S and TL1000R sportsbikes of the 90s, the V-Strom showed remarkable venom once the revs really began to climb. The 90-degree V-twin which had previously been so gentlemanly had transformed into a fire-breathing monster. From 5,000rpm up to the redline, in gear after gear, the V-Strom has plenty of shove for the most brisk of overtaking manouevres.

You'll need to be brave though for antics of this kind, because the DL1000 is not blessed with the greatest brakes on the market, nor is it the best cornering vehicle money can buy. So if you can't come to terms with that, then maybe this isn't the bike for you. It never pretends to be an R1-beater, sacrificing sharp sporty handling in favour of continental touring ability. But it's nice to know the power is there when you do want it...

But where the DL1000 really excels is its long-distance prowess. Sixth gear is immensely tall and acts as an overdrive for motorway cruising. Once up to speed, snick the gearbox into sixth and the O/D light appears on the digital display. In overdrive, the vibe-free 996cc motor is barely working, making for an effortless ride with excellent fuel consumption and a genuine 200-mile tank range. Seventy mph is achieved at a mere 3,500rpm, while on the continent a measly extra 1,500 rpm would see the V-Strom cruise comfortably at the ton. The suspension, too, is well set up to absorb the worst of Britain's pot holes.

Additional benefits of this sizable beast include hand guards, Transit van size mirrors, hazard warning lights and - my personal favourite, yet so often missing from bikes these days - a helmet lock.

From the funky fox eye headlamps to the end cans neatly tucked under the seat, the DL1000 is yet another example of Suzuki's ability to build affordable quality machines for the masses.

 

Article written: Mar 3, 2008

The Suzuki DL1000 GT was kindly loaned through George White Motorcycles of Swindon. For more information about test rides, call George White on 01793 716716. Or see the website at www.georgewhite.co.uk.

OUR STEER ON THE SUZUKI DL1000 GT

Price: £6,999 (@ Mar 2008) 

Engine: 996cc, 90 deg V-twin

Power: 105 bhp

Torque: 68 lb ft

Transmission: 6-speed

Weight: 208 kg

Fuel capacity: 22 litres

Top speed: 130 mph

Seat height: 840 mm

by Jon Bennett