Suzuki DL 650 V-STROM 2007 — Specifications

Why does the Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom 2007 remain, nearly twenty years after its release, one of the most sought-after mid-size adventure bikes on the used market? The answer comes down to one word: balance. With its 645 cc 90° L-twin inherited from the legendary SV 650, Suzuki mounted a motor with a bulletproof reputation onto an aluminum twin-spar frame. The 67 hp at 8,800 rpm and especially the 63.7 Nm of torque available from just 6,400 rpm produce a power curve that was reworked compared to the naked roadster it descended from. Dedicated camshafts, a larger airbox, slightly heavier reciprocating components — everything was redesigned to beef up the low and mid-range response. The result is a twin that pulls cleanly out of corners and delivers with a generosity that would make the Honda Transalp of the era feel like a lawnmower engine.

In the saddle, the Suzuki V-Strom 650 inspires immediate confidence. With its 820 mm seat height — 20 mm lower than the 1000 version — it welcomes average-sized riders without stress. The 217 kg wet weight is quickly forgotten from the very first metres thanks to a well-placed centre of gravity and an agility that rivals some much lighter sport-tourers. Handling through tight mountain switchbacks is a genuine delight. You roll on, crack the throttle without hesitation, and the twin follows with disarming obedience. The engine, 6-speed gearbox, and chain drive work together with a fluidity that invites you to ride for hours without ever feeling tired. The 22-litre tank provides range worthy of a grand tourer, which is just as well since the machine's whole philosophy encourages you to string together back roads endlessly.

The downside lies with the suspension. The 43 mm telescopic fork and rear monoshock, both limited to 150 mm of travel, clearly prioritise dynamic efficiency over ride comfort. On broken tarmac or rough trails, your back takes a beating. That's the price you pay for remarkably sure-footed handling on dry pavement. The brakes, with twin 310 mm front discs and a single 260 mm rear disc, do the job with good progressiveness. No excessive bite, just the right amount for an adventure bike that doesn't pretend to be a superbike. What you will miss, however, are the handguards — present on the 1000 but dropped here for no good reason.

Who is this machine built for? Just about everyone, and that's its greatest strength. Beginners will find an accessible and reassuring motorcycle; touring riders will find an enduring travel companion with its adjustable windscreen and comfortable pillion seat. Priced at 6,499 euros in 2007, the Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom offered a formidable value-for-money proposition against the competition. Today, the model has evolved with more recent versions like the V-Strom 650 XT fitted with spoked wheels, and the 2020, 2021, and 2022 range has gained in electronics and refinement. But this 2007 generation, now available used at very reasonable prices, retains everything that makes a good adventure-touring bike worth owning. If you're looking for a used Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom and still hesitating, add a centre stand, a few well-chosen Suzuki DL 650 V-Strom accessories, and hit the road. This bike asks for nothing more.