Suzuki Launches V-Strom 800DE in India

Suzuki Motor India has finally launched the V-Strom 800DE that they had showcased at the Bharat Mobility Show. With an official introductory price tag of ₹ 10.30 lakh this bike is ready to take on the Indian big adventure motorcycle segment.

The V-Strom 800DE, offers a surprisingly compact feel for the rider. Suzuki has achieved this by centralising the mass, resulting in an enduro-like experience that prioritises agility. The sleek front section with a short beak further accentuates this manoeuvrability. However, there's a trade-off, as the focus on compactness translates to a taller seat height. The V-Strom 800DE has an adjustable windscreen for improved wind protection, although adjusting it requires Allen keys.

Take a closer look at the bike from our walkaround of it at the Bharat Mobility Expo.

V-Strom 800DE Features

The V-Strom 800DE comes loaded with features. A crisp and informative five-inch TFT display takes centre stage, offering a clear view of stats. Selectable riding modes, including a dedicated Gravel mode, tailor the bike's performance to different terrains. For a seamless shifting experience, a bi-directional quickshifter is included. Additionally there are features like traction control and Suzuki's Low RPM Assist ensure a safe and confident ride in any situation.

V-Strom 800DE Engine

The heart of the V-Strom 800DE is a pulsating 776cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine with a unique 270-degree crank. This configuration promises a thrilling ride with a characteristic V-twin rumble, delivering an impressive 84.3 bhp and 78 Nm of torque. Paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed gearbox, the V-Strom 800DE is equipped to conquer any adventure route with confidence.

V-Strom 800DE Chassis

Suzuki has opted for a proven design with the V-Strom 800DE's chassis, leveraging the strengths of a familiar platform while incorporating key modifications for adventure riding. The foundation is a steel frame borrowed from the GSX-8S naked bike, renowned for its rigidity and responsiveness. However, for the V-Strom 800DE, the sub-frame has undergone a significant transformation. It's been lengthened and reinforced to handle the additional weight of a pillion passenger and luggage, essential for extended adventure trips. This thoughtful modification is expected to maintain its balance of stability and agility even when fully loaded.

V-Strom 800DE Suspension

The V-Strom 800DE has an adjustable USD fork at the front and a monoshock with a remote preload adjuster at the rear. This combination allows riders to fine-tune the suspension settings to match their riding style and the specific terrain they're tackling. It has a ground clearance of 220mm.

V-Strom 800DE Tyres

The wheels, a 21-inch front and a 17-inch rear, are wrapped in Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tyres. These tyres are designed to offer a good balance of on-road grip and off-road capability, providing riders with the versatility to explore any path.

One point to note is the use of tube-type Dunlop Mixtour tyres on the tube spoked wheels. Unlike its smaller sibling, the V-Strom 650XT, and some competitors, the V-Strom 800DE misses out on tubeless spoke wheels. Tubeless tyres offer advantages like reduced weight and the ability to seal small punctures, potentially improving ride safety.

V-Strom 800DE Brakes

The V-Strom 800DE comes equipped with dual 310mm discs with four-piston callipers at the front and a single 260mm disc with a single-piston calliper at the rear to ensure effective braking performance. Additionally, dual-channel ABS comes standard, with the option to switch off the rear ABS for more control in off-road situations.

V-Strom 800DE Indian Rivals

Priced aggressively at ₹10.30 lakh (ex-showroom), the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE has been launched in India, directly challenging established rivals like the Honda Transalp 750 (₹11 lakh) and undercutting the Triumph Tiger 850 Sport (₹11.95 lakh) by a significant margin. This strategic pricing, combined with the V-Strom 800DE's feature set and off-road capability, has the potential to shake up the Indian big adventure motorcycle segment and make it a very attractive option for riders seeking a value-packed adventure machine.