Suzuki V-Strom 800DE - Price Options

The recent launch of the Suzuki V-Strom 800DE at ₹ 10.30 lakh has shaken things up in the premium adventure bike market. While it's a compelling option with its price tag, there are a few competitors in its vicinity that might pique your interest. Here's a closer look at some alternatives near the ₹ 10.30 lakh mark, along with some key differences to consider in terms of their adventure ability, including their engines.

Triumph Tiger Sport 660

If you're seeking an adventure bike at a slightly lower price point, the Triumph Tiger Sport 660 emerges as the V-Strom's closest competitor. Priced at ₹ 9.46 lakh, undercutting the V-Strom by ₹ 84,000, the Tiger Sport has a 660cc inline triple engine that delivers 80 bhp and 64 Nm of torque. While it might lack the engine size of the V-Strom's 776 cc parallel-twin engine, the Tiger Sport makes up for it with an extra cylinder. This engine too is like a slightly varied version of the 270 degree twin and is more grunty in the lower range. The Triumph Tiger Sport 660 weighs in at 206 kg and features a sharp, aerodynamic design with a semi-fairing, tall windscreen, and a muscular fuel tank. Full-LED lighting and a digital instrument cluster enhance the sporty look, while rider aids like switchable traction control, ABS, and two riding modes (Rain and Road) come standard. While the Tiger Sport 660 wouldn’t be as versatile as the V-Strom 800DE off-road, but on tarmac it would be more engaging to ride.

Triumph Scrambler 900: More Style, Less Off-Road Grit

For riders who prioritise aesthetics over pure off-road capability, the Triumph Scrambler 900 presents a tempting proposition at ₹ 9.89 lakh. This bike is ₹40,000 cheaper than the Suzuki V-Storm 800 DE. It has a 900cc parallel twin engine that develops a power of 64.1 bhp and a torque of 80 Nm. However, its focus leans heavily towards aesthetics with its old-school design featuring a round headlight, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, and split-style seats. While it can handle rough roads, its looks might make you hesitate before taking it on serious off-road trails. Engine-wise, it offers a larger displacement but with slightly less power and torque compared to the Japanese bike.

Ducati Scrambler Icon: A Bold Option for Light Exploration

Priced at ₹ 10.39 lakh, the Ducati Scrambler Icon is just ₹9,000 more than the Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE. This eye-catching motorcycle packs a 900cc engine that offers 71.87 bhp and 65.2 Nm of torque. While not the most powerful engine on this list, it delivers decent performance in a lightweight package. With a USD fork suspension and 18-inch front/17-inch rear wheel combination provides nimble handling for navigating city streets and curvy roads. However, compared to the V-Strom's adventure-ready features, the Scrambler Icon with its road-focused hardware isn't built for tackling serious off-road terrain.

Honda XL750 Transalp: The Most Expensive

The Honda XL750 Transalp comes in as the most expensive option on this list at ₹ 11.00 lakh, a full ₹ 70,000 more than the V-Strom. However, it compensates with the most powerful engine with a lower displacement 755cc than the Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE. It produces 90.5 bhp and 75 Nm and has a significant advantage in terms of power output compared to the V-Strom. It also has a comprehensive electronics package that includes ride-by-wire throttle and five riding modes. These modes adjust engine power, engine braking, and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) – essentially traction control with integrated wheelie control. You get granular control over these aspects with four levels of engine power, three levels of engine braking, two levels of ABS, and five levels of HSTC. The system even allows you to switch off HSTC and rear ABS for those serious off roading.

This adventure-ready machine is perfect for conquering challenging off-road terrains, but be prepared to shell out a bit extra for its capabilities. So with respect to off-road riding only the Honda Transalp comes close to the new V-Strom 800DE. While the upfront cost of the Honda is higher, service and ownership cost of the Honda big bike will be cheaper in the long run.

As you can see all the alternatives offer something unique in terms of riding dynamics and in the end it boils down to individual preference. You can’t go wrong with any of the above choices listed.