Suzuki DL 650 V-STROM XT (2017–2022) Review: The Swiss Army Knife of Adventure Touring

When Suzuki introduced the DL 650 V-STROM XT in 2017, it wasn’t just launching another middleweight adventure bike—it was refining a formula that’s become synonymous with accessible versatility. Over six years of production, this generation of the V-STROM 650XT carved out a reputation as a jack-of-all-trades machine that could handle everything from daily commutes to transcontinental journeys. After a week-long test ride through mixed terrain, it’s easy to see why this bike remains a favorite among riders who value practicality without compromise.

Design & Ergonomics: Adventure Styling Meets Everyday Logic

Climbing onto the V-STROM 650XT feels like slipping into a well-worn hiking boot—there’s an immediate sense of familiarity and purpose. The 830–835 mm seat height (32.7–32.9 inches) strikes a clever balance between ground reach and off-road clearance, accommodating riders as short as 5’7” with a slight boot-heel lift. Suzuki’s 2017 redesign gave the bike a sharper identity with its DR-Big Dakar-inspired beak and vertically stacked headlights, creating a face that’s equal parts functional and charismatic.

The three-way adjustable windscreen is a masterstroke. At its highest setting, it channels air smoothly over a 6’0” rider’s helmet, reducing buffeting to a distant rumor. What truly impresses is the fairing’s thermal management—even during slow-speed crawling in 25°C (77°F) weather, the liquid-cooled V-twin’s heat never becomes a nuisance to the rider’s legs.

Practical touches abound: - 12V socket hidden in the left fairing pocket (perfect for GPS or heated gear) - Resin luggage rack rated for 6 kg (13.2 lbs) of standalone weight - Hand guards that actually deflect branches, not just cold wind - Tubeless spoked wheels that laugh at potholes

Engine & Performance: The Sweet Science of Compromise

At its core beats the SV650’s 645cc V-twin, but this is no mere transplant. Suzuki’s engineers performed alchemy here, transforming a sporty mill into a touring-focused powerplant. The numbers—69 hp (50.4 kW) at 8,000 rpm and 69 Nm (50.9 lb-ft) at 6,400 rpm—tell only half the story. What matters is how this engine delivers its punch:

• 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph): 4.8 seconds (tested via GPS)
• Overtaking acceleration (80–120 km/h): 3.9 seconds in 3rd gear
• Fuel efficiency: 23.8 km/L (56 mpg) at 110 km/h (68 mph)

The magic lies in the Low RPM Assist system. During a tight uphill switchback in second gear, the ECU automatically maintained 1,800 rpm like an invisible clutch hand, preventing stalls without any throttle input. Yet when the road opens up, the V-twin’s dual spark plugs and 10-hole injectors deliver a linear rush that’s more urgent than the specs suggest.

On-Road Manners: Tarmac as Playground

Suzuki’s chassis engineers deserve a medal. The aluminum twin-spar frame and 43mm telescopic forks (150mm/5.9" travel) create a front end that’s precise enough for canyon carving yet compliant on broken asphalt. At 216 kg (476 lbs) wet, the XT feels lighter than its numbers suggest—a trait amplified by its 26-degree rake and 110mm (4.3") trail.

The Bridgestone Battlax A40 tires (110/80R19 front, 150/70R17 rear) perform admirably in mixed conditions. During an unexpected downpour, the combination of TC Mode 2 and ABS inspired confidence, though aggressive riders might find the rear brake’s 260mm disc slightly underwhelming during steep descents.

Off-Road Credentials: Gravel, Not Moab

Let’s be clear—this isn’t a dirt bike in adventure clothing. The XT’s 175mm (6.9") ground clearance and 19” front wheel handle fire roads with ease, but technical single-track demands respect. Where it shines is in long-distance gravel touring:

• Suspension soaks up washboard ripples without wallowing
• Spoked wheels (with tubeless tires!) survive rock strikes
• Engine cowl protects vital components from roost

A 200-km (124-mile) off-pavement stint revealed two quirks: the sidestand sink in soft soil (fixable with a $15 footplate from MOTOPARTS.store) and mirrors that vibrate visibly above 60 km/h (37 mph) on corrugations.

Technology: Smart, Not Showy

Suzuki’s approach to electronics is refreshingly pragmatic. The three-mode traction control (including Off) intervenes subtly—during a muddy climb, Mode 2 allowed just enough slip to maintain momentum without killing power. The LCD dash, while not color TFT fancy, remains readable in direct sunlight and includes a freeze warning icon that saved this rider from black ice on a mountain pass.

The Easy Start system—fire up the bike with one button press, no clutch required—seems gimmicky until you’re restarting on a 12% incline with traffic behind. Suddenly, it’s genius.

Competition: Where the V-STROM Fits

Kawasaki Versys 650 LT

• + More road-oriented suspension
• - Lacks tubeless spoked wheels
• Verdict: Better commuter, worse adventurer

Honda CB500X (2021+)

• + 30% better fuel economy
• - 19% less torque (44 Nm)
• Verdict: Ideal for lightweight touring

Yamaha Ténéré 700

• + Superior off-road capability
• - 8% heavier, 15% pricier
• Verdict: Hardcore adventurers only

The V-STROM 650XT’s sweet spot? Riders who want 80% road performance with 20% off-road insurance, all wrapped in a package that doesn’t demand athleticism or deep pockets.

Maintenance: Keeping the Faith

Suzuki built the 650XT for longevity, but smart upgrades can transform ownership:

Critical Service Intervals - Oil Changes: Every 6,000 km (3,728 miles) with Suzuki ECSTAR 10W-40 - Valve Checks: 24,000 km (14,913 miles)—shims rarely need adjustment - Chain: DID 525V8 lasts 25,000+ km with MOTOPARTS.store’s cleaning kit

Recommended Upgrades 1. Air Filter: Swap to high-flow DNA unit (+3% midrange torque observed) 2. Sprockets: JT Steel 15T front + 47T rear for better highway cruising 3. Brake Lines: HEL Performance stainless kit improves lever feel 4. Skid Plate: Aluminum unit protects oil filter on rocky trails

Pro Tip: The stock suspension handles up to 90 kg (198 lbs) rider weight. Heavier pilots should consider MOTOPARTS.store’s Hyperpro spring kit ($229) for optimal sag.

Conclusion: The Every-Adventurer’s Steed

The 2017–2022 V-STROM 650XT doesn’t excel at any single discipline—it masters the art of being good enough at everything. From filtering through urban traffic to exploring forgotten forest tracks, this Suzuki asks only for basic maintenance and rewards with unflappable reliability.

What makes it special isn’t the specs sheet, but the experiences it enables. This is the bike that’ll take you to work on Monday, then disappear into the horizon on Friday afternoon without missing a beat. And when you’re ready to make it truly yours—whether that means hard luggage, crash bars, or upgraded lighting—MOTOPARTS.store has every piece needed to transform this capable foundation into your perfect adventure partner.

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Specifications sheet

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