VSTROM 650

[brad]

Just sold my ST1300 after 4 years, which was preceded by 4 years of ST1100. Both great bikes. I wanted something more comfortable for non-paved roads so bought a Suzuki VSTROM 650.

Only have about 200 miles but on many twisty roads in NC. First impression is how much easier it is to get into and around corners due to about 200 lbs. less weight. Clearly doesn't have the great acceleration of 1300. Also do not understand but seem to get quite a bite less wind noise and since VSTROM has very small windshield and my 1300 had the wider Bailey windshield this seems counter intuititve.

Sold ST on this web site.
Thanks to all for great farkles and general info.
regards,
brad

[Brad Felmey]

I've got my beady little eyes on a Wee-STROM as well.

[GRN]

Great bike, loved mine, but loved the Sprint more... Wee went away. Some idaes for you:
1. slide the forks up in the 3 clamps about 18-20 mm, it makes the front end a bit quicker in tight transitions.
2. start shopping for a front fork rebuilt... start by running lighter fork oil. The over dampening can be painfull.
3. Windstrom manta screen with the TS spoiler is pricey, but worth every penny in my experience.
4. engine loved gold cap at second change (1K miles), smoothed out a lot of the twin vibe thing.
5. marsee teardrop tank bags fit like they were custom made for it, I had the 20L, it was sweet.
6. don't add the centerstand if you don't have too... the clearance penalty sucks, and gets downright scary under a 2-up load.
7. the OEM rubber (trailwings?) was pretty good on road, slick as snot on mud. for real DS riding look at the Metz. and Mich., both get 3 thumbs up for the hard core crowd.

Have a blast make, it's a great bike. :clap2: :clap2: :clap2:

[Dketchum]

Starting to look for a decent used one for my College Student son.
Hope to find something over the summer break.