Suzuki V-Strom SX: Desi Jabardast Adventure at ₹2.11 Lakh
Are you ready to conquer the roads less traveled? The Suzuki V-Strom SX is here to fuel your wanderlust with its perfect blend of comfort, performance, and versatility.
This quarter-liter adventure tourer is designed to tackle both city streets and rugged terrains with equal ease. Let’s take a closer look at what makes the V-Strom SX a compelling choice for riders seeking a well-rounded machine.
Design and Styling
The V-Strom SX boasts a design that turns heads wherever it goes. Taking cues from its larger siblings, this baby adventure tourer exudes a bold and muscular presence on the road. The tall windscreen, beak-style front fender, and muscular fuel tank extensions give it a purposeful stance that screams adventure.
Suzuki has paid attention to every detail, ensuring that the V-Strom SX looks good from every angle. The LED headlight not only adds to its modern appeal but also provides excellent visibility during night rides. The compact rear section with LED taillights completes the sporty look.
Available in three striking colors – Champion Yellow No. 2, Pearl Blaze Orange, and Glass Sparkle Black – the V-Strom SX allows you to choose a style that matches your personality. Whether you prefer a bold statement or a more understated look, there’s a color option for every rider.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the V-Strom SX lies a refined 249cc, single-cylinder, oil-cooled engine. This powerplant, shared with the Gixxer 250, has been tuned to deliver a perfect balance of performance and efficiency. With 26.5 PS of power at 9300 rpm and 22.2 Nm of torque at 7300 rpm, the V-Strom SX offers ample grunt for both city riding and highway cruising.
The engine’s character is well-suited for adventure touring. It provides strong low-end torque, making it easy to navigate through traffic or tackle off-road sections. The mid-range is where the engine truly shines, offering smooth acceleration for overtaking maneuvers on highways.
Paired with a slick 6-speed gearbox, the V-Strom SX allows you to find the right gear for every situation. The transmission offers precise shifts, enhancing the overall riding experience. Whether you’re cruising at highway speeds or negotiating tight city streets, the gearbox complements the engine’s performance perfectly.
Ride and Handling
The V-Strom SX shines when it comes to ride quality and handling. The suspension setup, consisting of telescopic forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear, is tuned to offer a comfortable ride on various surfaces. While it may not have the long-travel suspension of hardcore off-road machines, it strikes a good balance for everyday use and light trail riding.
With a ground clearance of 205mm, the V-Strom SX can tackle most obstacles you’ll encounter on Indian roads with ease. The 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel combination provides stability at high speeds and confidence-inspiring handling around corners.
The upright riding position, wide handlebars, and well-padded seat ensure that you can spend long hours in the saddle without fatigue. This makes the V-Strom SX an excellent choice for those weekend getaways or long-distance touring.
Features and Technology
Suzuki has equipped the V-Strom SX with a host of features that enhance its touring capabilities:
- Bluetooth-enabled fully digital instrument cluster
- Turn-by-turn navigation
- Incoming call and message alerts
- USB charging port
- LED lighting all around
- Dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety
The Suzuki Ride Connect app allows you to stay connected with your smartphone, providing essential information without taking your eyes off the road. This feature is particularly useful during long rides, helping you navigate unfamiliar territories with ease.
Fuel Efficiency and Range
Adventure touring is all about covering long distances, and the V-Strom SX doesn’t disappoint in this department. With a claimed fuel efficiency of 32 kmpl, you can expect a real-world mileage of around 30-35 kmpl depending on riding conditions.
The 12-liter fuel tank might seem small at first glance, but it provides a respectable range of over 350 km on a single tank. This means you can cover significant distances between fuel stops, allowing you to focus on the journey rather than constantly worrying about the next petrol pump.
Pricing and Competition
Priced at ₹2.11 lakh (ex-showroom), the Suzuki V-Strom SX offers good value for money in the quarter-liter adventure touring segment. It undercuts some of its main rivals while offering a well-rounded package. Here’s how it stacks up against the competition:
| Model | Price (Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|
| Suzuki V-Strom SX | ₹2.11 lakh |
| KTM 250 Adventure | ₹2.35 lakh |
| Royal Enfield Himalayan | ₹2.15 – 2.22 lakh |
| Yezdi Adventure | ₹2.09 – 2.18 lakh |
| Hero XPulse 200 4V | ₹1.32 – 1.39 lakh |
While each of these motorcycles has its own strengths, the V-Strom SX stands out with its refined engine, comfortable ergonomics, and feature-rich package. It offers a good balance between on-road performance and light off-road capability, making it an attractive option for riders looking for a versatile machine.
Pros and Cons
Let’s summarize the strengths and weaknesses of the Suzuki V-Strom SX:
Pros:
- Refined and torquey engine
- Comfortable ergonomics for long-distance touring
- Feature-rich package with Bluetooth connectivity
- Attractive design with good road presence
- Competitive pricing
Cons:
- Limited off-road capability compared to some rivals
- Relatively small fuel tank
- Might feel underpowered for some experienced riders
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q)
Q1. Is the Suzuki V-Strom SX suitable for beginners?
Yes, the V-Strom SX is a great option for beginners looking to enter the world of adventure touring. Its manageable power delivery, comfortable ergonomics, and easy-to-ride nature make it an excellent choice for those new to motorcycling or stepping up from smaller bikes.
Q2. How does the V-Strom SX perform off-road?
While the V-Strom SX is primarily designed for on-road use, it can handle light off-road trails and gravel roads with ease. However, it’s not meant for hardcore off-roading. The 19-inch front wheel and decent ground clearance allow it to tackle most obstacles you’ll encounter on typical adventure rides.
Q3. What is the service interval for the Suzuki V-Strom SX?
Suzuki recommends a service interval of every 3000 km or 3 months, whichever comes first. This ensures that your V-Strom SX remains in top condition and performs optimally throughout its lifetime.
Q4. Can I install luggage accessories on the V-Strom SX?
Yes, Suzuki offers a range of official accessories for the V-Strom SX, including panniers and top boxes. These allow you to increase the bike’s luggage-carrying capacity for longer tours. Additionally, there are aftermarket options available from various manufacturers.
Q5. How does the V-Strom SX compare to the KTM 250 Adventure in terms of performance?
The KTM 250 Adventure offers slightly more power (30 PS) compared to the V-Strom SX (26.5 PS). However, the V-Strom SX compensates with its smoother power delivery and more comfortable ergonomics. The choice between the two often comes down to personal preference and riding style.
Wrapping Up
The Suzuki V-Strom SX brings the adventure touring experience to a wider audience with its accessible price point and well-rounded package. It offers a perfect blend of comfort, performance, and versatility, making it an excellent choice for both daily commutes and weekend getaways. While it may not be the most hardcore off-road machine in its segment, it excels as a versatile all-rounder that can handle a variety of riding conditions with ease.
Read Also
