As per the sources, it has been learnt that the launch of an adventure tourer, the V-Strom 650 XT will happen in India by July. In Suzuki’s performance-oriented motorcycle range, the V-Strom 650XT will be the third one to be locally assembled following the Supersport Hayabusa and lately introduced Suzuki GSX-S750.
Expected to get priced in the range of INR 7.7 and 7.9 lakh (ex-showroom), the new V-Strom 650XT will be the most affordable performance motorcycle in India. Here, it will be provided only in top end off-road spec model. Whereas, the global audience gets the freedom of choosing from its variants- the standard V-Strom and the off-road specific V-Strom XT.
It is based on a twin-spar alloy frame and draws styling inspiration from its elder sibling-the V-Strom 1000. It rides on premium anodized wire-spoke wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Battlax Adventure A40 tubeless tyres. Whereas, the suspension duties on this adventure performance tourer are handled by conventional telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock. The company offers the facility of rebound adjustment and a remote preload adjuster to the rear suspension.
Mechanically, the new V-Strom 650 XT is packed with a 645cc V-twin mill that is rated to churn out the maximum power of 71hp at 8,800rpm and the peak torque of 62Nm at 6,500rpm. It comes paired with a six-speed transmission. On rivalry front, it first opponent in the segment, the Kawasaki Versys rolls out the 69hp at 8,500rpm and 64Nm at 7,000rpm that is comparatively lower than the 650 XT.
Altogether, the V-Strom 650 XT is wealthier in an electronic package as compared to the Kawasaki Versys 650. It gets a three-stage traction control system. In addition to this, the rider’s aids that help in providing outstanding performance on the bike include three-way height adjustable windscreen, Suzuki’s useful Easy Start System and standard ABS.
The V-Strom 650 XT offers 20 litres of fuel tank capacity. The motorcycle’s seat sits at 835mm and it has the weight of 216kgs.
In terms of pricing, the V-Storm 650 XT will be priced costlier than the Kawasaki Versys 650 available on sale at INR 6.5 lakh (ex-showroom). However, there is a far difference between both the Kawasaki Versys 650 variant being offered in the country and going to be launched the V-Strom 650 XT variant. Comparatively, the upcoming V-Storm will offer features like expensive wheels, traction control rider’s aid etc.