Trying to decide

[Bliz]

Possibly going to buy a V Strom next week. How smooth is the engine? Much vibration through bars? Does 19 inch front tire seem to handle any different than a sport bike. I currently own a VFR 800. Thanks.

[rider1951]

The motor is pretty smooth for a big twin. I have not ridden a VFR 800 but I had a 96 VFR 750. The V-strom is as smooth as that bike was that I remember. Sometimes I get some vibes through the bars but usually when I'm riding at low rpms. The bike handles pretty well and the 19" tire and the wide bars make the bike turn in pretty easy. The one drawback to the 19" wheel is finding a more street oriented tire. I'm running the Metzeler Tourances right now and I like them a lot better thean the stock Bridgestones. I've heard good things about the new Michelin Anakee tires. I don't know how they wear yet. I have over 7000 miles on the Metzelers and they still have quite a bit of life left in them.

[Brendan]

I have put many miles on a VFR750, and love that bike. You cannot beat the Honda. But............

My good friend Hondasarge purchased a 2002 VFR800 on Friday and he really doesn't care for the (my) V-Strom. Matt (Hondasarge) and I were talking this morning about how the VFR is the perfect bike, but I had to add that the V-Strom is the perfect bike for me.

If you are looking for a bike that is fast, fun and functional you cannot go wrong with the V-Strom. I emphasize the "functional" because you can pretty much do anything with the V-Strom, vs your limitations with a VFR. If you see a bumpy road that you want to explore, the V-Strom is the way to go. While the ergonomics afford a good, stable position on nasty roads which will help the handling, the tires, wheels and suspension are designed for street-pavement only use.

If you hit a small pothole at speed on a VFR, you have a greater risk of an accident or at minimum bike damage.

The VFR is a better high speed machine, and an incredible sport tourer. But they are comparitavely priced, both have dealers everywhere and you can get all the luggage, cases you could possibly need. Resale value may be a bit stronger with the VFR in a few years since they are more popular at the moment than the V-Strom.

My opinion is buy the V-Strom to be on the "safe side".
Brendan

[Brendan]

I should clarify that I was assuming that you are replacing the VFR. If you are not, then you have the best of both worlds. I am jealous!
Brendan

[hondasarge]

A co-worker was kind enough to let me take his VStrom to lunch today and for a quick spin. First let me say that this may not have been the best um....maintained machine on the plant. He just washed it for the first time yesterday after 13,000+ miles. Come on man, show a little more love to your daily transport Brendan :D

Anyhow, the ergos on the bike are nice and upright and the extra height gives a really nice view of traffic. I've got a 32/34 inch inseam and was easily able to flat foot the bike. Much less than that though, and I image it'd be a struggle to to the same.

If you've ridden a XR650 or KLR650, just imagine that only bigger. The TL sourced engine was really nice even for a guy that typically favors 4 cylinders. Transmission was nicely spaced and worked well even thought I suspect this one has had some abuse and was a bit chatty and grabby at lower revs/higher torque. The dials are really nice and easy to read and a clock and fuel gauge are always nice to see.

This one also had a set of Touratech 35L hard cases added to it. If you haven't seen these before, they are basically two large aluminum coolers strapped to the side of the bike. I'm sure they work well, but they add like 4 ft of width to the bike!

http://www.touratech-usa.com/shop/media2/01-052-2061-01_2.jpg

All in all, it's not a bad machine, it handles really well and the wind protection was good. A taller windscreen would probably be a nice addition if you're much taller than 5' 9" or so. The only think I kept thinking was, "If only this was a VStrom 650". Loose the extra pounds of the 1000, drop the seat an inch, and you'll probably have more fun terrorizing in town and rual areas. I know that it's supposed to be an Adventure machine, but it'd take a lot of convincing to get me down anything but a gravel road on the 1000.

If you are shopping for a good all around machine with very distinctive looks, this one fits the bill. The only other bike currently offered in the US that I'd look at is either a R1150GS or Aprila Capo Nord. For me the GS is still to expensive, but a Capo can be found for well under $10K these days and the styling and spoked wheels of the Capo appeal to me more.


By the way, I'm the one with the new VFR that he mentioned above.

Well, sold the VFR yesterday and bought a new yellow V Strom today. Really like it. It's amazing that a bike so physically large can seem so light and agile once you start moving. Much better riding position for driver and passenger than the VFR. Great engine, lot of torque. Engine overall is better than VFR. Handling is just a bit behind the VFR but still very good. Engine is very smooth. Almost no vibration through bars when in 6th gear on the interstate. Could use a better windshield though. Check into that later. Ordered Suzuki centerstand and hard luggage. VFR is a great bike, but for me you have to give up to much in the comfort area. A 250 mile day on VFR is not enjoyable. V Strom has the same level of performance and much more comfortable. Perfect bike for me.