I just bought a 2012 DL1000 in Toronto and rode it across Canada to its new home in Victoria BC. Did my research and the VStrom is something of a Dark Horse in the adventure bike world, doesn't do anything great, but does a lot very well. Being retired, price point is important, and from what I read and heard reliability is exceptional. Have friends who owned one, spoke highly of it, and other riders that spoke highly of it even though they did not own one. Bike will never be a ditch banger, but it will be a very versatile ride.
Was always interested why so many adventure sport touring bikes were being sold, especially to older folk - either take the plunge or stop looking, so I took the plunge and glad I did. After riding across Canada, understand the attraction. My Vee is 350 lbs lighter than my 1500 Goldwing and 250 lbs lighter than my 1200 Goldwing (not selling either).
Looked for one that already had specific items added to make the bike a closer fit for me and kept the after purchase costs to a minimum for this aspect. Fortunately found one. The PO was same height and close in weight to myself so the bike fit me ergonomically from the get go. This is allowing me to focus on the engine and bike performance issues such as the clutch basket mod, Holeshot Supertune Tuner, series RR, and such.
The VStrom is filling a niche for me, easy to ride and most of my year is spent riding around town and doing short hops. It will not replace the 1200/1500 as my two up touring choice. The Mrs has had a ride and is quite pleased but has categorically stated it is not a long distance touring bike.
There are issues I am addressing, but all bikes have issues. It's easy to work on, not a lot of plastic to remove like my Goldwings, and relatively inexpensive for parts.
Patience with looking for one of these bikes is the key and you will be able to find one that is kitted out to suit you.
The price I paid for this bike was significantly less than a similar year and style of bike from a different OEM. This allows me to do upgrades, address issues and still be at a cost that is less than the other OEM bikes.
Long winded cost/reliability answer, price will always be important, but reliability is the key to keeping the bike for a long time. How many people would fly 3/4 of the way across a country and drive some 5400 Kms back home on a bike that was bought sight unseen except in pictures. Reliability plus I'd say, and at a good price point.
Cheers