2012 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS Intro

Suzuki invited a select group of moto-jounalists to the Blue Ridge Mountains this week to sample the 2012 V-Stom 650 ABS. The mildly reworked mid-size adventure-tourer proved itself to be an upgraded version of the popular original model. During the two-day test we rode paved two-lane byways and a few dirt road segments.

Better torque from the V-Twin engine gives it better passing power in the 4,000 to 6,000 rpm range but the most noticeable change comes in the form of tighter suspension, providing a more composed ride from the front fork and rear shock. New gauges are more readable and the updated styling maintains the recognizable profile of the V-Strom but with an updated look that ushers the bike into the next decade of the model’s existence.

Look for a full review of the new V-Strom 650 ABS next week here on the Motorcycle.com website.

By Tom Roderick