2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050 and V-Strom 1050DE First Look
Tue, 06 Sep 2022
V-Strom 1050XT gets replaced by a more capable off-road variant
Suzuki announced updates for the V-Strom 1050, as well as a new off-road oriented version for 2023. The new 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE replaces the 1050XT model, and adds new features to make it a more capable off-road machine such as a 21-inch front wheel, longer-stroke suspension, and a larger aluminum bash plate.
Both models remain powered by a 1037cc V-Twin engine, but for 2023, Suzuki introduced new hollow sodium-filled exhaust valves, claiming reduced temperature in the combustion chamber, and thus improved efficiency and durability.
The six-speed transmission and the bi-drectional quickshifter were also updated for smoother shifting.
The Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS) electronics package returns with some updates including a new 32-bit engine control module, and a lighter, more compact Bosch anti-lock brake unit.
Suzuki updated the ride-by-wire system with a slightly stiffer throttle grip action. Suzuki says this improves throttle response for off-road riding and provides a more natural feel closer to what you would get with a mechanical cable throttle. The cruise control system was also updated to offer a wider range of speed and gear settings.
Lean sensitive ABS, slope-dependent brake control, load dependent braking control, an easy-start system, low-RPM assist, hill hold control and three selectable drive modes also return. The V-Strom 1050’s three-mode traction control remains unchanged, but the DE model gains a new gravel model and the ability to turn off rear ABS.
For 2023, the twin-spar aluminum frame gets paired with a new subframe with new battery and rear fender mounting brackets, with Suzuki claiming better support for input load in off-road situations.
The V-Strom 1050DE has a revised chassis geometry, with a 27° 30’ rake (compared to 25° 40’ on the regular V-Strom) and a 4.96-inch trail (vs. 4.33 inches). The wheelbase also increases from 61.2 inches to 62.8 inches. The DE’s fully-adjustable inverted fork offers 6.7 inches of stroke, while the rear suspension offers 6.6 inches of rear wheel travel, compared to the more road-centric V-Strom’s 6.3-inches of front and rear travel.
Dunlop provides the a 90/90-21 front and 150/70R17 rear Trailmax Mixtour tires with a semi-block pattern and an internal structure specifically designed for the V-Strom 1050DE.
To offset the lengthened front suspension and 21-inch front wheel, Suzuki gave the 1050DE a longer swingarm to provide the same handling characteristics as the V-Strom 1050. With these changes, the V-Strom 1050DE offers 7.5 inches of ground clearance, one more inch than the regular V-Strom 1050.
The V-Strom 1050DE comes with a wider handlebar than the V-Strom 1050, made of a softer grade of aluminum. According to Suzuki, this offers more flex and improved shock absorption while also improving control, especially from a standing position. The DE also comes with a lighter, more rigid seat and wider steel footpegs.
Other features exclusive to the V-Strom 1050DE include a sturdier drive chain, a smaller smoke-finish windscreen, an accessory bar, a stronger three-piece front fender, an aluminum bash plate and lengthened side and center stands to compensate for the increased ground clearance.
For the U.S., the 2023 V-Strom 1050 comes in a Metallic Reflective Blue/Metallic Matte Black color. The V-Strom 1050DE comes in Pearl Vigor Blue/Pearl Brilliant White. The Champion Yellow No. 2/Metallic Matte Sword Silver V-Strom 1050DE in the pictures will only be offered in a V-Strom 1050DE Adventure variant that adds aluminum panniers and LED fog lamps. U.S. pricing for all three models remains to be announced.
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Dennis has been a part of the Motorcycle.com team since 2008, and through his tenure, has developed a firm grasp of industry trends, and a solid sense of what's to come. A bloodhound when it comes to tracking information on new motorcycles, if there's a new model on the horizon, you'll probably hear about it from him first.
More by Dennis Chung
"The DE’s fully-adjustable inverted fork offers 6.7 inches of stroke, while the rear suspension offers 6.6 inches of rear wheel travel, compared to the more road-centric V-Strom’s 6.3-inches of front and rear travel."(!) No one truly understands the importance of .3 inches of travel like Suzuki's marketing department
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Alaskan18724 on Sep 12, 2022
Sounds like the handlebar discussion to me....
I like the picture of the chain, but it would have been better if they'd arranged it as an "S." A missed marketing opportunity.
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See also: Church of MO: 1997 Suzuki XF650 Freewind, Parallel-Twin Suzuki V-Strom and SV650 Successors Spied, Church of MO: 2002 Suzuki SV-1000S.