'V' for Versatile

The V-strom 800DE makes a departure from tradition in a noticeable way. We seek to analyse the upshot

- Joshua Varghese

WHEN SUZUKI REVEALED THE V-STROM 800DE globally, many wanted to know what the "DE" in the moniker stood for. Some say that it stands for "Dual Explorer" while others choose to believe it is inspired by Stefan Hessler's (Hessler Rallye Team) V-strom Desert Express concept builds.

While we are at it, one should also know that Suzuki claim that the "V" stands for versatile because, unlike the V-stroms of the past, there is no V-twin engine in this one.

Motive force for the 800DE is supplied by a 776-cc, eight-valve, DOHC, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin with a 270-degree crankshaft to mimic the uneven firing order of the V-twin. It develops 84.3 hp at 8,500 rpm and 78 Nm at 6,800 rpm. It draws strongly from a bottom end that transitions into a stronger mid-range. The transmission is a six-speed unit that also gets a quick-shifter which is both useful and fun to have. While the power figures are unlikely to make an impression on paper, there is more to this engine than meets the eye. It is among the smoothest and most refined units we have experienced in this segment. Suzuki claim that most of the credit is due to their patented balancer technology.

The 800DE is not a complicated motorcycle to figure out. It communicates well with the rider and there is hardly a moment when one does not feel in control. The chassis is a simple tubular steel frame but the suspension is a marked departure from the V-strom motorcycles of the past. The upside-down (USD) fork and monoshock are Showa units which have 220 millimetres of travel each; the longest ever on any V-strom or so they claim. Plus, they are adjustable, too, for preload, compression, and rebound. I liked the addition of a dial-type preload adjuster at the rear. It should make life a lot easier for those who ride with a pillion or luggage.