Suzuki’s 2025 V-Strom 1050DE blends touring comfort with true off-road capability—making it one of the best-value adventure bikes in its class.

Words: Pete Vorst / Photography: Motohead

Almost 25 years have passed since the original Suzuki V-Strom arrived on Australian shores, and in that time, it has become one of the most respected names in the adventure touring motorcycle world. The V-Strom has always been known for its exceptional comfort, unwavering reliability, and solid road performance. However, earlier models were far more comfortable on bitumen than on bush tracks, and though capable in the right hands, they were never truly considered off-road contenders.

That changed with the latest iteration. The 2025 Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE is a confident evolution of the platform—purpose-built for dual-sport riding and well equipped for riders looking to venture further beyond the bitumen.

Launched in 2023 alongside the standard V-Strom 1050, which leans more towards sealed-road touring, the 1050DE is the off-road capable sibling in the family. Both machines share the same engine—a Euro 5-compliant, 1037cc, 90-degree V-twin that produces 79kW at 8500rpm and 100Nm of torque at 6000rpm. This engine has its roots in the legendary TL1000 and stands as one of the most enduring and loved twin-cylinder motors in Suzuki’s lineup. With smooth power delivery and strong mid-range torque, it’s an engine that feels just as comfortable cruising at highway speeds as it does climbing a steep gravel trail.

While the frame and powerplant are shared between the two variants, the 1050DE takes a much bolder step into the adventure space. It now comes equipped with longer-travel suspension, a longer swingarm for added stability, and the first-ever 21-inch front wheel on a V-Strom—marking a serious commitment to off-road performance. That front wheel is tubed, while the 17-inch rear retains a tubeless design, which does mean you’ll need to pack accordingly if you plan to head bush. The suspension—fully adjustable up front, and preload and rebound adjustable at the rear—offers 170mm of travel at the front and 169mm at the rear, a notable improvement over the more road-biased setup of the standard model.

With a wet weight of 252 kilograms and a seat height of 880mm, the DE is a tall, top-heavy machine that can feel like a handful at walking pace. Riders of shorter stature or less experience may find its physicality challenging off-road. However, once up to speed, it rewards with a stable, planted ride. The suspension does a superb job of soaking up hits on rough terrain while remaining composed on tarmac. For most riders, there’s no urgent need to adjust anything—unless you’re unusually light, heavy, or particularly fast, the stock setup is excellent.

Stopping power is provided by twin 310mm discs and radial-mounted Tokico four-piston calipers, which deliver strong and dependable braking performance. If there’s one small gripe, it’s that the standard rubber brake lines dull the lever feel slightly. For serious touring riders, especially those spending long days in the saddle, upgrading to braided lines might be a worthy investment. The rear brake offers plenty of power and feel, and the rear ABS can be switched off for a bit more control and creativity in the dirt.

On the tech front, the 1050DE is impressively well appointed. At its core is a six-axis Bosch IMU that manages cornering ABS, traction control, and three selectable ride modes (A, B, and C). All modes deliver full power, but the throttle response and delivery curve vary to suit riding conditions or personal preference. A gravel-specific mode, known simply as “G”, relaxes traction control to allow a bit of rear-wheel spin—something that’s not only useful off-road but adds a level of fun to otherwise technical riding. Hill Hold Assist and a downhill braking function also lend a hand during more challenging terrain.

The 1050DE’s TFT display is a standout feature—a crisp, five-inch full-colour unit that’s intuitive and easy to read at a glance, even in bright conditions. It sets a high bar for clarity and ease of use, and frankly, it’s a benchmark that other manufacturers could learn from. Touring comfort is also thoughtfully considered, with a comfortable and spacious cockpit layout. The seat is broad and well cushioned, while the wide footpegs and roomy ergonomics make standing and shifting body weight easy when off-road. While the standard screen does a reasonable job, taller riders may wish for a bit more wind protection.

Practical touches include a USB charging port on the dash, a 12V accessory socket under the seat, and cruise control as standard. Heated grips are available as an optional extra, and for many riders planning long-distance adventures, they’ll be worth ticking the box for.

So where does the 2025 Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE sit in the increasingly crowded adventure motorcycle segment? The answer is—firmly in the sweet spot. There are certainly bikes out there that are lighter or more dirt-focused, and others that are sharper on sealed roads. But few strike the same balance between comfort, reliability, and versatility at such an attractive price point. It is a big bike. It is a heavy bike. And riders who are new to adventure motorcycling or returning after a long break should be aware that it requires a level of skill at low speeds and in tighter terrain. That said, its on-road manners are excellent, and its off-road ability is significantly improved over earlier V-Stroms.

With the price for the 1050DE sitting comfortably below the $25,000 AUD mark, and Suzuki Australia currently offering ride-away deals just north of $21,000 AUD until June 30th, 2025, it represents outstanding value. In a market where premium adventure motorcycles are creeping well past the $30,000 threshold, this feels like a lot of bike for the money.

For riders who enjoy a mix of blacktop and backroads, who value a dependable touring machine with the capability to confidently explore gravel tracks and open trails, the Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE is a compelling option. It’s not trying to be the flashiest or the lightest, but it does offer something more important—real-world usability and an honest, well-rounded riding experience. And sometimes, that’s exactly what you want when the road ahead is long, winding, and full of possibilities.

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