2014 SUZUKI V-STROM DL1000 ABS
FIRST RIDE
P54
A single muffler replaces the old
dual-can system, giving the bike a
lower center of gravity while shav-
ing almost eight pounds of weight
from the bike. To increase con-
trollability and optimize exhaust
pressure, Suzuki added an ECM-
controlled butterfly valve or Suzuki
Exhaust Tuning (SET) placed at
the end of the header just before
the muffler connection.
The new traction control fea-
ture is one of the highlighted items
added to the all-new VStrom1000
mainly because it really is a Su-
zuki first. The system works with
five different sensors that reduce
power output when electronics
detect wheelspin. This is done
every four milliseconds with the
ignition governed for quick sys-
tem reaction - all in the name of
improving traction and thus in-
creasing rider confidence.
The three modes (off, mode
1 and mode 2) are available and
can be adjusted via a switch on
the left side of the handlebars.
It's fairly standard in that Mode
1 allows for a certain amount of
wheelspin while Mode 2 is more
controlled and comes on earlier.
Another brand new feature on
the V-Strom 1000 is the addition
of ABS - a light and compact sys-
tem that monitors wheel speeds
at 50 times per wheel rotation
to match the stopping power
to available traction. Unlike the
traction control, the ABS cannot
be turned off.
The system works in conjunc-
tion with new Tokico monoblock
front brake calipers that feature
four opposed pistons (32mm and
30mm) and are said to have a
more controllable brake feel and
stronger initial bite on the 310mm
floating mount dual discs than the
previous model. The rear brake
gets a single pin slide caliper and
a 260mm disc.
Looking for a well-behaved, easy-
to-ride, comfortable and ultra-fun
road bike? You really don't have to
look any further than the V-Strom
1000 ABS.
