VOL. 51 ISSUE 7 FEBRUARY 19, 2014 P53
which is an improvement over pre-
vious model Euro2 ratings.
The new V-Strom also gets
a new clutch - designed to im-
prove downshifting and clutch
lever pull. The Suzuki Clutch As-
sist System, or SCAS, works as
both a slipper clutch and clutch
assist. On downshift the clutch
slips slightly for smoother opera-
tion and lever pull is 13 percent
lighter - both of which are aimed
at increasing rider comfort and
reducing fatigue.
The change of sixth gear was
also incorporated to provide a
smoother ride at higher speeds
with sixth going from 0.913 to 1.0.
Two iridium spark plugs per
cylinder replace the single con-
ventional type of old and Suzuki
claims that by running dual plugs
it heightens the spark strength
and combustion efficiency result-
ing in a host of improvements,
including easier startup, a more
stable idle, linear throttle re-
sponse and more power. The
Vstrom1000ABS uses two igni-
tion coils per cylinder to inde-
pendently control ignition timing,
resulting in a stronger low rpm
output and lower emissions.
A new low-loss, high-output
magneto and a 15 percent in-
creased inertia weight from the
flywheel were designed to keep
things running smooth in the
lower rpm range. The ECM pro-
cessor has been updated and
is now a 32-bit (was 16 bit) and
the rectifier is now an open type
that helps to reduce the amount
of stress on the magneto and is
said to help improve the low- and
mid-range power delivery.
The V-Strom received a new
cooling system as well, includ-
ing radiator, hoses, reservoir,
etc. and increased capacity from
19.8kw to 22.7kw. Even with the
redesign and increased size the
combined parts are lighter than
before, Suzuki says. With the
bike running at a lower tempera-
ture Suzuki was able to remove
the old oil cooler bringing the to-
tal cooling system weight loss to
2.8 pounds.
The exhaust system on the
1000 has been completely rede-
signed from the headers back.
Suzuki put the new slimmer V-Strom
on a diet, losing 18 pounds. It also
got a long overdue facelift.
