Today, I received an email through my website from someone inquiring about my bike and the modifications I’ve made to it. The bike in question is a rather dirty 2014 Suzuki V-Strom. Currently, we’re in Poland, three weeks and 3,250 miles into a European tour, and the bike has performed excellently every single day. It hasn’t skipped a beat. While I could have possibly undertaken this journey on a BMW GS or a Kawasaki Versys, the V-Strom’s distinct character is what endears it to me. Whether on motorways or country roads, it handles beautifully, even when I misjudge a turn. The torque is another aspect I adore; it allows for cruising in 5th or 6th gear, effortlessly accelerating or decelerating. It’s challenging to articulate the sensation, but the engine definitely simplifies the ride.
The changes I’ve made are:
- Heated grips. Not essential for this trip but they are essential in the UK and Europe in winter.
- Give Airlfow Screen. I can cruise at quite a high speed and still have my helmet or visor open. Say no more…
- Corbin Seat. the standard Suzuki seat is so painful on a long ride, so I bought this seat second hand – and it works.
- Hard Panniers. I’m using the stock Suzuki panniers (which are actually SW Motech boxes). They’re great. Waterproof and sturdy.
- Metzeler Tourance Tyres: Perfect. Superb in the dry or the wet, and also great on loose ground and tracks (except sand…!).
Anyway, rather than list all the changes I’ve made, I’ve made a video instead. Enjoy…