‘Dual Explorer’ V-Strom 1050DE available to buy this spring

Packed with revisions, off-road additions and a new Gravel mode

‘Dual Explorer’ V-Strom 1050DE available to buy this spring

It’s three years since Suzuki refreshed the V-Strom 1050, but there’s a new model out soon, called the V-Strom 1050DE.

The DE stands for Dual Explorer, implying this can do both road and off-road. Furthermore that DE badge distinguishes it from the more road-focused V-Strom 1050 that’s had a refresh too.

The new 1050DE is packed with revisions and additions

The V-Strom 1050DE has longer travel suspension – you can see those front forks are noticeably longer. Plus they have fork guards/skirts and a 21-inch front wheel compared to the V-Strom 1050’s 19-incher.

Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour tyres come as standard, giving you some decent rubber right from purchase. 

V-Strom 1050DE

Tyres have a a semi-block pattern and an internal structure exclusive to the V-Strom 1050DE

One of the key additions for the 1050DE is a ‘G’ gravel setting, giving a total of four traction control options. This G mode allows more wheelspin (by retarding the ignition timing) and you can also disengage the rear wheel ABS entirely.

V-Strom 1050DE

Making use of the new Gravel mode

Further additions include engine bars, an alloy sump guard, 40mm wider bars and steel footrests.

The 1050DE has a launch price of £13,666 while the 1050 will be £12,999, so you’re looking at paying £667 for those extra features.

Note there is also a new V-Strom 800DE priced at £10,499. The existing V-Stroms are all currently still available too.

V-Strom 1050DE only features:

–  Revised chassis geometry with a longer rake and wheelbase to improve stability and controllability when riding on unpaved surfaces, and to increase ground clearance. NEW

–  Extended suspension stroke improves performance on unpaved roads. UPDATE

–  Wire-spoked wheels, including a 21-inch front. NEW

–  Dunlop TRAILMAX MIXTOUR adventure tyres with semi-block pattern. NEW

–  Longer aluminium swingarm with enhanced torsional rigidity to support the increased suspension travel and longer wheelbase. NEW

–  Wider, tapered handlebars use thicker tubing and a softer grade aluminium. NEW

–  Solid-mount rider seat designed to better stand up to input load when riding on unpaved surfaces. NEW

–  Steel footpegs for better support when standing while riding. NEW

–  Smaller, smoke-finish screen designed to improve visibility off road. NEW

–  New front fender with three-piece construction, for improved durability. NEW

–  Tough aluminium sump guard. NEW

–  Side and centre stands to match the new geometry’s taller ground clearance. NEW

–  Standard equipment engine bars.

V-Strom 1050DE

See the full V-Strom range at www.bikes.suzuki.co.uk