2012 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS Comparison Photo Gallery

It stays planted like nobody’s business and is easy to gather up when the pilot makes an error.

The new 2012 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS adventure touring bike impresses our test riders. See why in the new Wee-Strom's photo gallery. Read the full details in the 2012 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS Comparison.

The digital menu has plenty of available information which is accessed by a left-side handlebar switch, but the tach is analog, which we prefer.

V-Strom engineers have the bike so dialed it’s easy to appreciate it in most any scenario.

The brakes are powerful and modulate easily in all conditions.

The spread of torque is excellent for street and dirt use where riders can shift less often and make better use of the wide powerplant.

The V-Strom easily outpaces the single-cylinders with a healthy 64.43 horsepower that comes at 9000 rpm, just 700 before the rev limiter kicks in.

2012 Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS Dyno Chart

The six-speed transmission operates flawlessly, complementing the engine and giving the bike much better highway manners.

Rider protection is also a standout feature with a three-position adjustable windscreen.

The ABS is not switchable, but we never felt the need to disable it in the dirt thanks to its unobtrusive nature.

Standing is awkward with very high footpegs.

Suspension damping and spring rates are fantastic on the street and adequate for improved dirt.

Clearly the V-Strom is no trail bike, but the Suzuki can easily handle moderate dirt. It offers a similar type of street/dirt performance and capability that we expect from a big adventure machine.

Comfort and stability are excellent with a 43mm fork and hand-adjustable shock.

Our time with the 650 ABS proves that it’s a comfortable and pleasant all-around companion.

The V-Twin engine is pure gold, though it offers an exposed oil filter and exhaust to potential damage.