It followed me home: Wee Strom

During the past couple of months I had been visiting various dealers checking out what was available and what bike I would be comfortable with. I must say that my SV650 ran flawlessly on my last trip to Kelowna, approx 1,200 kms without missing a beat and it was all set up with my GPS and Video cam Ram-Mounts. It had lots of passing power and was very stable on the highway. As with all pre-owned machines I updated all the mechanicals. New Michelin Pilot Powers, new clutch, new chain, new brakes, new windscreen, new everything. So last Saturday, I traded it in . . .


(last seen whimpering in the dealers service area)

While they were prepping my new ride



I rode my SV home to de-nude it of all farkles, leaving the windscreen and rear top case bracket on the bike



They transferred over my 44 ltr topcase and I wanted them to install the GIVI crash bars . After all the paper work was completed, Aaron (Modern Motorcycling, Vancouver, BC) went over all the controls and explained the break-in procedure. Basically I had to keep it under 5K rpm (Yes it has a factory tach), and watch out for the tires for the first 100 kms, and of course also make sure not to glaze the brakes


(my new dash showing "0" Zero kilometers on the odometer)

I was now on my own. My new bike and myself trying to touch the ground. Yes this bike is taller than I am used to. With fuel this bike is 80 lbs heavier than the SV650, although it has the same engine



I finally make my way home 6 kms away and here is a view of the gauges before I have installed all of my accessories



Here is a closer view of the electronic controller for the "heated" grips which is needed for those of use who reside and ride in the northern climes. I also have handguards to keep your hands cooler in summer and warmer in winter



It doesn't have as much storage under the seat as my scooter, but definitely more than the SV and also more convenient to access by just turning a key. With the SV you had to get your tools out and remove both left and right panels and also two screws which fasten the seat.



I am able to store a tire plugger (Stop'N Go) kit, a set of metric open end wrenches, screwdriver and bits, and possibly some other small stuff.

Since it was a Long Holiday weekend here in Canada it was not a weekend for riding. I spent a few hours intalling my GPS & Camera mounts and also decided to wire the electrical stuff to make it easier to use. On the V-Strom I have installed permanent wiring with the 12-v accessory plugs and converters installed under the bodywork out of sight and hopefully where the rain will not find it.



On Sunday I finally had a chance to install my Cortech Saddle bags. I think I may invest in hard bags for more security while touring.



Early Monday morning, before the heat of the day, I finally had everything set up to my satisfaction and went for a quick ride to get used to the machine. I have had the V-Strom for nearly 2 days and all I have done is to install my accessories and wiring. I had 6 kms on the ODO when I arrived home on Saturday afternoon, and this morning I left with 6 kms on the ODO


(Vancouver in the background, view from Spanish Banks)


(Government dock, False Creek, Vancouver, BC)


(Wharf, Granville Island, Vancouver, BC)

It was a very enjoyable ride on my new Suzuki V-Strom DL650 (ABS model)


(Look, another V-Strom, they seem to be everywhere)