The good folk at Suzuki have unveiled, not one, but two new V-Strom models for 2020. They’ve a new standard V-Strom 1050 as well as a higher specced XT version. The team tell us that they were developed with the concept of ‘The Master of Adventure’ in mind. A new vertically stacked rectangular LED headlight and distinctive ‘beak’ feature on both. While the new V-Strom engine produces 7% more power than the previous generation. It also comes with a new ride-by-wire throttle. This has three selectable engine modes. It also has a three-mode traction control system.
The XT version is, of course, the one that we are interested in. While the new engine may look great it’s the electrics where the new V-Strom shines and particularly in the XT version. The Intelligent Ride System is aimed at enhancing a broad range of features on the bike, from rider comfort to performance and practicality. This features a full set of electronics including an inertial measurement unit lean-angle sensitive ABS setup. It has two settings. The brakes are linked. They can detect and adapt to load and inclines. The XT even has hill hold control in addition to cruise control.
A new ride-by-wire throttle delivers a natural and linear feeling. Slow speed riding is aided with a more stable idle. The ride-by-wire throttle is part of a wider Controller Area Network, that’s Can Bus to you and me. This is an interconnected information network that replaces standard wiring. There are, therefore, fewer wires and faster data transmission as well as less weight.
The people at Suzuki have also used the new Bosch six-direction inertial measurement unit. This little piece of cleverness monitors pitch, roll, and yaw based on lean angle and acceleration. This then combines with the Motion Track Brake System, which includes that very clever lean-angle sensitive ABS that we saw on some KTMs a few years ago.
This system also automatically applies pressure to the rear brake to help controlled deceleration when front brake pressure rises to a certain degree. The system supports the rider, should they suddenly brake mid-corner, helping them to continue on the intended line with minimal kickback at the lever. Awesome. This also used load-dependent control, the ABS unit constantly learns changes in deceleration through the input of hydraulic pressure as the load increases or decreases, as well as when riding with luggage or with a pillion. The system remembers the optimal relationship between the deceleration and hydraulic pressure. Clever huh?
With all this it would be a shame not to have hill hold control. This means the brake is automatically applied when stopped on an upward slope thereby preventing unwanted rollback and offering easier hill starts. This is especially appreciated when the bike is loaded up with a pillion and a heap of luggage.
A new three-mode traction control system replaces the previous two-mode system that was on the old bike. Rather wonderfully it can also be turned off. Riders can also select from one of three engine modes, which alter throttle response while still delivering the same peak power. The new V-Strom also gets the latest versions of Suzuki’s low RPM assist and easy-start function.
