Rep Power: 497

According to Suzuki, changes to the 2012 V-Strom 650 were implemented at the behest of European customer focus groups. Nothing radical was inflicted, rather a host of evolutionary upgrades. During our two-day stint riding among the colorful fall foliage of the Blue Ridge Parkway I found the majority of changes beneficial and/or useful to the V-Strom rider. If you disagree with the direction of the new Strom, blame current Euro V-Strom owners and their suggestions.

Regarded as a well-balanced bike by the powersports media as well as motorcycle consumers, a notion supported by sales figures far in excess of its 1000cc counterpart, the V-Strom 650 continues its legacy with the 2012 iteration. Engine, suspension, aesthetics and accessories, all receive tweaks aimed at improving the V-Strom’s performance, comfort and versatility.

Hot off the 2011 V-Strom 650 ABS press bike parked in my garage, certain characteristics were immediately obvious after boarding the 2012 Strom, the first being new suspension settings. Besides coming from the factory with more preload applied, the V-Strom’s fork is otherwise unchanged. The rear shock, however, boasts an increased spring rate.

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