2019 Suzuki V-Strom 1000XT Adventure MC Commute Review

Although it isn’t the most glamorous liter-sized adventure-touring motorcycle, it’s clear Suzuki drives a hard bargain with its V-Strom 1000. For 2019, it offers an up-spec XT 1000 Adventure model outfitted with hard luggage, engine protection, a centerstand, and heated grips for an asking price of $14,600—a relative steal in the ADV segment.

Related: 2018 Suzuki V-Strom 1000 And 1000XT First Look Review

The V-Strom 1000 is powered by Suzuki’s decommissioned V-twin superbike engine that was engineered for competition during the late ’90s. Despite being more than 20 years old, this classic engine configuration lends itself well to ADV life, with its slim packaging and copious levels of bottom-end torque. Plus it has a smooth power delivery while maintaining pleasing sporting character.

In this installment of MC Commute we put Suzuki’s top-of-the-line ADV rig through its paces on our way to the Motorcyclist magazine office in Southern California. Sound off in the comments below and let us know what you think of Suzuki’s old, but certainly not forgotten, V-Strom 1000.