Suzuki Assemblers Malaysia Sdn Bhd further broadens their product line up with three mid-range models this morning with the Gladius 650 ABS, the V-Strom 650 ABS and the V-Strom 650XT ABS.
While all three are 650cc models, each caters to a different segment with its own unique appeal based on the rider’s desires.
Starting with the V-Strom 650, its powered by a liquid-cooled 645cc V-Twin engine said to feature a good low and mid-range power with the dual throttle valve giving quick and linear throttle response.
It is coupled to a 6-speed transmission that have been tailored for active sporty rides with 1st through 5th gear ratios, while keeping highway cruises comfortable with a tall top gear.
Holding things together is a lightweight and rigid twin-spar aluminum-alloy frame and swingarm and suspension wise its equipped with spring-preload-adjustable 43mm-stanchion-tube front forks and link-type rear suspension with rebound stepless damping adjuster as well as a spring preload adjuster.
Stopping power comes from dual 310mm-disc brakes for the front and on the back its 260mm-disc brakes complete with ABS system.
While sharing the same configuration and engine there are enough differences between the two V-Strom versions that it caters to a slightly different type of riders.
The V-Strom 650 ABS can be said to excel at being the “Sport Tourer” while the V-Strom 650XT ABS is the “Sport Adventure” machine.
The V-Strom 650XT ABS has more adventurous styling with a distinctive front beak with integrated air ducts and wire-spoke wheels, 19” up front and 17 on the rear and it takes tubeless tyres.
And then you can make it look more adventure ready with a long list of original accessories starting with top and side cases which are available in plastic and in aluminum. The side cases fit close to the bike’s centre of gravity for rider-friendly handling.
The plastic top and left side cases are each big enough for a full-face helmet. The side-case carriers can be detached using quick-release screws to keep the bike slim.
And thats not all, you also have the accessory bar, an aluminium under guard, a chain guard, LED fog lamps, touring windscreen, knuckle covers and low and high seats, centre stand, a 12-volt accessory socket, an alarm kit, and a handlebar satnav bracket.
Last and not least of the three is the Gladius, the engine is about the same, a liquid-cooled 645cc V-Twin but with slightly different tuning for a more spirited riding experience.
While the V-Strom sits high and mighty, the Gladius seat is just 785mm off the ground but for taller riders they can opt for an optional higher seat that adds 20mm to the seat height.
Front and rear suspension feature adjustable spring pre-load, allowing the rider to adapt the bike to suit them.
The Gladius comes in gray, blue and mat black options, while the V-Strom variants come in white, gray, red and blue.
Basic Sales Price for V-Strom 650XT ABS is RM43,900, V-Strom 650 ABS is RM41,900 and Gladius 650 ABS is RM39,900.
Other bikes already in the Suzuki showroom are the HAYABUSA 1300, GSX1250FA, GSX-R1000 ABS, V-STROM 1000 ABS and the GSR750.
