Suzuki Motorcycle India had showcased the middleweight adventure tourer at Auto Expo 2020
Suzuki Motorcycle India has confirmed the launch of its updated V-Strom 650 XT adventure tourer. It was already showcased at Auto Expo 2020 in early February. Though obvious at this point in time, the online teaser reveals that the 2020MY V-Strom 650 XT is BS6-compliant. The exact date of launch remains unknown but we expect it to happen around mid-May unless the Indian government extends its COVID-19 lockdown protocol. Meanwhile, the Japanese two-wheeler brand has updated its official website by removing every product from the ‘Big Bikes’ category.
Some of these popular names might make a comeback in the near future with BS6 specifications, but sadly not the Suzuki Hayabusa. However, an all-new generation of the iconic super sports motorcycle is apparently in the works behind closed doors. Other Suzuki premium models that were discontinued at some point in the past include the GSX-S750, GSX-S1000, GSX-S1000F, V-Strom 1000 and GSX-R1000.
Coming back to the BS6 Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT, its power plant would remain the same but output figures could be slightly different to comply with the stringent emission norms. In its outgoing BS4 format, the 645cc DOHC 90-degree V-twin motor made roughly 70bhp @ 8,800rpm and 62Nm @ 6,500rpm. The motorcycle is expected to come with the same colour choices as before: Champion Yellow and Pearl White Glacier.
Suzuki’s middleweight adventure tourer is relatively outdated in terms of equipment but features some purpose-focused essentials. This includes a three-way adjustable windscreen, three-level traction control (two modes + OFF), Low RPM Assist, Suzuki Easy Start, DC power outlet and more. In addition to this, there are several accessories to choose from even though Suzuki Motorcycle India might not have every option available in global markets.
Prior to Auto Expo 2020, there were strong rumours that India would be getting a possible ‘Suzuki V-Strom 250’ model — based on the current Gixxer 250 platform. Outside, the Suzuki V-Strom 250 is already on sale is the brand’s entry-level ‘twin-cylinder’ model with a 248cc liquid-cooled engine good for 23.7bhp and 22Nm. Interestingly, the India-spec Gixxer (and Gixxer SF) 250 makes 26bhp and 22.6Nm of torque from its air/oil-cooled 249cc single-cylinder power plant.
The Indian automotive market is witnessing a growing interest in relatively affordable adventure or dual-sport motorcycles. While the KTM 390 Adventure serves as the benchmark in this category, the upcoming KTM 250 Adventure would be even more compelling. An India-spec Suzuki V-Strom 250 single-cylinder could have been its fitting rival.
