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Suzuki's DL-1000 may no longer be my favourite bike. Ever since its introduction in 2002, the V-Strom, despite its awkward appellation and a fairing only a mother could love, has impressed thanks to an incredible blend of versatility, comfort and handling. Blessed with a powerful V-twin engine, it can tour, commute and scratch with the best of'em, all the while having been blessed with few foibles other than an ungainly visage.
Yet, it may have met its match in a lighter, equally versatile, equally competent all-rounder with the most sought-after of all attributes, a lower price tag. Yes, the successor to the Suzuki DL-1000 as my favourite all-rounder (with only a slight qualification) is the... 2007 Suzuki DL-650 with ABS. Yes, the apple truly does not fall from the tree.
The smaller V-Strom shares much of the same technology as its larger brother. The engine is also a DOHC, 90-degree V-twin, the seating position is the same, the fairing all but identical....