Aside from the impending unveiling of the new Burgman Street 125 EX, Suzuki Philippines has another thing up its sleeve to wow guests at the Makina Moto Show 2023 this weekend – the official launch of the V-STROM 1050 DE.

The V-STROM 1050 DE will be Suzuki’s latest offering in the adventure bike segment, joining the V-STROM 1050 XT and V-STROM 650XT ABS in the stable.

While it shares the same 1037cc liquid-cooled, twin-cam mill of the XT, the V-STROM 1050 DE comes with a taller stance as it runs on 21-inch front and 17-inch rear tires.

This setup results in a higher ground clearance of 190 mm, compared to the XT’s 165 mm. Between the two Suzuki adventure bikes, the V-STROM 1050 DE seems to be the one intended for some serious off-roading.

Consequently, this also raises the seat height to 880 mm, which makes straddling the DE a bit of a challenge.

Suzuki makes up for it by endowing the V-STROM 1050 DE with plenty of electronic aids to make life on the saddle a whole lot easier.

Gravel mode

The V-STROM 1050 DE features a new G (Gravel) mode setting that retards ignition timing and allows a limited amount of slip when riding on unpaved surfaces.

This helps the rider better negotiate gravel roads.

Traction Control System

Designed to help prevent the rear wheel from slipping, this system reduces stress and fatigue while instilling greater confidence in controlling your ride.

You can select from three modes to control how quickly the system takes effect and how proactive it is in limiting wheelspin. You can also opt to run with it turned off.

Motion Track Brake System

This helps maintain traction and lean angle so you can better trace your intended line through the corner.

Mode 1 provides minimal intervention, while Mode 2 intervenes more proactively.

Bi-directional Quick Shift System

This standard feature lets you shift up or down without operating the clutch lever.

When activated, the system delivers clean, silky-smooth upshifts with uninterrupted acceleration. Downshifts are also quick and smooth, thanks in part to automatic hands-free blipping and engine braking working together harmoniously.

Cruise Control System

Cruise control reduces fatigue when traveling long distances at constant speeds by letting you maintain a set speed without operating the throttle.

The system now allows settings when riding in 2nd gear or higher at engine speeds between 2,000 and 7,000 rpm, which translates to roughly 25 to 160 km/h.

The handy resume function re-engages the system and returns to the most recent speed setting after canceling.

Drive Mode Selector

Freely choose between three power-output characteristic modes to best match varying riding conditions or your preferences.

While all three ultimately deliver maximum engine output, finer control over the level of throttle response and torque characteristics when accelerating empowers you to ride with greater confidence and pleasure.

Low RPM Assist

By helping maintain engine idle speed for smoother and easier starts, this function helps you operate and control the bike more easily in stop-and-go traffic.

Drop by the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on April 14 to 16, 2023 for the Makina Moto Show. Don't forget to swing a leg over the V-STROM 1050 DE unit that is to be displayed at the Suzuki exhibit area.

Maybe that saddle height could turn out to be manageable after all.

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