2019 Suzuki V-Storm 650 XT: Competition Check

In the growing segment of middle-weight adventure tourers, Suzuki launched the 2019 edition of the V-Storm 650 XT. In India, the motorcycle faces competition from the Kawasaki Versys 650 and the SWM Superdual T. Let’s see how these motorcycles stack up against each other.

Design and features

The 2019 model of the V-Storm 650 is exactly identical to the previous edition besides the addition of side reflectors for better visibility. It continues to sport the typical adventure tourer design with a beak-like fairing borrowed from its elder sibling, the V-Storm 1000. It has a tall windscreen with height adjustment, vertically stacked headlamp and a 20-litre fuel tank. Features-wise, the motorcycle comes with goodies like a semi-digital instrument console, three-stage traction control system, ABS, 12-volt DC charging point and Low RPM assist feature for the motor. 

On the other hand, the Kawasaki Versys 650 offers an overall sharper form with sculpted looks highlighting the company’s design language. It sports twin headlamps units, adjustable windscreen with 60mm of range and a sculpted large 21-litre fuel tank. In terms of equipment, the motorcycle features a semi-digital instrument console and ABS as standard equipment.

In the case of the SWM Superdual T, it draws its design attributes from other enduro motorcycles. It features a tall mudguard up front, knobby tyres, tall windscreen and contrasting red-coloured chassis with the colour extending to the engine and crash guards. The feature list for this motorcycle includes ABS, which is switchable for the rear, 12-volt DC charging point and a pannier frame as standard equipment. 

Engine

The 2019 V-Storm 650 continues to be powered by the 645cc, V-twin motor that produced 71bhp and 62Nm. Next is the Versys 650 which receives a 649cc parallel-twin unit that churns out 67.4bhp and 64Nm. Lastly, the Superdual T is powered by a 600cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder motor that is capable of producing 54bhp and 53.5Nm. Transmission duties are handled by a 6-speed gearbox for all three motorcycles.

Cycle parts

The 2019 V-Storm 650 uses a light-weight twin-spar aluminium chassis with integrated mount points for panniers. It is the only motorcycle in the trio to feature 43mm telescopic forks up front. The rear is handled by a monoshock with rebound and preload adjustment. For purposes of braking, the V-Storm 650 uses 310mm twin-discs for the front and a 260mm single disc at the back. 

On the other hand, the Versys 650 sports 41mm inverted forks for the front and an offset laydown monoshock with remote pre-load adjuster for the rear. Shedding speed is done by 300mm twin-disc up front and a 250mm single disc for the rear.

Coming to the third motorcycle, the Superdual T also sports 45mm inverted forks with rebound damping adjustment which are the widest amongst the three. At the back, the motorcycle features a Sachs progressive monoshock with rebound and damping adjustment and spring preload adjustment. Stopping power is achieved by a 300mm single disc at the front and a 240mm single disc at the back with Brembo units at both ends.    

Pricing

The 2019 V-Storm 650 XT has undergone no change in price and continues to retail at 7.46 lakhs. At that price, it is the most expensive adventure tourer over here. Next is the Versys 650 which carries a sticker price of Rs 6.69 lakhs followed by the Superdual T which is priced at Rs 6.5 lakhs and is also the cheapest in the lot (All prices are ex-showroom, New Delhi).