Suzuki Assemblers Malaysia recently launched, not one, but two sports tourer motorbikes and a ‘naked’ motorcycle, the Gladius 650, V-Strom 650 and 650 XT, (all equipped with ABS) here in Malaysia. With the launch of these models, the contenders in the same genre, namely Kawasaki’s Versys 650, Honda’s NC700 series –just to name a few, are going to have a fight on their hands. But for bikers, these new motorcycles are sure to be great additions for those who really love to go on motorcycling adventures.
The newly launched V-Strom (both variants) and Gladius share the same engine. It’s a 645cc V-twin DOHC liquid-cooled engine, mated to a 6-speed constant-mesh gearbox The engine has been re-tuned to deliver more torque than its predecessor and of course, an increment of about 3hp as well. Also noteworthy is that the transmission has been given some tuning to provide better low- to mid-range torque.
Gladius
V-Strom 650 XT
V-Strom 650
The V-Strom 650 XT variant, the more ‘rugged’ looking of the two, has an additional ‘beak’ at the front fairing, making it look like a bird, somehow. It also has handlebar guards and crash-bars. Meanwhile, the Gladius looks like Ducati Monster; a sporty, naked bike design. The basic sales price for the Gladius is RM39,900. The V-Strom 650 is RM41,900 and the 650XT variant RM43,900. Prices may vary in the near future though.
Contributed to AF by Jeff Ng
