Suzuki V-Strom 650XT BS6 Teased Again Ahead Of India Launch: Will Rival The Kawasaki Versys 650

Ahead of its India launch, the BS6-compliant V-Strom 650XT has been launched in the Australian market. We expect the company to bring the same model to the Indian market. The new model does not feature many changes apart from a greener engine.

The company had showcased a couple of higher displacement BS6 motorcycles at the 2020 Auto Expo including the V-Strom 650XT. Right after its display at the Expo, Suzuki also launched a teaser on its website for the V-Strom 650XT BS6 stating ‘coming soon'.

However, Due to Covid-19 pandemic and the resulting nation-wide lockdown, the motorcycle launch might have affected causing a delay. As things reach its normalcy, the company is looking to launch its first performance BS6-compliant motorcycle in the country soon.

Speaking about the updated motorcycle itself, the Suzuki V-Strom 650XT BS6 will be powered by an updated version of the same engine as seen on the BS4 model. The 645cc DOHC V-twin engine produces a maximum of 69.7bhp at 8800rpm and a peak torque of 62Nm at 6500rpm. The engine comes mated to a six-speed gearbox as standard.

The V-Strom 650XT does not feature any new design changes as compared to its BS4 counterpart. The adventure-touring motorcycle continues to feature a front beak with LED headlamps.

Other features such as raised handlebar with upright rider ergonomics, tall and adjustable windscreen, knuckle guards, engine protector spoke wheels, a well-cushioned single-piece seat and more have been carried over from the BS4 model to the 2020 V-Strom 650XT.

The updated motorcycle is also available in a range is a range of new colour scheme in international markets. This includes Metallic Oort Grey, Pearl Brilliant White and Candy Daring Red/Glass Sparkle Black colour schemes. Whether these colours will make it to the Indian shores remains to be seen.

Suspension duties are handled by the same 43mm adjustable telescopic forks at the front and a mono-shock suspension setup at the rear, with rebound and preload adjustability. The stopping performance on the 650XT come via with 310mm twin discs with twin-piston callipers up front and a 260mm single disc with a single-piston calliper on the rear.

The motorcycle continues to feature various traction control modes and dual-channel ABS electronic rider aid. The instrument cluster features a large analogue tachometer and digital readouts for the gear position and speedometer. The digital section below displays the odometer, twin-trip meter, clock, fuel level, coolant temperature, and traction-control modes.

The BS4 V-Strom 650XT ADV-tourer was priced at 7.45 lakh (ex-showroom). Once launched, the V-Strom 650XT BS6 is expected to receive a slight price increase because of an updated powertrain.

Thoughts About The Suzuki V-Strom 650XT BS6 Teased Again In India

The Suzuki V-Strom 650XT BS6 will soon be launched in India to kickstart the brand's Big Bike segment in the country. The V-Strom 650XT BS6 will cater to the growing demand for ADV-touring motorcycles in the country. Once launched the Suzuki V-Strom 650XT BS6 will primarily rival the Kawasaki Versys 650 in the Indian market.