There is no denying the superior engineering that is the Suzuki V-Strom 650. With its dynamic performance and comfortable ride, the V-Strom is considered one of the best, if not the best, mid-weight touring motorcycles on the market. While that might have you reaching for some flashymotorcycle apparel instead of genuine Suzuki V-Strom 650 parts or aftermarket upgrades, you should think twice. It is true that the bike doesn’t need much in the way of improvements and modifications, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t need anything. There are at least a few ways you can modify your bike to improve the overall comfort and performance of the ride.
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Cartridge Fork Emulators
One common issue for several Suzuki owners is that the dampening rod forks bottom out too easily or seem too harsh. While you might think that the best way to resolve this issue is to completely replace the forks and look for genuine Suzuki parts or aftermarket forks that are better, there is a more affordable option available. You can simply purchase a set of cartridge fork emulators. These little devices help to improve the performance of your bike’s current dampening rod forks by encouraging the emulation of other higher-performing forks. Also, the best part about these little inserts is that they are customizable, meaning that they can be tuned to your specific riding style and road conditions.
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Clutch Pack
Most riders, when performing modifications, are concerned with increasing power and performance. While you can accomplish both of these things with better air filters and improved exhaust, there is a better way, especially if you experience clutch fade. You can choose to install a clutch pack. These packs are designed to work with other OEM parts on your bike to transfer power to your bike’s rear wheel. By installing the clutch pack, you will probably notice increased acceleration and performance, especially after cornering. Another benefit of this modification is that you can improve the life of the entire clutch system.
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Vent Mesh
Last, while enhancing performance and power are probably the goal of most riders who perform modifications, another aspect to consider is protecting the integral components of your bike to ensure longevity. Therefore, you should look to install vent mesh. Many riders do not consider the amount of dirt, debris and dust that invades their bike’s system while riding around. Even riding around town can flood your system with harmful particles and road debris. Vent mesh reduces the number of contaminants entering your bike’s system. Therefore, you protect sensitive parts, like the oil cooler, radiator and fairings, by making this simple modification.
The Suzuki V-Strom 650 is often touted as one of the best mid-weight touring motorcycles out there, but that does not mean that you shouldn’t modify it. The bike provides several opportunities to improve performance through things like fork emulators or a clutch pack, and you can also protect the life of integral components with the installation of vent mesh. Therefore, if you own or are thinking about purchasing a V-Strom, then consider investing in these top three modifications.