DR Big-inspired 2020 Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT and V-Strom 1050 revealed

Suzuki has pulled the wraps off the refreshed Suzuki V-Strom 1050 and 1050XT at the EICMA show in Italy, promising a more focused off-roading experience and an equipment hike.

After being partially revealed in a teaser last week, Suzuki revealed full details of its flagship adventure tourer with a new range-topper named the V-Strom 1050XT taking inspiration from the iconic DR Big and DR-Z rally raiders of the 1980s.

From the outset, the 2020 Suzuki V-Strom retains the model’s distinctive DR-Z style ‘beak’ and rugged silhouette, but gains design cues lifted from the Suzuki Katana, including the stacked rectangular LED headlight.

The colour options are intended to pay homage to Suzuki’s racing heritage, with the 1050XT’s red and white hues mimicking the livery of the Marlboro-backed rally raiders, while the eye-catching yellow is in line with the firm’s motocross pedigree.

What’s new on the 2020 Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT

Under the skin, the 2020 Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT gets an updated 1037cc 90-deg V-Twin engine puts out more power with peak grunt up to 107PS, while it is now Euro5 emissions compliant.

To give it the edge off-road, the Suzuki V-Strom adds SIRS (Suzuki Intelligent Ride System), an electronics package which is designed to improve comfort and practicality, plus ride-by-wire throttle using a faster data connection, a more stable idle at slow speeds and the Motion Track Brake System which prevents mid-corner braking kick back and assistance on slopes.

The more entry-level Suzuki V-Strom 1050 is distinguished by its DR-Z inspired design and loses the engine bars, centre stand, handguards and lower cowling of the XT.

The 2020 Suzuki V-Strom 1050XT will hit the roads in March 2020 – prices are to be announced closer to the time.