Suzuki has lifted the covers on a new, rally-inspired version of their V-Strom 800 DE adventure bike – the SR75 V-Strom 800 DE Rally Edition. Developed in collaboration with the SR75 World Team, this motorcycle boasts several upgrades designed to tackle tough off-road terrain.
Rally-Ready Upgrades
The core of the V-Strom 800 DE remains, powered by the same 776cc parallel-twin engine and featuring the familiar steel frame with a bolt-on subframe. However, the Rally Edition receives a host of modifications for enhanced off-road capability:
- Improved Ergonomics: The addition of AS3 handlebar risers and a handlebar borrowed from Suzuki’s RM-Z450 motocross bike offer a more comfortable and commanding riding position for off-road maneuvers.
- Off-Road Tires: Ditching the stock rubber, the Rally Edition gets knobby tires specifically designed for better grip on dirt and loose surfaces.
- Extra Features: A titanium exhaust system from a third-party manufacturer (likely AS3) and a crucially important AS3 sump guard round out the key upgrades. The sump guard provides vital protection for the engine’s underbelly against rocks and debris encountered during off-road riding.
Focus on Versatility
According to Geoff Walker, owner of the SR75 Suzuki team, the Rally Edition prioritizes maintaining the base bike’s versatility:
“This is really stage one of the build… We think we’ve taken what was already a solid base package…and turned it into a bike that can hold its own in a competitive rally.”
This suggests the modifications focus on enhancing off-road prowess without sacrificing the V-Strom’s capability for comfortable on-road riding and everyday use.
Future Availability and Display
While details on consumer availability remain scarce, the SR75 V-Strom 800 DE Rally Edition will be on display this weekend (June 28th to 30th) at the Adventure Bike Rider Festival in Ragley Hall, UK, alongside other V-Strom models. This could be an opportunity for Suzuki to gauge public interest and potentially pave the way for a limited production run.