Faults:

The stator (current generator) and the voltage regulator tend to overheat and burn out, leaving the battery without a charge.

Due to the V-configuration, the front cylinder sits directly in the path of the dirt, water, and mud kicked up by the wheel. This can accelerate wear or cause ignition issues if moisture affects the spark plug.

The factory front suspension can feel somewhat soft for demanding use. Additionally, the steering head bearings tend to wear out or come out of adjustment, causing noise or knocking sounds when braking.

The original windscreen (front shield) creates turbulence and helmet noise at highway speeds.

General Comments:

The bike's overall performance is outstanding, ranging from the engine and handling to its ease of use and range. All of this makes for a highly versatile vehicle—virtually unrivaled—that offers excellent value for money, especially on the used market.

Of course, it isn't a thoroughbred race bike—its upright riding position, 19-inch front wheel, and budget-friendly, versatile suspension, brakes, and tires rule that out—but it is also far removed from the imprecision and lack of agility its adventure-style design might suggest; it can genuinely be ridden with confidence.

The only downside for me is the brakes, which feel a bit imprecise. The rear ABS seems to kick in before effective braking is achieved.

The engine responds with speed and agility. Although the V-twin—based on the SV65—shows no drastic changes, it is even better: consistently flexible, with immediate throttle response and—for a V-twin—surprisingly smooth. Power builds progressively from low revs and is maintained right up to the redline.

The bike's redesign is alluring and attractive. Its curved lines are seamlessly integrated, while the details and instrumentation are more sophisticated and modern.

The front fender, fuel tank strip, and side panels feature a carbon-fiber-style weave (clearly faux), satin finishes, and a blend of brushed aluminum and glossy metallic paint; meanwhile, the seat—complete with red stitching and an embossed 'V-Strom' logo—looks elegant and premium.

In terms of value for money, it is excellent on the used market. I bought it a little over four years ago at a really low price, considering how much it offers and its high quality.

When you consider its style, finish, equipment, and performance, it makes even other bikes in the same category seem expensive.

In short: a truly comfortable and versatile touring motorcycle for two-lane roads. Plenty of space and easy to customize. Excellent instrumentation (everything you need, without the frills). The engine is incredibly docile in the city, yet accelerates powerfully when needed.

Faults:

Nothing so far.

General Comments:

Best saddle ever had. Extremely comfortable. Can ride miles without stops.

20 liter fuel tank will take you farther than any motorcycle in its category.

Ample power. Can ride curvy roads just as good as any sports bike.

Self maintenance, quite simple.

Faults:

I had upgraded to stator/crank sensor; two years later the crank sensor let go so I reinstalled the original parts. A little over a year after the original stator stopped working, I replaced the stator with a different upgrade. I must say that I had added a 1500 watt stereo and was charging my laptop and phone with the bike when traveling and touring in Europe for six months.

Wheel bearings let go when on a trip up to Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories in Northern Canada, but I suspect that it was because I had never changed the bearing and the road from Inuvik to Tuk I was travelling through over a foot of mud in many spots.

General Comments:

When I bought the bike it had an upgraded Sargents Seat and windscreen. So I can't attest to the functionality of the original parts. I can say it is a tough bike because I had an accident at 90-110 Kms and went over the handle bars. Luckily I escaped with minor injuries but pretzeled the forks. I ordered new tubs from China plus other minor parts from Ebay and put the bike back on the road with a little road rash for about 500 C$.

I did upgrade the windshield to a Givi Airflow which I am very happy with (a great investment). I am now travelling through Eastern Europe for 7 months and now in Turkey on my way to Kazakstan with that same bike with no issues other than normal wear parts.

With the bike, myself and gear we weigh 1000 lbs. The bike handles it without any issues. Most times I don't even downshift to pass, just time my passing.

I had been running a 16T front sprocket which worked very well. After almost 3 years running with this setup, I found that since I'm travelling so heavy I've returned to the original 15T because it's easier to handle the bike at slow speeds, off road and on the steep streets/roads in Europe.