New V Strom

[eddohawk]

Gidday all

Am very close to buying a 2012 model 650 V Strom. My FJ isn't going anywhere though, the strom is just an addition to the stable. I can still pick up the old model for around $1500 less than the new model. Had them both lined up side by side at the dealer yesterday and it was like comparing Cinderella with her ugly sister. The 2012 model has a number of improvements over the old and my purchasing decision will be guided over the dilemma of whether I buy the 'best and well proven version of the old model'' or the ''untried and yet to be proven'' new model. The new model is more than a minor upgrade, there are changes to the suspension, engine, electrics and brakes etc. Suzuki have been in the game for a long time I doubt whether they would release a dud bike particularly this model which has sold well all over the world.

I'm going to be procrastinating over this for the whole weekend, would someone please put me out of my misery and make my decision for me?

[ddlewis]

Gidday all

Am very close to buying a 2012 model 650 V Strom...my purchasing decision will be guided over the dilemma of whether I buy the 'best and well proven version of the old model'' or the ''untried and yet to be proven'' new model...

If the extra money isn't a problem, I'd get the new one.  This is Suzuki and these are really just incremental updates not like hot new technology.  Good ol damper rods!  They've got that motor pretty nailed down.  I would not hesitate to buy the new model just like I would buy a new Honda Civic first year of a refresh.. 

I had a first year (really first year) 2004 650 vstrom and just sold it in 2011.  40k miles, not one problem.  Literally not one.. I was able to do all the maintenance oil, tires, valve adjusts etc. and it never missed a beat.  When I sold it - it ran exactly like it did when I bought it.  Nothing wore out on it except tires and brakes.  Great bike, I would definitely buy another.

[cyclenutk75]

Having been raised by parents who grew up through the great depression (in large families), have developed a frugal streak.  I would look at it as, "I could use the $1500 to doll up the FJ."  However, I try to also consider that you only live once, so one should experience as many toys as possible before passing on.  Pull the trigger, mate!  Buy the toy you want.

BTW, never owned a Wee Strom but rode an early model.  I loved it.  Would be near the top of my list of daily riders to make the FJ last longer.  I rode it long enough to feel I could comfortably cruise at 80 mph all day on one - and probably forget to shift into 6th.
GT