First ride: Suzuki V-Strom 160

Seeing the need for a smaller-displacement tourer, Suzuki Philippines Incorporated introduced the V-Strom 160 to the local market last April.

This compact two-wheeler from the Hamamatsu-headquartered marque is designed for daily commuting, weekend touring, and exploring backroads at a more accessible price point.

But with a price tag of less than P150,000, is the model really fit to carry the V-Strom badge? Here’s what we found out during a day-long ride around the outskirts of Tanay, Rizal.

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Day-long experience

At first glance, the Suzuki V-Strom 160 seemed too small to be a proper tourer. After all, my bias prior to saddle time was already on the 250SX, which I consider the “sweet spot” for entry-level tourers in terms of performance and size.

Initially, the 795-millimeter (mm) seat height felt a bit low for my build, and the prominent separation between the rider and pillion seats did not help its case either.

However, after spending time with the motorcycle, it became clear that the riding position is well-suited for long rides—upright, and offers good balance for my above-250-pound weight and six-foot-plus height.

This also complements the motorcycle’s lightweight build, making it nimble and easy to maneuver whether in traffic or on rougher terrain. Aside from that the, its seat height allows me to plant both feet firmly on the ground, boosting my riding confidence and making it easier for me to remain still while in traffic.

On paper, the motorcycle tapes in at:

Specifications	Figures
Overall dimensions (length x width x height; in mm)	2,025 x 775 x 1,195
Wheelbase (in mm)	1,345
Ground clearance (in mm)	160
Curb mass (in kilograms)	148

Part of the day-long experience involved tackling challenging terrain, and the Suzuki V-Strom 160 handled it well—even for relatively inexperienced trail riders.

The suspension system—composed of long-travel front forks and a seven-step rear shock—combined with ventilated petal disc brakes and an anti-lock braking system, provided stability and control on both paved roads and light off-road sections.

Its semi-knobby tires help it cope with various road conditions—both on dry and wet surfaces.

A compact four-stroke, air-cooled, single overhead cam, two-valve, 162 cubic-centimeter engine mated to a five-speed transmission powers the motorcycle, delivering:

Engine Performance	Figures
Maximum output (in horsepower)	14.7
Peak torque (in Newton-meters)	14

Simply put, the motorcycle does not deliver large performance figures, making it ideal for daily commuting. However, despite that, it has enough power to handle river crossings as well as uphill and downhill trails.

Further, design elements such as the short front beak, compact windscreen, diamond-cut wheels, a rear tire hugger, and split aluminum grab bar provide both functionality and an aggressive aesthetic.

Among its modern amenities include a hazard light switch, inverted digital instrument panel, USB charging port, LED lighting, flexible turn signals, and a tip-over sensor.

A center stand adds practicality for city use.

Verdict

The Suzuki V-Strom 160 is neither the most powerful nor the most capable adventure bike on the market—and it is not trying to be.

It offers a practical, comfortable, and approachable package that works equally well as a daily commuter and a weekend companion.

While it is not designed for serious off-roading, it has enough capability to encourage riders to take the occasional detour.

Priced at less than P150,000, it offers an accessible entry point into adventure riding and proves that exploration doesn't always require a large-displacement engine—or a huge dent in your wallet.

Also read:

Suzuki PH reaches 3M motorcycle production milestone

Suzuki GSX-8T, 8TT win Red Dot Award for Product Design

Suzuki PH expands trail-ready lineup with DR160, V-Strom 160 launch

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