Suzuki DL 1000 V-Strom vs Honda XL 1000 Varadero (2003)
Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Suzuki DL 1000 V-Stromstacks up against the Honda XL 1000 Varadero. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.
Spec comparison
| Spec | Suzuki DL 1000 V-Strom | Honda XL 1000 Varadero |
|---|---|---|
| Model year | 2003 | 2003 |
| Price | — | — |
| Engine | 996 cc | 996 cc |
| Horsepower | 98 hp | 93 hp |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Weight | 207 kg | 235 kg |
| Seat height | 33 mm | 33 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 5.8 L | 6.6 L |
| Fuel type | petrol | petrol |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6-speed |
| Front brakes | Double disc | Double disc |
| Rear brakes | Single disc | Single disc |
| Tires | 110/80-19 / 150/70-17 | 110/80-19 / 150/70-17 |
Suzuki DL 1000 V-Strom vs Honda XL 1000 Varadero — which should you buy?
Picking between the Suzuki DL 1000 V-Strom and the Honda XL 1000 Varadero usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Suzuki DL 1000 V-Strom brings 98 hp in a 207 kg package, while the Honda XL 1000 Varadero counters with 93 hp at 235 kg.
Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: