Must have upgrade for 2016 v-strom 650, you’re looking to take your adventure riding to the next level, the Suzuki V-Strom 650 is a great starting point. But, let’s be real, it’s like a good friend who could use a little sprucing up. A few strategic upgrades can transform this trusty steed into a true beast of the road, making it more comfortable, powerful, and stylish.
Ready to unleash the full potential of your V-Strom? Let’s dive in!
From performance enhancements to ergonomic tweaks, we’ll explore the must-have upgrades that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear on every ride. We’ll cover everything from exhaust systems and suspension upgrades to heated grips, windshields, and even some slick aesthetic mods. So, buckle up, because your V-Strom is about to get a serious upgrade.
Performance Enhancements
The V-Strom 650 is a capable motorcycle, but there’s always room for improvement. Performance upgrades can enhance the riding experience, making your V-Strom more enjoyable and rewarding.
Exhaust System Upgrade
Upgrading the exhaust system offers several benefits, primarily improved power and a more satisfying sound. A performance exhaust system, often made from materials like stainless steel or titanium, is typically lighter than the stock unit, which can improve handling and responsiveness. Additionally, these exhaust systems are designed to optimize exhaust flow, leading to increased power output, especially in the mid-range RPMs.
The sound produced by a performance exhaust is often described as deeper and more throaty, adding to the overall riding experience.
Performance Air Filter, Must have upgrade for 2016 v-strom 650
A performance air filter, such as a K&N or BMC filter, provides increased airflow into the engine, resulting in improved throttle response and potential power gains. These filters are typically made from high-flow materials that allow more air to pass through, leading to better combustion and a more efficient engine. However, it’s important to note that installing a performance air filter may require tuning the engine’s fuel-air mixture to avoid running lean and potentially damaging the engine.
Suspension Upgrade
Upgrading the suspension components, particularly the shocks, can significantly enhance the handling and comfort of the V-Strom 650. Replacing the stock shocks with adjustable units, such as those from Öhlins or Tractive, allows you to fine-tune the suspension settings to suit your riding style and preferences. Adjustable shocks allow you to adjust the preload, compression, and rebound damping, enabling you to optimize the suspension for different riding conditions, including solo riding, two-up riding, or carrying luggage.
This fine-tuning can improve handling, stability, and comfort, making the V-Strom even more versatile and enjoyable to ride.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Making your V-Strom 650 more comfortable can dramatically improve your riding experience, especially on long journeys. This section explores key upgrades that prioritize rider comfort and ergonomics, allowing you to enjoy the open road with greater ease.
Heated Grips
Heated grips are a game-changer for riders in colder climates. They provide warmth to your hands, preventing numbness and discomfort, allowing you to maintain control and focus on the road. This is especially beneficial on long rides or during early morning commutes when temperatures are low.
- Improved Grip and Control: Warm hands have better dexterity, enhancing your grip and control over the handlebars, crucial for safe riding.
- Reduced Fatigue: Cold hands can quickly become fatigued, leading to discomfort and reduced riding enjoyment. Heated grips combat this by keeping your hands warm and energized.
- Enhanced Comfort: The warmth provided by heated grips significantly improves riding comfort, making long rides more enjoyable.
Upgraded Seats
The stock seat on the V-Strom 650 can be uncomfortable for some riders, especially on long rides. Upgrading to a more comfortable seat can make a world of difference.
- Gel Inserts: Adding gel inserts to the stock seat can provide additional cushioning and support, reducing pressure points and improving comfort. These inserts are relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
- Custom Seats: For a more tailored solution, consider a custom-made seat. These seats are designed to your specific body shape and riding style, offering maximum comfort and support. Custom seats can be more expensive but provide the ultimate in comfort and adjustability.
Taller Windscreen
A taller windscreen can significantly improve wind protection, reducing fatigue and making long rides more enjoyable.
- Reduced Wind Buffeting: A taller windscreen deflects wind away from your body, reducing wind buffeting and helmet noise, making the ride quieter and more comfortable.
- Improved Aerodynamics: A well-designed windscreen can improve the bike’s aerodynamics, reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency.
- Enhanced Comfort: The reduced wind blast and noise significantly enhance rider comfort, allowing you to ride longer distances without fatigue.
Technology and Connectivity
Upgrading your V-Strom 650 with modern technology and connectivity features can significantly enhance your riding experience, transforming it from a simple commute to an adventure filled with convenience and information. These upgrades can provide you with essential navigation, communication, and entertainment options, making every ride more enjoyable and enriching.
GPS Navigation Systems
Installing a GPS navigation system on your V-Strom 650 offers a multitude of benefits, making your journeys more efficient and stress-free. A dedicated GPS unit provides turn-by-turn directions, ensuring you never get lost, even in unfamiliar territories.
- Precise Route Planning: GPS navigation systems allow you to plan your routes in advance, considering factors like traffic conditions, road closures, and preferred routes. This helps you optimize your travel time and avoid potential delays.
- Real-time Traffic Updates: Many modern GPS units offer real-time traffic information, enabling you to adjust your route to avoid congested areas and save time. This feature is particularly useful during peak hours or when traveling through busy cities.
- Point-of-Interest (POI) Navigation: GPS units come equipped with extensive databases of points of interest, such as gas stations, restaurants, hotels, and attractions. This allows you to easily locate and navigate to these locations while on the road.
- Off-Road Navigation: Some GPS units are specifically designed for off-road navigation, providing detailed maps and waypoints for trails and backroads. This is a valuable feature for adventurous riders who enjoy exploring unpaved routes.
Protection and Safety
The V-Strom 650 is a versatile motorcycle, suitable for various adventures. However, to enhance its safety and protect it from potential damage, several upgrades can be considered.
Engine Guards
Engine guards are crucial for protecting the motorcycle’s engine in case of a drop. They are usually made of sturdy steel or aluminum and are designed to absorb the impact of a fall, preventing damage to the engine and other vital components.
- Engine guards provide a vital barrier between the motorcycle and the ground, minimizing damage to the engine, oil pan, and other essential components in case of a fall or a low-speed tip-over.
- Engine guards can also act as a protective shield for the rider’s legs, offering additional protection in case of a crash.
- When choosing engine guards, it is important to select ones that are compatible with the motorcycle and offer adequate protection without compromising ground clearance or maneuverability.
Crash Bars
Crash bars are designed to protect the rider and the motorcycle in case of a fall. They are usually made of steel or aluminum and are mounted to the frame of the motorcycle. Crash bars provide a buffer between the rider and the ground, minimizing the risk of injury in case of a fall.
- Crash bars offer a protective layer around the rider, preventing direct contact with the ground in case of a fall, which can significantly reduce the risk of injuries.
- They also act as a protective barrier for the motorcycle, preventing damage to the fairings, fuel tank, and other components in case of a fall.
- Crash bars can also help to prevent the motorcycle from sliding on the ground after a fall, which can further reduce the risk of damage and injury.
Luggage System
A luggage system can significantly improve the practicality of the V-Strom 650 by providing increased storage capacity. It allows riders to carry luggage for longer trips, making the motorcycle more versatile for touring and adventure riding.
- A luggage system can be configured to carry various items, including camping gear, clothing, and other essential supplies for long-distance travel.
- It can also be used to carry items for daily commutes, such as a laptop, briefcase, or shopping bags.
- A luggage system should be chosen based on the rider’s needs and preferences, considering factors such as capacity, weight, and mounting options.
Aesthetics and Style
The V-Strom 650, with its rugged and adventurous spirit, offers a canvas for personalization, allowing riders to express their unique style and enhance the bike’s visual appeal. From custom paint jobs to aftermarket accessories, numerous options exist to transform the V-Strom 650 into a truly personalized ride.
Custom Paint Jobs
Custom paint jobs can completely change the look of the V-Strom 650, allowing riders to express their individuality and create a unique and eye-catching ride.
| Paint Job | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Two-tone paint | Combines two contrasting colors, often with a bold accent color, creating a visually striking effect. | A black base with a bright red accent stripe running along the tank and tail section. |
| Custom graphics | Allows riders to add personalized graphics, logos, or designs to the bike, reflecting their interests or hobbies. | A rider who enjoys mountain biking might add graphics depicting mountain trails or landscapes to their V-Strom 650. |
| Metallic paint | Adds a touch of sophistication and depth to the bike’s finish, creating a shimmering effect. | A metallic silver paint job with a subtle pearlescent finish. |
| Matte paint | Offers a more understated and rugged look, with a non-reflective finish. | A matte black paint job with a subtle carbon fiber texture. |
Aftermarket Fairings
Aftermarket fairings can significantly alter the V-Strom 650’s appearance, adding a sportier or more aggressive aesthetic. They often come in various materials, such as ABS plastic, fiberglass, or carbon fiber, offering different levels of durability and weight.
- Full Fairings: Offer complete coverage, enhancing aerodynamics and providing wind protection. They typically include a nose fairing, side fairings, and a tail fairing.
- Half Fairings: Cover the front section of the bike, providing wind protection and a more streamlined look.
- Sport Fairings: Designed for performance and aesthetics, with a lower profile and aggressive styling. They often feature air ducts for better airflow and cooling.
- Adventure Fairings: Offer increased wind protection and a more rugged appearance, ideal for long-distance touring and off-road riding.
LED Lighting
Upgrading to LED lighting enhances visibility and adds a modern touch to the V-Strom 650. LED lights are brighter, more energy-efficient, and have a longer lifespan than traditional halogen bulbs.
- Headlights: LED headlights provide a brighter and wider beam pattern, improving visibility in low-light conditions.
- Taillights: LED taillights are more visible to other vehicles, enhancing safety. They often feature a unique design and flashing patterns.
- Turn Signals: LED turn signals are brighter and more responsive, improving visibility and safety. They can also be customized with different colors or patterns.
- Auxiliary Lights: LED auxiliary lights can be mounted on the handlebars or crash bars, providing additional illumination for off-road riding or night-time travel.
Popular Aftermarket Accessories
Aftermarket accessories can enhance the V-Strom 650’s visual appeal and functionality, making it a more comfortable and stylish ride.
- Luggage Racks: Provide a secure and convenient way to carry luggage, enhancing the bike’s practicality for touring or commuting.
- Windshields: Offer increased wind protection, reducing fatigue on long rides. They come in various sizes and styles, allowing riders to choose the level of protection they need.
- Mirrors: Enhance visibility by providing a wider field of view. Some aftermarket mirrors offer a more stylish design or features like integrated turn signals.
- Handlebar Risers: Raise the handlebars, improving ergonomics and comfort, especially for taller riders.
- Seat Modifications: Offer improved comfort and support, especially for long rides. Some aftermarket seats provide additional padding, different shapes, or heated elements.
- Fender Eliminators: Clean up the rear end of the bike, providing a more streamlined look. They often include LED taillights for enhanced visibility.
Aftermarket Exhaust Systems
Aftermarket exhaust systems can significantly enhance the V-Strom 650’s performance and sound, while also adding a unique visual element.
- Slip-on Mufflers: The easiest and most affordable option, replacing the stock muffler with a new one. They offer a performance boost and a more aggressive sound.
- Full Exhaust Systems: Replace the entire exhaust system, from the headers to the muffler. They offer significant performance gains and a unique sound.
- Titanium Exhausts: Lightweight and durable, titanium exhausts are known for their performance and distinctive sound. They often come with a polished or brushed finish, adding a touch of elegance to the bike.
- Carbon Fiber Exhausts: Lightweight and visually striking, carbon fiber exhausts are often used in high-performance motorcycles. They offer a unique sound and a sophisticated look.
With a few well-chosen upgrades, your 2016 V-Strom 650 can become a true adventure machine. Whether you’re tackling winding roads, cruising the open highway, or venturing off-road, these enhancements will make your ride more comfortable, powerful, and stylish. So, go ahead, treat your V-Strom to the upgrades it deserves. You won’t regret it!
General Inquiries: Must Have Upgrade For 2016 V-strom 650
Are these upgrades compatible with other V-Strom models?
While many of these upgrades are compatible with other V-Strom models, it’s always best to check with the manufacturer or a reputable dealer to ensure compatibility. It’s like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole, you might need some adjustments.
How much do these upgrades typically cost?
The cost of upgrades can vary depending on the brand, quality, and complexity of the installation. You can find budget-friendly options to high-end performance parts. It’s all about finding the right balance for your needs and budget. Remember, you don’t have to do it all at once. You can start with the upgrades that are most important to you and gradually add more over time.
