One good strop in the hills on this machine and you will discover just how outrageously competent and surprisingly sporting the V-Strom is.

The chassis is simply amazing, the steering sublime. Push hard and deep into corners and the Strom gets better the harder you push as the geometry changes under load. The transition back to power, with oodles more bottom end and mid-range grunt than before, is equally as smooth and satisfying.

Combine those brilliant handling traits with almost ergonomic perfection and for $10,890, you have arguably the best value for money motorcycle on the market.

The engine has been thoroughly updated through changes to the crankshaft, cylinder head and camshafts. This has not resulted in any discernible increase in top end power and Suzuki claim 68hp @ 8800rpm. Forget about dyno charts though, on the road the difference is chalk and cheese.

The torque benefits from the overhauled engine are clearly felt from idle well into the mid-range with the 650 Strom exhibiting a lot more ‘grunt’ factor than before.

It is definitely not a powerhouse by any stretch, but there is more urge available at corner exit than before and this translates into a more satisfying riding experience.

In contrast, the supple and supportive seat on this latest model is beautifully finished with coloured stitching and tasteful embossing.

The Strom has always been one of the most comfortable motorcycles on the market and the latest iteration continues theme with the cockpit finished to a higher quality level than seen before. The new lipped screen is manually adjustable through three positions and developed through wind tunnel testing.

The reasonable 835mm seat height, 15mm higher than the previous model, can be raised or lowered by 20mm via optional lower or higher seats.

The gearbox is fuss free. The clutch and shift mechanism have been tweaked for 2012.

Overall the forks and shock do an admirable job, even when tested to the extremes by my ‘cough’ above average girth; on tight and tortuous roads the Strom never wallowed or got upset. I was constantly amazed at the excellent pace the Strom scythed along Eildon-Jamieson Road and the twisting climb up Mount Buller. The stroke of the 43mm forks remains 150mm and is adjustable for preload only. The rear suspension retains the useful hand-wheel preload adjuster.

So confidence inspiring, so sure footed and with steering that makes you feel almost invincible add up to a cracking pace. When the roads are tight and the surface less than perfect, the Strom is capable of pulling away from sportsbikes. The Strom has a proper alloy twin-spar frame and when the pace hots up, it shows. Cornering clearance is also far superior to big brother DL1000, and better than earlier DL650 models. I believe there are a huge amount of sportsbike riders out there that would be faster on any given stretch of twisty road on the Strom than they would on their sportsbike.

Off road, the improved engine makes for much more satisfying and controllable slides.

Luggage options are plentiful for the V-Strom with a vast array of aftermarket everything available for the model and a large luggage rack is standard.

As it is now the updated Strom is one of the most comfortable and competent road bikes ever devised. At a price that’s hard to argue with.

Come into Mick’s Motorcycles Gawler today and see the all new Suzuki V-Strom

Click here to view the embedded video.

Standard Features for all HotGrips models:

• Sealed for life
• Up to 50?C
• Rainproof switch
• Draws under 4AHotGrips Original Features
• Moulded wiring arrangement is both durable and discreet
• 1-piece moulded construction ensures unrivalled performance and reliability
• Grip design fits the vast majority of bikes, but can be cut down to size if required
• Intelligent electronic temperature control comes complete with mounting bracket
• Soft, ultra-grippy rubber provides comfort and feedback
• NB: May not be suitable for all types of BMW motorcyclesSwitch Features: Standard for all HotGrips models (except Cruiser)
• Large buttons for ease of use
• Small size: 40 x 48 (mm)
• Separate ON/OFF switch
• Zero back drain current
• Can be with into ignition

Start from $ 130.00 and in stock at Mick’s Motorcycles Gawler

Approved category 261-660 ml motorcycles

Motorcycles that can be ridden by holders of an R-Date learner’s permit or R-Date licence.

To celebrate this release, Honda will be offering a special introductory price of $5,990 (MLP) for the newly developed on/off road model.

Offering riders both beginner and advanced an agile ride in a wide range of riding environments, the CRF250L boasts impressive agility and high road-holding capability from urban to off-road riding.

The CRF250L is powered by a liquid-cooled, 250cc, 4-stroke DOHC, single-cylinder engine with powerful output in the low-to-mid rpm range. Low-friction technologies including an offset cylinder are also employed to ensure excellent fuel efficiency.

The newly designed frame makes use of a steel twin-tube design to offer a nimble ride while ensuring both agility and stability, and the oval cross-sectional shape of the main pipe helps boost rigidity while enabling a slim vehicle body.

Styling has been refined into a sharper and more aggressive tone while inheriting the concept of ‘centralised mass with triangular proportions’ which is a key feature and basic principle of Honda’s CRF motocross series. This design asserts a new identity for the next era of Honda’s CRF range.

Other features include a headlight visor that enhances a tough and muscular look, a multi-reflector headlight with superb visibility, a multifunctional digital meter, skid plates that prevent mud and gravel from damaging the engine and more.

Offering flexibility like no other Honda machine, the CRF250L combines useability, capability and affordability wrapped up in one on/off-road power package.

Between now and 30 June, 2012, every new Suzuki GSX-R, GSX1250FA or Hayabusa purchased and delivered from participating Suzuki dealers will come with free 12 months registration, Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance, Government stamp duty, dealer delivery and freight charges.

Proven race winners around the world, the Suzuki GSX-R1000, GSX-R750 and GSX-R600 all feature the latest race-bred technology, with outstanding four-cylinder engines, lightweight chassis’, advanced braking and  suspension packages and sleek aerodynamics.

The Suzuki GSX1250FA is designed to meet the needs of highway adventurers, with long distance comfort a priority.

Featuring a sporty and reliable 1,255cc, fuel-injected, DOHC, 4-cylinder engine and a six-speed transmission, the GSX1250FA delivers extra smooth acceleration and a wide spread of power for relaxed cruising.

The iconic Suzuki Hayabusa is packed with racing technology and features Suzuki’s Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) fuel injection system and a 1,340cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled, four-cylinder engine providing strong power delivery and impressive torque throughout its broad powerband.

Named after the Japanese bird of prey capable of speeds in excess of 300 km/h, the Hayabusa has been designed for maximum performance and represents the pinnacle of sportsbike engineering, performance and styling.

Between now and June 30, 2012, purchase a Honda TRX420TM, TRX420FM, TRX420FA, TRX420FPA, TRX500FM, TRX500FPE, TRX500FA (excludes 2012), TRX500FPA, or a TRX680FA and receive $500 HondaDollars*. HondaDollars can be used in store at the time of purchase for accessories, servicing or off the purchase price.

Honda’s TRX range is recognised as the best in Australia and for good reason. Hard working, easy to maintain and handle and offering excellent value for money, Honda ATVs are designed for the rigours of our wide brown land. Rugged and durable, Honda ATVs also utilise some of the most revolutionary technology in the industry and are guaranteed to make every day easier.

With options such as Honda’s Electric Shift Program (ESP) and Electric Power Steering (EPS), there is a Honda ATV to suit every need.

Honda is also offering $200 HondaDollars with all CTX200/A purchased. This tough bushlander delivers on all the points that count.

From 1 April until 31 May 2012 at participating Dealers only, every new Suzuki Boulevard or Bandit purchased and delivered will come with 12 months registration, free CTP insurance, free stamp duty, dealer delivery and freight charges.

With classic or muscular styling, the Suzuki Boulevard line-up features a broad range of engine capacities and price points, headlined by the Boulevard M109R with its massive 109-cubic-inch engine.

All head-turning Boulevard cruisers are packed with Suzuki’s race-proven technology and deliver sensational value for money.

Like the Boulevard, Suzuki’s Bandit range offers an impressive combination of technology and style in the ultimate value for money sports tourer.

With a big-bore, 1,255cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected engine, a six-speed transmission, comfortable riding position and large, 19-litre fuel tank, the Bandits perform effortlessly as a weekend tourer or a daily ride.

Naked, half-faired and an ABS variant make up the Bandit range, with models meeting all tastes and rider preferences.

Mick’s Motorcycles Gawler has a facebook page which is updated and posts added daily. Join us on facebook to keep in touch with the lastest products and specials!

Mick’s Special Easter deal! Brand new Honda VT750 Shadow NOW $8,990 RIDE AWAY!! WAS $11,990. SAVE $3,000! offer available this saturday only!

Powered by a dependable 223cc air-cooled, 4-stroke, single cylinder engine which offers plenty of user-friendly power and torque spread over a wide rpm-range these CRFs also feature easy one-touch electric starting.

Specially designed adventure riding, the CRF230F/L boast a long-travel suspension system that really soaks up the bumps on rocky trails.
Rider comfort is maximised thanks to a narrow seat and fuel tank while the motocross-style seat is low and comfortable to allow maximum rider movement.

Offer ends June 30, 2012 so take advantage of this offer while it lasts