Honda XL 1000 Varadero vs Suzuki DL 1000 V-Strom (2003)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Honda XL 1000 Varaderostacks up against the Suzuki DL 1000 V-Strom. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHonda XL 1000 VaraderoSuzuki DL 1000 V-Strom
Model year20032003
Price
Engine996 cc996 cc
Horsepower93 hp98 hp
Torque98 Nm101 Nm
Weight235 kg207 kg
Seat height33 mm33 mm
Fuel capacity6.6 L5.8 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission6-speed6-speed
Front brakesDouble discDouble disc
Rear brakesSingle discSingle disc
Tires110/80-19 / 150/70-17 110/80-19 / 150/70-17

Honda XL 1000 Varadero vs Suzuki DL 1000 V-Strom — which should you buy?

Picking between the Honda XL 1000 Varadero and the Suzuki DL 1000 V-Strom usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Honda XL 1000 Varadero brings 93 hp in a 235 kg package, while the Suzuki DL 1000 V-Strom counters with 98 hp at 207 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: