Suzuki Philippines a dumping ground for 'Old Spec' bikes?
 

Hi all. I wonder if you could confirm my suspicions?

I'm an English ex-pat living in Philippines, currently in the market for a new bike. After quite extensive researching, I've narrowed my choice down to 2 bikes.....Kawasaki Versys 650 and (rather more favourably) the Suzuki V-Strom 650.

Suzuki Philippines show the 2017 V-Strom 650 in their catalogue with a list price of around Php500,000 BUT at Euro3 compliant. It also shows the model with twin side-by-side headlights and a high tail pipe :(!

Now as far as I'm aware this is NOT a 2017 bike, but a 2015 bike. The NEW 2017 bikes are Euro4 and have a twin vertical style headlight and a lower tailpipe?

Are my suspicions correct?

Yes, that looks like an older version, but companies often continue making different versions for different markets. Here in New Zealand, we often get older models sold for a year or two after newer versions are being sold in other markets, although that happens less often than it used to.

Cheers

Nigel in NZ

Obviously a lot of model development and upgrades are to comply with more stringent emissions and safety regulations. But there are also little engineering reasons (easier production: more reliability etc.).
Happily Suzuki Philippines have just told me (after numerous emails - it was like pulling teeth) that the Euro4 compliant V-Strom 650 XT will be available from end July 2017 :-)
So I'm hoping to test ride very soon.


EDIT......but now they've told me that I can't test ride before I buy!


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