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

[LoloPD]

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?

[Nigel Marx]

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

[LoloPD]

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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