The V-STROM 250SX’s lightweight design and agile handling made it a perfect companion for the demanding Cordillera trails. Its powerful engine provided the necessary torque to conquer steep inclines and navigate technical sections. Moreover, the bike’s comfortable ergonomics ensured that the riders could enjoy long hours in the saddle without fatigue.
The VAP Club is known for their love for exploration and adventure as owners of the higher cc V-STROM motorcycles. They recently did the Cordillera Adventure Tour Categories 1 and 2 and sought to highlight the V-STROM 250SX in the more rigorous Level 3. With its lightweight design and agile handling, the bike proved to be the perfect choice for tackling the demanding trails of the mountains of the Cordilleras.
The team was composed of veteran riders and VAP President Mr. Pat Cunanan, Mr. Willie Eustaquio, Mr. Ryan Tolentino, Mr. Joseph Fernando and Mr. Henry Gabriel alongside motorcycle media correspondent Ian Gongona. They all navigated over 1000kms with 11,542 curves and 23 checkpoints facing various weather conditions and terrain types. Adventure MotoVlogger Mcleen Amoguis (Boy Perstaym) also accompanied the team to document their journey and share their experience.
The team started in Baguio City which is also the first checkpoint and then on proceeded to the mountainous route heading to the 2nd Highest Point in Atok and Bontoc in Benguet and then cap the day in Kalinga. The 2nd day, they passed through the twisties of Mt. Kilang Pass Tabuk heading to the Blazing Mountains of the Gods en route to Abra under the cloudy and almost zero visibility weather. The 3rd day saw the terrains of Sagada, Quirino Skyline, Gregorio del Pilar and Suyo in Ilogos Sur. On to the final day, the team headed from Cervantes to La Union heading back to Baguio City. More than the epic adventure, the experience also proved the beautiful camaraderie between the team as they gave support to one another when the challenges became unbearable with the long hours of riding under the monsoon weather passing through twisties, straight roads, rocky roads, rivers and high altitude locations.
This is the first time that Suzuki participated in such challenging event which further strengthen its brand image as a manufacturer of reliable and capable motorcycles. The V-STROM 250SX’s success in the Cordillera Adventure Tour reinforces the bike’s appeal to the riders who are hungry for adventure both on and off the roads.
“The Suzuki V-STROM 250SX proved that it can conquer the Philippines’ terrain in any weather. This success of conquering Level 1 and 2 proved that 250cc is quite capable of adventure. We are also impressed that our fuel consumption throughout the ride was better than expected, we did around 30-35km/l throughout the almost 1200kms. We were enjoying the adventure even though it rained on us with landslides and water wading that made sure our riding gear was indeed wet 95% of the time. The fleet of V-STROM 250SXs didn’t have any issue all throughout the ride, this machine impressed us so much that we felt that we were riding our V-Strom 1080DE even during the segment in which it was at a 45 degree uphill and downhill pass through the mountains. We hope to do this again on the higher class or even the other parts of the Philippines. The Suzuki V-STROM 250SX proved that even at 250cc you can explore and do adventures in the country at any time and at any terrain.” says VAP President Mr. Pat Cunanan.
“I have ridden so many motorcycles throughout my career that adventure and off-road riding is what is known of me. All throughout our very wet ride with stormy weather that added challenges to our adventure. I do everything at first; of course, whether it be deep river crossing, water wading through the floods, and even going through landslides.
The V-STROM 250SX delivered the performance needed that I myself loved the way it rides through the Cordillera Adventure Tour. You don’t need higher ccs to get the feel and sense of accomplishment. The Suzuki VSTROM 250SX is the perfect start in the adventure touring segment of motorcycle as it did more than what we expect it that it is true to its Suzuki’s tagline of “Master of Adventure” cuz it is.” says Adrian “Ian” Gongona, InsideMoto
The VAP’s triumph over the Cordillera Adventure Challenge not only solidified the V-Strom 250SX’s reputation as a formidable adventure machine but also showcased the forceful spirit and exceptional skills of the riders. Their legendary journey will inspire generations of adventure enthusiasts to push their boundaries and explore the unknown. Oras na Para Mag Adventure Ride with the V-Strom 250 SX!