I have a 2002. First year of the V-strom. They had some lean fuel control issues in the beginning, which was righted with an aftermarket fuel controller like a Power Commander. At first, the 1000 was the only Strom. The 650 came out in 2004, I think. If you are riding solo, most say the 650 will do you a-ok. Some claim that it gets too winded when riding two-up, but there are probably a lot of variables there.
I like my first gen Strom, but I'd probably advise the newest you can fit in your budget. Many of the accessories for mine have been discontinued by the companies that made them, not too unlike the 1500 Valk. There have also been upgrades in charging output, windshields, brakes, etc over the years, so again, newer is probably better.
The tire sizes on the Strom allows you to put on pretty much whatever type tire suits your needs. Sport touring or ADV tires, anything from mild to wild. Luggage is available from Givi, Kappa, SW Motech, and multiple companies selling custom metal boxes for more rugged use.
If you do get, or are truly considering a V Strom, check out
www.stromtrooper.com It's like the VRCC forum, but for V stroms.
This is mine:
