Essay – Voge DSX525 – good versatility, surprising price

The medium-displacement trail motorcycle segment has been evolving considerably as the demands and tastes of motorcyclists become more diversified. The Voge 525 DSX stands out as a contender for the throne in this segment, promising a balanced experience both on and off the road.

At an aesthetic level, the spoked wheels and mixed tires on this model immediately catch the eye, revealing the challenges for which the DSX is prepared. We have a modern optical signature between the fairings (all LED, just like the entire lighting on the model) and auxiliary headlights, which come standard.

In the side section, the aesthetics remain quite attractive, and we notice that the seat is adorned with seams, giving it a premium touch.

Even in the rear, we find a support for a top case, and to finish off the aesthetic part, we have a very well-designed exhaust tip, with a series of plastics imitating carbon fiber, which not only please the eye but also help prevent the passenger from getting burned. To assist in maintenance, there is a center stand.

THE ENGINE

Assuming the controls of this Voge, the first impression is marked by a delivery of robust and controllable power. The 494 cc twin-cylinder engine delivers 48 hp of power, making it ideal to integrate into the A2 license category. Furthermore, it shows a remarkable evolution compared to previous models, offering a more generous torque in a wider range of rotations. This results in smooth accelerations and an instant response to our right hand. However, it has a less positive point: at very high rotations it generates some vibrations, which becomes a bit uncomfortable especially at higher speeds.

The 6-speed gearbox provides a pleasant and precise experience when shifting gears. Its gear ratio is balanced, allowing this DSX to stand out, both at high speeds on highways and in urban commutes. As for fuel consumption, we observed an average of 4.5 liters/100km, however, it is easy to reduce these numbers without much concern. With a 16.5l capacity tank, the need to refuel will not be a constant worry during longer trips.

The 6-speed gearbox provides a pleasant and precise experience when shifting gears. Its gear ratio is balanced, allowing this DSX to stand out, both at high speeds on highways and in urban commutes. As for fuel consumption, we observed an average of 4.5 liters/100km, however, it is easy to reduce these numbers without much concern. With a 16.5l capacity tank, the need to refuel will not be a constant worry during longer trips.

OFF THE ASPHALT

A true trail bike reveals its true character off-road, and this is where the 525 DSX demonstrates its versatility. In terms of handling, we find tubeless spoked wheels of 19” at the front and 17” at the rear, which is acceptable for us to enjoy an initiation to our off-road adventures. The adjustable Kayaba fork reveals an effective absorption of the terrain’s imperfections, ensuring a smooth ride on rough terrain. The fact that the bike weighs only 190 Kg (dry), combined with the aspects mentioned above, give the bike the ability to confidently face any type of dirt road and even more challenging terrain. When it’s time to park the DSX, we have a side stand and a center stand available, the latter of which is always welcome when performing maintenance operations. Protective equipment, such as side bars and hand guards, not only contribute to the bike’s “off-road aesthetics,” but also ensure its durability in more extreme situations. In our off-road adventures, the DSX faced natural obstacles with surprising agility, giving a remarkable sense of confidence, even for riders with very little experience off the pavement. Safety is a fundamental priority, and the Voge 525 DSX does not disappoint in this aspect. Equipped with a Nissin braking system, the 298mm discs combined with dual-piston calipers at the front provide a responsive and effective braking response. TECHNOLOGYIn this context, this model remains quite comprehensive: we have 2 driving modes, ECO and SPORT, however the difference between them is not very noticeable. We have traction control and, of course, ABS. We are allowed to deactivate both aids, which is great for making the most of off-road adventures. The 7″ panel is easy to read, quite comprehensive, and navigating through the instruments is very intuitive. In addition, it allows connection to our mobile phone so we can use a basic navigation system, which is not ideal, but serves to keep us from getting lost. It is also worth noting that, in addition to tire pressure information, we have a 12V socket and a USB input to charge, for example, the mobile phone. One of the most important points for riders facing long journeys is comfort. In this case, the DSX offers an ergonomic riding position and the driver and passenger seats are comfortable, making it easy to imagine taking a long journey at the controls of this trail. In addition, the front windshield is adjustable (without tools) and plays an important role in reducing fatigue and protecting against wind at higher speeds. Still, there are some details that we would like to see improved: the rubber part of the footrests is a bit soft and, for example, when riding standing up, we have a strange feeling that we are not well supported. THE BEST Quality/price ratio, aesthetics, versatility.

TO IMPROVE Engine vibrations, gear shifter position

Furthermore, it is necessary to lift the shifter a lot to shift gears, which may not be noticeable if wearing MX boots, something that doesn’t seem likely for a future owner, given the size of the wheels, halfway between road and off-road.

At the end of this test carried out with the Voge 525 DSX, it is clear that the model exceeded expectations. With this level of equipment and technology, the price could be intimidating, however, without legalization expenses, we can purchase this model for €6,187! Oh, and with a five-year warranty. This value is a plus and makes the VOGE 525 DSX one of the best quality/price solutions on the market!

VOGE DSX525

ENGINE in-line twin-cylinder DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, liquid cooling,

DISPLACEMENT 494 cc

POWER 47.6 hp @8,500 rpm

TORQUE 44.5 Nm @7,000 rpm

GEARBOX 6 speeds

FRAME perimeter multi-tubular in steel tubes

TANK 16.5 liters

FRONT SUSPENSION Kayaba inverted fork of 41 mm, travel of 150 mm

REAR SUSPENSION adjustable mono shock absorber, travel of 145 mm

FRONT BRAKE 2 discs of 298 mm, Nissin calipers with 2 pistons

REAR BRAKE 240 mm disc, 1 piston caliper

FRONT TIRE 110/80R19

REAR TIRE 150/70R17

WHEELBASE 1,450 mm

SEAT HEIGHT 830 mm

WEIGHT 190 kg (dry)

MSRP (from) €6,187