Suzuki Volusia

submitted by Throttlebunny

Originally introduced in 2001, the Suzuki Volusia has fast become a popular addition to the cruiser market. Priced at approximately $6500 for a stock 04 model, we tested the ride to see what it offers for the price. STATS: Models available in 04: Standard issue in blue/silver and silver/silver combos: MSRP $6599 SE edition in all black: MSRP $6399 Model tested: 2001 Suzuki Volusia Rider size: 5'4", 30" inseam, 125 pounds Rating system: Each area is rated from 1 to 5 carrots (1 being suckiest of the sucky, 5 being really excellent) This is an independent rating and is not affiliated with any company, manufacturer or other business enterprise and is solely based on an individual rider's opinion. Comfort: 4 The stock seat is fairly comfortable for a long trip. The tested model was ridden for approximately four hours and the ride overall was fine. Driveability: 5 Amazingly, this bike takes virtually no effort to turn. This can be a good (or bad) thing, but the maneuverability is very driver-friendly. High marks in this department. Reach for driver (5'4"): 3 Modifications would be necessary from the stock model, which I suppose would be typical on any bike. A lowering kit is available for $30 and for the price is a must-have mod. Stand-over height is approx. 29" meaning most sizes can fit over the bike; however, the center of gravity is most improved after the kit is installed. Risers are available for approx. $140 and also may be necessary for the driver. Colors: 2 Eh. Well, the silver/silver is a return color scheme for the third year in a row. So is the all-black SE. The only new color is a blue and silver, which has not been seen on the street as of yet. The jury is still out on that one, but overall the Suzuki folks didn't put out any jaw dropping combos this year. There's always 05... Accessories available: 3 The Suzuki folks are dragging their feet in this department. There are no where near as many reasonably priced accessories for this bike as there are for, say, the Yamaha VStar line. Disappointing, and forget trying to look on Suzuki's site for any ideas. You can't search their database for accessories by bike model, which is pretty lame-o. More accessories are being made by other companies and can be seen on Cruiser Customizing. Price: 5 A big bang for your buck on this one. Reliability/Mechanical Issues: 5 No known issues or recalls. Only known issue was for the 01 model that had problems with the pair valve (corrected in all models after 01). Also, some kickstand issues have been reported but usually incidents occurred due to rider error. With the lowering kit, the kickstand usually is no longer a problem. Overall, if it doesn't matter to you if it is a foreign branded bike, this is a great ride for a great price. It handles incredibly well for its size and is very cost effective. From a woman's perspective, there are quite a few women out there who ride the bike and handle it very well. It does seem quite intimidating at first but it's responsive handling and smooth cornering will win you over in no time. Technical data: Engine: 805cc, four-stroke, liquid cooled, 45 degree V-twin, SOHC, 8-valves, TSCC Bore Stroke: 83.0 x 74.4mm Compression Ratio: 9.4:1 Fuel System: Mikuni BDSR34 Lubrication: Wet Sump Ignition: Digital/transistorized Starter: Electric Transmission: 5-speed Final Drive: Shaft Drive Overall Length: 2510mm (98.8 in.) Overall Width: 985mm (38.8 in.) Overall Height: 1100mm (43.3 in.) Seat Height: 700mm (27.6 in.) Wheel Base: 1655mm (65.2 in.) Ground Clearance: 140mm (5.5 in.) Dry Weight: 241kg (531 lbs.) Suspension Front: Telescopic, coil spring, oil damped Suspension Rear: Link-type, oil damped, 7-way adjustable spring preload Brakes Front: Single hydraulic disc Brakes Rear: Link-type, oil damped, 7-way adjustable spring preload Tires Front: 130/90-16 Tires Rear: 170/80-15 Fuel Tank Capacity: 17 liter (4.5 gal.) Vendor website: www.suzukicycles.com

Thanks to Throttlebunny for submitting this personal review.

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