Took one for a short ride.
I'm not normally a fan of cruisers, but this - wow!
I know styling is subjective but I like it and judging by all the looks you get when on-board so does most of the population.
Like most cruisers you sit in it rather than on it. There is actually a slight forward cant to reach the controls which I liked. The footpegs are well forward of your bum which would take some getting used to for me.
The first thing you notice once underway is how unexpectedly light and agile it feels. Suzuki have made an effort to keep the centre of gravity low and this shows in the feel of the bike - not top-heavy at all. Low speed manoeuvring is no problem - although I thought the on-off throttle transition from idle could have been smoother.
The second thing you notice is the torque. The third, fourth, fifth,...........is the torque. I can't remember riding another bike with this much urge - especially from literally anywhere in the rev range. It feels a bit harsh if you crack open the throttle at lowish revs in a high gear but soon smooths out once the revs climb a bit.
It vibrates just enough to let you know there are a couple big jugs underneath you - perfect, and you can hear the exhaust - nice and grunty. In fact, it was a bit loud for me - but I'm sure I would be in the minority with this view.
I was also impressed with the way it cornered. You need to consciously initiate the turn, especially at lowish to medium speed, but once underway it tracks nicely not wanting to either fall-in or run wide. I don't know how far you could lean it over before things start touching down but judging from the ample ground clearance I would say it would be a lot better than the average cruiser.
Suspension is on the firm side of soft - perfect for the market/riding this bike is pitched at.
Front brake is excellent - double disc with radial mounted calipers (just like the gsxrs). I thought the rear brake was a bit weak but that could have just been the unnatural foot position (for me) I found the pedal at.
I found the gearbox a bit notchy but not annoyingly so. I suspect it would improve as the mileage climbs.
I took it to my wifes work to show her and she sat on the back (but couldn't go for a ride as she didn't have her helmet). She loved the styling and liked the passenger seat and the seat/footpeg position - so far so good in that department. The bike doesn't come standard with a grab bar/rails for a passenger, but apparently Suzuki are working on this and other paraphernalia (such as sissy bars, carriers, etc) for it.
All-in-all I.............loved it!
Reply With Quote
Originally Posted by Big Dave
Bookmarks