2003 Suzuki Burgman 650
Summary:
This is the best 2 wheel motorbike made
Faults:
Nothing.
General Comments:
This scooter transcends all two wheel riding. It is better than a motorcycle, because you don't have to shift, don't have to hike your leg over the seat, and it has lots of storage built in. It is also easy to clean, much easier than a motorcycle, i.e., they have millions of spokes and lots of chrome to shine.
It is faster than a lot of motorcycles off the line up to 60 mph. It also has great passing speed and three transmission options, which no motorcycle has. It has the regular automatic mode, the power mode - you can go higher RPM - 8500 red line, and the push button manual shift sans clutch mode.
All 650 Burgmans have 55 liters of storage under the seat, and I have a 52 liter capacity GIVI topbox on the back. That is 107 liters for normal riding around available for storage. Not to mention the three glove boxes too.
Burgmans are a blast to ride, I can't get enough, and I have put on 27,000 miles in the 3 years I've owned it, and been to 5 states. I go on the interstate a lot with no problems. It weighs over 600 lbs. with all fluids in it, so it has a little weight and it doesn't get blown around so easily.
The Burgman isn't perfect however. The two biggest problems that most people notice who ride it a lot are the windshield and the seat. I bought mine used, and it already had a larger GIVI windshield, which does a great job. I turned my butt rest into a backrest for more legroom, and added an Airhawk seat cushion.
The problem with the stock windshield is it is small and you get lots of wind buffeting; GIVI takes care of that. Some have gotten the Clearview replacement windshield also with good results.
The problem with the seat is that it is just hard and not comfortable for more than a 30-50 mile ride. I keep my Airhawk cushion on it at all times. Some people have purchased replacement seats by Corbin or other manufacturers, which cost 4-5x as much as my cushion without more comfort.
My Burgman has over 37,000 miles and still rides great. I get 46-52 MPG for most of my riding. If you need more information about the 400cc or the 650cc Burgman, go to BurgmanUSA.com. No site has more information than this site about the Burgman.
JC
Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 5th June, 2008
21st Apr 2014, 14:46
Had 13 bikes in 2013. Goldwings, Shadows, 400 Burgy etc. Just got a 2003 650 Burgy, 1 owner, 12000 miles, like show room condition. I paid 3,200 for it, new tires, battery etc. Well so far this is my best bike ever; smooth, fast, blue color, like new; it may be a keeper.
Stay safe, the old one Bobby in Indiana.
7th Jul 2008, 19:05
Can you tell me what size air hawk cushion works?