In a world of cookie-cutter cruisers, the Boulevard M109R carved out a niche with its own radical cruiser styling. For 2008, Suzuki is taking unrivaled possession of that niche with the new Boulevard M109R2. It's a variation of the original that features a striking and uniquely designed headlight ? matched by stunning performance.

 

Introduction

Suzuki presented the M109R2 as a slightly visual improved version of the M109R, a motorcycle with huge success but which rejects some of its customers with the imposing unrefined headlight. The idea was to attract more and more customers with a second version featuring an aerodynamic headlight which seems to flow better with the smooth lines already present on the Boulevard M109R. The success was guaranteed.

History

I would loved to encounter a long improved motorcycle but I certainly didn’t expect that from the M109R2, a cruiser which makes its debut next year so writing the history of this motorcycle can be quite a challenge concerning improvements and modifications.

I would like to start by saying that the model that I am reviewing is the same as the M109R only that it features the well known visual upgrade which gives the tone to the bike’s entire new look.

But until an upgrade was needed, Suzuki produced the M109R for two years without changing virtually anything despite the wonderful black, silver and violet blue colors available in the first year of production which is 2006. So 2007 brought black, red and awesome white color schemes, the last two waiting to be changed in gray and orange for 2008.

The 2008 Suzuki Boulevard M109R2 has taken the best out of its younger brother and it will be dressed in black or gray.

Competition

If Suzuki improved a model and added a special something to its name, look and apparel, why wouldn’t Honda do the same thing? If you like this question don’t try find a different answer apart from Honda VTX1800 Style N because you’ll simply fail. Honda took M109R’s competitor, the VTX1800C and added a different style, look and general fell while naming it VTX1800N. Don’t you love it how manufacturers launch models one after another? It is important mentioning that Honda came first with the idea so it has to receive all the credit for it.

Another classic that deals with the previous mentioned Suzuki and Honda models is Kawsaki’s Vulcan 2000, a massive machine disposing of great amounts torque but let’s not forget style which is more than present as well.

Exterior

Everything on the Suzuki M109R2 says style and visual attraction so there is a lot to talk about on this section of the review. The fact that this model is developed from a previous launched motorcycle and that the only changes applied concern the visual aspect, tells a lot of the way that this machine gets sold.

The most important and deciding factor that makes this motorcycle unique is the front end illuminated by the fresh new headlight which makes sure to lighten your way and it does it in style.

That same headlight defines the lines which are then followed by indicator cover, handlebars and mirrors. The entire leaned back aspect is implemented by the fuel tank which didn’t do anything else but to follow the patter imposed by the headlight and handlebars.

The junction between the fuel tank, seat, and rear fender is absolutely fabulous. The lines are very clearly defined and give a very smooth overall aspect which really makes it stand out.

This motorcycle also has the purpose of impressing traffic participants or pedestrians and it does it big time! To obtain a well deserved “wow”, the bike uses its imposing dimensions and the massive front radiator, a piece that really makes a statement on this bike’s abilities.

Overall, I will like to say that everything fits perfectly into place: radiator, fenders, fuel tank and seat, but most of all, the headlight.

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Test Drive

The thing that made me appreciate this motorcycle is the great amount of power provided by Suzuki’s sportbike-derived fuel injection. This strongly-developed set-up kicks off with the Idle Speed Control (ISC) valve system that adjusts the starting idle to compensate for hot or cold engine and outside temperatures. Fuel and air is taken into the system by two single-barrel throttle bodies which feature dual throttle valves. On all this technology, it is added the ECM that uses a 32-bit processor and I start wondering if this motorcycle could end up any better.

Suzuki’s Exhaust Tuning (SET) has the purpose of improving combustion while it passes spent gasses through a catalytic converter and the 2-into1-into-2 exhaust system. The sound is awesome and the joy of riding the Suzuki is nowhere else encountered.

As I pulled away in the saddle of the M109R2 I immediately noticed that the bike is very easy to maneuver at slow speeds and as I went through the rpm range and through all the five gears, I also noticed how light it seems when it is really exploited.

A very important aspect that will play a deciding role in weather the ride will repeat itself or not was the comfortable riding position which can only be beaten by the very broad seat the ergonomics.

Operating the controls on the handlebars became second nature in only a few hours but what I immediately noticed was the light throttle action.

The front brakes are more than enough for this kind of ride, boasting radial-mount Tokico four-piston calipers grabbing a pair of 310mm floating discs.

I especially loved that I didn’t had any worry concerning the heat from the exhaust pipes which by the time, really started to guide me with their sound. Thankfully the heat shields do an excellent job and no heat was transferred to my leg. It is also a good thing that they look awesome too.

All manufacturers should see the improved version of the M109R2 as a strong competitor in the world of cruisers. The fact that it has just entered the scene says a lot on Suzuki’s future plans and developing ideas. Good luck to them!

Price

If you already gotten into the idea of buying this massive machine, you should also consider the 12 months unlimited mileage limited warranty and the retail price of $12,699. If you are convinced, I wish you to enjoy this monster only out on the open road.

Conclusion

The Boulevard M109R2 balances that heart-pounding performance with crisp handling, thanks to a technically advanced chassis, suspension and world-class brakes. Also featuring a cool design, the 2008 M109R2 is the perfect way to stand out on the Boulevard.

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SPECIFICATIONS

 

Engine and Transmission

Displacement: 1783cc
Type: four-stroke, liquid-cooled, V-twin, DOHC, 4-valves
Bore x Stroke: 112.0mm x 90.5mm
Compression Ratio: 10.5:1
Fuel System: Fuel Injection
Lubrication: Semi-Dry Sump
Ignition: Digital/transistorized
Transmission: 5-speed
Final Drive: Shaft

Chassis and Dimensions

Suspension Front: Inverted telescopic, coil spring, oil damped
Suspension Rear: Link type, coil spring, oil damped, 7-way adjustable spring pre-load
Brakes Front: Dual hydraulic disc
Brakes Rear: Single hydraulic disc
Tires Front: 130/70R18 M/C 63V
Tires Rear: 240/40R18 M/C 79V
Overall Length: 2450mm (96.5 in.)
Overall Width: 875mm (34.4 in.)
Overall Height: 1185mm (46.7 in.)
Seat Height: 705mm (27.8 in.)
Ground Clearance: 130mm (5.1 in.)
Wheelbase: 1710mm (67.3 in.)
Dry Weight: 319 kg (703 lbs.)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.5 liter (5.2 gal.)

Other

Color: Black, Gray

Technical Features

 

New Features

-Aggressive new special edition M109R with sporty racing stripe, checkerboard background gauge package, clear taillight lens with red LEDs and a stylish textured seat.

Engine Features

-1783, 4-valve DOHC, 54 degree, liquid-cooled, fuel injected V-twin engine designed for strong throttle response and quick acceleration
-Massive 112mm bore and 90.5mm stroke utilizing huge 112mm forged aluminum alloy pistons with short skirts, and cut away sides riding on chrome moly steel connecting rods
-Unique new two-stage cam drive system creates a compact cylinder head design and reduces overall engine height and creates a lower center of gravity
-Each bore is lined with Suzuki’s race proven SCEM (Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Material) for optimum heat transfer, tighter piston-to-cylinder clearances and reduced weight
-A compact dry sump lubrication system SASS (Suzuki Advanced Sump System) provides reduced engine height, a lower crankshaft position and lower center of gravity
-Five speed transmission features carefully selected gear ratios for comfortable cruising in a variety of riding situations
-Three piece airbox uses dual intakes with 9.5 liters of internal volume working through a pleated fabric air cleaner element
-The 2-into1-into-2 stainless steel chromed exhaust system features Suzuki’s digitally controlled SET (Suzuki Exhaust Tuning) system for optimum engine performance and powerful v-twin sound
-Electronic fuel injection system features the Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve system (SDTV) with 56mm throttle bodies – maintains optimum air velocity for smooth low-to-mid range throttle response
-Idle Speed Control (ISC) system improves cold starting and stabilizes engine idle speed in various conditions
-Dual spark plug per cylinder ignition system is controlled by the powerful 32 bit ECM for improved combustion efficiency and reduced exhaust emissions

Chassis Features

-High-tensile double cradle steel frame is build to comfortably handle all the power and torque while delivering agile handling and plush smooth ride
-Spiral spoke cast aluminum alloy wheels measure a 3.50 x 18 inch up front and a massive 8.50 x 18 inch rear tire wearing a huge 240mm rear Dunlop radial tire
-Front brake system includes radial mounted four piston front calipers and 310mm front brake rotors. Rear brake system includes a dual piston caliper and 275mm rear disc
-A sleek wide fuel tank with 5.1 gallon fuel capacity that flows into integrated side covers, and a comfortable low seat and stylish radiator cowl.
-A handlebar mounted digital tachometer and LED indicator lights flow nicely with the tank mounted analog speedometer and LCD odometer, dual tripmeters, fuel gauge and clock
-Inverted cartridge forks with 46mm stanchion tubes provide an aggressive front end look with 5.12 inches of travel
-A cast aluminum alloy swingarm works with a progressive shock linkage and a preload adjustable single rear shock delivering 4.66 inches of wheel travel working through a shaft drive system
-Single seat cover is standard equipment and emphasizes the beautiful flowing lines of the M109R