2009 Suzuki Boulevard S40 Review

Introduction

It may not look massive, weigh a tone and handle like a tractor, but do you really need all that from your first cruising motorcycle? The 2009 Suzuki Boulevard S40 is just a cheap starters bike powered by a 652cc, four-stroke, air-cooled, OHC, single-cylinder engine that is economical and easy to maintain. While all other Boulevard models feature shaft final drives, the S40 is satisfied with a belt drive which it is still and replaces easily.

Weighing only 381 lbs, there was no need for a second disc brake up front and a single one at the rear instead of the still efficient drum.

With custom handlebars, tear drop fuel tank design and a one-piece saddle, the smallest Boulevard is very attractive although a V-Twin engine would seem more appropriate for it now that it has come such a long way.

History

1986 Suzuki LS650 Savage

The Suzuki Boulevard S40 is an entry-level cruising motorcycle derived from the LS650 Savage, the first chopper manufactured by a Japanese builder in 1986. Equipped with a single cylinder 647cc engine, it wasn’t even a Harley imitation, but it caught to the public very well. The idea was to create a lightweight motorcycle which would be adequate for cruising and easy to handle, suitable for beginners and people with short legs. With a seat height of only 660mm (26.0 inches), the bike had clearly reached its goal and the beginning of the story was marked.

The decades didn’t bring virtually any changes apart from some facelifts. The air-cooled 652 cc SOHC single-cylinder, 4-valves, TSCC developing 31hp at 5,400rpm and 50Nm at 3,000rpm remains the same.

In 2004 the Savage had to leave the scene but it did it in style as it featured new rear view mirrors, similar to VL800 Volusia, standard 4-way emergency flasher and high-beam passing switch, and multi-reflector turn signals.

2005 brought the introduction of the Savage in the Boulevard line of cruisers which was just born. The rest is anything but history.

Competition

2007 Honda VT600C Shadow VLX

Suzuki’s cruisers have always competed with Honda’s and this model had to have some stiff competition coming from its threatening opponent. In order to meet the market’s requests, Honda launched the Shadow VLX, a cruiser equipped with a 583cc V-twin motor which was to compete with the single-cylinder S40. The Shadow VLX is one of the most unique cruisers in Honda’s line-up. Its old-school hardtail-style rear suspension, the classic teardrop tank and low seat height are all attractive features.

2009 Kawasaki 500 LTD

Kawasaki also presents an excellent motorcycle for first-time buyers seeking entry to the cruiser lifestyle. With a low seat height, friendly power delivery and affordable purchase price, the Vulcan 500 LTD makes it easy to develop those all-important riding skills.

2009 Star V Star Custom

Although I mentioned the V Star Custom as a competitor for the S50, it is a stronger opponent for the bike’s smaller sibling, the S40. The long and chopperesque V Star Custom is the lightest of the Stars, which means great handling and performance are along for the ride, too.

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