Suzuki is out for 2010 with the head of their cruiser lineup, the Boulevard M109R and, of course, the stylistically tweaked Limited Edition model with which riders already got used to. The two models have gained serious notoriety in these past few years so they carry on writing history as we speak and challenge their competitors with each occasion they get.
2010 Suzuki Boulevard M109R/Limited Edition
- Make: Array
- Model: 2010 Suzuki Boulevard M109R/Limited Edition
- Engine/Motor: 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 54-degree, V-twin
- Horsepower: 125 hp @ 6,200 rpm
- Torque: 160 Nm @ 3,200 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed constant mesh
- [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Introduction
Creating the Boulevard line of products, Suzuki had to offer a bike at which beginners going for the S40, for example, would crave for and on which experienced riders would try (and very often succeed) to pop up wheelies. The result came in the form of the massive and yet compact, angry and yet beautiful Suzuki Boulevard M109R.
Now, because we’re living times in which power cruisers are highly appreciated and looked for, Suzuki gets as close as possible to that type of cruiser by fitting the M109R with a 1,783cc, 8-valve DOHC, 54 degree, liquid-cooled, fuel injected V-twin engine that, as you’ll later on see, has nothing to do with a regular cruiser. They aimed at immediate throttle response and great rushes all through the five speeds of the gearbox to which they’ve mated the engine and, without a doubt, success is achieved my friends.
And because at great power you must add awesome handling in order to fully exploit the successful package’s capabilities, Suzuki mounts the engine and tranny on a high-tensile double cradle steel frame that not only provides the overall sleek look, but makes all the difference out where the curves get tight. The suspension package also brings a big contribution to that. Composed from inverted cartridge forks (5.12 inches of wheel travel) and a cast aluminum alloy swingarm (4.66 inches), both bikes offer a perfect balance between comfortable riding and stability through high speed cornering.
History
The year 2006 was a very big and successful one for the Japanese house as they launched the all-new Boulevard M109R, a machine that simply redefined the way we all looked at cruisers by implementing GSX-R technology (fuel-injection, to be more precise) and making a blast out of it. Of course, they had to maintain appearances, so a 1783cc V-Twin engine benefited of what we like to call “Suzuki’s little trick” and the results were simply incredible: 125 hp at 6,200 rpm and 160 Nm at 3,200 rpm. Considering the motorcycle’s 703 lbs, the performance figures translated into a revolutionary cruiser that accelerated quickly and maintained that rush all through the rpm range. The 2006 colors available were Black, Silver and Violet Blue.
2007 brought a new cylinder head cover, secondary cover and drive unit cover that were made out of chromed metal for a high quality finish. That is pretty much all in what concerns the engine, but the respective model year distinguishes with two appropriate colors apart from the now usual Black: White and Red.
Also, 2007 is the year when Suzuki introduced the Boulevard M109R Limited Edition which was then covered in a racy Blue and White color scheme.
For 2008, colors available were Black, Gray and Orange, while the Limited Edition model was now displaying Yellow instead of Blue.
The Boulevard M109R2 was added to the lineup in 2008 and, logically it was derived from the already existing model. The only distinctive note was the aerodynamic single headlight with chrome housing.
Competition
Star Motorcycles is no stranger to power cruisers as two wonderful such models are present in the 2009 lineup, the Warrior and the Midnight Warrior. Built after pretty much the same recipes as the two Suzuki models, the Stars are powered by the same 1,670cc (102-cubic-inch) air-cooled, 48 degree V-Twin; pushrod OHV, four valves per cylinder engine that uses twin-bore electronic fuel injection in order to provide a similar rush. Star Motorcycles also uses a five-speed close-ratio gearbox and belt final drive (instead of shaft on the Suzuki) in their goal for quietness.
Significantly lighter (650 lbs) than the Boulevards, the Warriors use aluminum monoshock frames so the engine’s potential weaknesses are covered up by a lighter overall package.
The simple Liquid Silver painted model comes with an MSRP of $13,190 while the Onyx paintjob adds 200 bucks on top of that.
Honda isn’t that much into performance cruisers, so adding a hot-rod retro fender style to the VTX1800 and calling it “F” seems enough for them, although it won’t score more than the Suzuki or Star Motorcycles in a beauty contest. The engine though is a 1795cc liquid-cooled 52-degree V-Twin; SOHC, three valves per cylinder unit fed through also the sportbike consecrated Programmed Fuel Injection System. A five speed gearbox values the engine’s capabilities and, like on the Suzuki, there is a shaft final drive, not a belt. In this case, the price starts at $13,499.
Another competitor from Honda – a more recent one – would be the all-new Sabre model, but that’s more like a chopper and that V-twin powering it only displaces 1312cc.
-----
Exterior
Suzuki not only completely changed the cruiser riding experience with the introduction of the all-new Boulevard M109R, but also the image we initially had about this category of bikes. Ever since the 2006 launch, this model features aerodynamic bodywork which is very hard to obtain considering the inexistence of any form of fairing. That is the result of Suzuki perfectly designing and fitting together components such as the headlight, instruments and radiator housings. As supposed, these are not only aimed at making the bike look aggressive and compact, but also to feel like an arrow during high accelerating rounds.
The rider is well planted on the 27.8-inches high seat as the feet stretch forward to the footpegs. The gas tank is built around the narrow frame in such manner that it allows the massive V-Twin engine to shine nicely like on any other cruising two-wheeled machinery.
The massive chromed double exhaust stretches all over the right side of the rider indicating that this is no beginner bike. But if you need a second and even better proof then check out that 240mm rear tire.
What the Suzuki Boulevard M109R shows is that only looks can match performance and the 2010 model year indeed looks great in either Black or Blue, not to mention this year’s special Black/Orange scheme for the Limited Edition model.
Press Reviews
"When you ride off for the first time the bike is very intimidating, mostly due to its size but also the 240 rear tyre which tends to keep everything upright. Once you have the mind set that you need to muscle the bike through roundabouts and slow turns the size of the rear tyre becomes less of an issue." – cycletorque
"Twisting the 2010 M109R throttle means instant response-despite a stroke longer than three-and-a-half inches-thanks to lightweight short-skirt aluminum pistons and chromoly connecting rods. Power delivery is evened by Suzuki's Dual Throttle Valve EFI system, while vibration is minimal, as the race-bike-based Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Material bore tightens up piston-to-cylinder clearance." – ultimatemotorcycling
"The M109R's five-speed tranny is refreshingly cooperative, and that's a good thing. The short-stroke twin is no slouch in the torque department, making 93 lb.-ft. with just 2500 rpm on the LCD bar-graph tach. Below 3000 rpm, a handful of throttle sets off more chugging and shuddering than forward motion in the first three gears." – motorcyclistonline
"Handling is solid and predictable, with the caveat that one really needs to make sure tires are fully up to the task, temperature-wise, before even moderate activity is attempted. The suspension is on the taut side, with rear pre-load being the only suspension adjustment available. You’ll thump over the small humps and larger ones can be disconcerting. But that may be the price to pay for tight, solid handling on such a heavy machine." – amadirectlink
"The terrain in the Hill Country was perfectly suited to the handling characteristics of the big Boulevard. It gobbled up long sweepers like a Sumo wrestler in line at the buffet table. Just a little pressure on the perfectly placed handlebars, leaned the bike over to rail it through each turn." – motorcycle
Price
The listed MSRP for the M109Rs – $13,799 (base model) and $14,099 (Limited Edition model) – are still those from 2009, so contact your dealer for more info.
Conclusion
Although not full of changes, the 2010 M109R manages to remain a class leader showing that the “why change it if it ain’t wrong” saying is perfectly right.
With a powerful engine, attractive looks and all day comfort, any bike would be successful, but Suzuki adds refinement and style to that, leaving competitors with no other option than heading to the drawing board.
-----
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine and Transmission
- Displacement: 1783 cc (108.8 cu. in)
- Engine Type: 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 54-degree, V-twin
- Bore Stroke: 112.0 mm (4.409 in) x 90.5 mm (3.563 in)
- Compression Ratio: 10.5 : 1
- Fuel System: Fuel injection
- Lubrication: Semi-Dry sump
- Ignition: Electronic ignition (Transistorized)
- Transmission: 5-speed constant mesh
- Final Drive: Shaft Drive
Chassis and Dimensions
- Suspension Front: Inverted telescopic, coil spring, oil damped
- Suspension Rear: Link type, coil spring, oil damped
- Brakes Front: Disc brake, twin
- Brakes Rear: Disc brake
- Tires Front: 130/70R18M/C 63V, tubeless
- Tires Rear: 240/40R18M/C 79V, tubeless
- Overall Length: 2450 mm (96.5 in)
- Overall Width: 875 mm (34.4 in)
- Overall Height: 1185 mm (46.7 in)
- Seat Height: 705 mm (27.8 in)
- Ground Clearance: 130 mm (5.1 in)
- Wheelbase: 1710 mm (67.3 in)
- Curb Weight: 347 kg (764 lbs)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.5 L (5.2/4.3 US/Imp gal)
Features & Benefits
Key Features
- A streamlined headlight cover carrying a unique trapezoidal shaped multi reflector H4 halogen headlight and a maintenance free LED tail light built into the tail section.
- Aggressive new special edition M109R with a sporty racing stripe, checkerboard background gauge package, clear taillight lens with red LEDs and a stylish textured seat. (on the Limited Edition model).
- Buff polished and clear coated handle switches, brake master cylinder for customized look (on the Limited Edition model).
- New speedometer face design has polished metal finish for sporty appearance (on the Limited Edition model).
Engine Features
- 1783cc, 8-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 two-stage cam drive system creates a compact cylinder head design, 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-into-1-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.
- A new 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 built to comfortably handle all the power and torque while delivering agile handling and a 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 5.2 gallon fuel capacity that flows into integrated side covers, 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 proved an aggressive front end look with 5.12 inches of wheel 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.