Lightweight cruisers->ke392 have always been a staple in Suzuki’s->ke371 motorcycle lineup, as shown by the longevity of the Boulevard S40, even if it didn’t always carry that name.

When Suzuki began building lightweight cruisers in the mid 80’s, the bike was christened with the name “Savage.” That name lasted until 2004 when Suzuki decided to give it a clean slate. Part of that clean slate was renaming the bike, which of course led to it now being called the Boulevard S40.

Whatever name it goes by, the Boulevard S40 has stood the test of time, largely because it gave customers a chance to experience multiple styling and handling segments in just one bike.

In a lot of ways, the Boulevard S40 carried that versatility with it proudly. Some folks refer to it as an entry-level cruiser, and while its lightweight characteristics does lend some fact to that belief, the Boulevard S40 also has that classic retro Americana look that fits right in with those hulking cruisers of yesteryear.

Performance-wise, it’s not the fastest and most powerful bike in the world. Far from it, really. But what it lacks in power, it more than makes up for in a lot of things.

Click “continue reading” to read more about the Suzuki Boulevard S40.

2015 Suzuki Boulevard S40

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2015 Suzuki Boulevard S40
  • Segment: Array
  • Engine/Motor: 4-stroke, air-cooled, single cylinder, OHC
  • Transmission: 5-speed

Design

Since adopting the Boulevard S40 name, Suzuki has largely kept the design of its entry-level cruiser the same. Sure, minor tweaks here and there were made to aid in improving the bike's handling and aerodynamics, but for the most part, the 2015 Boulevard S40 still carries the same design spirit as the bike that was introduced in the 80's.

That's not really a bad thing because you have to understand the Boulevard S40 caters to a market that puts a premium on the classic American cruiser image. That's something the Boulevard S40 had with it for better or for worse. Tampering with that somewhat timeless design would've rid the Boulevard S40 of one of its main selling points.

That said, time evolves and technology usually comes with it. In order to keep the Boulevard's retro looks intact, Suzuki had to come with ways to integrate modern amenities to keep the bike from falling out of favor with younger markets. So while the laid-back stance and the broad saddles remain in the bike's design, Suzuki mixed it up with some modern design amenities, neatly painted steel front/rear fenders and side covers, a rear reflector that's integrated with the taillight, and hazard and passing light switches.

Overall, the Boulevard S40 manages to keep pieces of multiple eras in its design, creating a really unique look that also has the credentials to cater to a lot of markets.

Design Specifications

Overall Length

2180 mm (85.8 in)

Overall Width

720 mm (28.3 in)

Wheelbase

1480 mm (58.3 in)

Ground Clearance

135 mm (5.3 in)

Seat Height

700 mm (27.6 in)

Curb Weight

173 kg (381 lbs)

Color

Candy Daring Red, Pearl Moon Stone Gray


Frame

There's not a lot of pertinent additions to the bike's frame that are really worth noting. But I'd be remiss if I didn't spend any time talking about what you can expect from the Boulevard S40's mechanical features. For one, the bike only weighs 381 pounds, justifying its label as a lightweight entry-level cruiser. That svelte appearance aids in making the bike easier to handle.

Speaking of handling qualities, the Boulevard S40 also received a pair of different-sized tires - a slim 19-inch front tire and a wide 15-inch rear tire - to emphasize its classic cruiser look. The tires wrap themselves around polished spoke wheels that also conveys the same retro message, only this time, a polished upper fork bracket was also put in place, dressed in a noticeable clear coat finish.

Complementing the wheel-and-tire combination is a brake system comprised of a hydraulic front disc brake and a drum-type rear brake. Both were put in place to provide the kind of strong and reliable braking performance that the Boulevard S40 will need when it's on the road.

[[Frame Specifications}}

Suspension Front

Telescopic, coil spring, oil damped

Suspension Rear

Swing arm type, coil spring, oil damped

Brakes Front

Disc brake

Brakes Rear

Drum brake

Tires Front

100/90-19 M/C 57H, tube type

Tires Rear

140/80-15 M/C 67H, tube type

Fuel Tank Capacity

2.8 US - Including Reserve

Ignition

Electronic ignition (transistorized)


{0{Drivetrain}0}

The Suzuki Boulevard S40 is powered by a 652 cc single-cylinder air-cooled four-stroke engine. It's not all that powerful so don't expect the bike to have any kind of mind-blowing speed. What you can expect, at the very least, is its capability to provide strong low-end power and torque. Take it for what it's worth, guys.

Fortunately, the Boulevard S40 does have an electric starter with an automatic decompression system and a precision electronic ignition system that provides quick and easy engine starting.

Also, don't sleep on that five-speed transmission. The Boulevard S40 may not be a rocket on two wheels, but it still has power and that power us sent to the rear wheel through that smooth-shifting 5er.

{{Drivetrain Specifications}}

Engine

652cc, 4-stroke, air-cooled, single cylinder, OHC

Bore x Stroke

94.0 mm x 94.0 mm (3.70 in x 3.70 in)

Fuel System

MIKUNI BS40, single

Starter

Electric

Transmission

5-speed constant mesh

Final Drive

Belt drive


{0{Pricing}0}

The Suzuki Boulevard S40 sells for $5,499 and has a 12-month unlimited mileage limited warranty. Of all the things that have been mentioned about the Boulevard S40, it's biggest calling card has to be its price. It's cheap and affordable. It also has the capacity to tap into more than just one market, making it one of a few bikes that riders of all shapes, age, and sizes can buy and enjoy.