I bought one new in 07 and was pleasantly surprised at how well it was sorted out. it gets 53 mpg consistently. I put it on the interstate and ran 80-85 mph for 150 miles riding double. no problems. still has same battery. I charge it every 3 months just because. 23000 mi. I always put premium gas in it and buy good tires and oil. no mechanical issues. not my only bike is the reason for the low miles.
I owned a 2009 C50 bought new for a few years. It's an 800cc. Pros: - short seat height so easy for smaller people - nice to look at - totally reliable - inexpensive - heel/toe shifter is nice - foot boards are nice - insurance was cheap Cons: - the seat feels fine for a few minutes but was horrible for longer periods. I replaced it since my butt went numb after an hour - vibration made my hands and feet numb after about 2 hours - tiny range despite huge looking tank - not much power makes passing challenging on winding roads - weak brakes with single disc front and drum rear - front end is very heavy making maneuvering more difficult than it should be - virtually no instruments, not even a tach - wife totally hated the rear seat and quit riding with me - virtually technology free; no anti-lock brakes, traction control, cruise control, suspension adjustment requires tools, etc. Summary: inexpensive bike that looks nice for running to the store or work in good weather but useless for any kind of distance or all seasons riding. Traded it for an FJR1300.
You could rotate the handlebars up a little to avoid contact with your leg on full lock turns. Worked for me on my 2005 C50. Love the bike for city and back roads. Though it does have the power for highway speeds, there's a good amount of buzzing in the handlebars and floorboards over 65 mph.
I had a 2012 c50t, loved it. never any problems out of it. other makers should find out how Suzuki builds their transmission and copy that. heel toe shifter option is great. goin back to one as next bike. 50 miles to the gallon was normal. in my opinion people should consider this as a first bike or if your getting back into riding. just wish they would put the boulevard emblem back on the base model, not the same without it.
Im riding from East coast to West coast of America in September, im from the UK, and your videos are incredibly helpful to gain insight in your road system, such as the junctions etc. Entertaning and educational!
I just got me an '05 C50 (non-touring version with 2,100 miles on it!), and I love it. Nice and throaty with stock pipes, pulls very nice even on low RPMs. I've seen people claiming as high as 47 mph and as low as 23 mpg (!!) with it - since I've only just got mine I don't have any numbers on mine yet. Lovin' every mile on it. I do agree with your handle bar gripe - I tried pulling some slow MSF Basic Rider Course turns, and yeah you have to stick your knees out to the sides if you want lock to lock. I'm 6'4", and the comfort on this bike is fantastic.
I bought a C50 Boulevard 2008 brand new. I still own it and ride it....almost 45K miles on it now...still going fine. I love the bike...just a few add-ons for comfort....great bike.
Bryan, I came from a C50 myself and 'moved up' to the FJR (after watching all your videos). The cons of the Boulevard that pushed me towards FJR - #1 lean angle. Aside from not being able to lock the handle bars on turns, the lean angle is greatly reduced and can expect to drag those floorboards quickly. #2 power. I think you rode the 800cc and with that I felt limited on highways. Best speeds were only during the downhill portions. (FJR certainly solved that problem). #3 I didn't have a windshield and highway speeds can get loud and tiring. Those were my major cons pushing me to the FJR. But the Boulevard was a great bike. Easy, shaft driven, light, lower, easy maintenance (except adjusting the main shock), plenty of additions and mods available, chrome looks good, and mostly....cheap! Otherwise great, cheap bike for playing on the local streets!
Steve Wynn Yeah I didn't think to mention that the foot boards drag very quickly if you start to get "spirited". It was a real pain taking the motorcycle license test on the thing since in my state they test you in a parking lot full of cones and the beast handles like a sea sick elephant!
I'm getting a 2004 vl800 Volusia, got a few miles on it. I first thought it was big and clumsy on my first ride. Once I got to ride it for a little while I became part of the bike. Ready to get my license now and take my baby home! Nice video thanks for taking me along.
I just traded in my 05 C50. My major gripe was that after about an hour you felt like a wishbone being broken in two. The tank is big, fat, and has 2 corners in the back rear. A more teardrop profile and some mid controls would make it very very good in my opinion.
Nice review, glad you like the C50, I have a 2009 C50T and so far I love it. Highway rides could be a bit better (needs a 6th gear) but for all around this one is fine for me. It has good sound, torque and rides smoothly with the couch feeling as you mentioned. My next ad-on will most likely be a stereo kit. The one you road tested has a funny shield on it, looks like an aftermarket or replacement my windshield is full stretching below the bars and I found it adequate coverage for the highway plus around town it helps keep the bugs out of my face but still allows some draft to cool me off on hot days. After the C50T I'm not sure what the next one will be, maybe the C90T..., maybe another brand, I haven't figured that out yet and will be be watching the reviews to see what others think about other cruisers / baggers on the market. So far with mine I am getting from 42 mpg to 46 mpg and have run it up to 95mph with no troubles. I use the highway everyday for work and back and aside from watching out for pavement transition between lanes (over 65mph) the bike is stable all day long. Maybe the next one to look into (for me) will be a Victory, I know a few guys that have them and they all love them, maybe an Indian..., well that's down the road.
I thought you were in Florida...Cool! I lived over in Umatlla and Altoona. I miss swimming in the spings especially Alexander springs. Nice demo on the bike and good info, they should have new bike demo's that's what demo's are for!
I have a 2002 Volusia 805 cc (c50 precursor to the Boulevard) at 96K with never a problem...rides like new...these bikes are nimble yet powerful & a great ride, very well built
Would you say an 800cc bike like this is suitable for taking trips on the highway at 75mph without worrying about sustained high-revs wearing down the engine?
I took several long trips on the one I owned, including a couple of 1,000 mile days. The engine vibrates a bit at that speed and sounds like it's spinning it's little heart out, but it keeps on going without a care. I traded mine after 80,000 miles and the engine was still running good.
Have one no complaints fits great an 06 110k miles did some engine work learn to adjust valves this bike is reliable just learn to maintain like all bikes paid 3k still rolling with it using some oil a quart every 1000 miles which is ok with the miles at 150k will put a low miles engine cheap on eBay parts are cheap on eBay just a value all around
Dude this totally caught me off guard. i live on sterling lane. in port richey on this road you drove on. i restarted the video after realizing that you were on sterling and ridge road.
Very similar to the bike I bought when I got back into riding about 9 years ago. It was the '03 Suzuki Volusia, a 40th anniversary edition with an 800cc engine. Fun bike.
If u want something round town,y not look at some of fthese cool looking scooters that I see round town,they are lots of fun and. Cheap to operate,just a thought.
just bought this bike and saw your video. while watching it i was like that looks familiar then i noticed it was sky power sports and that you also passed my house lol....also great bike.
I test road this bike last year, but the boss version .. The bike is a nice performer, and a nice looker. Suspension is also nice through the twists, but just don't push to far, which goes without saying ..(maybe not)
Thanks for doing the review on this bike. I've been curious about it for a while, but there really isn't all that much on youtube. Have you ridden the Vulcan 900? I am curious how it compares.
These are actually 805cc (50 ci=819cc math-wise). I`ve had my 2007 for 2 years ($2,000-3600 miles) Bags, boards, windshield and 2 new helmets; great deal ;- )
Jose Manuel I have the M50, 95% same bike. I’ve had no problems with it in traffic. In a parking lot while first learning how to ride, it seemed heavy but after riding for a few months it got used to the low maneuvering weight and had no issues. I love mine, I wish it was more comfortable going 80+ mph (I still do those speeds anyway lol) but I still love it.
******************************************************************* I am 6'4" and a left leg amputee. I haven't ridden since my amputation 2.5yrs ago and I am looking for a nice heel/toe shift bike with good leg room and large foot rests, as I also wear a size 14 shoe. Your review helped me determine this bike may be the one! Thank you, Ricky *******************************************************************
Why not give the Moto Guzzi a try ? Should be plenty of good California's in your region. Easy bike for maintenance, once you know your way around. If you are looking for a 2cyl. bike with personality ... You will receive plenty ! I come from a BMW GS1200, sold it ... And bought myself a new MGC 1400 ... it is a real dreambike, perfect handling, Italian engine ... Once you are moving you don't feel the 700 pounds / 340kg ... She gives A lot more stability and confidence then the Beamer. Happy cruising ! 😎
I bought one new in 07 and was pleasantly surprised at how well it was sorted out. it gets 53 mpg consistently. I put it on the interstate and ran 80-85 mph for 150 miles riding double. no problems. still has same battery. I charge it every 3 months just because. 23000 mi. I always put premium gas in it and buy good tires and oil. no mechanical issues. not my only bike is the reason for the low miles.
how is it going uphill? Also, how many total miles might I get, if I get one?
Its fine going uphill. Not a problem at all. Its geared in a way that 100mph is all she's good for though. Still no problems at 25000 miles.
Others with open exaust and fueling upgrade are faster.
Just bought an '05 c50 mine is listed as an 805 cc. I absolutely love it
They are ALL 805CC
I owned a 2009 C50 bought new for a few years. It's an 800cc.
Pros:
- short seat height so easy for smaller people
- nice to look at
- totally reliable
- inexpensive
- heel/toe shifter is nice
- foot boards are nice
- insurance was cheap
Cons:
- the seat feels fine for a few minutes but was horrible for longer periods. I replaced it since my butt went numb after an hour
- vibration made my hands and feet numb after about 2 hours
- tiny range despite huge looking tank
- not much power makes passing challenging on winding roads
- weak brakes with single disc front and drum rear
- front end is very heavy making maneuvering more difficult than it should be
- virtually no instruments, not even a tach
- wife totally hated the rear seat and quit riding with me
- virtually technology free; no anti-lock brakes, traction control, cruise control, suspension adjustment requires tools, etc.
Summary:
inexpensive bike that looks nice for running to the store or work in good weather but useless for any kind of distance or all seasons riding. Traded it for an FJR1300.
All the bike I need my O6 C50 is fantastic. Recommend putting on a Mustang seat. A great bike. A great value.
You could rotate the handlebars up a little to avoid contact with your leg on full lock turns. Worked for me on my 2005 C50. Love the bike for city and back roads. Though it does have the power for highway speeds, there's a good amount of buzzing in the handlebars and floorboards over 65 mph.
I had a 2012 c50t, loved it. never any problems out of it. other makers should find out how Suzuki builds their transmission and copy that. heel toe shifter option is great. goin back to one as next bike. 50 miles to the gallon was normal. in my opinion people should consider this as a first bike or if your getting back into riding. just wish they would put the boulevard emblem back on the base model, not the same without it.
Im riding from East coast to West coast of America in September, im from the UK, and your videos are incredibly helpful to gain insight in your road system, such as the junctions etc. Entertaning and educational!
I just got me an '05 C50 (non-touring version with 2,100 miles on it!), and I love it. Nice and throaty with stock pipes, pulls very nice even on low RPMs. I've seen people claiming as high as 47 mph and as low as 23 mpg (!!) with it - since I've only just got mine I don't have any numbers on mine yet. Lovin' every mile on it. I do agree with your handle bar gripe - I tried pulling some slow MSF Basic Rider Course turns, and yeah you have to stick your knees out to the sides if you want lock to lock. I'm 6'4", and the comfort on this bike is fantastic.
I bought a C50 Boulevard 2008 brand new. I still own it and ride it....almost 45K miles on it now...still going fine. I love the bike...just a few add-ons for comfort....great bike.
Bryan, I came from a C50 myself and 'moved up' to the FJR (after watching all your videos).
The cons of the Boulevard that pushed me towards FJR - #1 lean angle. Aside from not being able to lock the handle bars on turns, the lean angle is greatly reduced and can expect to drag those floorboards quickly. #2 power. I think you rode the 800cc and with that I felt limited on highways. Best speeds were only during the downhill portions. (FJR certainly solved that problem). #3 I didn't have a windshield and highway speeds can get loud and tiring. Those were my major cons pushing me to the FJR. But the Boulevard was a great bike. Easy, shaft driven, light, lower, easy maintenance (except adjusting the main shock), plenty of additions and mods available, chrome looks good, and mostly....cheap!
Otherwise great, cheap bike for playing on the local streets!
Steve Wynn Yeah I didn't think to mention that the foot boards drag very quickly if you start to get "spirited". It was a real pain taking the motorcycle license test on the thing since in my state they test you in a parking lot full of cones and the beast handles like a sea sick elephant!
I love your bike reviews! your unbiased, observation based reviews are great and informative. keep em coming! thanks!
I'm getting a 2004 vl800 Volusia, got a few miles on it. I first thought it was big and clumsy on my first ride. Once I got to ride it for a little while I became part of the bike. Ready to get my license now and take my baby home! Nice video thanks for taking me along.
I just traded in my 05 C50. My major gripe was that after about an hour you felt like a wishbone being broken in two. The tank is big, fat, and has 2 corners in the back rear. A more teardrop profile and some mid controls would make it very very good in my opinion.
My 06 fits me like a glove you must be a short
Guy
Mine has the 3" risers on and it's perfect for me now. 6'1 and 200lb zig zag around frisbees!
Nice review, glad you like the C50, I have a 2009 C50T and so far I love it. Highway rides could be a bit better (needs a 6th gear) but for all around this one is fine for me. It has good sound, torque and rides smoothly with the couch feeling as you mentioned. My next ad-on will most likely be a stereo kit. The one you road tested has a funny shield on it, looks like an aftermarket or replacement my windshield is full stretching below the bars and I found it adequate coverage for the highway plus around town it helps keep the bugs out of my face but still allows some draft to cool me off on hot days. After the C50T I'm not sure what the next one will be, maybe the C90T..., maybe another brand, I haven't figured that out yet and will be be watching the reviews to see what others think about other cruisers / baggers on the market.
So far with mine I am getting from 42 mpg to 46 mpg and have run it up to 95mph with no troubles. I use the highway everyday for work and back and aside from watching out for pavement transition between lanes (over 65mph) the bike is stable all day long. Maybe the next one to look into (for me) will be a Victory, I know a few guys that have them and they all love them, maybe an Indian..., well that's down the road.
I thought you were in Florida...Cool!
I lived over in Umatlla and Altoona. I miss swimming in the spings especially Alexander springs.
Nice demo on the bike and good info, they should have new bike demo's that's what demo's are for!
I have a 2002 Volusia 805 cc (c50 precursor to the Boulevard) at 96K with never a problem...rides like new...these bikes are nimble yet powerful & a great ride, very well built
Was the Intruder 800 a precursor? Because I test rode a '99 and was pretty impressed with the acceleration.
The intro music makes me feel like a 70's pimp hanging out in a public bathroom
Awesome review by the way, 35 likes and not a thumbs down yet!
You jinxed me lol
TwoWheelObsession does your wife ride
Would you say an 800cc bike like this is suitable for taking trips on the highway at 75mph without worrying about sustained high-revs wearing down the engine?
DarkFire346 it's a touring bike so I would say so.
I took several long trips on the one I owned, including a couple of 1,000 mile days. The engine vibrates a bit at that speed and sounds like it's spinning it's little heart out, but it keeps on going without a care. I traded mine after 80,000 miles and the engine was still running good.
The short answer is yes...
40 years ago, an 800 cc bike would have been considered an open class street bike.
Have one no complaints fits great an 06 110k miles did some engine work learn to adjust valves this bike is reliable just learn to maintain like all bikes paid 3k still rolling with it using some oil a quart every 1000 miles which is ok with the miles at 150k will put a low miles engine cheap on eBay parts are cheap on eBay just a value all around
Absolutely love the comfortable ride of my 2019 C50. The Idaho mountains are already calling me, and it's just Jan. Lol
Nice review. I'm not into cruisers, but I would love to have that Concours the salesman is on!
Dude this totally caught me off guard. i live on sterling lane. in port richey on this road you drove on. i restarted the video after realizing that you were on sterling and ridge road.
I love your videos man, I think it would be cool if you could do one of the new BMW boxers if they allow test rides, not sure if they do though.
Very similar to the bike I bought when I got back into riding about 9 years ago. It was the '03 Suzuki Volusia, a 40th anniversary edition with an 800cc engine. Fun bike.
I've been enjoying your bike review series. Great work!
Sorry to have change the subject. But have you tried a hyabusa? Love all of your videos...Bob .
Bob Berard jr I'm too old and fat to enjoy leaning over to ride; ) No interest in sportbikes.
Nose job I love it
My name is Mariah Godin
If u want something round town,y not look at some of fthese cool looking scooters that I see round town,they are lots of fun and. Cheap to operate,just a thought.
I'm looking to get a first bike. I am considering a slightly newer model of this bike. do you think this will make an acceptable beginner bike?
Short, but awesome review! But do the turn signals work? ;)
How is it as a first motorbike ?
Noni Noni Fantastic. very light and responsive, pulls great to 110 with better intake, exhaust and tuner
to most of the reviews , you sound very happy with this one.
Since you liked the C50 have you thought about look a yamaha v star 1100 or 1300? I ride a 1300 and love it.
Can I ride this at 6’4 245? This would be my first bike so need some advice.
just bought this bike and saw your video. while watching it i was like that looks familiar then i noticed it was sky power sports and that you also passed my house lol....also great bike.
I test road this bike last year, but the boss version .. The bike is a nice performer, and a nice looker. Suspension is also nice through the twists, but just don't push to far, which goes without saying ..(maybe not)
It turns enough for any road around here that's for sure lol
Liking your reviews. Hope you do one on a Guzzi 1400 Custom . . .
You should try to find a Yamaha Demo Day and check out the Star Bolt... might be a good extra bike for you.
Zappaz I already did...nice bike but not what I'm looking for...
One issue I have with my 2005 C50 is I want just one more gear for riding on the highway. RPMs when I’m rolling 65mph+ are higher than I prefer
Had no idea you reviewed this. ..Just purchased one!
+Robert Allan Hey grats!! Yeah that ride gave me the idea for the Bobber project! Needless to say I know every inch of your bike now LOL
Thanks for doing the review on this bike. I've been curious about it for a while, but there really isn't all that much on youtube. Have you ridden the Vulcan 900? I am curious how it compares.
Freespiritphil No Vulcans yet, still on my list!
These are actually 805cc (50 ci=819cc math-wise). I`ve had my 2007 for 2 years ($2,000-3600 miles) Bags, boards, windshield and 2 new helmets; great deal ;- )
How this bike handle on heavy traffic?
Jose Manuel I have the M50, 95% same bike. I’ve had no problems with it in traffic. In a parking lot while first learning how to ride, it seemed heavy but after riding for a few months it got used to the low maneuvering weight and had no issues. I love mine, I wish it was more comfortable going 80+ mph (I still do those speeds anyway lol) but I still love it.
650cc or 800cc ? 🤔
Gotta get me some of that concussion
Not a 650, it s an 800 or 805 if your counting.
Nice review! Thanks
I'm sorry they didn't make a 650 V-Twin that is in 805 cc
*******************************************************************
I am 6'4" and a left leg amputee. I haven't ridden since my amputation 2.5yrs ago and I am looking for a nice heel/toe shift bike with good leg room and large foot rests, as I also wear a size 14 shoe.
Your review helped me determine this bike may be the one!
Thank you,
Ricky
*******************************************************************
Nice C-50 Review.. Except for the Cheezee, Intro tune...
Why not give the Moto Guzzi a try ? Should be plenty of good California's in your region. Easy bike for maintenance, once you know your way around. If you are looking for a 2cyl. bike with personality ... You will receive plenty !
I come from a BMW GS1200, sold it ... And bought myself a new MGC 1400 ... it is a real dreambike, perfect handling, Italian engine ... Once you are moving you don't feel the 700 pounds / 340kg ... She gives A lot more stability and confidence then the Beamer. Happy cruising ! 😎
It’s not 650 it’s 800 cc
Its an 800
805 by some, 820 by others....so , thereabouts eh lol.
805 by the service manual. I have an '02, when they were called the Volusia.
Regardless, it’s not a 650cc
Yeah ,host called it a 650 v twin.it is an 805.
My buddy has a 2005 C50 and its a 800 not a 650 sir lol
flyguitarnihad yep I mis spoke!
btw if you noticed that blue Yamaha stryker in your motovlog...i have the exact same one
such a nice bike and you should test ride it!!!
Who else thinks those studs on the seat and the saddle bags are ugly? Nice bike it self.
6'2". great,,,6'3" here
805cc
I thought it was an 800
Never heard of anyone making their bike a low speed handler. 🙂😂
650??? Not 800
that music is outta some X rated BS : |
C50 is 800cc
It's a 800 not 650😅
lol, 650 cc? just a little off!
Anthony Walden lol yep! The sales guy and I were talking about a 650 right before we left and it was in my head!