Suzuki Intruder C800

If it is a traditional cruiser you are looking for, that has been fitted with an abundance of chrome extras and an engine that just looks, sounds and performs great, then look no further. The Suzuki C800 Intruder is a delightful combination of all of those. The V-Twin engine produces that much needed power but also gleams with all the chrome fitted to it. The laid back riding position offers both rider and pillion that much deserved comfort for those journeys whether they are long or short.

In typically cruiser style, the long wheelbase and hefty bulk hardly make for light handling but the Suzuki VZ800 Intruder's capable and relatively easy to ride. The lack of ground clearance hinders any mad antics anyway. Softly-sprung suspension adds to the Suzuki VZ800 Intruder's “sofa on wheels” effect. You have to work the brakes hard to haul it all to a stop, though.

The Suzuki VZ800 Intruder's well-proven engine’s been propelling Suzuki cruisers for a while now and has a reputation for reliability. With electronic fuel injection, power delivery is smooth and the pipes let off a good, throaty burble. The Suzuki VZ800 Intruder has loads of torque and it pulls well throughout the rev range. Cruises happily at 80mph.

Overall, the Suzuki VZ800 Intruder's engine’s reliable, although a recall affected some models (both M800 and C800) when faulty ignition wiring threatened to cause engine failure. Make sure it’s been seen to. Build quality’s patchy: look after the chrome and avoid taking the Suzuki VZ800 Intruder out in winter, wherever possible.

Cruisers don’t come cheap but the Suzuki VZ800 Intruder represents good value against the stalwart Harley clan. It rides well and looks the part. Rivals include Yamaha’s Drag Star 650 Classic, at roughly the same price but it’s down on power, or Kawasaki’s mammoth VN900 Classic, which, while vast, is pokey.

The Suzuki VZ800 Intruder gives a comfortable, luxurious ride: there’s a soft seat, footboards and sensibly-placed bars so you can cruise in comfort over long distances. LED tail light and USD forks plus a simple, modern dash and loads of chrome add up to an agreeable cruiser experience. Shaft drive makes life on the Suzuki VZ800 Intruder easier (and cleaner).