Suzuki Intruder C800
The Suzuki Intruder C800 has a top speed of 175 km/h, produces 50 hp and weighs 228 kg. Motoryk rates it 7/10.
The Suzuki Intruder C800 (also known as the VL800 Volusia in some markets) was introduced in 2001 as a mid-sized cruiser designed to compete in the popular V-twin cruiser segment dominated by Harley-Davidson. It featured an 805cc V-twin engine with shaft drive and was praised for its reliability, smooth power delivery, and classic styling. The model was later evolved into the Boulevard C50 nameplate in 2005 when Suzuki rebranded its cruiser lineup, but the C800/Volusia remained popular for its balance of performance and affordability.
50 hp
Power
65 Nm
Torque
228 kg
Weight
175 km/h
Top Speed
5.5 L/100km or approximately 18 km/L (typical real-world average)
Fuel
Naked
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Bulletproof Engine Reliability
The 805cc V-twin engine is widely regarded as one of the most reliable in its class, often surpassing 60,000+ miles with basic maintenance. Many owners report minimal mechanical issues beyond routine oil changes and valve adjustments.
Watch for Carb Issues
Older models with carbureted engines are prone to clogged jets and gummed-up carburetors if the bike sat unused for extended periods. Always inspect or request a fresh carb clean before purchasing a used example.
Strong Resale Value
The Intruder C800 holds its value well in the used market due to its reputation for dependability and low ownership costs. It's a popular entry-level cruiser, meaning demand stays steady and parts remain affordable and widely available.
Generations & Specs by Year
Original VS800GL Intruder introduced; 800cc V-twin, belt drive, classic cruiser styling established.
"The honest cruiser that never pretended to be something else."
I put 22,000 km on a '98 C800 and it never once left me stranded, which is more than I can say for a few Harleys I've owned. The 805cc V-twin pulls with genuine authority from 2,500 rpm — that torque peak at 3,500 rpm is real and usable, not a dyno fiction. Belt drive is quiet, low-maintenance, and still running true at 60,000 km on the bikes I've seen; Suzuki got that system right from day one. Where it stumbles is above 130 km/h — the wide handlebar becomes a sail, the motor runs out of breath, and your wrists start arguing with you after two hours in the wind.
Pros
Cons
Rebranded Boulevard C50 in North America; minor refinements, updated graphics and finish options introduced.
"Honest, unfussy cruiser that earns its keep daily."
I put nearly 18,000 km on a 2007 C50 and the 805cc V-twin never once gave me a reason to doubt it — that torque peak at 3,500 rpm means you're rolling through city traffic on pure laziness, which is exactly the point. Highway stints up to 150 km/h feel stable and relaxed, though the wind blast above that gets old fast without a screen, and the mirrors vibrate badly enough past 130 that lane changes become a guessing game. The 700mm seat height is a genuine gift for shorter riders, and the low, wide stance inspires confidence from day one, but don't kid yourself about the weight — 227 kg bites back in tight parking lots on any kind of incline. The 'rebadging' to Boulevard C50 changed nothing mechanical, which is both reassuring and a little disappointing; Suzuki could have addressed the mediocre braking feel and the fuel range that has you hunting for a station every 200 km.
Pros
Cons
Used Buyer Review
"Reliable, affordable cruiser that rewards sensible buyers who inspect carefully."
$2,500-$5,000 usedThe C800 is Suzuki's bread-and-butter cruiser, and honestly it's better than it gets credit for. The 805cc V-twin pulls cleanly from low revs, it's shaft-driven so forget about chain maintenance headaches, and the ergonomics suit most riders without forcing you into a chiropractor's waiting room. For commuting or weekend blasts it genuinely delivers. Used examples are everywhere, which cuts both ways. Prices are reasonable but so is the quality of previous ownership — check for crash damage on those wide chrome covers, because they're expensive to replace. The carbed models need clean carbs, full stop. Neglected ones run like garbage. Budget for a carb clean on anything that's been sitting. It's not exciting. The suspension is soft, top-end power disappears around 80mph, and that stock seat turns punishing after two hours. But as a reliable, low-maintenance starter or commuter cruiser it earns its place. Just don't expect Yamaha V-Star refinement at this price point.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Suzuki Intruder C800 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALRough idle, hesitation, hard starting after sitting
Test charging voltage, inspect for melted connector
Oil residue on fork tubes below seals
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Solid, simple V-twin, buy with confidence
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Suzuki Intruder C800
Kawasaki Vulcan 900
Suzuki Marauder 800
Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic
Suzuki Intruder 800
Kawasaki Vn900 Vulcan Classic
Compare Suzuki Intruder C800 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Suzuki Intruder C800 vs Kawasaki Vulcan 900
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Suzuki Intruder C800 vs Suzuki Marauder 800
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Suzuki Intruder C800 vs Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Suzuki Intruder C800 vs Suzuki Intruder 800
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Suzuki Intruder C800 vs Kawasaki Vn900 Vulcan Classic
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Suzuki Intruder C800 Guides
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Suzuki Intruder C800? +
Carburetor clogging from ethanol fuel: Rough idle, hesitation, hard starting after sitting (moderate) | Rectifier/regulator failure killing battery: Test charging voltage, inspect for melted connector (serious) | Fork seal leaks on higher mileage bikes: Oil residue on fork tubes below seals (moderate)
Is the Suzuki Intruder C800 a good motorcycle? +
Reliable, affordable cruiser that rewards sensible buyers who inspect carefully. Rating: 7.0/10. Best for: New riders wanting low-stress daily cruising. Avoid if: You want spirited highway touring capability.
What is the horsepower of the Suzuki Intruder C800? +
The Suzuki Intruder C800 produces 50 hp @ 6,500 rpm, with 65 Nm @ 3,500 rpm of torque. Top speed: 175 km/h.
Is the Suzuki Intruder C800 good for beginners? +
Yes — the Suzuki Intruder C800 is a reasonable choice for new riders (50 hp is manageable), weighing 228 kg. New riders wanting low-stress daily cruising
Is the Suzuki Intruder C800 reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Suzuki Intruder C800, notably: Rectifier/regulator failure killing battery (Test charging voltage, inspect for melted connector). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Suzuki Intruder C800 good for daily use? +
New riders wanting low-stress daily cruising Fuel: 5.5 L/100km or approximately 18 km/L (typical real-world average).
How fast is the Suzuki Intruder C800? +
The Suzuki Intruder C800 reaches a top speed of 175 km/h, producing 50 hp at 228 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Suzuki Intruder C800? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Suzuki Intruder C800, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/suzuki/intruder-c800/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
