1986 Suzuki VS700 Intruder review from United States of America

I've been stranded on this bike only twice in 11 years, both times due to electrical faults.

The first was back in 1994 due to a corroded battery connection, which I replaced with thicker-gauge wire; it's been fine since then.

The second was in 1999 & again in 2005 when my ignition fuse kept blowing, but only when I had a certain seat installed.

This year I finally traced it to a wiring harness that was being pinched between the bottom of that seat and a bolt on the rear fender, which had worn through the insulation on two wires, allowing them to short-circuit against the bolt when someone sat on the seat. I wrapped each of the exposed wires in electrical tape and re-routed the harness away from the bolt, and have not had a problem since then.

The fork seals tend to need replacement every 4-5 years or so.

The hydraulic lines for the clutch & front brake need to be bled about once a year; I believe Suzuki recommends replacing the fluid completely every 2 years.

This bike is the epitome of cheap transportation. It gets nearly 60mpg (under 4 liters/100km) on the highway, is cheap to register & insure, and requires minimal maintenance.

It's light and handles well for a cruiser.

I love its looks, and have added many custom parts over the years. It often gets compliments (both before & after my modifications were done).

The brakes are fine for solo riding, but when carrying a passenger, one needs to anticipate stops.