1998 Suzuki VZ800 Marauder from United Kingdom

Summary:

Basic and solid

Faults:

Not many problems even if this bike is high mileage. Have fixed all problems myself:

The main issues has been in the electrical department, and I've had issues more or less every year with the electrical system, but I live in a rainy district and the problems are probably related to this: Running on one cylinder due to various bad connections, horn replaced, indicator switch replaced, bad connection in starter switch.

Maintenance: Changed the battery a couple of times, brake pads and shoes, drive packet/chain, tires, some wires etc.

Clutch went last year.

Had problems with starter not working, but a whack with a ribber club fixed that.

Chrome is not very good and will rust if not taken care of. Treat with chrome polish twice a year to keep it nice and shiny.

General Comments:

This is my everyday transport to and from work most of the year, except in the winter. It works very well as a commuter bike about 15 miles each way. Works well in traffic, and is reliable and petrol bills are low. But the tank capacity should have been a gallon or so more.

It's not suited for long trips though. Your rear will be sore and your back will suffer as well. Did a 300 mile trip once, and had to rest every hour in the end. Not very comfortable on long trips.

It's quite easy to work on yourself, very basic, and simple and solid construction for everyday motoring.

This bike is not for the speed freaks or the Euro-touring types keen on Autobahns.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd March, 2007

14th Mar 2010, 14:13

I agree with your comment on the VZ800.

We had one for several years, and the only thing that I was not happy with, was the chain noise while driving.

So in order to rectify the situation, I have replaced the chain drive with a belt drive kit design for the VZ 800 Marauder.

Excellent decision, and it is like having a 6th gear on your bike. Smoother and quieter ride. Needless to say cleaner as well. No more greasy mess on the rear mag.

Have a safe ride.

2nd Jun 2012, 21:49

I have a Suzuki 2001 800 like yours. The chain noise; is that a norm for these bikes? I like the idea of belt drive too.

Please reply if you could help me solve my problem... with the noise.

mcattack_5000@yahoo.com

4th Nov 2014, 03:25

Hi,

I have a 2001 VZ800 Marauder.

How has the belt drive worked for you.

Any suggestions on the newer kits?

THX! Steve M.

11th Mar 2016, 09:13

If you have chain noise, you need to lube it. Better yet, change it to an o-ring chain. It's much quieter and you don't have to worry about rain or mud causing problems. I adjust mine once a season. That's it. I've had mine for 4 years with no problems.

22nd Jun 2020, 01:29

Hi, I've got a 1998 Suzuki Marauder; I've heard from more than one person that this bike is a problem bike.

The problem with my Marauder is that it keeps running on one cylinder and not both.

My brother is an excellent mechanic and has been in the bike world for thirty something years.

Any information on how to sort this problem would be appreciated, thank you.