1998 Suzuki VZ800 Marauder review from United Kingdom
"Basic and solid"
What things have gone wrong with the motorcycle?
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 rainly 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.
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| A brilliant cruiser and well worth the outlay |
| Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1998 |
| Year of manufacture | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Acceleration marks | 6 / 10 |
| Roll-on Performance marks | 6 / 10 |
| Handling marks | 6 / 10 |
| Braking marks | 6 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 3 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 9 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 1 miles |
| Most recent distance | 52000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 22nd March, 2007 |