Rider Review: 2002 Suzuki VL800 Volusia

Here is my 5,000 mile review. If you have a budget of $7,000.00 out the door you must consider this bike.

The bike is a bit tame off the line. It is desinged for comfortable boulevard cruising and really hits the mark. I have taken it on Highway rides at 80mph and found the bike to be very well mannered.

Handling is excellent. My old bike would bounce when breaking on bumpy roads. Not this bike. It feels like it is glued to the road. In turns it is stable and can lean far without touching down. Riding 2 up doesn't feel much different then solo riding. You will notice it a little under heavy acceleration. But you hardly know anyone is back there otherwise.

As far as comfort is concerned a lot depends on the rider. I find the stock seat to be fine. My longest ride was about 200 miles. However, many have switched to a mustang seat for touring. My usual passanger calls this bike a Cadillac. Big and comfy.

Accessories are plentiful. I have a Memphis Fats 21" windshield. The size of the bike puts the bottom of the windshield far enough out front to cause some updraft. At times I thought it was going to lift the visor on my open face helmet. I got use to it but a set of lowers should cure that.

I did have a mechanical problem with my bike but I am in the minority. The transmission forks, shift drum, and gears had to be replaced. After a brief arguement with Suzuki and the dealer they agreed to fix it. However, having to argue to have a warranty honored left me with a bad feeling.

All things concidered I'd recommend this bike. However, I don't think I'd buy the extended warranty unless I had some assurances from Suzuki that they would honor it without a fight.

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