Category:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Riders seeking reliable cruiser performance with classic styling
Competitors:
Honda Shadow series, Yamaha Virago/V-Star series, Kawasaki Vulcan series
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on low-slung styling, V-twin power, and shaft drive for reduced maintenance
Value Proposition:
Reliable and accessible cruiser for its era, known for its distinctive styling and manageable power delivery
Engine:
Detailed overhaul procedures, component testing, ignition system, fuel system (carburetor specifics)
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gear shifting mechanisms, final drive (shaft drive) maintenance
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, caliper service, pad replacement, master cylinder overhaul
Electrical:
Full wiring diagrams, starter system, charging system, lighting, ignition troubleshooting
Suspension:
Front fork service (oil, seals), rear shock absorber replacement, linkage maintenance
Frame And Body:
Component removal/installation, chassis alignment basics, fluid checks
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, brake, final drive), filter replacements, spark plug service
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission disassembly, carburetor tuning, electrical component repair, brake bleeding
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common running issues, electrical faults, starting problems
Diagnostics:
Component testing procedures, specification checks (e.g., compression, ignition timing)
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians
Diagnostics Level:
Advanced diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting guides
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete engine and transmission overhauls
Type:
V-Twin, Four-Stroke
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 mm x 74.4 mm
Cooling System:
Air-Cooled
Valve Train:
SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Est:
Approximately 50 HP
Torque Est:
Approximately 47 lb-ft (64 Nm)
Carburetor:
Mikuni BSR36 (2 x 36mm) with Accelerator Pump
Fuel Capacity:
13.0 Liters (3.4 US gal)
Oil Capacity W Filter:
2.7 Liters (2.9 US qt)
Oil Type Spec:
API SE, SF, or SG; SAE 20W-40 recommended (refer to manual for precise specification)
Safety Certifications:
Meets all applicable US EPA, DOT, and California Air Resources Board standards for its model year.
Braking System:
Front: Hydraulic Disc; Rear: Drum Brake (standard for this model year)
Lighting:
Halogen Headlight, LED Taillight, Incandescent Turn Signals
Engine Oil Change:
Every 4,000 km (2,500 miles) or 6 months (refer to manual for exact interval and conditions)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 8,000 km (5,000 miles) or 12 months
Air Filter Cleaning Replacement:
Clean every 4,000 km (2,500 miles), replace as needed or every 12,000 km (7,500 miles)
Final Drive Oil Change:
Every 8,000 km (5,000 miles) or 12 months
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 20W-40 recommended (confirm with manual for precise range and conditions)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for confirmation)
Fork Oil Type Viscosity:
SUS 32 or ISO VG 10 (refer to manual for exact type and quantity)
Carburetor Issues:
Potential for gumming if fuel sits, requires periodic cleaning and adjustment. Accelerator pump can wear.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion on electrical connectors, especially in high-humidity environments, can lead to intermittent issues.
Shaft Drive Maintenance:
Regularly check final drive gear oil level and condition. Universal joint boots can degrade over time.
Fork Seals:
Front fork seals can degrade and leak over time, requiring replacement.
Brand Focus:
Suzuki has a long history in motorcycles, known for innovation in engine technology and performance across various segments, including sportbikes, cruisers, and off-road.
Intruder Lineage:
The VS800 Intruder (and its variants like the GLW) was part of Suzuki's cruiser lineup, competing with established Japanese and American models by offering a V-twin experience with distinctive styling.
Production Years:
The VS800GL Intruder platform was produced for many years, with the VS800GLW specifically denoting a 1998 model year configuration.
Manufacturing Location:
Likely assembled in Japan, as per Suzuki's manufacturing practices for this era.