Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs, enthusiasts, DIY mechanics.
Competitors 1986:
Honda Shadow VT700C, Yamaha Virago XV700, Kawasaki Vulcan 700
Vehicle Key Features:
Shaft drive, V-twin engine, classic cruiser styling, often featured custom options ('GLE' likely denotes a specific trim or package).
Manual Benefit:
Provides in-depth technical knowledge to maintain and repair the VS700GLE, saving time and money on professional servicing.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, carburetor systems, ignition system, lubrication system
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, final drive (shaft drive), disassembly and reassembly
Frame And Suspension:
Front fork, rear shock absorber, swingarm, steering system, bearings, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system, hydraulic components, caliper service, brake pad replacement, bleeding
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition, instruments, troubleshooting
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump, carburetor specifications and adjustment
Bodywork And Trim:
Panel removal and installation, seat, fairings, fenders, graphics
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain adjustment (if applicable, though shaft drive), lubrication points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common problems and solutions, symptom-based troubleshooting
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly
Disassembly Reassembly:
Detailed procedures for major components and systems
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, and complex electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, 45-degree V-twin
Displacement:
699 cc (42.6 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
74.0 mm x 81.0 mm (approximate)
Compression Ratio:
9.4:1 (typical)
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 50-55 HP @ 7,000 RPM (estimated for base VS700 Intruder)
Torque:
Approx. 45-50 lb-ft @ 6,000 RPM (estimated for base VS700 Intruder)
Carburetors:
2 x Mikuni VM34SS (or similar 34mm constant velocity carburetors)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 10-13 Liters (2.6-3.4 Gallons)
Overall Length:
Approx. 2250 mm (88.6 in.)
Overall Width:
Approx. 800 mm (31.5 in.)
Overall Height:
Approx. 1150 mm (45.3 in.)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1525 mm (60.0 in.)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 190-210 kg (419-463 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified for motorcycles, but payload capacity would be included.
Safety Certification:
Meets relevant motorcycle safety standards of the time (e.g., DOT, ECE). Specific ratings are generally not provided by manufacturers in this era.
Braking System:
Front disc brake, Rear drum brake (or potentially disc depending on exact trim/market).
Suspension Stability:
Designed for stable handling typical of cruisers.
Lighting:
Headlight, tail light, brake light, turn signals.
Infotainment System:
Basic analog instrumentation: speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, neutral indicator, oil pressure light, high beam indicator.
Driver Assistance Features:
None
Connectivity Features:
None
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Check Interval:
Every 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles), or as per manual specification.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher (specific Suzuki recommendation preferred).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.4 - 2.8 Liters (with filter change).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (as specified in the manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, pre-mixed or 50/50 with distilled water.
Common Problems:
Carburetor synchronization and jetting issues, starter clutch wear, potential for aging electrical components (e.g., voltage regulator), shaft drive maintenance (lubrication).
Part Number Convention:
Service manuals typically list specific Suzuki part numbers for common replacement items.
Suzuki Motorcycle History:
Suzuki has a long history of producing diverse motorcycles, from sportbikes to cruisers and off-road models. Known for innovative engineering and reliable performance.
Intruder Lineage:
The VS700GLE is part of the Intruder line, Suzuki's cruiser motorcycle series. It was a precursor to larger displacement models like the VS800 and M800/M109R. The 700cc displacement was often due to US import tariffs at the time.
Production Period:
The VS700 Intruder was produced from 1985 to 1987, with the VS750 taking over thereafter. The 'GLE' designation likely signifies a specific trim or option package for 1986.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan