Market Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Owners and technicians performing maintenance, repairs, and restorations on the Suzuki VZ800 Marauder.
Competitors:
Honda Shadow series, Yamaha Virago/V-Star series, Kawasaki Vulcan series, Harley-Davidson Sportster.
Design Philosophy:
Stylish cruiser with a focus on comfortable riding and reliable performance, often incorporating custom styling cues.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides the essential technical information needed to maintain and repair the VZ800 Marauder, empowering owners and independent mechanics.
Coverage Years:
1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (estimated 500+ for comprehensive manuals of this type)
Manual Type:
Service Repair Manual
Language:
English (standard for most manufacturer service manuals)
Engine:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, diagnosis, and repair of the V-twin engine, including valve train, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled), fuel system, ignition system, and exhaust system.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly and reassembly, gear inspection, shifting mechanism, and final drive (shaft drive) maintenance and repair.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system servicing, including hydraulic systems, brake fluid specifications, caliper overhaul, rotor inspection, and maintenance of the drum rear brake.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting electrical faults, charging system (alternator, rectifier/regulator), ignition system components, lighting, starting system, and accessory circuits.
Suspension:
Front fork servicing, seal replacement, oil levels and types, rear shock absorber inspection and adjustment, and linkage maintenance.
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing maintenance, seat and fuel tank removal/installation, fenders, and general body component repair.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing service, tire pressure specifications, tire replacement, and rim inspection.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks and replacement, air filter cleaning, chain lubrication and adjustment (if applicable, though shaft drive), and brake pad inspection.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common performance issues, starting problems, electrical faults, and braking anomalies.
Rebuilding And Restoration:
Comprehensive guidance for full engine rebuilds, gearbox overhauls, and refurbishment of various vehicle systems.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners during assembly and disassembly.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Detailed exploded views, schematics, and step-by-step illustrations for clarity.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics).
Engine Type:
4-stroke, V-twin, SOHC, 4-valve per cylinder
Displacement:
805 cc (49.1 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 mm x 74.4 mm
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Horsepower:
Approximately 50-55 HP (depending on market and specific tuning)
Torque:
Approximately 65-70 Nm (depending on market and specific tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (likely dual Mikuni 36mm CV carburetors, specific model number may vary by year/market)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approximately 15 Liters (3.9 US gal)
Length:
Approximately 2350 mm (92.5 in)
Width:
Approximately 830 mm (32.7 in)
Height:
Approximately 1100 mm (43.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 1605 mm (63.2 in)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 208 kg (458.6 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approximately 225 kg (496 lbs)
Safety Certification:
Manufacturer specific safety compliance; not typically rated by independent agencies like NHTSA or Euro NCAP for motorcycles.
Braking System:
Front: Hydraulic disc brake. Rear: Drum brake (later models might have disc, verify specific market/year).
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals, instrument illumination.
Engine Oil And Filter Change:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical Suzuki recommendation for this era).
Spark Plug Inspection:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles)
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles)
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles)
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-40 motorcycle oil (API SG or higher, JASO MA approved)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 automotive brake fluid
Final Drive Gear Oil:
SAE 80W API GL-4
Carburetor Synchronization:
Can require periodic synchronization to ensure smooth running, especially as mileage increases.
Clutch Cable Adjustment:
Clutch lever play adjustment may be needed over time.
Rear Brake Wear:
Drum brake performance can degrade with wear; inspection and adjustment are key.
Ignition System Components:
Spark plugs, coils, and CDI unit are common service items.
Suzuki Motorcycle History:
Suzuki Motor Corporation has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for innovation, performance, and reliability across various motorcycle segments, from sportbikes to cruisers.
Vz800 Lineage:
The VZ800 Marauder is part of Suzuki's cruiser lineage, closely related to the Intruder series. It was designed to offer a more performance-oriented cruiser with distinctive styling.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primary manufacturing)
Production Period:
The VZ800 Marauder was produced for a significant period, with the 97-03 range covering a key phase of its development.
Motorcycle Reviews:
The VZ800 Marauder generally received positive reviews for its comfortable ride, torquey engine, and classic cruiser styling during its production years.
Reliability Perception:
Suzuki motorcycles are generally perceived as reliable, and the VZ800 Marauder is no exception when properly maintained.
Emission Standards:
Compliant with applicable emissions standards for its production years (e.g., EPA, CARB in the US).
