Class:
Mid-size cruiser motorcycle.
Target Audience:
Riders seeking classic styling with modern V-twin performance and reliability, both for recreational riding and commuting.
Competitors:
Honda Shadow series, Yamaha V-Star series, Kawasaki Vulcan series, Harley-Davidson Sportster models.
Engine Configuration:
805cc (49.1 cubic inch) V-twin engine.
Styling:
Classic cruiser styling with modern touches, often featuring a prominent V-twin engine, teardrop fuel tank, and forward-mounted controls.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs and increasing self-sufficiency.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for the V-twin engine.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (throttle body, injectors, sensors), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel tank.
Cooling System:
Radiator, cooling fan, thermostat, coolant, hoses, water pump.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gear selection mechanism, transmission disassembly and reassembly.
Drive Train:
Drive shaft, final drive gears, U-joints, shaft maintenance.
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic), rear shock absorbers, linkages, adjustment and service.
Brakes:
Front and rear hydraulic disc brake systems, caliper service, master cylinder, brake fluid.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (stator, rectifier/regulator), ignition system, starter motor, lighting, instrumentation.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, detailed wiring schematics for all electrical components and circuits.
Steering System:
Handlebar assembly, steering stem bearings, lubrication and adjustment.
Bodywork:
Fender removal/installation, fuel tank removal/installation, seat service, minor fairing components.
Intake Exhaust:
Airbox, intake manifold, exhaust pipes, mufflers.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, tire pressure checks, brake adjustments.
Periodic Checks Adjustments:
Valve clearance adjustment, ignition timing checks, spark plug replacement, clutch and brake lever adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable).
Engine Repair:
Top-end rebuild (pistons, rings, valves), bottom-end rebuild (crankshaft, connecting rods), cylinder head service.
Transmission Repair:
Gear replacement, shift drum service, clutch plate replacement.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Fault finding for electrical issues, component testing, wiring harness repair.
Suspension Service:
Fork seal replacement, shock absorber overhaul, linkage bearing service.
Brake System Overhaul:
Caliper rebuild, master cylinder replacement, brake line replacement.
Engine Removal Installation:
Step-by-step procedures for safely removing and reinstalling the engine.
Performance Tuning:
Information on factory specifications and potential adjustments for optimal performance.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and component overhauls.
Diagnostic Tools:
Specifies required special tools, torque specifications, and measurement tolerances.
Illustrations:
Includes detailed diagrams, exploded views, and illustrations for clarity.
Type:
4-stroke, 2-cylinder, V-twin, liquid-cooled, SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder.
Displacement:
805 cc (49.1 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Fueling:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with dual throttle valves.
Ignition:
Electronic ignition (transistorized).
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled.
Horsepower:
Approx. 50 HP (37 kW) @ 6,000 RPM (Varies slightly by source/market).
Torque:
Approx. 50 lb-ft (68 Nm) @ 4,000 RPM (Varies slightly by source/market).
Fuel Delivery:
Digital Fuel Injection, Twin Mikuni BSR34 carburetors (Earlier models, check specific year for EFI vs Carburetor, but 2005-2009 is generally EFI for M50).
Oil Type:
Suzuki recommends API SG, SH, SJ, SL classification, SAE 10W-40 viscosity grade motorcycle oil.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.5 L (3.7 US qt) with oil filter change.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact Suzuki recommendations.
Air Filter Cleaning Replacement:
Inspect every 3,000 miles (5,000 km), clean or replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km).
Valve Clearance Check:
Initial check at 600 miles (1,000 km), then every 7,500 miles (12,000 km).
Coolant Type:
Suzuki recommends a mixture of distilled water and a quality ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., 50/50 mix).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Final Drive Oil Type:
Suzuki recommends SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear oil for the final drive.
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads, tires, clutch plates (depending on riding style), fork seals, wheel bearings.
Potential Electrical:
Occasional issues with the rectifier/regulator unit or stator, though generally reliable.
Fuel System Considerations:
Fuel injectors can sometimes become clogged with poor fuel quality; regular use of quality fuel is advised.