The Boulevard C50T makes highway runs a breeze thanks to its powerful V-twin engine and tour-ready accoutrements
Last year in December, Suzuki Motorcycles announced its 2021 model year lineup, which includes some of the brand staples such as the SV650 street bike, GSX-R sportbike and the V-Strom dual-purpose. As for the cruiser category, the Japanese automaker is sticking with the evergreen Boulevard range, which has been on the market since 2001.
Of course, with the Boulevard, there’s the base C50 with its traditional cruiser styling but if long-distance riding is something you look forward to every other weekend, look no further than the C50T. The bike is equipped with an array of tour-ready features such as a spacious riding position, height-adjustable windshield, custom-made faux-leather saddlebags, and a thick pillion seat.
And you get to tour in style, too. For 2021, the C50T is offered in a new Pearl Brilliant White paint with subtle blue graphics that blends well with the white sidewall tyres and glittering chrome and stainless steel trims. Rounding off the timeless look are wide, buckhorn-style handlebars, studs on the saddlebags and seat, as well as spoke-style chrome wheels.
Power comes from a narrow, 805cc, fuel injected, liquid-cooled, SOHC, 45-degree, V-twin engine that is tuned to offer exceptional low rpm torque, which is a must have for burly cruisers. Offset crankpins yield balanced firing intervals and create a signature V-twin rumble, while a dual exhaust system provides a deep exhaust note. The engine is mated to a wide-ratio five-speed transmission with a high fifth-gear ratio for relaxed highway cruising.
The C50T is built around a double-cradle steel frame with 33-degree rake and 1,655-mm wheelbase for a smooth ride. This is further enhanced by the telescopic front forks, which deliver 5.5 inch of wheel travel, and the link-type rear suspension. Connecting a truss-style swingarm and a single shock absorber with seven-way spring preload adjustability, the rear suspension offers a generous 4.1 inch of wheel travel.
As for dimensions, the C50T measures 2,500 mm long and 955 mm wide, while the height (excluding the windscreen) is at 1,110 mm. The saddle is placed 700 mm from the ground, giving riders a comfortable riding position.
Pricing starts from $9,599 (RM38,832).
