Suzuki's
"thumper" (i.e., single-cylinder) cruiser has a devoted
following. It's been around for a while, which has given Suzuki
a chance to iron out any bugs. It's tank holds almost a gallon
less fuel than the smaller GZ250,
but it features maintenance-free belt drive and easy handling
in a light (352 lb.) package. Seat height: 27.6 inches.
Of
the "middleweight" cruisers - this is the only
one I can recommend to a beginner. Very light (aircooled
engine), low seat height and a friendly power delivery.
This bike is surprisingly nice to beginners and experienced
riders alike - great classic cruiser styling in a package
that can be handled by a beginner.
While
I assigned lower marks to the heavier 800cc bikes, I have
to go out on a limb on this mid sized machine and give it
a high mark for the entry level rider. It tips the scale
at a mere 50 pounds over the lightest of the 250cc cruisers,
yet comes up 91 pounds lighter than the lightest mid sized
cruiser (the 800 Intruder). 352 pounds dry is a very commendable
weight for this in betweener bike. The Savage has a style
all its own. A single cylinder engine, bored out to 650cc,
sets it apart from the V-twin herd. It also sets it apart
from the more narrow selection of parallel twins as well.
The Savage is unique in that it is one of three metric cruisers
that offers a belt final drive, the other two are the 1600
Road Star (and sibling Warrior) and the V-Rod. This is the
bike for the new rider that won't be content witha 250cc
machine. However, said rider needs to be of shorter stature,
it has the same stance as the Rebel so if you feel cramped
on the Reb it won't get better on what seemingly should
be a larger bike. The Savage is the perfect all around machine
for the height impaired rider, and I give it an A rating
for those that can fit into its narrow confines.
Recommendations
made by Beginner Bikes Magazine, it's staff, team members
or riding club officers, are based on the skills of a novice
rider, of average stature and do not necessarily represent
the ideal for every rider. While Beginner Bikes encourages
safe, smart riding, we do not assume responsibility for
each individual. Please ride with care at your own risk.
Beginner
Bikes Buyer's Guide
