Rider Review: 2001 Suzuki VZ800 Marauder

Submitted by: TheWalrus

I picked "Suzie" up about a month ago, brand new and looking for a good home. See my post under "Motorcycle Choices" on how I finally decided on the Marauder.

Wow. I have been having so much fun. This bike is a total blast. Handles great and plenty of power. I will never forget riding it home for the first time, about 20 miles. There is a fine line between excitement and terror. Actually, I did fine. My motorcycle safety course served me well. Made one turn a little wide, but everything else was safe and smooth. I loved all the waves I got from other bikers out on the road.

Since this is my first bike, I have nothing really to compare it to. In just a few weeks I have become very comfortable with the bike and am absolutely ecstatic with my choice. I really wanted belt or shaft drive, but I guess you can't have everything. For the money, looks, and comfort this was the bike for me.

Negatives? I read where many think the seat is terrible, and that may be true. Since I have little to compare it to, other than just sitting on other bikes, I can't really argue. But I find the seat adequate. I haven't been on it for hours straight, but it just doesn't seem that bad to me. The new ones on the 2003 models are definitely better, but the one on my 2001 seems okay to me. I certainly sat on some worse ones when I was shopping. I sat on a Harley Sportster and wondered if they had some kind of deal with the people that make Preparation H. Ouch.

I have drug the kickstand, just slightly, once, on a turn. I didn't think I was leaning that much. Just something to watch.

1st and 2nd shift rougher than gears 3-5. The shift itself is easy, but it really makes a "clank", especially going to 2nd. 3-5 are so quiet and smooth. Any ideas?

I also find the bike to be fine at slow speeds, which some have found not to be the case. She will crawl at 5-15 mph no problem with proper gear selection and shifting. I do see where lower speeds in 2nd are more taxing. She definitely wants to go, and higher speeds are quickly attained and smooth. I've only had her up to 70 - wow.

I took to the rear seat off to discourage any pony riders while I learn and become more confident. It looks cool, too!

Feel free to ask any questions!