Boulevard vs. Vulcan

 

I am getting back into motorcycles after a 25 year layoff. My last bike
was a Yamaha 360 back in 1980. I think I have it narrowed down to two:
the Suzuki Boulevard C50 or the Kawasaki Vulcan 800 Classic. I have read
the articles in the cruiser mags and the online reviews. The big
advantage to the C50 seems to be fuel injection (which,  if you change
pipes could actually be a disadvantage) and shaft drive. The big
advantage to the Vulcan seems to be a huge aftermarket for parts and a
large number of riders. It is chain drive and carberator. So, does
anyone out there have any info on either or both of these two bikes that
might help me with this tough decision?   TIA.

 



With a "Power Commander" any changes in pipes or airbox volume/flow are
easily dealt with by the fuel injection, but with the carbs, it's a case of
re-jetting. On the VN 800, this isn't a problem though as it's a single carb
and easy to do.

Shaft drive is, as you probably know, maintenance free, but changing ratio's
if your riding needs don't suit the original is a pig of a job, in fact I'd
say in the C50's case, it's a non doable one. Changing sprocket sizes on the
VN is a doddle and MANY VN riders do this.

As for the aftermarket parts, it's probably fair to say that what will fit
the VN will most likely fit the Boulevard with a little jiggery pokery.

I'd suggest you have a look at the Vulcan riders group (Google for VROC) as
there are some knowledgeable guys on there who're very willing to help.
Can't help with the C50 as far as groups go.


--
Beav

VN 750 (much modified)
Z1000 (Bone stock at present)

 

IMHO go for the larger displacement.  I owned a 1400 Intruder for years.  It
was one of the best bikes I have ever owned!

 

I own a C50 and could not be happier. I have put alot of accessories
on the bike. It appears in the catalogs that the C50 has limited
available mods, but what really is true, is that just about any item
that fits a "volusia" will fit your C50. As for size and power, I am
5'7" and 220lbs and I have no issues with acceleration or Highway
speeds.
I reccomend you go to volusiariders.com as a reference for the C50. I
have pics of my bike under username "bluejerry". On that site you will
find very knowlegable folks that are willing to answer your questions.
Jerry Bennett
 
wrote:

 

CLIP

Suzuki Boulevard is the Volusia reborn, right?  If so, it's a nice bike for
teh money.  A bit uncomfortable on teh highway due to engine noise (sounds
like it's always at it's limit at any speed over 70)

Vulcan 800 has a HUGE reputation and a large support structure at
www.vroc.org.  They're basically bullet proof and lots of mods/upgrades
exist.

Personally, I'd choose the Vulk. but I'm a bit biased.

Joe in Northern, NJ
V#8013 '86 VN750 (For Sale!!!)

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