
And for those times when you need a burst of added speed in traffic, it has a power switch that changes the transmission's shift characteristics to keep the revs a little higher and deliver enhanced performance.Įven at the standard economy setting, though, the Burgman has plenty of power – triple digit speeds are possible, though not advised. The motor is powerful even with an economy-minded transmission. There's even a switch to collapse the two side mirrors for squeezing through tight spaces or stowing alongside other vehicles in the garage. Or, you can stow a couple helmets under the seat while parked.Īdding to the convenience factor – a windshield that raises or lowers with the flick of a switch, providing wind protection at highway speeds. Fuel goes in the back, but the designers still found room for a trunk under the seat – where you can stow that briefcase or your latest purchase. Like a Vespa or other old-school scooter, there's no gas tank between the rider's legs, making it easy to swing a leg over the bike to ease in and out of the saddle. Power is delivered by an advanced 650cc eight-valve twin cylinder engine, positioned horizontally to maximize rider space. The Burgman mates that ease-of-use factor with a handling and power package that is totally modern. It wasn't a great performer or success, but in those days the joke was you could drink a cup of coffee at a stop light since you didn't have to use a hand to hold in the clutch. You can go back to the 1970s and find examples of shiftless motorcycle transmissions, such as the old Moto Guzzi Convert, which used a torque converter for a two-speed automatic. This isn't the first automatic two-wheeled motorized vehicle, but it may be one of the most well executed. A beginning rider, or even an experienced one, can hop on, turn the throttle and go without having to use their left hand to operate the clutch while changing gears with a foot, as is standard on motorcycles. In the case of the scooter, it also maximizes ease of having fun. The Burgman has on board a continuously variable transmission, or CVT, which is Suzuki's version of the automatic drive train that is appearing in more and more automobiles to maximize fuel economy. The centerpiece of the vehicle's design is what amounts to a clutchless automatic transmission for the rider. Suzuki redesigned its decade-old scooter-on-steroids for 2013, giving it a more modern look in an updated, accessory-rich luxury package, and is applying a few stylistic tweaks for 2014. The Suzuki Burgman 650 is both a scooter and a motorcycle – offering the convenience and economy of a small scooter that can carry a commuter's briefcase and even light groceries, combined with the power, performance and handling of a modern motorcycle.

Watch Video: Suzuki Burgman: Motorcycle or Scooter?įeel like riding a motor bike but aren't comfortable with the clutch and gear shifting? Suzuki has an answer for you.
