Suzuki Boulevard M109R2

The R2 is based closely on the standard M1800R – the mechanical specifications are exactly the same.

That means the same 1783cc fuel-injected, liquid-cooled v-twin (the radiator is neatly faired in at the front), in basic tubular frame with a single shock absorber and upside-down forks.

Radial four-piston brakes from the original 1800R are used, which in turn were taken from the GSX-R series.

The aluminium dish wheels with small teardrop cut-outs are also carried over.

The M1800R2 differs in only in styling, getting a sculpted headlight (apparently inspired by jet-aircrafts intakes) instead of a larger unit with a cowling.

The tank, seat (with a cowl over the pillion seat), mudguard, radiator shroud, split instrument display, handlebars and foot controls are unchanged.

The thing that made me appreciate this motorcycle is the great amount of power provided by Suzuki’s sportbike-derived fuel injection. This strongly-developed set-up kicks off with the Idle Speed Control (ISC) valve system that adjusts the starting idle to compensate for hot or cold engine and outside temperatures. Fuel and air is taken into the system by two single-barrel throttle bodies which feature dual throttle valves. On all this technology, it is added the ECM that uses a 32-bit processor and I start wondering if this motorcycle could end up any better.

Suzuki’s Exhaust Tuning (SET) has the purpose of improving combustion while it passes spent gasses through a catalytic converter and the 2-into1-into-2 exhaust system. The sound is awesome and the joy of riding the Suzuki is nowhere else encountered.

As I pulled away in the saddle of the M109R2 I immediately noticed that the bike is very easy to maneuver at slow speeds and as I went through the rpm range and through all the five gears, I also noticed how light it seems when it is really exploited.

A very important aspect that will play a deciding role in weather the ride will repeat itself or not was the comfortable riding position which can only be beaten by the very broad seat the ergonomics.

Operating the controls on the handlebars became second nature in only a few hours but what I immediately noticed was the light throttle action.

The front brakes are more than enough for this kind of ride, boasting radial-mount Tokico four-piston calipers grabbing a pair of 310mm floating discs.

I especially loved that I didn’t had any worry concerning the heat from the exhaust pipes which by the time, really started to guide me with their sound. Thankfully the heat shields do an excellent job and no heat was transferred to my leg. It is also a good thing that they look awesome too.

All manufacturers should see the improved version of the M109R2 as a strong competitor in the world of cruisers. The fact that it has just entered the scene says a lot on Suzuki’s future plans and developing ideas. Good luck to them!

Conclusion

The Boulevard M109R2 balances that heart-pounding performance with crisp handling, thanks to a technically advanced chassis, suspension and world-class brakes. Also featuring a cool design, the 2008 M109R2 is the perfect way to stand out on the Boulevard.