The Suzuki Marauder 800 Page 2
The engine had the power/torque you needed to pass safely, and quickly, at highway speeds. And there was a ton of “oomph” at slower speeds. It was much stronger and faster than it looked.
While it always felt a little too high-idling for me (the Marauder purrs, and I wanted the blump-ka-blump of a Harley twin), when I installed the Cobra pipes, it really came alive. A good “Crrrack!” would shout behind you when you punched it. Not too loud though (unlike my Sportster, you probably won’t violate any noise ordinances).
SEAT: Ouch! The stock seats should be the first thing you change if you get one of these. I took my 1,200+ mile road trip on this bike, and that was the ONLY thing I regretted (aside from my wreck). And the passenger pillion offered even less comfort. Granted, only a touring bike is really meant to tour on...but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try it! Ride your bike, whatever you have! But make sure you can still stand after you’ve gotten where you need to go. Get a comfortable seat for your Marauder, ASAP.
Another tip: While it’s tempting to instal saddlebags, make sure you install a bag-protector bar as well. The fat tire and mag wheel will eat your bags for lunch without it. And here’s another trick: glue some soft cloth underneath your bags--where they come in contact with your fender. The paint will become scuffed and blemished if you don’t. Even if you do, it will likely get scuffed underneath, but not as badly (found that out the hard way).
Rating: “Da Bomb” I loved this bike...
Con: My buns often ached if I rode much more than 60 miles at a time.
