It’s not uncommon for motorcycle enthusiasts to become attached to the particular model they ride, but what happens when that model is no longer in production? Such is the case with the Suzuki Intruder, a popular cruiser-style bike that was first introduced in 1985. Fans of the Intruder may be surprised to learn that Suzuki stopped making the model in 2005, but that doesn’t mean that finding one on the used market is impossible.
For those who aren’t familiar with the Intruder, it’s worth noting that the bike was a standout when it first hit the market. With its V-twin engine and low-slung profile, the Intruder was the perfect blend of power and style. It quickly carved out a niche in the cruiser market thanks to its distinctive design and the quality engineering that Suzuki became known for.
While there are plenty of other cruiser models on the market today, the Intruder remains a favorite among longtime riders who appreciate its unique character. The fact that Suzuki stopped making the model in 2005 only adds to its allure – after all, there’s something special about riding a bike that you know is no longer being produced. Whether you’ve been riding an Intruder for years or are just now discovering the model, there’s no denying the appeal of this iconic motorcycle.
Discontinuation of Suzuki Intruder
The Suzuki Intruder was one of the most well-known cruiser motorcycles produced by Suzuki. A unique design aesthetic, coupled with a punchy V-twin engine, made it a favorite among motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide. However, despite its popularity and loyal fanbase, Suzuki eventually had to discontinue the Intruder line.
- The Intruder line first hit the market in 1985 and quickly became a success. Suzuki continued to release new models, with the Intruder 1400 and 800 being the most popular.
- In 2005, Suzuki made a decision to rebrand the Intruder line and called it the Boulevard series, featuring the M109R, C50 and C90 models.
- The market had been changing, and Suzuki did not want to fall behind. By discontinuing the Intruder name, Suzuki was able to shift its focus and introduce new models into the market that better suited the current needs of riders.
Overall, the discontinuation of the Suzuki Intruder line was a smart decision by the company. It allowed them to adapt to changing market conditions and introduce new models that better met the demands of motorcycle enthusiasts.
History of Suzuki Intruder
The Suzuki Intruder is a series of cruiser motorcycles that was first introduced in 1985. It was designed as a sportier alternative to the traditional cruiser-style motorcycle, with a more modern engine and styling. The Intruder quickly gained popularity and became one of Suzuki’s most successful models.
- The first model of the Intruder was the VS 700, which was introduced in 1985. It featured a V-twin engine with four valves per cylinder, a shaft drive, and a five-speed transmission. The VS 700 was praised for its smooth ride and responsive handling, and it quickly became a popular choice among cruiser riders.
- In 1987, Suzuki introduced the VS 1400 Intruder, which was powered by a larger, 1360cc engine. This model was designed to compete directly with Harley-Davidson’s popular Softail line of motorcycles. The VS 1400 was a commercial success and helped to establish the Suzuki Intruder as a serious contender in the cruiser market.
- In 1998, Suzuki introduced the Intruder LC 1500, which was powered by a 1462cc engine and featured a wide range of custom accessories. This model was designed to appeal to riders who wanted a distinctive-looking motorcycle that they could customize to their liking.
Over the years, Suzuki continued to refine and improve the Intruder, adding new features and technologies to keep it competitive in the ever-changing market. However, in 2018, Suzuki announced that it would be discontinuing the Intruder line in the United States due to declining sales.
| Model | Engine Size | Introduction Year |
|---|---|---|
| VS 700 Intruder | 699cc | 1985 |
| VS 750 Intruder | 749cc | 1986 |
| VS 800 Intruder | 805cc | 1992 |
| VS 1400 Intruder | 1360cc | 1987 |
| Intruder LC 1500 | 1462cc | 1998 |
Overall, the Suzuki Intruder was a significant motorcycle in Suzuki’s history, helping to establish the company as a major player in the cruiser market. Though it is no longer in production in the United States, the Intruder remains a popular choice among motorcycle enthusiasts around the world.
Suzuki Intruder Models
The Suzuki Intruder is a line of cruiser motorcycles that Suzuki introduced in 1985. Since then, Suzuki has released a variety of Intruder models to meet the needs of different riders. Here’s a brief overview of some of the most popular models:
- Suzuki Intruder 700 and 750: Released in 1985, these were the first models in the Intruder line. They featured V-twin engines and shaft drive, making them reliable and low-maintenance options for riders.
- Suzuki Intruder 800: This model replaced the 700 and 750 versions in 1992. It had a larger engine and improved suspension, making it a more powerful and comfortable option for riders.
- Suzuki Intruder 1400/1500: Introduced in 1987, these models featured larger engines than the earlier versions. They were designed with touring in mind and came equipped with luggage, windshields, and other touring features.
- Suzuki Intruder Volusia/Boulevard C50 and M50: Suzuki introduced these models in 2001. They were styled more like traditional cruisers and featured a range of additional features such as fuel injection and disc brakes.
When Did Suzuki Stop Making the Intruder?
Suzuki discontinued the Intruder line in 2005 when it introduced its Boulevard line of cruisers. Many of the Boulevard models share similarities with the earlier Intruder models, but they also feature a number of updates and improvements. The Boulevard line has since become one of Suzuki’s most popular lines of motorcycles, showcasing the company’s continued commitment to providing riders with high-quality, reliable, and stylish options.
Intruder Model Comparison
Here is a table comparing some of the key features and specifications of the most popular Intruder models:
| Model | Engine | Displacement | Dry Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intruder 700/750 | V-twin | 698/748 cc | 231 kg (510 lb) |
| Intruder 800 | V-twin | 805 cc | 245 kg (540 lb) |
| Intruder 1400/1500 | V-twin | 1360/1462 cc | 299 kg (660 lb) |
| Intruder Volusia/Boulevard C50 and M50 | V-twin | 805 cc | 263-301 kg (580-664 lb) |
While the Intruder line may no longer be in production, it remains an important part of Suzuki’s history and a beloved option for many riders. If you’re in the market for a cruiser, be sure to check out Suzuki’s Boulevard line for a range of updated and improved models that carry on the Intruder’s legacy.
Why Suzuki stopped making Intruder
Suzuki has a long history of producing high-quality motorcycles, and the Intruder was one of their most popular models. However, as with any product, there comes a time when it is no longer feasible or profitable to continue producing it. Here are some reasons why Suzuki stopped making Intruders:
- Decreased Demand: The Intruder was first introduced in the late 1980s and quickly gained popularity. However, by the mid-2000s, demand for cruisers had declined, and Suzuki’s sales of the Intruder suffered as a result.
- Competition: The cruiser market had become increasingly competitive, with many other manufacturers offering similar models at lower prices. Suzuki faced intense pressure to keep up with the changing market and remain competitive.
- Changes in Consumer Preferences: As the market shifted, consumers began to demand different features from their motorcycles. Suzuki found it difficult to adapt their Intruder model to meet these changing preferences while remaining true to the original design and reputation of the bike.
In addition to these factors, Suzuki also faced challenges maintaining the Intruder’s compliance with increasingly stringent emissions regulations. Changes to emissions regulations resulted in expensive upgrades and modifications to the motorcycle’s design, making it more difficult for Suzuki to justify continuing production.
Despite these challenges, the legacy of the Intruder lives on in other Suzuki models, such as the Boulevard line. Suzuki remains committed to producing high-quality motorcycles that meet the needs and preferences of riders around the world.
| Year | Model | Reason for Discontinuation |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | Suzuki Intruder 250 | Lack of demand/cost of compliance |
| 2010 | Suzuki Intruder M1800R | Lack of demand/cost of compliance |
| 2011 | Suzuki Intruder 1500 | Lack of demand/cost of compliance |
While the Intruder may no longer be in production, its impact on the motorcycle industry lives on. Many riders still remember the Intruder as a classic example of Suzuki’s dedication to quality, innovation, and performance.
Impact of Suzuki Intruder on Cruiser Motorcycles
The Suzuki Intruder, a popular cruiser motorcycle, had a significant impact in the world of cruiser motorcycles. Let’s take a closer look at how it affected the industry:
- Increased demand for cruiser motorcycles – When Suzuki first introduced the Intruder in 1985, it created a huge buzz in the motorcycle community. The Intruder’s unique styling and powerful engine became an instant hit, and many motorcycle enthusiasts began to gravitate towards cruiser motorcycles.
- Benchmark for other cruiser motorcycle brands – The Intruder’s success also set a benchmark for other cruiser motorcycle brands to follow. Many brands began to incorporate similar features like the Intruder’s V-twin engine, which matched the power and torque of larger displacement bikes while remaining compact in size.
- Increased competition in the cruiser motorcycle market – With the success of the Intruder, other major motorcycle manufacturers began to release their own cruiser motorcycle models. Brands like Harley-Davidson and Yamaha began to challenge the Intruder’s dominance in the market, which made it more difficult for Suzuki to maintain its position as a leading manufacturer of cruiser motorcycles.
- Introduction of innovative features – The Intruder’s success also led to the development and introduction of innovative features in cruiser motorcycles. One such feature was the liquid-cooled engine, which was first introduced in the Intruder 700 in 1986, and later in many other cruiser motorcycle models.
- Legacy of Suzuki Intruder – Although Suzuki stopped manufacturing the Intruder in 2005, its legacy lives on. The iconic motorcycle inspired many other cruiser motorcycle models that followed, and it continues to be a popular choice among motorcycle enthusiasts. It remains a benchmark for many other brands wishing to enter the cruiser motorcycle market.
Conclusion
The Suzuki Intruder had a lasting impact on the cruiser motorcycle industry. Its unique styling, powerful engine, and innovative features set a benchmark for other brands to follow. While Suzuki may have stopped manufacturing the Intruder, its legacy continues to inspire motorcycle enthusiasts and drive innovation in the industry.
| Year | Model | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1985 | VS750 Intruder | First model of the Intruder series, introduced in North America |
| 1986 | VS750GLP Intruder | Additional front and rear disc brakes, and improved seat |
| 1987 | VS1400GLP Intruder | Larger displacement engine with improved performance |
| 1998 | VL1500 Intruder | Introduction of liquid-cooled engine |
| 2005 | VL1500C Intruder LC | Last model of the Intruder series |
As we can see from the table, the Intruder series underwent many changes and improvements during its production years. These changes helped to further cement the Intruder’s position as a leading cruiser motorcycle brand in the market.
Top Alternatives to Suzuki Intruder
While Suzuki Intruder has been a popular cruiser bike for many years, its production was discontinued in 2020. If you are in the market for a cruiser bike with similar features and performance, here are some top alternatives:
- Harley-Davidson Sportster – This classic cruiser bike is well-known for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and sleek design. It is a great alternative for those looking for a powerful motorcycle with easy handling.
- Kawasaki Vulcan S – This mid-size cruiser is another popular alternative to Suzuki Intruder. It features a comfortable riding position, adjustable ergonomics, and a smooth ride. It is perfect for riders who want a versatile bike for both city and highway travel.
- Yamaha Bolt – The Yamaha Bolt is a pure cruiser motorbike designed for long rides and comfortable trips on the road. It is a great alternative to Suzuki Intruder for its modern styling, powerful engine, and comfortable ride. Its low seat height makes it a great bike for shorter riders too.
Comparison Chart: Suzuki Intruder vs Top Alternatives
Here is a comparison chart highlighting the key features and specifications of Suzuki Intruder and its top alternatives:
| Features | Suzuki Intruder | Harley-Davidson Sportster | Kawasaki Vulcan S | Yamaha Bolt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | V-Twin | V-Twin | Parallel-twin | Air-cooled V-twin |
| Engine Displacement | 1552cc | 883cc | 649cc | 942cc |
| Seat Height | 700mm | 725mm | 705mm | 690mm |
| Dry Weight | 309kg | 256kg | 225kg | 247kg |
| Price | $9,999 | $8,999 | $7,499 | $8,399 |
While these alternatives may not replicate the iconic Suzuki Intruder, they offer a range of features and benefits that make them great choices for cruiser enthusiasts.
Future of Suzuki Cruiser Motorcycles
Suzuki has been a key player in the cruiser motorcycle market for a long time. However, the company’s future in this market seems uncertain, especially after the discontinuation of several models, including the Intruder.
The company’s recent move to focus on adventure-touring bikes and sportbikes has led some to believe that Suzuki is moving away from cruisers altogether. Nevertheless, Suzuki has promised to continue to develop and innovate its cruiser models.
- One possible direction for Suzuki is to focus on small and midsize displacement cruisers, which could benefit from the growing interest in lightweight, affordable motorcycles.
- Another possibility is that Suzuki may choose to collaborate with other motorcycle manufacturers to develop new cruiser models. This strategy would help the company share the high costs of research and development.
- Suzuki may also decide to leverage its racing heritage to develop high-performance cruiser models. By using technology and materials developed in its MotoGP and World Superbike programs, Suzuki could create cruisers that offer impressive power and handling capabilities.
Of course, these are just speculations for now. Only time will tell what direction Suzuki will take with its cruiser models. One thing is for sure – Suzuki will need to remain innovative and adaptable if it hopes to remain a relevant player in the cruiser market.
The Discontinuation of the Suzuki Intruder
The Suzuki Intruder was a popular cruiser motorcycle during its production run, which began in 1985. As the market for cruisers shifted towards larger displacement bikes, Suzuki continued to develop the Intruder, eventually creating the Intruder 1800 in 2005.
However, Suzuki discontinued the Intruder 1800 in 2018, marking the end of an era for the popular cruiser. The decision to discontinue the Intruder was likely prompted by a combination of declining sales and Suzuki’s shifting focus on other types of motorcycles.
| Year | Model |
|---|---|
| 1985 | VS700 Intruder |
| 1991 | VS750 Intruder |
| 1992 | VS800 Intruder |
| 1998 | VL1500 Intruder LC |
| 2005 | VL1600 Intruder |
| 2004 | VL800 Intruder Volusia |
Despite the discontinuation of the Intruder, Suzuki’s commitment to the cruiser market remains strong. The company continues to produce other cruiser models, such as the Boulevard and the Marauder, which offer riders a variety of options for cruising.
7 FAQs About When Did Suzuki Stop Making the Intruder
1. When did Suzuki stop making the Intruder?
Suzuki stopped producing the Intruder in 2005.
2. Was it only one model of the Intruder or all of them?
All models of the Intruder were discontinued in 2005.
3. What were the most popular models of the Intruder?
The most popular models of the Suzuki Intruder were the VS700, VS750, VS800, and VS1400.
4. Why did Suzuki stop making the Intruder?
Suzuki stopped making the Intruder due to changes in emission regulations and a shift in market demand towards sportier bikes.
5. Can I still buy a Suzuki Intruder?
While new Suzuki Intruders are no longer produced, used models can be found for sale online or through private sellers.
6. How can I find parts for my Suzuki Intruder now that it’s discontinued?
There are various aftermarket parts suppliers and salvage yards that offer parts for Suzuki Intruders. Owners can also join online forums and groups dedicated to the bike for advice and assistance in finding parts.
7. Are there any plans for Suzuki to bring back the Intruder?
As of now, there are no official plans for Suzuki to bring back the Intruder.
Thanks for Visiting and Come Back Soon
We hope these FAQs provided helpful information on when Suzuki stopped making the Intruder. While the Intruder is no longer in production, its legacy lives on. Thanks for reading and be sure to visit again for more motorcycle news and information.