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California Proposition 65 Warning

WARNING
Operating, servicing and maintaining a passenger
vehicle or off-road vehicle can expose you to chemicals
including engine exhaust, carbon monoxide,
phthalates, and lead, which are known to the State of
California to cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm. To minimize exposure, avoid
breathing exhaust, do not idle the engine except as
necessary, service your vehicle in a well-ventilated area
and wear gloves or wash your hands frequently when
servicing your vehicle. For more information go to
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/passenger-vehicle.

This manual should be considered a permanent part of the

motorcycle and should remain with the motorcycle when resold or
otherwise transferred to a new owner or operator. The manual
contains important safety information and instructions which should
be read carefully before operating the motorcycle.

VL1500B/T (99011-06J56-03A) 8 mm 4/1 Black

IMPORTANT
 CAUTION
 WARNING/ CAUTION/ Indicates a potential hazard that
NOTICE/NOTE could result in minor or moderate
Please read this manual and follow its injury.
instructions carefully. To emphasize
special information, the symbol  and
the words WARNING, CAUTION, NOTICE
NOTICE and NOTE have special mean-
Indicates a potential hazard that
ings. Pay particular attention to mes-
sages highlighted by these signal could result in vehicle or equipment
words: damage.

 WARNING NOTE: Indicates special information to

make maintenance easier or instruc-
Indicates a potential hazard that tions clearer.
could result in death or serious
injury.
FOREWORD follow the maintenance instructions
closely to ensure emission compliance.
Motorcycling is one of the most exhila- Your authorized Suzuki dealer has
rating sports and to ensure your riding experienced technicians that are
enjoyment, you should become thor- trained to provide your machine with the
oughly familiar with the information pre- best possible service with the right tools
sented in this Owner’s Manual before and equipment.
riding the motorcycle.
All information, illustrations and specifi-
The proper care and maintenance that cations contained in this manual are
your motorcycle requires is outlined in based on the latest product information
this manual. By following these instruc- available at the time of publication. Due
tions explicitly you will ensure a long to improvements or other changes,
trouble-free operating life for your there may be some discrepancies
motorcycle. This motorcycle also con- between information in this manual and
forms to the U.S. Environmental Protec- your motorcycle. Suzuki reserves the
tion Agency (EPA) and California Air right to make production changes at
Resource Board (CARB) emission reg- any time, without notice and without
ulations which apply to new motorcy- incurring any obligation to make the
cles. The proper adjustment of engine same or similar changes to vehicles
components is necessary for this previously built or sold.
motorcycle to comply with the EPA and
CARB regulations. Therefore, please
Suzuki Motor Corporation believes in
conservation and protection of Earth’s
Natural resources. To that end, we
encourage every vehicle owner to recy-
cle, trade in, or properly dispose of, as
appropriate, used motor oil, engine
coolant, and other fluids, batteries, and
tires.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
THE SPORT OF MOTORCYCLING 1
FUEL, OIL AND COOLANT RECOMMENDATIONS 2
CONTROLS, EQUIPMENT AND ADJUSTMENTS 3
BREAK-IN AND INSPECTION BEFORE RIDING 4
RIDING TIPS 5
ACCESSORY USE AND MOTORCYCLE LOADING 6
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE 7
TROUBLESHOOTING 8
STORAGE PROCEDURE AND MOTORCYCLE CLEANING 9
CONSUMER INFORMATION 10
SPECIFICATIONS

INDEX
 THE SPORT OF MOTORCYCLING
1
MOST ACCIDENTS CAN BE AVOIDED .................................................................................................... 1-3
IF YOU DON’T HAVE A HELMET - BUY A HELMET, AND WEAR IT EVERY TIME YOU RIDE ............. 1-3
IF A COLLISION IS IMMINENT, DO SOMETHING! ................................................................................... 1-4
SPECIAL SITUATIONS REQUIRE SPECIAL CARE ................................................................................. 1-5
KNOW YOUR LIMITS ................................................................................................................................. 1-5
BE EXTRA SAFETY-CONSCIOUS ON BAD WEATHER DAYS ............................................................... 1-6
PRACTICE AWAY FROM TRAFFIC .......................................................................................................... 1-7
INSPECTION BEFORE RIDING ................................................................................................................. 1-7
ACCESSORIES AND LOADING ................................................................................................................ 1-8
CARRYING A PASSENGER ...................................................................................................................... 1-8
MOTORCYCLE SAFETY FOUNDATION’S
“RIDING TIPS AND PRACTICE GUIDE” HANDBOOK
(FOR OWNERS IN USA) ............................................................................................................................ 1-9
BE STREET SMART ................................................................................................................................... 1-9
LABELS ...................................................................................................................................................... 1-9
CONCLUSION .......................................................................................................................................... 1-10

1-1
THE SPORT OF In preparing for these challenges, you
will be fine-tuning your coordination,
MOTORCYCLING concentration, and attitude. Learning
the skills and strategies associated with
Your motorcycle and this owner’s man-
motorcycling is the basis for safely par-
ual have been designed by people like ticipating in this sport. Many motorcy-
you who enjoy motorcycling. People clists find that as they become better
become motorcyclists for many rea-
riders, they also get more enjoyment
sons. For starters, street riding is fun from the freedom unique to motorcy-
and invigorating. But no matter why you cling.
became a motorcyclist, or how experi-
enced you are, you will eventually face Please remember:
some challenging situations.

1-2
MOST ACCIDENTS CAN BE AVOIDED IF YOU DON’T HAVE A HELMET - BUY
The most common type of motorcycle A HELMET, AND WEAR IT EVERY
accident in the U.S. occurs when a car TIME YOU RIDE
traveling toward a motorcycle turns left Most accidents occur within a few miles
in front of the motorcycle. Is that of home, and almost half occur at
because other drivers are out to get speeds of less than 30 mph. So even if
motorcyclists? No. Other drivers simply you’re just going on a quick errand, be
don’t always notice motorcyclists. Ride prepared-strap on your helmet before
defensively. Wise motorcyclists use a you take off.
strategy of assuming they are invisible
to other drivers, even in broad daylight. Helmets do not reduce essential vision
Pay careful attention to other motorists, or hearing. Generally, helmets do not
especially at intersections, because cause or intensify injury if you crash.
they may not be paying attention to you. Helmets simply help your skull protect
Select a lane position that gives you the your intelligence, your memory, your
best view of others, and other motorists personality, and your life.
the best view of you. Wear bright,
reflective clothing. Put reflective strips Your eyesight is equally valuable. Wear-
on your helmet. ing suitable eye protection can help keep
your vision unblurred by the wind and
save your eyes from airborne hazards like
bugs, dirt, or pebbles kicked up by tires.

1-3
IF A COLLISION IS IMMINENT, DO Emergency stopping and swerving are
SOMETHING! techniques that you should practice and
Many riders fear locking up their brakes master before you find yourself in an
or haven’t learned to swerve to avoid an emergency situation. The best place to
accident. Many inexperienced riders practice such techniques is in a con-
(and too many seasoned riders) use trolled environment such as the Motor-
only their rear brake in an emergency, cycle Safety Foundation’s (MSF) rider
resulting in unnecessary impacts in training courses. The MSF’s Motorcycle
some cases and unnecessarily high Rider Courses (fundamental tech-
impact speeds in other cases. Your rear niques) and Experienced Rider
brake can only provide about 30% of Courses (advanced strategies) present
your motorcycle’s potential stopping hands-on instruction of the basic princi-
power. The front and rear brakes can ples of motorcycling and a variety of
and should be used together to maxi- accident avoidance maneuvers. Even a
mize braking effectiveness. seasoned motorcyclist can improve his
or her riding skills, and pick up a few
Experienced motorcyclists learn to new skills, through these courses.
“cover” the front brake lever by lightly Some insurance companies even offer
resting a couple of fingers over the lever discounts to course graduates.
when riding in traffic and near intersec-
tions to give their reaction time a head
start.

1-4
SPECIAL SITUATIONS REQUIRE KNOW YOUR LIMITS
SPECIAL CARE Always ride within the boundaries of
Of course, there are some times when your own skills. Knowing these limits
full-force braking is not the correct tech- and staying within them will help you
nique. When the road surface is wet, avoid accidents.
loose, or rough, you should brake with
care. When you’re leaned over in a cor- A major cause of accidents involving
ner, avoid braking. Straighten up before only a motorcycle (and no cars) is going
braking. Better yet, slow down before too fast through a turn. Before entering
entering the corner. a turn, select an appropriately low cor-
nering speed.
In these situations, the traction available
between your tires and the road surface Even on straight roads, ride at a speed
is limited. Over-braking when traction is that is appropriate for the traffic, visibil-
limited will cause your tires to skid, pos- ity and road conditions, your motorcy-
sibly resulting in loss of directional con- cle, and your experience.
trol or causing you and your motorcycle
to fall over.

1-5
Riding a motorcycle safely requires that BE EXTRA SAFETY-CONSCIOUS ON
your mental and physical skills are fully BAD WEATHER DAYS
part of the experience. You should not Riding on bad weather days, especially
attempt to operate a motor vehicle, wet ones, requires extra caution. Brak-
especially one with two wheels, if you ing distances increase on a rainy day.
are tired or under the influence of alco- Stay off the painted surface marks,
hol or other drugs. Alcohol, illegal manhole covers, and greasy appearing
drugs, and even some prescription and areas, as they can be especially slip-
over-the-counter drugs can cause pery. Use extra caution at railway cross-
drowsiness, loss of coordination, loss of ings and on metal gratings and bridges.
balance, and especially the loss of good When it starts to rain, any oil or grease
judgment. If you are tired or under the on the road rises to the surface of the
influence of alcohol or other drugs, water. Pull over and wait a few minutes
PLEASE DO NOT RIDE your motorcy- until this oil film is washed away before
cle. riding. Whenever in doubt about road
conditions, slow down!

1-6
PRACTICE AWAY FROM TRAFFIC INSPECTION BEFORE RIDING
Your riding skill and your mechanical Review the instructions in the INSPEC-
knowledge form the foundation for safe TION BEFORE RIDING section of this
riding practices. We suggest that you manual. Perform an entire pre-ride
practice riding your motorcycle in a non- inspection before you head out on the
traffic situation until you are thoroughly road. Spending a few minutes preparing
familiar with your machine and its con- your machine for a ride can help pre-
trols. Again, consider taking one of the vent accidents due to mechanical fail-
MSF’s Rider Courses. Even experts will ure or costly, inconvenient breakdowns
be pleased with the caliber of the infor- far from home.
mation presented in these courses. As
the MSF says: “The more you know, the
better it gets!”

1-7
ACCESSORIES AND LOADING CARRYING A PASSENGER
The accessories you use with your Carrying a passenger, when done cor-
motorcycle and the manner in which rectly, is a great way to share the joy of
you load your gear onto the bike might motorcycling. You will have to alter your
create hazards. Aerodynamics, han- riding style somewhat since the extra
dling, balance, and cornering clear- weight of a passenger will affect han-
ance can suffer, and the suspension dling and braking. You may also need to
and tires can be overloaded. Read the adjust tire pressures and suspension;
ACCESSORY USE AND MOTORCY- please refer to the Tire Pressure and
CLE LOADING section. Loading section and the Suspension
section for more details.

A passenger needs the same protection

that you do, including a helmet and
proper clothing. The passenger should
not wear long shoe laces or loose pants
that could get caught in the wheel or the
chain. Passengers must be tall enough
that their feet reach the footrests.

1-8
MOTORCYCLE SAFETY BE STREET SMART
FOUNDATION’S Always heed speed limits, local laws,
“RIDING TIPS AND PRACTICE GUIDE” and the basic rules of the road. Set a
good example for others by demonstrat-
HANDBOOK ing a courteous attitude and a responsi-
(FOR OWNERS IN USA) ble riding style.
This special handbook, supplied with
your owner’s manual, contains a variety
of safety tips, helpful hints, and practice LABELS
exercises. This manual can increase
Read and follow all the labels on the
your riding enjoyment and safety. You
motorcycle. Make sure you understand
should read it thoroughly.
all of the labels. Do not remove any
labels from the motorcycle.

1-9
CONCLUSION The best way to learn basic riding skills
Traffic, road and weather conditions and evasive maneuvers or refresh your
vary. Other motorist’s actions are unpre- own riding skills is to take one of the
dictable. Your motorcycle’s condition courses offered by the Motorcycle
can change. These factors can best be Safety Foundation. Your authorized
dealt with by giving every ride your full Suzuki dealer can help you locate the
attention. fundamental or advanced riding skills
course nearest you, or owners in the
Circumstances beyond your control USA can call toll-free 1-800-446-9227.
could lead to an accident. You need to
prepare for the unexpected by wearing Good riding on your new Suzuki!
a helmet and other protective gear, and
learning emergency braking and swerv-
ing techniques to minimize the damage
to you and your machine.

1-10
FUEL, OIL AND COOLANT RECOMMENDATIONS

FUEL ........................................................................................................................................................... 2-2 2

ENGINE OIL ................................................................................................................................................ 2-5
FINAL GEAR OIL ........................................................................................................................................ 2-8
ENGINE COOLANT SOLUTION ................................................................................................................ 2-8

2-1
FUEL, OIL AND COOLANT NOTE:
• If the engine develops some trouble
RECOMMENDATIONS like lack of acceleration or insuffi-
cient power, the cause may be due
FUEL to the fuel the motorcycle uses. In
Your motorcycle requires regular such case, try changing to a different
unleaded gasoline with a minimum gas station. If the situation is not
pump octane rating of 87 ((R+M)/2 improved by changing, consult your
method). In some areas, the only fuels Suzuki dealer.
that are available are oxygenated fuels. • If pinking or knocking is experi-
enced, substitute higher octane
grade gasoline or another brand,
because there are differences
between brands.

Oxygenated fuels which meet the mini-

mum octane requirement and the
requirements described below may be
used in your motorcycle without jeopar-
dizing the New Vehicle Limited War-
ranty or the Emission Control System
Warranty.

2-2
NOTE: Oxygenated fuels are fuels Fuel Pump Labeling
which contain oxygen-carrying additives In some states, pumps that dispense
such as alcohol. oxygenated fuels are required to be
labeled for the type and percentage of
Gasoline/Ethanol Blends oxygenate, and whether important addi-
Blends of unleaded gasoline and etha- tives are present. Such labels may pro-
nol (grain alcohol), also known as GAS- vide enough information for you to
OHOL, are commercially available in determine if a particular blend of fuel
some areas. Blends of this type may be meets the requirements listed above. In
used in your motorcycle if they are no other states, pumps may not be clearly
more than 10% ethanol ( ). Make sure labeled as to the content or type of oxy-
this gasoline-ethanol blend has octane genate and additives. If you are not
ratings no lower than those recom- sure that the fuel you intend to use
mended for gasoline. meets these requirements, check with
the service station operator or the fuel
supplier.

2-3
NOTE:
• To help minimize air pollution, NOTICE
Suzuki recommends that you use
oxygenated fuels. Spilled gasoline containing alcohol
• Be sure that any oxygenated fuel can damage the painted surfaces of
you use has octane ratings of at your motorcycle.
least 87 pump octane ((R+M)/2
method). Be careful not to spill any fuel when
• If you are not satisfied with the driv- filling the fuel tank. Wipe spilled gas-
ability of your motorcycle when you oline up immediately.
are using an oxygenated fuel, or if
engine pinging is experienced, sub-
stitute another brand as there are
differences between brands.

2-4
ENGINE OIL NOTE: SUZUKI highly recommends the
Suzuki recommends the use of SUZUKI use of ECSTAR brand engine oil.
PERFORMANCE 4 MOTOR OIL or ECSTAR has been specially formulated
equivalent engine oil. If SUZUKI PER- for your SUZUKI product and contrib-
FORMANCE 4 MOTOR OIL is not avail- utes to the desired motorcycle perfor-
able, select a proper engine oil mance and ideal riding experience.
according to the following guideline.
Oil quality is a major contributor to your
engine’s performance and life. Always
select good quality engine oil. Use oil
with an API (American Petroleum Insti-
tute) classification of SG, SH, SJ, SL,
SM or SN with a JASO classification of
MA.

SAE API JASO

SG, SH, SJ, SL,
10W-40 MA
SM or SN

API: American Petroleum Institute

JASO: Japanese Automobile Standards
Organization

2-5
SAE Engine Oil Viscosity JASO T903
Suzuki recommends the use of SAE The JASO T903 standard is an index to
10W-40 engine oil. If SAE 10W-40 select engine oils for 4-stroke motorcy-
engine oil is not available, select an cle and ATV engines. Motorcycle and
alternative according to the following ATV engines lubricate clutch and trans-
chart. mission gears with engine oil. JASO
T903 specifies performance require-
ments for motorcycle and ATV clutches
and transmissions.

ENGINE OIL There are two classes, MA and MB.

The oil container shows the classifica-
tion as follows.
TEMP.

* USE ONLY SG, SH, SJ or SL.

1 Code number of oil sales company

2 Oil classification

2-6
Energy Conserving API SG, SH, SJ, SL, SM or SN
Suzuki does not recommend the use of
SERVICE
“ENERGY CONSERVING” or PI

SJ
A
“RESOURCE CONSERVING” oils. SAE
10W-40
Some engine oils which have an API
classification of SH, SJ, SL, SM or SN
have an “ENERGY CONSERVING” or
“RESOURCE CONSERVING” indica- Recommended
tion in the API classification donut mark.
These oils can affect engine life and API SH, SJ, SL or SM API SN
clutch performance.
SERVICE ERVICE
PI IS

AP

SN
SJ
A
SAE SAE

RES

IN G
10W-40 10W-40

ENE

NG

RV
VI
UR

O
GY

R
R CE C O NSE
CONSE

Not recommended

2-7
FINAL GEAR OIL ENGINE COOLANT SOLUTION
Use an SAE90 hypoid gear oil which is Use “SUZUKI SUPER LONG LIFE
rated GL-5 under the API classification COOLANT” or “SUZUKI LONG LIFE
system. If you operate the motorcycle COOLANT”. If “SUZUKI SUPER LONG
where ambient temperature is below LIFE COOLANT” and “SUZUKI LONG
0°C (32°F), use SAE80 hypoid gear oil. LIFE COOLANT” are not available, use
a glycol-based antifreeze compatible
with an aluminum radiator mixed with
distilled water only at the ratio of 50:50.

2-8
 WARNING NOTICE
Engine coolant is harmful or fatal if Spilled engine coolant can damage
swallowed or inhaled. Solution can the painted surfaces of your motor-
be poisonous to animals. cycle.

Do not drink antifreeze or coolant Be careful not to spill any fluid when
solution. If swallowed, do not induce filling the radiator. Wipe spilled
vomiting. Immediately contact a poi- engine coolant up immediately.
son control center or a physician.
Avoid inhaling mist or hot vapors; if NOTE: SUZUKI highly recommends the
inhaled, remove to fresh air. If coolant use of ECSTAR brand coolant.
gets in eyes, flush eyes with water and ECSTAR has been specially formulated
seek medical attention. Wash thor- for your SUZUKI product and contrib-
oughly after handling. Keep out of the utes to the desired motorcycle perfor-
reach of children and animals. mance and ideal riding experience.

2-9
ENGINE COOLANT SUZUKI SUPER LONG LIFE
Engine coolant performs as a rust inhib- COOLANT (Blue)
itor and water pump lubricant as well as “SUZUKI SUPER LONG LIFE COOL-
an anti-freeze solution. Therefore ANT” is pre-mixed to the proper ratio.
engine coolant should be used at all Add only “SUZUKI SUPER LONG LIFE
times even though the atmospheric COOLANT” if coolant level drops. It is
temperature in your area does not go not necessary to dilute “SUZUKI
down to the freezing point. SUPER LONG LIFE COOLANT” when
replacing coolant.

2-10
SUZUKI LONG LIFE COOLANT NOTE: This 50% mixture will protect the
(Green) cooling system from freezing at temper-
atures above –31°C (–24°F). If the
Water for Mixing motorcycle is to be exposed to tempera-
Use distilled water only. Water other ture below –31°C (–24°F), this mixing
than distilled water can corrode and ratio should be increased up to 55%
clog the aluminum radiator. (–40°C/–40°F) or 60% (–55°C/–67°F)
coolant. The mixing ratio should not
Required amount of engine coolant/ exceed 60% coolant.
water solution capacity (total):
2650 ml (2.8 US qt)

Engine coolant 1325 ml (1.4 US qt)

Water 1325 ml (1.4 US qt)

2-11
 CONTROLS, EQUIPMENT AND ADJUSTMENTS

LOCATION OF PARTS ............................................................................................................................... 3-2

KEY ............................................................................................................................................................. 3-5
IGNITION SWITCH ..................................................................................................................................... 3-5 3
STEERING LOCK ....................................................................................................................................... 3-7
INSTRUMENT PANEL ................................................................................................................................ 3-8
LEFT HANDLEBAR .................................................................................................................................. 3-18
RIGHT HANDLEBAR ................................................................................................................................ 3-21
FUEL TANK CAP ...................................................................................................................................... 3-26
GEARSHIFT LEVER ................................................................................................................................. 3-28
REAR BRAKE PEDAL ............................................................................................................................. 3-30
HELMET HOLDER .................................................................................................................................... 3-30
SIDE STAND ............................................................................................................................................. 3-32
SIDECASE (VL1500T) .............................................................................................................................. 3-34

3-1
CONTROLS, EQUIPMENT AND ADJUSTMENTS
LOCATION OF PARTS

VL1500B VL1500T

1 Clutch lever 5 Right handlebar switches

2 Left handlebar switches 6 Throttle grip
3 Instrument panel 7 Front brake lever
4 Front brake fluid reservoir 8 Fuel tank cap

3-2
 VL1500B VL1500T

9 Air cleaner H Footrests

0 Spark plug I Engine oil filler cap
A Ignition switch J Side stand
B Tools K Engine oil drain plug
C Battery and Main fuse L Speed sensor
D Helmet holder M Engine coolant reservoir
E Sidecase (VL1500T) N Passenger footrests
F Gearshift lever
G Engine oil filter
3-3
 VL1500B VL1500T

O Fuses
P Rear brake fluid reservoir
Q Steering lock
R Rear brake light switch
S Rear brake pedal

3-4
KEY IGNITION SWITCH

Two keys come with this motorcycle. The ignition switch has 3 positions.
Keep the spare key in a safe place.
“OFF” position
All electrical circuits are cut off. The
engine will not start. The key can be
removed.

3-5
“ON” position
The ignition circuit is completed and the  WARNING
engine can be started. The headlight
and taillight will automatically turn on. If the motorcycle falls down due to a
The key cannot be removed in this posi- slip or collision, unexpected damage
tion. to the motorcycle could cause the
engine to keep running, which could
NOTE: Start the engine promptly after result in a fire, or could result in
turning the key to the “ON” position, or injury from moving parts such as the
the battery will lose power due to con- rear wheel.
sumption by the headlight and taillight.
If the motorcycle falls down, turn the
“P” (PARKING) position ignition switch off immediately. Ask
The taillight will come on to increase
visibility for temporary road side parking
your authorized Suzuki dealer to
at night. Push down the key and turn it inspect the motorcycle for unseen
to the “P” position. The key can be damage.
removed.

3-6
STEERING LOCK
 WARNING
Moving the motorcycle while the
steering is locked can be hazardous.
You could lose your balance and fall,
or you could drop the motorcycle.

Never attempt to move the motorcy-

cle when the steering is locked.

Turn the handlebars all the way to the

left. Insert the ignition key into the steer-
ing lock and turn it counterclockwise to
lock the steering.

3-7
INSTRUMENT PANEL 1. Press and hold the button 9 and
turn on the ignition switch.
2. Hold the button 9 for 3 seconds.

NOTE: The reset procedure, from step

1 to step 2, should be performed within
10 seconds.
FI

E F
TURN SIGNAL INDICATOR LIGHT
GEAR
A B
“” 2
When the turn signals are being oper-
ated either to the right or to the left, the
indicator light will blink intermittently.
SPEEDOMETER 1
The speedometer indicates the road NOTE: If a turn signal light is not oper-
speed in kilometers per hour and miles ating properly due to bulb filament or
per hour. circuit failure, the indicator light blinks
more quickly to notify the rider of the
If the speedometer needle does not existence of a problem.
point to zero, follow the procedure
below to reset the speedometer.

3-8
OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR LIGHT
“” 3 NOTICE
This indicator light comes on when the
engine oil pressure is below the normal Riding the motorcycle with the oil
operating range. pressure indicator light lit can dam-
age the engine and transmission.
NOTICE If the oil pressure indicator light
After starting the engine, opening comes on, indicating low oil pres-
the throttle or running the motorcy- sure, stop the engine immediately.
cle with the oil pressure indicator Check the oil level and add oil if nec-
light turned on may adversely affect essary. If there is a proper amount of
the engine. oil and the light still does not go out,
have your authorized Suzuki dealer
Make sure that the oil pressure indi- or a qualified mechanic inspect your
cator light has turned off before motorcycle.
operating the throttle or running the
motorcycle.

3-9
 ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE
INDICATOR LIGHT “” 5
This indicator light comes on when the
coolant temperature indicates more
than 120°C (248°F). When the engine
coolant temperature indicator light
FI
comes on, stop the engine and check
the coolant level after engine cools.
E F

GEAR
A B

NOTICE
Riding the motorcycle with the
NEUTRAL INDICATOR LIGHT “N” 4 engine coolant temperature indicator
The green light will come on when the light lit can cause serious engine
transmission is in neutral. The light will damage due to overheating.
go out when you shift into any gear
other than neutral. If the engine coolant temperature
indicator light comes on, stop the
engine to let it cool. Do not run the
engine until the engine coolant tem-
perature indicator light goes off.

3-10
FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM The engine may continue to run in
INDICATOR LIGHT “FI” 6 mode A, but the engine will not run in
mode B.

NOTICE
The fuel injection indicator light
If the fuel injection system fails, the red comes on to indicate a problem with
indicator light 6 comes on and the dis- the fuel injection system.
play indicates “FI” at the clock display in
the following two modes; If the display indicates “FI” and the
red indicator light comes on, have
A. The display 7 in the odometer dis-
your authorized Suzuki dealer or a
play area indicates “FI” intermit-
tently, and the red indicator light 6 qualified mechanic inspect the fuel
comes on and remains lit. injection system as soon as possi-
ble.
B. The display 7 in the odometer dis-
play area indicates “FI” continuously
and the red indicator light 6 blinks
while cranking the engine.

3-11
 NOTE: If the display indicates “FI” con-
tinuously and the red indicator light
blinks, the engine will not start.

FI

E F

GEAR
A B

3-12
 COMBINATION SYSTEM DISPLAY 7
The display has six functions, clock,
odometer, two trip meters, instrument
panel light brightness and gear position.
When the ignition switch is turned to the
When the display indicates “CHEC”, “ON” position, the display indicates the
check the following items; test pattern shown below for two sec-
• Make sure that the engine stop onds. After the test pattern is displayed,
switch is in the “” position. the display will show the function that
• Make sure that the transmission is in was displayed the last time that the igni-
neutral or the side stand is fully up. tion switch was turned off.
If the display still indicates “CHEC” after
checking the above items, inspect the
ignition fuse and the connection of the
lead wire couplers. GEAR
A B

3-13
 GEAR

Odometer

FI

E F

GEAR
GEAR
A B

Trip meter A

To change the display, push the button

8. The display changes in the order GEAR

below. B

Trip meter B

GEAR

Instrument panel light brightness

3-14
 Clock
 WARNING The clock has a 12-hour display. Follow
the procedure below to adjust the clock.
Changing the display while riding
can be hazardous. Removing a hand 1. Push the buttons, 8 and 9, simulta-
from the handlebars can reduce your neously for 2 seconds until the hour
ability to control the motorcycle. display blinks.
2. Adjust the hour display by pushing
Never change the display while the button 9.
riding. Keep both hands on the han-
dlebars. NOTE: When the button 9 is held in the
display advances continuously.

3. Push the button 8 to highlight the

minute display.
4. Adjust the minute display by pushing
the button 9.
5. Push the button 8 to return to the
clock mode.

3-15
 Trip Meters
The two trip meters are resettable
odometers. They can register two kinds
of distances at the same time. For
instance, trip meter A can register the
trip distance and trip meter B can regis-
FI
ter the distance between fuel stops.
E F

GEAR
A B

To reset a trip meter to zero, push the

button 9 for 2 seconds while the dis-
play indicates the trip meter A, or B, you
want to reset.
Odometer
The odometer registers the total dis- NOTE: When the trip meter exceeds
tance that the motorcycle has been rid- 9999.9, the trip meter will return to 0.0
den. The odometer ranges from 0 to and start counting again.
999999.
NOTE: The trip meter will be reset to
NOTE: The odometer display locks at zero when the battery is removed or
999999 when the total distance battery is discharged.
exceeds 999999.

3-16
Instrument Panel Light Brightness FUEL LEVEL INDICATOR “” 0
Pushing the button 9 will change the The fuel level indicator indicates the
instrument panel light brightness in 6 amount of fuel remaining in the fuel
steps. The brightness indicator indi- tank. The fuel level indicator displays all
cates brightness from “” (min) to 5 segments when the fuel tank is full.
“” (max). The segment comes on when the fuel
level drops below 3.7 L (3.9 US qt). The
Gear Position Indicator segment blink when the fuel drops
The gear position indicator indicates below 2.0 L (2.1 US qt).
gear position. This indicator displays “0”
when the transmission is in neutral. NOTE: The fuel level indicator will not
indicate correctly when the motorcycle
NOTE: When the display indicates is placed on the side stand. Turn the
“CHEC” in the odometer display area, ignition switch to the “ON” position
the gear position indicator does not indi- when the motorcycle is held upright.
cate a number but indicates “–”.
Approximately Approximately
Fuel tank Full
2.0 L 3.7 L

Blink
Segment

3-17
 LEFT HANDLEBAR

FI

E F

GEAR
A B

Clutch Lever 1
HIGH BEAM INDICATOR LIGHT “” A The clutch lever is used for disengaging
This blue indicator light will come on the drive to the rear wheel when start-
when the headlight high beam is turned ing the engine or shifting transmission
on. gears. Squeezing the lever disengages
the clutch.

Headlight Flasher Switch 2

Press the switch to flash the headlight.

3-18
Dimmer Switch 3
“” position NOTICE
The headlight low beam turns on.
Sticking tape or placing objects in
“” position front of the headlight can obstruct
The headlight high beam turns on. The headlight heat radiation. This can
high beam indicator light also comes result in headlight damage.
on.
Do not stick tape on the headlight or
NOTICE place objects in front of the head-
light.
Holding the dimmer switch between
the “” and “” position will light
both the high and low headlight NOTICE
beam. This improper operation can Do not put objects in front of the
damage the motorcycle’s headlight. headlight or taillight when they are
on, and do not cover with clothes
Use the dimmer switch to select only when the motorcycle is stopped.
the “” or “” position.
This may cause melting of the lens or
damage to the object by the heat
from the lens.
3-19
  WARNING
Failure to use the turn signals, and
failure to turn off the turn signals can
be hazardous. Other drivers may
misjudge your course and this may
result in an accident.

Always use the turn signals when

Turn Signal Light Switch “” 4 you intend to change lanes or make a
Moving the switch to the “” position turn. Be sure to turn off the turn sig-
will flash the left turn signals. Moving nals after completing the turn or lane
the switch to the “” position will flash change.
the right turn signals. The indicator light
will also flash intermittently. To cancel
turn signal operation, push the switch
in.

3-20
Horn Switch “” 5 RIGHT HANDLEBAR
Press the switch to sound the horn.

Hazard Warning Switch “” 6

All four turn signal lights and indicators
will flash simultaneously when the
switch is turned on with the ignition
switch in the “ON” or “P” position. Use
the hazard warning lights to warn other
traffic during emergency parking or
when your vehicle could otherwise
become a traffic hazard. Engine Stop Switch 1
“” position
The ignition circuit is off. The engine
cannot start or run.

“” position
The ignition circuit is on and the engine
can run.

3-21
 Front Brake Lever Adjustment

Front Brake Lever 2

Apply the front brake by squeezing the
front brake lever toward the grip. The
brake light will come on when the lever
is squeezed.

3-22
The distance between the throttle grip
and the front brake lever is adjustable to  WARNING
5 positions. To change the position,
push the brake lever forward and turn Adjusting the front brake lever posi-
the adjuster to the desired position. Be tion while riding can be hazardous.
sure the adjuster stops in the proper Removing a hand from the handle-
position; a projection of the brake lever bars can reduce your ability to con-
pivot should fit into the depression of trol the motorcycle.
the adjuster. This motorcycle is deliv-
ered from the factory with its adjuster Never adjust the front brake lever
set on position 3. position while riding. Keep both
hands on the handlebars.

3-23
 NOTE: This motorcycle has a starter
interlock system for the ignition and
starter circuit. The engine can only be
started if:
• The transmission is in neutral and
the clutch is disengaged, or
• The transmission is in gear, the side
stand is fully up and the clutch is dis-
engaged.

Electric Starter Switch “” 3 NOTE: The headlight will go off when
Use this switch to operate the starter the electric starter switch is pushed.
motor. With the ignition switch in the
“ON” position, the engine stop switch in
the “” position, and the transmission
in neutral, pull in the clutch lever and
push the electric starter switch to start
the engine.

3-24
 NOTICE NOTICE
Engaging the starter motor for more If the neutral indicator light and the
than five seconds at a time can dam- gear position indicator are not giving
age the starter motor and wiring har- proper indications, starting the engine
ness from overheating. can cause serious engine damage.

Do not engage the starter motor for Before starting the engine, make
more than five seconds at a time. If sure of the followings:
the engine does not start after sev- • When the neutral indicator light
eral attempts, check the fuel supply comes on, the gear position indica-
and ignition system. Refer to the tor should indicate “0” (Neutral).
TROUBLESHOOTING section in this • When the neutral indicator light
manual. goes off, the gear position indica-
tor should indicate either “1”, “2”,
“3”, “4” or “5”.
• If the neutral indicator light and the
gear position indicator are not
working properly, consult your
Suzuki dealer.

3-25
 FUEL TANK CAP

Throttle Grip 4
Engine speed is controlled by the posi- To open the fuel tank cap, insert the
tion of the throttle grip. Turn it toward ignition key into the lock and turn it
you to increase engine speed. Turn it clockwise. With the key inserted, lift the
away from you to decrease engine cap up with key. To close the fuel tank
speed. cap, push the cap down firmly with the
key in the cap lock.

3-26
Use fresh gasoline when filling up the
fuel tank. Do not use bad gasoline
which is contaminated with dirt, dust,
water or other liquid. Be careful that dirt,
dust or water does not enter the fuel
tank when refueling.

NOTE: Place the motorcycle on the side

stand to fill up the fuel tank to specified
18.0 L (4.8 US gal).
1 Fuel level
2 Filler neck

 WARNING
If you overfill the fuel tank, fuel may
overflow when it expands due to
engine heat or heating by the sun.
Fuel that overflows can catch fire.

Stop adding fuel when the fuel level

reaches the bottom of the filler neck.

3-27
 GEARSHIFT LEVER
 WARNING
Failure to follow safety precautions
when refueling could result in a fire
or cause you to breathe toxic fumes.

Refuel in a well ventilated area. Make

sure the engine is off and avoid spill-
ing fuel on a hot engine. Do not
smoke, and make sure there are no
open flames or sparks in the area.
Avoid breathing gasoline vapors.
Keep children and pets away when
you refuel the motorcycle.

3-28
This motorcycle has a 5-speed trans- NOTE: When the transmission is in
mission which operates as shown. To neutral, the green indicator light on the
shift properly, squeeze the clutch lever instrument panel will be lit. However,
and close the throttle at the same time even though the light is lit, cautiously
you operate the gearshift lever. Lift the and slowly release the clutch lever to
front end of the gear shift lever or make sure that the transmission is posi-
depress the rear end of the gearshift tively in neutral.
lever to upshift. Depress the front end of
the gearshift lever to downshift. Neutral
is located between 1st and 2nd gear.
When neutral is desired, depress or lift
the lever halfway between 1st and 2nd
gear.

3-29
REAR BRAKE PEDAL HELMET HOLDER

Pressing the rear brake pedal will apply VL1500B

the rear brake. The brake light will come
on when the rear brake is operated.

VL1500T

3-30
The helmet holder is located on the left (VL1500T)
side below the rear seat. Insert the igni- NOTE: The tool box is equipped with
tion key into the lock and turn it clock- the helmet holder wire. Open the tool
wise to open the latch. Hook your box by referring to the TOOLS section.
helmet fastener ring to the latch and
turn the key back to lock the holder.

 WARNING
Riding with a helmet fastened to the
helmet holder can interfere with rider
control.

Never carry a helmet fastened to the

helmet holder. Fix the helmet
securely atop the seat if you must
carry it.

3-31
SIDE STAND The side stand/ignition interlock sys-
tem works as follows:
• If the side stand is down and the
transmission is in gear, the engine
cannot be started.
• If the engine is running and the
transmission is shifted into gear with
the side stand down, the engine will
stop running.
• If the engine is running and the side
stand is put down with the transmis-
The motorcycle has a side stand. To sion in gear, the engine will stop run-
place the motorcycle on the side stand, ning.
place your right foot on the end of the
side stand and push down firmly until
the stand pivots fully through its arc and
comes to rest against it stop.

An interlock system is provided to cut

off the ignition circuit when the side
stand is down and the transmission is in
any gear other than neutral.

3-32
  WARNING NOTICE
Riding with the side stand incom- If you do not take proper precautions
pletely retracted can result in an when parking, the motorcycle can
accident when you turn left. fall over.

Check operation of the side stand/ Park the motorcycle on firm, level
ignition interlock system before ground whenever possible. If you
riding. Always retract the side stand must park on an incline, aim the front
completely before starting off. of the motorcycle uphill and put the
transmission into 1st gear to reduce
the possibility of rolling off the side
stand.

3-33
SIDECASE (VL1500T) To open the sidecase:
Insert the ignition key into the lock and
turn it counterclockwise to open the lid.

NOTE:
• If it is hard to lock or unlock the side-
case lid with a spare key without a
key cover, use a key with a key
cover.
• If the lock is frozen, pour warm water
around the lock to melt the ice.

To close the sidecase:

Close the lid, Insert the ignition key into
the lock and turn it clockwise to lock the
lid. Remove the ignition key.

The sidecase load capacity is 4.5 kg

(10 lbs).

3-34
NOTE:
• Do not keep valuable items in the
sidecase when leaving the motorcy-
cle unattended.
• Put articles in a waterproof bag
when keeping the articles in the
sidecase because the sidecase can
get wet with rain or washing water.

3-35
 BREAK-IN AND INSPECTION BEFORE RIDING

BREAK-IN ................................................................................................................................................... 4-2

INSPECTION BEFORE RIDING ................................................................................................................. 4-5

4-1
BREAK-IN AND INSPECTION Maximum Throttle Opening
Recommendation
BEFORE RIDING The table below shows the maximum
throttle opening recommendation dur-
BREAK-IN ing the break-in period.
The first 800 km (500 miles) is the most
important in the life of your motorcycle. Initial 800 km
Less than 1/2 throttle
Proper operation during this break-in (500 miles)
period will help assure maximum life Up to 1600 km
Less than 3/4 throttle
and performance from your new motor- (1000 miles)

cycle. The following guidelines explain

proper break-in procedures. Vary the Engine Speed
Vary the engine speed during the
break-in period. This allows the parts to
“load” (aiding the mating process) and
then “unload” (allowing the parts to
cool). Although it is essential to place
some stress on the engine components
during break-in, you must be careful not
to load the engine too much.

4-2
Breaking in the New Tires
New tires need proper break-in to  WARNING
assure maximum performance, just as
the engine does. Wear in the tread sur- Failure to perform break-in of the
face by gradually increasing your cor- tires could cause tire slip and loss of
nering lean angles over the first 160 km control.
(100 miles) before attempting maximum
performance. Avoid hard acceleration, Use extra care when riding on new
hard cornering, and hard braking for the tires. Perform proper break-in of the
first 160 km (100 miles). tires as described in this section and
avoid hard acceleration, hard corner-
ing, and hard braking for the first 160
km (100 miles).

4-3
Allow the Engine Oil to Circulate Observe Your Initial and Most Critical
before Riding Service
Allow enough idling time after warm or The initial service (1000 km mainte-
cold engine start-up before revving the nance) is the most important service
engine or placing the transmission in your motorcycle will receive. During
gear. This allows time for the lubricating break-in operation, all of the engine
oil to reach all critical engine compo- components will have mated together
nents. and seated. Maintenance required as
part of the initial service includes cor-
rection of all adjustments, tightening of
all fasteners and replacement of dirty
oil. Timely performance of this service
will help make sure you get the best
service life and performance from the
engine.

NOTE: The 1000 km (600 miles) ser-

vice should be performed as outlined in
the Maintenance Schedule section of
this Owner’s Manual. Pay particular
attention to the caution and warning
messages in MAINTENANCE SCHED-
ULE section.
4-4
INSPECTION BEFORE RIDING
 WARNING
 WARNING If you operate this motorcycle with
Failure to inspect your motorcycle improper tires or improper or uneven
before riding and to properly main- tire pressure, you may lose control of
tain your motorcycle increases the the motorcycle. This will increase
chances of an accident or equipment your risk of an accident.
damage.
Always use tires of the size and type
Always inspect your motorcycle each specified in this owner’s manual.
time you use it to make sure it is in Always maintain proper tire pressure
safe operating condition. Refer to the as described in the INSPECTION
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE AND MAINTENANCE section.
section in this owner’s manual.

4-5
Check the condition of the motorcycle
WHAT TO
to help make sure that you do not have CHECK
CHECK FOR:
mechanical problems or get stranded Steering • Smoothness
somewhere when you ride. Before • No restriction of movement
riding the motorcycle, be sure to check • No play or looseness
the following items. Be sure your motor- Brakes • Proper pedal and lever
cycle is in good condition for the per- ( 3-22, 3-30, operation
7-48) • Correct fluid level
sonal safety of the rider, passenger and • No fluid leakage
protection of the motorcycle. • No “sponginess”
• Proper pedal and lever play
• Brake pad wear
WARNING • Brake shoe wear
Tires • Proper pressure
Checking maintenance items when ( 7-56) • Enough tread depth
• No cracks, rips, or other
the engine is running can be hazard- damage
ous. You could be severely injured if Fuel Enough fuel for the planned
your hands or clothing get caught in ( 3-17) distance of operation
moving engine parts. Fuel tank Tank cap locked securely
( 3-26)
Shut the engine off when performing Lighting Operation of all lights and
( 3-5, 3-8, indicators
maintenance checks, except when 3-18)
checking the lights, engine stop
switch, and throttle.
4-6
Engine stop Proper operation General • Bolts and nuts tightness
switch condition • No rattle from any parts of
( 3-21) machine with the engine
running
Horn Correct function • No visible evidence of damage
( 3-21)
Windshield Good visibility
Engine oil Correct level (VL1500T)
( 7-29) ( 9-9)
Cooling system • Proper coolant level
( 7-44) • No leaks or damage
Gear oil Correct level
( 7-46)
Throttle • Proper play
( 7-38) • Smooth response
• Quick return to idle position
Gearshift lever • No damage
( 3-28) • Smooth operation
Clutch • Smooth and progressive
( 7-42) action
• Proper lever play
Side stand/ Proper operation
ignition interlock
system
( 7-61)

4-7
 RIDING TIPS

STARTING THE ENGINE ........................................................................................................................... 5-2

STARTING OFF AND SHIFTING ............................................................................................................... 5-5
USING THE TRANSMISSION .................................................................................................................... 5-7
RIDING ON HILLS ...................................................................................................................................... 5-9
STOPPING AND PARKING ...................................................................................................................... 5-10
CARRYING A PASSENGER .................................................................................................................... 5-12
5

5-1
RIDING TIPS NOTE: The fuel supply system stops
the engine when the motorcycle is over-
STARTING THE ENGINE turned. Turn off the ignition switch
before restarting the engine.
Before attempting to start the engine,
make sure:
• The transmission is in neutral.
• The engine stop switch is in the “”
position.

NOTE: This motorcycle has an interlock

system for the ignition circuit and the
starter circuit. The engine can only be
started if:
• The transmission is in neutral and
the clutch is disengaged, or
• The transmission is in gear, the side
stand is fully up, and the clutch is
disengaged.

5-2
 When the Engine is Cold:
NOTICE 1. Close the throttle completely.
2. Squeeze the clutch lever and push
If the neutral indicator light and the the electric starter switch.
gear position indicator are not giving 3. After the engine starts, let the
proper indications, starting the engine engine run until the engine suffi-
can cause serious engine damage. ciently warms up.

Before starting the engine, make When the Engine is Warm:

sure of the followings: Close the throttle completely and push
• When the neutral indicator light the electric starter switch.
comes on, the gear position indica-
tor should indicate “0” (Neutral).
• When the neutral indicator light
goes off, the gear position indica-
tor should indicate either “1”, “2”,
“3”, “4” or “5”.
• If the neutral indicator light and the
gear position indicator are not
working properly, consult your
Suzuki dealer.

5-3
When the Engine is Hard to Start:
Open the throttle 1/8 to 1/4 turn and NOTICE
push the electric starter switch.
After starting the engine, opening
the throttle or running the motorcy-
 WARNING cle with the oil pressure indicator
Exhaust gas contains carbon mon- light turned on may adversely affect
oxide, a dangerous gas that is diffi- the engine.
cult to detect because it is colorless Make sure that the oil pressure indi-
and odorless. Breathing carbon cator light has turned off before
monoxide can cause death or severe operating the throttle or running the
injury. motorcycle.

Never start the engine or let it run

indoors or where there is little or no
ventilation.

5-4
 STARTING OFF AND SHIFTING
NOTICE
Running the engine too long without  WARNING
riding may cause the engine to over- Riding at excessive speeds
heat. Overheating can result in dam- increases your chances of losing
age to internal engine components control of the motorcycle, which can
and discoloration of exhaust pipes. result in an accident.

Shut the engine off if you cannot Always ride at a speed that is proper
begin your ride promptly. for the terrain, visibility and operat-
ing conditions, and your skills and
experience.

5-5
  WARNING  WARNING
If you remove even one hand or foot Sudden side winds, which can occur
from the motorcycle, you can reduce when being passed by larger vehi-
your ability to control the motorcy- cles, at tunnel exits or in hilly areas,
cle. This could cause you to lose can cause you to lose control of the
your balance and fall off the motorcy- motorcycle.
cle. If you remove a foot from a foot-
rest, your foot or leg may come in Reduce your speed and be alert to
contact with the rear wheel. This the possibility of sudden side winds.
could injure you or cause an acci-
dent.

Always keep both hands on the han-

dlebars and both feet on the foot-
rests of your motorcycle during
operation.

5-6
Make sure that the side stand is in the USING THE TRANSMISSION
fully up position. Squeeze the clutch The transmission is provided to keep
lever in and pause momentarily. the engine operating smoothly in its
Engage first gear by depressing the normal operating speed range. The
gearshift lever downward. Turn the gear ratios have been carefully chosen
throttle grip a little toward you and at the to meet the characteristics of the
same time release the clutch lever gen- engine. The rider should always select
tly and smoothly. As the clutch the most suitable gear for the prevailing
engages, the motorcycle will start mov- conditions. Never slip the clutch to con-
ing forward. To shift to the next higher trol road speed, but rather downshift to
gear, accelerate gently, then close the allow the engine to run within its normal
throttle and squeeze the clutch lever in operational range. The table below
simultaneously. Lift the gearshift lever shows the approximate speed range for
upward to select the next gear and each gear.
release the clutch lever as you open the
throttle again. Select higher gears in
this manner until top gear is reached.

NOTE: This motorcycle has a side

stand/ignition interlock system. If you
shift the transmission into gear when
the side stand is down, the engine will
stop running.
5-7
Shifting up schedule
 WARNING
Gear position mph km/h
1st → 2nd 12 20
Downshifting when engine speed is
2nd → 3rd 19 30
too high can:
• cause the rear wheel to skid and
3rd → 4th 25 40
lose traction due to increased
4th → 5th 31 50 engine braking, resulting in an
accident; or
Shifting down schedule • force the engine to overrev in the
lower gear, resulting in engine
Gear position mph km/h
damage.
5th → 4th 25 40
4th → 3rd 19 30 Reduce speed before downshifting.

Disengage the clutch when the motor-

cycle speed drops below 12 mph (20
km/h).

5-8
 RIDING ON HILLS
 WARNING • When climbing steep hills, the
motorcycle may begin to slow down
Downshifting while the motorcycle is
and show lack of power. At this point
leaned over in a corner may cause you should shift to a lower gear so
rear wheel skid and loss of control. that the engine will again be operat-
ing in its normal power range. Shift
Reduce your speed and downshift rapidly to prevent the motorcycle
before entering a corner. from losing momentum.
• When riding down a steep hill, the
engine may be used for braking by
NOTICE shifting to a lower gear.
Improper gearshift lever operation • Be careful, however, not to allow the
can damage the transmission. engine to overrev.

• Do not rest your foot on the gear-

shift lever.
• Do not use force to shift gears.

5-9
STOPPING AND PARKING
1. Turn the throttle grip away from you  WARNING
to close the throttle completely.
Inexperienced riders tend to
2. Apply the front and rear brakes
evenly and at the same time.
underutilize the front brake. This can
3. Downshift through the gears as cause excessive stopping distance
motorcycle speed decreases. and lead to a collision. Using only
4. Select neutral with the clutch lever the front or rear brake can cause
squeezed toward the grip (disen- skidding and loss of control.
gaged position) when the motorcy-
cle is almost completely stopped. Apply both brakes evenly and at the
The neutral position can be con- same time.
firmed by observing the neutral indi-
cator light.
 WARNING
Hard braking while turning may
cause wheel skid and loss of control.

Brake before you begin to turn.

5-10
  WARNING NOTICE
Hard braking on wet, loose, rough, or Holding the motorcycle stopped with
other slippery surfaces can cause throttle and clutch lever operation on
wheel skid and loss of control. inclines can damage the motorcy-
cle’s clutch.
Brake lightly and with care on slip-
pery or irregular surfaces. Use the brakes when stopping the
motorcycle on inclines.
 WARNING 5. Park the motorcycle on a firm, flat
Following another vehicle too closely surface where it will not fall over.
can lead to a collision. As vehicle 6. Turn the ignition switch to the “OFF”
speeds increase, stopping distance position.
increases progressively. 7. Turn the handlebars all the way to
the left and lock the steering for
Always maintain a safe stopping dis- security.
tance between you and the vehicle in 8. Remove the keys.
front of you.

5-11
NOTE: If an optional anti-theft lock such CARRYING A PASSENGER
as a U-shape lock, brake disk lock or Before you invite someone to be a pas-
chain is used to avoid theft, be sure to senger on your motorcycle, you need to
remove anti-theft lock before moving be thoroughly familiar with motorcycle
the motorcycle. operation. Adjust tire pressures and
suspension according to the Tire Pres-
 CAUTION sure and Loading section and the Sus-
pension section of this manual.
A hot muffler can cause severe
burns. The muffler will be hot enough The passenger should always hold onto
to cause burns for some time after your waist or hips, or onto the seat strap
stopping the engine. or grab bar, as equipped. Ask your pas-
senger not to make any sudden move-
Park the motorcycle where pedestri- ments. When you lean going around a
ans or children are not likely to touch corner, the passenger should lean with
the muffler. you. The passenger should always
keep his or her feet on the footrests,
even when you are stopped at a light.

5-12
To help prevent burn injuries, warn your
passenger not to contact the muffler
when mounting or dismounting your
motorcycle.

5-13
ACCESSORY USE AND MOTORCYCLE LOADING

ACCESSORY USE ..................................................................................................................................... 6-2

ACCESSORY INSTALLATION GUIDELINES ........................................................................................... 6-3
LOADING LIMIT .......................................................................................................................................... 6-4
LOADING GUIDELINES ............................................................................................................................. 6-5
MODIFICATION .......................................................................................................................................... 6-7

6-1
ACCESSORY USE AND
MOTORCYCLE LOADING  WARNING
Improper installation of accessories
ACCESSORY USE or modification of the motorcycle
The addition of unsuitable accessories may cause changes in handling
can lead to unsafe operating conditions. which could lead to an accident.
It is not possible for Suzuki to test each
accessory on the market or combina- Never use improper accessories, and
tions of all the available accessories;
make sure that any accessories that
however, your dealer can assist you in
selecting quality accessories and
are used are properly installed. All
installing them correctly. Use extreme parts and accessories added to the
caution when selecting and installing motorcycle should be genuine
the accessories on your motorcycle and Suzuki parts or their equivalent
consult your Suzuki dealer if you have designed for use on this motorcycle.
any questions. Install and use them according to
their instructions. If you have any
questions, contact your Suzuki
dealer.

6-2
ACCESSORY INSTALLATION • Accessories fitted to the handlebars
GUIDELINES or the front fork area can create seri-
• Install aerodynamic-affecting acces- ous stability problems. The extra
sories, such as a fairing, windshield, weight will cause the motorcycle to
backrests, saddlebags, and travel be less responsive to your steering
trunks, as low as possible, as close control. The weight may also cause
to the motorcycle and as near to the oscillations in the front end and lead
center of gravity as is feasible. to instability problems. Accessories
Check that the mounting brackets added to the handlebars or front fork
and other attachment hardware are of the machine should be as light as
rigidly mounted. possible and kept to a minimum.
• Inspect for proper ground clearance • Certain accessories displace the
and bank angle. Inspect that the rider from his or her normal riding
accessory does not interfere with the position. This limits the freedom of
operation of the suspension, steer- movement of the rider and may limit
ing or other control operations. control ability.

6-3
• Additional electrical accessories LOADING LIMIT
may overload the existing electrical
system. Severe overloads may dam-  WARNING
age the wiring harness or create a
hazardous situation due to the loss Overloading or improper loading can
of electrical power during the opera- cause loss of motorcycle control and
tion of the motorcycle. an accident.
• Do not pull a trailer or sidecar. This
motorcycle is not designed to pull a Follow loading limits and loading
trailer or sidecar. guidelines in this manual.

6-4
• Never exceed the GVWR (Gross LOADING GUIDELINES
Vehicle Weight Rating) of this motor- This motorcycle is primarily intended to
cycle. The GVWR is the combined carry small items when you are not
weight of the machine, accessories, riding with a passenger. Follow the
payload, rider and passenger. When loading guidelines below:
selecting your accessories, keep in • Balance the load between the left
mind the weight of the riders as well and right side of the motorcycle and
as the weight of the accessories. fasten it securely.
The additional weight of the acces- • Keep cargo weight low and as close
sories may not only create an unsafe to the center of the motorcycle as
riding condition but may also affect possible.
the steering ease. • Do not attach large or heavy items to
the handlebars, front forks or rear
GVWR: 560 kg (1230 lbs) at the tire fender.
pressure (cold) • Do not install a luggage carrier or a
Front: 225 kPa (2.25 kgf/cm2, 33 psi) luggage box protruding over the tail
Rear: 280 kPa (2.80 kgf/cm2, 41 psi) end of the motorcycle.
• Do not carry any items that protrude
over the tail end of the motorcycle.

6-5
• Check that both tires are properly
inflated to the specified tire pressure  WARNING
for your loading conditions. Refer to
page 7-57. Placing objects in the space behind
• Improperly loading your motorcycle the windshield can interfere with
can reduce your ability to balance steering and can cause loss of con-
and steer the motorcycle. You trol.
should ride at reduced speeds, less
than 130 km/h (80 mph), when you Do not carry any objects in the space
are carrying cargo or have added behind the windshield.
accessories.
• Adjust suspension setting as neces-
sary.

6-6
MODIFICATION It is strictly prohibited to modify a
Modification of the vehicle or removal of vehicle by installing parts that can
original equipment may render the vehi- affect emissions control, except in
cle unsafe or illegal. Obey all applicable accordance with very specific U.S.
regulations in your area including fed- Environmental Protection Agency
eral and state regulations regarding and California Air Resources Board
environmental protection. regulations.
Suzuki’s limited warranties may not
cover damage caused by modifications
that would change the original vehicle
specifications including, without limita-
tion, modifications of any emission-
related parts such as the carburetor(s),
fuel injection system components, the
engine control module, air suction sys-
tem components, the catalytic converter
(if equipped), evaporative emission con-
trol system components (such as the
carbon canister, fuel tank, fuel hoses
and vapor hoses), etc.

6-7
 INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ..................................................................................................................... 7-2

TOOLS ........................................................................................................................................................ 7-7
GENERAL LUBRICATION ......................................................................................................................... 7-8
BATTERY .................................................................................................................................................... 7-9
AIR CLEANER .......................................................................................................................................... 7-16
SPARK PLUG ........................................................................................................................................... 7-24
ENGINE OIL .............................................................................................................................................. 7-29
THROTTLE CABLE ADJUSTMENT ........................................................................................................ 7-38
ENGINE IDLE SPEED INSPECTION ....................................................................................................... 7-39
FUEL HOSE .............................................................................................................................................. 7-40
CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT .......................................................................................................................... 7-42 7
ENGINE COOLANT .................................................................................................................................. 7-44
FINAL GEAR OIL ...................................................................................................................................... 7-46
BRAKES ................................................................................................................................................... 7-48
TIRES ........................................................................................................................................................ 7-56
SIDE STAND/IGNITION INTERLOCK SYSTEM ...................................................................................... 7-61
FRONT WHEEL REMOVAL ..................................................................................................................... 7-63
REAR WHEEL REMOVAL ....................................................................................................................... 7-66
LIGHT BULB REPLACEMENT ................................................................................................................ 7-71
FUSES ....................................................................................................................................................... 7-78
CATALYTIC CONVERTER ....................................................................................................................... 7-81

7-1
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
MAINTENANCE It is very important to inspect and main-
tain your motorcycle regularly. Follow
the guidelines in the chart. The intervals
MAINTENANCE, REPLACEMENT between periodic services in kilometers,
OR REPAIR OF THE EMISSION miles and months are shown. At the
CONTROL DEVICES AND SYS- end of each interval, be sure to perform
TEMS MAY BE PERFORMED BY the maintenance listed.
ANY MOTORCYCLE REPAIR
ESTABLISHMENT OR INDIVIDUAL
USING ANY MOTORCYCLE PART
WHICH HAS BEEN CERTIFIED
UNDER THE PROVISIONS IN THE
CLEAN AIR ACT Sec. 207 (a)(2).

7-2
  WARNING  WARNING
Improper maintenance or failure to Exhaust gas contains carbon mon-
perform recommended maintenance oxide, a dangerous gas that is diffi-
can lead to an accident. cult to detect because it is colorless
and odorless. Breathing carbon
Keep your motorcycle in good condi- monoxide can cause death or severe
tion. Ask your Suzuki dealer or a injury.
qualified mechanic to perform the
maintenance items marked with an Never start the engine or let it run
asterisk (*). You may perform the indoors or where there is little or no
unmarked maintenance items by ventilation.
referring to the instructions in this
section, if you have mechanical
experience. If you are not sure how
to do any of the jobs, ask your
Suzuki dealer to do the maintenance.

7-3
 NOTICE NOTICE
Servicing electric parts with the igni- Poorly-made replacement parts can
tion switch in the “ON” position can cause your motorcycle to wear more
damage the electric parts when the quickly and may shorten its useful
electric circuit is shorted. life.

Turn off the ignition switch before When replacing parts on your vehi-
servicing the electric parts to avoid cle, use only genuine Suzuki replace-
short-circuit damage. ment parts or their equivalent.

NOTE: The MAINTENANCE CHART

specifies the minimum requirements for
maintenance. If you use your motorcy-
cle under severe conditions, perform
maintenance more often than shown in
the chart. If you have any questions
regarding maintenance intervals, con-
sult your Suzuki dealer or a qualified
mechanic.

7-4
MAINTENANCE CHART
Interval: This interval should be judged by number of months or odometer reading,
whichever comes first.
Interval months 2 12 24 36 48
km 1000 6000 12000 18000 24000
Item miles 600 4000 7500 11000 14500
– – – I –
Air cleaner element ( 7-16)
Replace every 36000 km (22000 miles)
* Exhaust pipe bolts and muffler bolts T – T – T
* Valve clearance I – I – I
Spark plugs ( 7-24) – I R I R
Fuel hose ( 7-40) – I I I I
Engine oil ( 7-29) R R R R R
Engine oil filter ( 7-29) R – – R –
Throttle cable play ( 7-38) I I I I I
* PAIR (air supply) system – – I – I
* Throttle valve synchronization I (CA only) – I – I
* Evaporative emission control system
– – I – I
(California model only)
“SUZUKI SUPER LONG LIFE
Replace every 4 years or 48000 km (29000 miles)
COOLANT” (Blue)
* Engine coolant “SUZUKI LONG LIFE COOLANT”
( 7-44) (Green) or an engine coolant other
– – R – R
than “SUZUKI SUPER LONG LIFE
COOLANT” (Blue)
7-5
 Interval months 2 12 24 36 48
km 1000 6000 12000 18000 24000
Item miles 600 4000 7500 11000 14500
* Radiator hose ( 7-46) – I I I I
Final gear oil ( 7-46) R – I – I
Clutch cable play ( 7-42) – I I I I
* Brakes ( 7-48) I I I I I
– I I I I
Brake hose ( 7-48)
* Replace every 4 years
– I I I I
Brake fluid ( 7-49)
* Replace every 2 years
Tires ( 7-56) – I I I I
* Steering I – I – I
* Front forks – – I – I
* Rear suspension – – I – I
* Chassis bolts and nuts T T T T T
Lubrication ( 7-8) Lubricate every 1000 km (600 miles)

NOTE: I= Inspect and clean, adjust, replace or lubricate as necessary;

R= Replace; T= Tighten

NOTE: (California model only) and (CA. only) means that the item or the mainte-
nance interval is to be applied only for the California model.

7-6
TOOLS
A tool kit is provided with your motorcy-
cle. The tool box is located on the left
side of the motorcycle.

1. Unhook the hooks and remove the

cover.

2. To open the tool box, insert the igni-

tion key into the lock and turn it
counterclockwise.
7-7
GENERAL LUBRICATION
Proper lubrication is important for safe,
smooth operation and a long life for
your motorcycle. Be sure that all lubri-
cation is performed during periodic
maintenance on the motorcycle.
Increase frequency when you use your
motorcycle in severe conditions.

NOTICE
Lubricating electrical switches can
damage the switches.

Do not apply grease or oil to electri-

cal switches.

... Grease

7-8
1 Clutch lever pivot BATTERY
2 Gearshift link pivots The battery is a sealed type battery and
3 Side stand pivot and spring hook requires no maintenance. The standard
4 Brake lever pivot charging rate is 1.8A × 5 to 10 hours
5 Throttle cable and the maximum rate is 9.0A × 1 hour.
6 Brake pedal pivot

 WARNING
Battery posts, terminals, and related
accessories contain lead and lead
compounds. Lead is harmful to your
health if it gets into your blood
stream.

Wash hands after handling any parts

containing lead.

7-9
  WARNING  WARNING
Diluted sulfuric acid from the battery Batteries produce flammable hydro-
can cause blindness or severe gen gas which can explode if
burns. exposed to flames or sparks.

When working near the battery, use Keep flames and sparks away from
proper eye protection and gloves. the battery. Never smoke when work-
Flush eyes or body with ample water ing near the battery.
and get medical care immediately if
you suffer injury. Keep batteries out
of reach of children.  WARNING
Wiping the battery with a dry cloth
can cause a static electricity spark,
which can start a fire.

Wipe the battery with a damp cloth to

avoid static electricity build up.

7-10
 Battery Removal
NOTICE To remove the battery, follow the proce-
dure below:
Exceeding the maximum charging 1. Place the motorcycle on the side
rate for the battery can shorten its stand.
life.

Never exceed the maximum charging

rate for the battery.

2. Remove the bolt 1.

7-11
3. Push down the front end of the rear 4. Remove the bolts and seat band 3.
seat 2 and pull the seat backward. To remove the front seat 4, raise
the rear end of the front seat and
slide it backward.

7-12
 To install the battery:
1. Install the battery in the reverse
order of removal.
2. Connect the battery terminals
securely.

NOTICE
Reversing the battery lead wires can
damage the charging system and the
5. Disconnect the negative (–) terminal battery.
5.
6. Remove the cap. Disconnect the Always attach the red lead to the (+)
positive (+) terminal 6. positive terminal and the black (or
7. Remove the battery 7. black with white tracer) lead to the (–)
negative terminal.

7-13
 NOTE:
 WARNING • Select the same type MF battery
when replacing the battery.
Batteries contain toxic substances • Recharge the battery once a month
including sulfuric acid and lead. if the motorcycle is not used for a
They could cause injury to humans long time.
or could damage the environment.

A used battery must be disposed of

or recycled according to local law
and must not be discarded with ordi-
nary household waste. Make sure
not to tip over the battery when you
remove it from the vehicle. Other-
wise, sulfuric acid could run out and
you might be injured.

7-14
 By ensuring the used battery is dis-
posed of or recycled correctly, you will
help prevent potential negative conse-
quences for the environment and
human health, which could otherwise
be caused by inappropriate waste han-
dling of the battery. The recycling of
materials will help to conserve natural
Pb resources. For more detailed informa-
tion about disposing or recycling of the
The crossed-out wheeled bin symbol A used battery, consult your Suzuki
located on the battery label indicates dealer.
that a used battery should be collected
separately from ordinary household
waste.
The chemical symbol of “Pb” B indi-
cates the battery contains more than
0.004% lead.

7-15
AIR CLEANER
The air cleaner element must be kept  WARNING
clean to provide good engine power and
Operating the engine without the air
gas mileage. If you use your motorcycle
under normal low-stress conditions, you
cleaner element in place can be haz-
should service the air cleaner at the ardous. A flame can spit back from
intervals specified. If you ride in dusty, the engine to the air intake box with-
wet, or muddy conditions, you will need out the air cleaner element to stop it.
to inspect the air cleaner element much Severe engine damage can also
more frequently. Use the following pro- occur if dirt enters the engine due to
cedure to remove the element and running the engine without the air
inspect it. cleaner element.

Never run the engine without the air

cleaner element in place.

7-16
 Air Cleaner Element Removal
NOTICE 1. Place the motorcycle on the side
stand. Remove the fuel tank by
Failure to inspect the air cleaner ele- referring to the FUEL HOSE section.
ment frequently if the vehicle is used
in dusty, wet, or muddy conditions
can damage your motorcycle. The air
cleaner element can become clogged
under these conditions, and engine
damage may result.

Always inspect the air cleaner ele-

ment after riding in severe condi-
tions. Replace the element as
necessary. If water gets in the air
cleaner case, immediately clean the
element and the inside of the case.

7-17
RIGHT LEFT

7-18
2. Loosen the clamp bolt.
3. Remove the bolts. Unhook the hook.
4. Remove the air cleaner case 1 with
the joint tube.

LEFT

5. Remove the screws. Remove the air

cleaner case 2.
RIGHT

7-19
 6. Remove the screws. Remove the air
cleaner element 3.

RIGHT

7. Inspect the air cleaner element con-

dition. Replace the air cleaner ele-
ment periodically.

LEFT

7-20
 8. Reinstall the air cleaner element in
NOTICE reverse order of removal. Be sure
that the air cleaner element is
Compressed air can damage the air securely in position and is properly
cleaner element. sealed.

Do not blow the air cleaner element

with compressed air.

NOTICE
A torn air cleaner element will allow
dirt to enter the engine and can dam-
age the engine.

Replace the air cleaner element with

a new one if it is torn. Carefully
examine the air cleaner element for
tears during cleaning.

7-21
 9. When installing the air cleaner case,
align the marks the air cleaner joint
tube and the air cleaner chamber.

NOTICE
Failure to position the air cleaner ele-
ment properly can allow dirt to
bypass the air cleaner element. This
RIGHT will cause engine damage.

Be sure to properly install the air

cleaner element.

NOTE: Be careful not to spray water on

the air cleaner box when cleaning the
motorcycle.
Reinstall the fuel tank.

LEFT NOTE: Check that the fuel tank drain

hose and breather hose are not bent
before reinstalling the fuel tank.
7-22
Air Cleaner Drain Plug

LEFT
RIGHT
Remove the plug and drain water and
oil at the periodic maintenance interval.
The air cleaner drain plugs are located
inside the air cleaner box and air
cleaner left chamber side.

7-23
SPARK PLUG
Your motorcycle comes equipped with NOTICE
DENSO U20EPR9 or NGK CPR6EA-9
An improper spark plug may have an
spark plugs. To determine if the stan-
dard spark plug is right for your usage,
incorrect fit or inappropriate heat
check the color of the plug’s porcelain range for your engine. This may
center electrode insulator after motorcy- cause severe engine damage which
cle operation. A light brown color indi- may not be covered under warranty.
cates that the plug is correct. A white or
dark insulator indicates that the engine Use one of the spark plugs listed or
may need adjustment, or another plug their equivalent. Consult your Suzuki
type may be needed. Consult your dealer if you are not sure which
authorized Suzuki dealer or a qualified spark plug is correct for your type of
mechanic if your plug insulator is not a usage.
light brown color.

7-24
 NOTE: This motorcycle uses a resistor-
NGK DENSO REMARKS
type spark plug to avoid jamming elec-
CPR6EA-9 U20EPR9 Standard
tronic parts. Improper spark plug selec-
If the standard plug is tion may cause electronic interference
CPR7EA-9 U22EPR9 apt to overheat, replace
with this plug. with your motorcycle’s ignition system,
resulting in motorcycle performance
NOTE: If the above-named plugs are problems. Use only the recommended
not available, consult your authorized spark plugs.
Suzuki dealer.

7-25
Spark Plug Removal
1. Place the motorcycle on the side
stand.

REAR

FRONT
7-26
2. Unhook the hooks and pull off the Spark Plug Inspection
cover.
3. Pull off the spark plug caps.
4. Remove the spark plugs with a
spark plug wrench.

0.8 – 0.9 mm
(0.031 – 0.035 in)

To maintain a hot, strong spark, keep

the plugs free from carbon. Adjust the
gap to 0.8 – 0.9 mm (0.031 – 0.035 in)
for good ignition. Use a thickness
(feeler) gauge to check the gap.

7-27
Installation
NOTICE
NOTICE Dirt can damage the moving engine
Improper installation of the spark parts of your motorcycle if it enters
plug can damage your motorcycle. an open spark plug hole.
An overly-tight or cross-threaded
spark plug will damage the aluminum Cover the spark plug hole while the
threads of the cylinder head. spark plug is out of the hole.

Carefully turn the spark plug by

hand into the threads. If the spark
plug is new, tighten it with a wrench
about 1/2 turn past finger tight. If
you are reusing the old spark plug,
tighten it with a wrench about 1/8
turn past finger tight.

7-28
ENGINE OIL ENGINE OIL LEVEL CHECK
Long engine life depends much on the
selection of a quality oil and the periodic L F
changing of the oil. Daily oil level
checks and periodic changes are two of
the most important maintenance items
to be performed.
Check the engine oil level with the
engine oil dipstick. The dipstick comes
out together with the oil filler cap as
shown. The level on the dipstick should
be between the “L” (Low) and the “F”
(Full) lines.

 CAUTION
Exhaust pipes can be hot enough to
burn you.

Use gloves to avoid burns.

7-29
The engine oil level inspection should
be performed under the following condi- NOTICE
tions:
Operating the motorcycle with too lit-
1. Place the motorcycle on the side tle or too much oil can damage the
stand. engine.
2. Start the engine and allow it to idle
for about three minutes. If the engine Place the motorcycle on level
is cold, warm up the engine suffi- ground. Check the oil level with the
ciently. engine oil dipstick before each use of
3. Stop the engine and wait approxi- the vehicle. Be sure the engine oil
mately three minutes. level is always above the “L” (low)
4. Remove the oil dipstick and clean line and not higher than the “F” (full)
the dipstick.
5. Hold the motorcycle vertically. Insert
line.
the oil dipstick through the oil filler
hole. The oil filler cap threads should
not be run in but should be touching
the filler hole upper edge.
6. Pull out the oil dipstick and inspect
the oil level.
7. Refit the oil dipstick.

7-30
ENGINE OIL AND FILTER CHANGE
Change the engine oil and oil filter at
the scheduled times. The engine should
always be warm when the engine oil is
changed so the engine oil will drain eas-
ily. The procedure is as follows:

1. Place the motorcycle on level

ground on the side stand.

3. Remove the drain plug 2 and gas-

ket 3 from the bottom of the engine
and drain the engine oil into a drain
pan.

2. Remove the oil filler cap 1.

7-31
  CAUTION  WARNING
Hot engine oil and exhaust pipes can Children and pets may be harmed by
burn you. swallowing new or used oil.
Repeated, prolonged contact with
Wait until the oil drain plug and used engine oil may cause skin can-
exhaust pipes are cool enough to cer. Brief contact with oil may irritate
touch with bare hands before drain- skin.
ing oil.
Keep new and used oil and used oil
filters away from children and pets.
To minimize your exposure to used
oil, wear a long-sleeve shirt and
moisture-proof gloves (such as dish-
washing gloves) when changing oil.
If oil contacts your skin, wash thor-
oughly with soap and water. Launder
any clothing or rags if wet with oil.
Recycle or properly dispose of used
oil and filters.

7-32
 NOTICE
Turning the engine while draining the
engine oil will cause oil film shortage
and adversely affect the engine.

Do not use the electric starter switch

during engine oil replacement work.
Oil filter wrench
NOTE: (Part No. 09915-40620)
• Recycle or properly dispose of used
oil.
• Before starting the work, check that
there is not any dust, mud, or foreign
object inside the oil jug or on the oil
filter mounting surface.

7-33
4. Turn the oil filter 4 with a Suzuki 5. Wipe off the mounting surface 5 on
“cap type” oil filter wrench or a “strap the engine where the new filter will
type” filter wrench of the proper size be seated with a clean rag.
and remove the oil filter.

7-34
 NOTICE
Failure to use an oil filter with the
correct design and thread specifica-
tions can damage your motorcycle’s
engine.

Be sure to use a genuine Suzuki oil

filter or an equivalent one designed
6. Smear a little engine oil around the for your motorcycle.
rubber gasket 6 of the new oil filter.
7. Screw the new filter by hand until the
filter gasket contacts the mounting
surface (a small resistance will be
felt).

NOTE: To tighten the oil filter properly, it

is important to accurately identify the
position at which the filter gasket first
contacts the mounting surface.

7-35
 8. Mark the top dead center position on
Mark top dead center the “cap type” filter wrench or on the
oil filter. Use an oil filter wrench to
tighten the filter 2 turns or to speci-
Oil filter wrench fied torque.

Oil filter tightening torque:

20 N·m (2.0 kgf-m, 14.5 lbf-ft)

9. Replace the drain plug gasket 3

In the position at which
the filter gasket first
with a new one. Reinstall the drain
contacts the mounting plug 2 and gasket 3. Tighten the
surface. plug securely with a torque wrench.
Pour about 3200 ml (3.4 US qt) of
the specified oil in the filler hole.
Tighten the oil filler cap. Start the
engine and allow it to idle for three
minutes.

Drain plug tightening torque:

Tighten the filter 2 turns or 23 N·m (2.3 kgf-m, 16.5 lbf-ft)
to specified torque.

7-36
NOTE: About 3000 ml (3.2 US qt) of oil 10.Check the oil level according to Oil
will be required when changing oil only. Level Check procedure.

NOTE: Check to see that no oil is leak-

NOTICE ing from the oil filter cover.
Engine damage may occur if you use
oil that does not meet Suzuki’s spec-
ifications.

Be sure to use the oil specified in the

FUEL, OIL AND ENGINE COOLANT
RECOMMENDATIONS section.

7-37
THROTTLE CABLE ADJUSTMENT To adjust the cable play:
1. Loosen the lock nut 1.
2. Turn the adjuster 2 so that the throt-
tle grip has 2.0 – 4.0 mm (0.08 –
0.16 in) play.
3. Tighten the lock nut 1.

 WARNING
Inadequate throttle cable play can
cause engine speed to rise suddenly
when you turn the handlebars. This
can lead to loss of control and an
accident.

Adjust the throttle cable play so that

2.0 – 4.0 mm
engine idle speed does not rise due
(0.08 – 0.16 in) to handlebar movement.

7-38
Throttle Cable Boots ENGINE IDLE SPEED INSPECTION
Inspect the engine idle speed. The
engine idle speed should be 900 – 1100
r/min when the engine is warm.

NOTE: If the engine idle speed is not

within the specified range, ask your
Suzuki dealer or a qualified mechanic to
inspect and repair the motorcycle.

The throttle cable has a boots. Check

that the boots are fit securely. Do not
apply water directly to the boots when
washing. Wipe off dirt from the boots
with a wet cloth when the boots are
dirty.

7-39
FUEL HOSE
Fuel Tank Lift
1. Place the motorcycle on the side
stand. Remove the seat by referring
to the BATTERY section.

3. Disconnect the coupler 1 and

remove the instrument panel assem-
bly 2.

2. Remove the bolts.

7-40
4. Remove the bolt 3. Raise the rear 5. Inspect the fuel hose for damage
end of the fuel tank and slide it back- and fuel leakage. If any defects are
ward. found, the fuel hose must be
replaced.

NOTE: Lifting up the fuel tank too much

can result in the fuel hose becoming
bent or twisted. Lift the fuel tank as little
as possible and disconnect the fuel
hose. The fuel tank in the above illustra-
tion is lifted to show the fuel hose and
coupler clearly.

7-41
CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT Major Adjustment
Clutch cable play should be 10 – 15 mm
(0.4 – 0.6 in) measured at the clutch
lever end. Adjust clutch cable play
according to the following procedure:

Minor Adjustment

1. Remove the 3 bolts. Remove the

cover.

10 – 15 mm
(0.4 – 0.6 in)

Loosen the lock nut 2. Turn the clutch

cable adjuster 1 to provide the speci-
fied play.

7-42
 NOTE: Check that the clearance
between the clutch cable and gearshift
rod is more than 6 mm (0.2 in) before
tightening the lock nuts 3.

NOTE: Any maintenance of the clutch

other than the clutch cable play adjust-
ment should be performed by your
Suzuki dealer.

2. Loosen the lock nuts 3 and turn the

nuts to obtain the correct clutch lever
play.
3. Minor adjustment can be made with
the clutch lever side adjuster 1.
4. Tighten the lock nuts 2 and 3.

7-43
ENGINE COOLANT NOTE:
Coolant level • Check the coolant level when the
engine is cold.
• If the engine coolant reservoir is
empty, check the radiator coolant
level.
F
L To add specified engine coolant:
1. Place the motorcycle on the side
stand.

The engine coolant solution should be

between the “F” (full) and “L” (low) level
lines on the engine coolant reservoir. If
the level is lower than “L” (low) level line,
bring it up to “F” (full) level by adding
specified engine coolant.

2. Remove the bolts and left side lower

cover.

7-44
  WARNING
Engine coolant is harmful or fatal if
swallowed or inhaled. Solution can be
poisonous to animals.

Do not drink antifreeze or coolant solu-

tion. If swallowed, do not induce vomit-
ing. Immediately contact a poison
3. Remove the filler cap and add speci- control center or a physician. Avoid
fied engine coolant through the filler inhaling mist or hot vapors; if inhaled,
hole. remove to fresh air. If coolant gets in
eyes, flush eyes with water and seek
medical attention. Wash thoroughly
after handling. Keep out of the reach of
children and animals.

NOTE: Adding only water will dilute the

engine coolant and reduce its effective-
ness. Add specified engine coolant.

7-45
Radiator Hose Inspection FINAL GEAR OIL
Inspect the radiator hoses for cracks, Change the gear oil as follows:
damage or engine coolant leakage. If 1. Place the motorcycle on the side
any defects are found, ask your Suzuki stand.
dealer to replace the radiator hose with
a new one.

2. Remove the oil filler cap 1.

3. Drain the oil by removing the drain
plug 2 into a suitable container from
the bottom of the final gear case.

7-46
4. Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it
securely after all the oil has been  WARNING
drained out. Hold the motorcycle
vertically and pour fresh oil through Children and pets may be harmed by
the filler hole until the oil level swallowing new or used oil. Repeated,
reaches the oil filler hole. Approxi- prolonged contact with used engine oil
mately 200 – 220 ml (6.8 – 7.4 US may cause skin cancer. Brief contact
oz) of oil will be required. with oil may irritate skin.
5. Reinstall the oil filler cap.
Keep new and used oil and used oil fil-
 WARNING ters away from children and pets. To
minimize your exposure to used oil,
Operating the motorcycle with too lit- wear a long-sleeve shirt and moisture-
tle final gear oil can cause the final proof gloves (such as dishwashing
drive unit to lock up and cause an gloves) when changing oil. If oil con-
accident. tacts your skin, wash thoroughly with
soap and water. Launder any clothing
Check for leaks and the correct level or rags if wet with oil. Recycle or prop-
of final gear oil before each use. Add erly dispose of used oil and filters.
oil if necessary. Tighten the drain
plug securely after changing the gear
NOTE: Recycle or properly dispose of
oil. used oil.
7-47
BRAKES NOTE: Operating in mud, water, sand
This motorcycle has front and rear disk or other extreme conditions can cause
brakes. accelerated brake wear. If you operate
your motorcycle under these conditions,
 WARNING the brakes must be inspected more
often than recommended in the MAIN-
Failure to properly inspect and main- TENANCE SCHEDULE.
tain your motorcycle’s brake sys-
tems can increase your chance of Brake Hose Inspection
Inspect the brake hoses and hose joints
having an accident.
for cracks, damage or brake fluid leak-
age. If any defects are found, ask your
Be sure to inspect the brakes before Suzuki dealer to replace the brake hose
each use according to the INSPEC- with a new one.
TION BEFORE RIDING section.
Always maintain your brakes accord-
ing to the MAINTENANCE SCHED-
ULE.

7-48
Brake Fluid

FRONT

REAR

Check the brake fluid level in both the

front and rear brake fluid reservoirs. If
the level in either reservoir is below the
lower mark, inspect for brake pad wear
and leaks.
7-49
  WARNING  WARNING
Brake fluid will gradually absorb The use of any fluid except DOT4
moisture through the brake hoses. brake fluid from a sealed container
Brake fluid with high water content can damage the brake system and
lowers the boiling point and can lead to an accident.
cause brake system malfunction due
to corrosion of brake components. Clean filler cap before removing. Use
Boiling brake fluid or brake system only DOT4 brake fluid from a sealed
malfunction could result in an acci- container. Never use or mix with dif-
dent. ferent types of brake fluid.

Replace the brake fluid every two

years to maintain braking perfor-
mance.

7-50
  WARNING NOTICE
Brake fluid is harmful or fatal if swal- Spilled brake fluid can damage
lowed, and harmful if it comes in painted surfaces and plastic parts.
contact with skin or eyes. Solution
can be poisonous to animals. Be careful not to spill any fluid when
filling the brake fluid reservoir. Wipe
If brake fluid is swallowed, do not spilled fluid up immediately.
induce vomiting. Immediately con-
tact a poison control center or a phy- NOTE: SUZUKI highly recommends the
sician. If brake fluid gets in eyes, use of ECSTAR brand brake fluid.
flush eyes with water and seek medi- ECSTAR has been specially formulated
cal attention. Wash thoroughly after for your SUZUKI product and contrib-
handling. Keep out of the reach of utes to the desired motorcycle perfor-
children and animals. mance and ideal riding experience.

7-51
Brake Pads

Inspect the front and rear brake pads to

FRONT see if they are worn down to the
grooved wear limit lines 1. If a front or
rear pad is worn to the grooved wear
limit line, both front or both rear pads
must be replaced with new ones. After
replacing the front or rear brake pads,
the brake lever or pedal must be
pumped several times. This will extend
the pads to their proper position.

REAR

7-52
  WARNING  WARNING
Failure to inspect and maintain the If you ride this motorcycle after brake
brake pads and replace them when system repair or brake pad replace-
recommended can increase your ment without pumping the brake
chance of having an accident. lever/pedal, you may get poor brak-
ing performance which could result
If you need to replace brake pads, in an accident.
have your Suzuki dealer do this
work. Inspect and maintain the brake After brake system repair or brake
pads as recommended. pad replacement, pump the brake
lever/pedal several times until brake
pads are pressed against the brake
disks and proper lever/pedal stroke
and firm feel are restored.

NOTE: Do not squeeze/depress the

brake lever/pedal when the pads are
not in their positions. It is difficult to
push the pistons back into position.

7-53
 Rear Brake Pedal Adjustment
 WARNING
Replacing only one of the two brake  CAUTION
pads can result in uneven braking A hot muffler can burn you. The muf-
action and can increase your chance fler will be hot enough to burn you
of having an accident. for some time after stopping the
engine.
Always replace both pads together.
Wait until the muffler cools to avoid
burns.

The rear brake pedal position must be

properly adjusted at all times or the disk
brake pads will rub against the disk
causing damage to the pads and to the
disk surface. Adjust the brake pedal
position in the following manner:

7-54
110 – 120 mm 1. Loosen the lock nut 1, and turn the
(4.3 – 4.7 in) push rod 2 to locate the pedal 110
– 120 mm (4.3 – 4.7 in) above the
top face of the footrest.
2. Retighten the lock nut 1 to secure
the push rod 2 in the proper posi-
tion.

NOTICE
An incorrectly adjusted brake pedal
may force brake pads to rub against
the disk at all times, causing damage
to the pads and disk.

Follow the steps in this section to

adjust the brake pedal properly.

7-55
Rear Brake Light Switch TIRES
 WARNING
The tires on your motorcycle form
the crucial link between your motor-
cycle and the road. Failure to take the
precautions below may result in an
accident due to tire failure.

• Check tire condition and pressure

To adjust the brake light switch, hold the before each ride, and adjust pres-
switch body and turn the adjuster so sure if necessary.
that the brake light will come on just • Avoid overloading your motorcycle.
before a pressure rise is felt when the • Replace a tire when worn to the
brake pedal is depressed. specified limit, or if you find dam-
age such as cuts or cracks.
• Always use the size and type of tires
specified in this owner’s manual.
• Balance the wheel after tire installation.
• Read this section of the owner’s
manual carefully.

7-56
 Tire Pressure and Loading
 WARNING Proper tire pressure and proper tire
loading are important factors. Overload-
Failure to perform break-in of the ing your tires can lead to tire failure and
tires could cause tire slip and loss of loss of motorcycle control.
control, which could result in an
accident. Check tire pressure each day before
you ride, and against tire pressure
Use extra care when riding on new according to the table below. Tire pres-
tires. Perform proper break-in of the sure should only be checked and
tires referring to the BREAK-IN sec- adjusted before riding since riding will
tion of this manual and avoid hard heat up the tires and lead to higher
acceleration, hard cornering, and inflation pressure readings.
hard braking for the first 160 km (100 LOAD DUAL RIDING
SOLO RIDING
miles). WITH LIGHT OR
OR SOLO
RIDING WITH
LITTLE CARGO
HEAVY CARGO
LOAD
TIRE LOAD
225 kPa 225 kPa
FRONT 2.25 kgf/cm2 2.25 kgf/cm2
33 psi 33 psi
250 kPa 280 kPa
REAR 2.50 kgf/cm2 2.80 kgf/cm2
36 psi 41 psi

7-57
Under-inflated tires make smooth cor- Tire Condition and Type
nering difficult, and can result in rapid Tire condition and tire type affect motor-
tire wear. Over-inflated tires cause a cycle performance. Cuts or cracks in
smaller amount of tire to be in contact the tires can lead to tire failure and loss
with the road, which can contribute to of motorcycle control. Worn tires are
skidding and loss of control. susceptible to puncture failures and
subsequent loss of motorcycle control.
NOTE: When you detect drops in tire Tire wear also affects the tire profile,
pressure, check the tire for nails or changing motorcycle handling charac-
other punctures, or a damaged wheel teristics.
rim. Tubeless tires sometimes lose
pressure gradually when punctured.

7-58
Check the condition of your tires each Whenever you replace a tire, use a tire
day before you ride. Replace tires if of the size and type listed below. If you
tires show visual evidence of damage, use a different size or type of tire,
such as cracks or cuts, or if tread depth motorcycle handling may be adversely
is less than 1.6 mm (0.06 in) front, 2.0 affected, possibly resulting in loss of
mm (0.08 in) rear. motorcycle control.

FRONT REAR
130/80R17M/C 200/60R16M/C
SIZE
65H 79H
BRIDGESTONE BRIDGESTONE
TYPE
G853 G G852 G

Always balance the wheel after repair-

ing a puncture or replacing the tire.
Proper wheel balance is important to
avoid variable wheel-to-road contact,
NOTE: The “Triangle mark” indicates and to avoid uneven tire wear.
the place where the wear bars are
molded into the tire. When the wear
bars contact the road, it indicates that
the tire wear limit has been reached.

7-59
  WARNING  WARNING
An improperly repaired, installed, or Failure to follow the instructions
balanced tire can cause loss of con- below for tubeless tires may result in
trol and an accident, or can wear out an accident due to tire failure. Tube-
sooner. less tires require different service pro-
cedures than tube tires.
• Ask your Suzuki dealer or a quali-
fied mechanic to perform tire • Tubeless tires require an air-tight seal
repair, replacement, and balancing between the tire bead and wheel rim.
because proper tools and experi- Special tire irons and rim protectors or
ence are required. a specialized tire mounting machine
• Install tires according to the rota- must be used for removing and install-
tion direction shown by arrows on ing tires to prevent tire or rim damage
the sidewall of each tire. which could result in an air leak.
• Repair punctures in tubeless tires
by removing the tire and applying an
internal patch.

7-60
 SIDE STAND/IGNITION INTERLOCK
• Do not use an external repair plug to
repair a puncture since the plug may SYSTEM
work loose as a result of the corner-
ing forces experienced by a motor-
cycle tire.
• After repairing a tire, do not exceed
80 km/h (50 mph) for the first 24
hours, and do not exceed 130 km/h
(80 mph) thereafter. This is to avoid
excessive heat build-up which could
result in a tire repair failure and tire
deflation.
• Replace the tire if it is punctured in Check the side stand/ignition interlock
the sidewall area, or if a puncture in system for proper operation as follows:
the tread area is larger than 6 mm 1. Sit on the motorcycle in the normal
(3/16 in). These punctures cannot riding position, with the side stand
be repaired adequately. up.
2. Shift into first gear, hold the clutch in,
and start the engine.
3. While continuing to hold the clutch
in, move the side stand to the down
position.

7-61
If the engine stops running when the
side stand is moved to the down posi-  WARNING
tion, then the side stand/ignition inter-
lock system is working properly. If the If the side stand/ignition interlock
engine continues to run with the side system is not working properly, it is
stand down and the transmission in possible to ride the motorcycle with
gear, then the side stand/ignition inter- the side stand in the down position.
lock system is not working properly. This may interfere with rider control
Have your motorcycle inspected by an during a left turn and could cause an
authorized Suzuki dealer or some other accident.
qualified service mechanic.
Check the side stand/ignition inter-
lock system for proper operation
before riding. Check that the side
stand is returned to its full up posi-
tion before starting off.

7-62
FRONT WHEEL REMOVAL 3. Place an accessory service stand or
1. Place the motorcycle on the side equivalent under the swingarm to
stand. help stabilize the rear end. Carefully
position a jack under the engine or
chassis tubes and raise the jack until
the front wheel is slightly off the
ground.

NOTICE
Improper jacking may cause damage
to the oil filter.

2. Loosen the axle holder bolt 1 on the Do not place the jack under the oil fil-
right front fork. Loosen the axle shaft ter when jacking up the motorcycle.
2 temporarily.

NOTE: A special tool is necessary to

loosen the axle shaft 2. The special
tool is available from a Suzuki dealer.

7-63
4. Turn the axle counterclockwise and 5. Slide the front wheel forward.
draw it out.
NOTE: Never squeeze the front brake
lever with the wheel removed. It is very
difficult to force the pads back into the
caliper assembly.

7-64
6. To reinstall the wheel assembly,
reverse the sequence described  WARNING
above.
7. After installing the wheel, apply the If the bolts and nuts are not properly
front brake several times to restore tightened, the wheel can come off,
the proper lever stroke. causing an accident.

 WARNING Be sure to tighten the bolts and nuts

to the specified torque. If you do not
Failure to extend brake pads after have a torque wrench or do not know
installing the wheel can cause poor how to use one, ask your authorized
braking performance and may result Suzuki dealer to check the bolts and
in an accident. nuts.
Before riding, “pump” the brake Front axle tightening torque:
lever repeatedly until the brake pads 100 N·m (10.0 kgf-m, 72.5 lbf-ft)
are pressed against the brake disks
and proper lever stroke and firm feel Front axle holder bolt
are restored. Also check that the tightening torque:
wheel rotates freely. 33 N·m (3.3 kgf-m, 24.0 lbf-ft)

7-65
REAR WHEEL REMOVAL 1. Place the motorcycle on the side
stand.
 CAUTION
A hot muffler can burn you.

Wait until the muffler cools before

removing the axle nut.

NOTICE
Removing the rear wheel without use
of an accessory stand can result in 2. (VL1500T) Open the right sidecase
by referring to the SIDECASE sec-
your motorcycle falling over and
tion. Remove the bolts and right
being damaged. sidecase.
Do not attempt roadside removal of
the rear wheel. Only remove the rear
wheel at a properly equipped servic-
ing facility using an accessory ser-
vice stand.

7-66
 4. Remove the cap.

3. (VL1500T) Remove the bolts and

sidecase brace 1 and 2.

7-67
 6. Place an accessory service stand or
equivalent under the swingarm or
chassis tubes to stabilize the rear
end.

5. Remove the axle nut 3.

 CAUTION
A hot muffler can burn you. 7. Draw out the axle.

Wait until the muffler cools before

removing the axle nut.

7-68
 9. Remove the wheel from the splined
drive gear and set the wheel assem-
bly on the ground.
10.Pull the wheel assembly rearward.
11.To replace the wheel reverse the
complete sequence described
above.

8. Remove the brake caliper bracket

mounting bolt 4. Remove the brake
caliper assembly 5.
7-69
 Rear axle tightening torque:
 WARNING 100 N·m (10.0 kgf-m, 72.5 lbf-ft)
If the bolts and nuts are not properly Rear brake caliper bracket mounting
tightened, the wheel can come off, bolt tightening torque:
causing an accident. 94 N·m (9.4 kgf-m, 68.0 lbf-ft)

Be sure to tighten the bolts and nuts NOTE: Apply a drop of SUZUKI
to the specified torque. If you do not THREAD LOCK “1322D” to the rear
have a torque wrench or do not know brake caliper bracket mounting bolt 4.
how to use one, ask your authorized
Suzuki dealer to check the bolts and
nuts.

7-70
LIGHT BULB REPLACEMENT Headlight 12V 60/55W (H4)
The wattage rating of each bulb is Front 12V 21W
shown in the following chart. When Turn signal light
Rear 12V 21W
replacing a burned out bulb, always use
the same wattage rating. License plate light 12V 5W

NOTICE
Failure to use a light bulb with the
correct wattage rating can overload
the electrical system of your motor-
cycle or cause the bulb to burn out
sooner.

Use only the light bulbs shown in the

chart as replacement bulbs.

7-71
Headlight
To replace the headlight bulb, perform
the following steps:

2. Remove the bolts. Unhook the

hooks. Remove the headlight
assembly 2.
1. Remove the right and left bolts.
Unhook the hooks. Remove the
headlight cover 1.

7-72
3. Disconnect the socket 3 from the 4. Unhook the bulb holder spring 5,
headlight and remove the rubber and pull out the bulb 6.
cap 4.

7-73
 Headlight Beam Adjustment
NOTICE The headlight beam can be adjusted
both up and down or right and left if
The headlight bulb’s life may be necessary.
shortened by oil from your fingers if
you touch it.

When replacing the headlight bulb,

be careful not to touch the glass.
Grasp the new bulb with a clean
cloth.

5. To replace the headlight bulb,

reverse the above sequence.
To adjust the beam up and down:
Turn the adjuster 1 clockwise or coun-
terclockwise.

7-74
 Turn Signal Lights
To replace the turn signal light bulbs,
follow these directions.

To adjust the beam right and left:

Turn the adjuster 2 clockwise or coun-
terclockwise.
1. Remove the screw 1.
2. Turn the lens counterclockwise and
remove it.

7-75
 NOTICE
Overtightening the screws when
reinstalling the lens may cause the
lens to crack.

Tighten the screws only until they

are snug.

3. Push in on the bulb 2, turn it to the

left, and pull it out.
4. To fit the replacement bulb, push it in
and turn it to the right while pushing.

7-76
License Plate Light
To replace the license plate light bulb,
follow the procedure steps:

2. Pull off the bulb from the socket.

1. Turn the license plate lens counter-

clockwise and remove it.

7-77
FUSES
If something electrical on your motorcy- WARNING
cle stops working, the first thing you
Replacing a fuse with incorrect
should check for is a blown fuse. The
electrical circuits on the motorcycle are
amperage rating or substitute, e.g.
protected from overload by fuses in the aluminum foil or wire, may cause
circuits. serious damage to the electrical sys-
tem and possibly fire. Always replace
If a blown fuse is found, then the electri- a blown fuse with a fuse of the same
cal problem must be inspected and amperage rating.
repaired before replacing the blown
fuse with a new fuse. Consult your If the new fuse blows in a short time,
Suzuki dealer for the electrical system the electrical problem may not be
check and repair. fixed. Have your motorcycle
inspected immediately by your
Suzuki dealer.

7-78
MAIN FUSE FUSES

The main fuse is located under the front The fuses are located under the front
seat. One 30A spare fuse is located in seat. Two spare fuses (10A and one
the fuse box. 15A) are provided in the fuse box.

7-79
FUSE LIST • 10A FUEL fuse protects the ECM,
• 30A MAIN fuse protects the all elec- fuel pump, injectors and speedome-
trical circuits. ter.
• 10A HEAD-HI fuse protects the • 15A FAN fuse protects the cooling
speedometer and headlight high fan motor.
beam. • 10A OPTION fuse protects the
• 10A HEAD-LO fuse protects the options.
headlight low beam. * California
• 15A IGNITION fuse protects the
headlight relay, fan motor relay, side
stand relay, *canister purge sole-
noid, solenoid, ECM, oxygen sensor,
fuel pump relay, starter relay and
ignition coils.
• 10A SIGNAL fuse protects the pilot
lamp, running light, horn, speedom-
eter, turn signal light, license light,
stop lamp and taillight.

7-80
CATALYTIC CONVERTER
The purpose of the catalytic converter  WARNING
is to minimize the amount of harmful
If you park or operate the motorcycle
pollutants in your motorcycle’s exhaust.
Use of leaded fuel in motorcycles
in areas where there are combustible
equipped with catalytic converters is materials such as dry grass or
prohibited because lead deactivates the leaves, these materials may come in
pollutant-reducing components of the contact with the catalytic converter
catalyst system. or other hot exhaust components.
This can cause a fire.
The converter is designed to last the life
of the motorcycle under normal usage Avoid parking or operating your vehi-
and when unleaded fuel is used. Not cle in areas with any combustible
special maintenance is required on the materials.
converter. However, it is very important
to keep the engine properly tuned.
Engine misfiring, which can result from
an improperly tuned engine, may cause
overheating of the catalyst. This may
result in permanent heat damage to the
catalyst and other motorcycle compo-
nents.

7-81
 NOTICE • Do not shut off the engine or
interrupt the ignition when the
Improper motorcycle operation can transmission is in gear and the
cause catalyst or other motorcycle motorcycle is in motion.
damage. • Do not try to start the engine by
pushing the motorcycle or by
To avoid damage to the catalyst or coasting down a hill.
other related components, you • Do not idle the engine with any
should take the following precau- spark plug wires disconnected
or removed, such as during diag-
tions: nostic testing.
• Maintain the engine in the proper • Do not idle the vehicle for pro-
operating condition. longed periods if idling seems
• In the event of an engine malfunc- rough or there are other mal-
tion, particularly one involving functions.
engine misfire or other apparent • Do not allow the fuel tank to get
performance loss, stop riding the near the empty level.
motorcycle and turn off the engine
and have the motorcycle serviced
promptly.

7-82
 TROUBLESHOOTING

FUEL SUPPLY CHECK .............................................................................................................................. 8-2

IGNITION SYSTEM CHECK ....................................................................................................................... 8-3

8-1
TROUBLESHOOTING COMPLAINT: Engine is hard to start or
does not start at all.
This troubleshooting guide is provided
to help you find the cause of some com-
mon complaints. FUEL SUPPLY CHECK
If the fuel injection indicator displays
“FI”, showing signs of trouble in the fuel
NOTICE injection system, take your machine to
Improper repairs or adjustments may an authorized Suzuki dealer. Refer to
damage the motorcycle instead of the “INSTRUMENT PANEL” section for
fixing it. Such damage may not be an explanation of the fuel injection sys-
covered under warranty. tem indicator.

If you are not sure about the proper

action, consult your Suzuki dealer
about the problem.

8-2
IGNITION SYSTEM CHECK
1. Remove the spark plugs and reat-
tach them to the spark plug caps.

2. Put the engine stop switch in the “”

position and the ignition switch in the
“ON” position. While holding the
spark plug with its base firmly
against the engine, push the electric
starter switch. If the ignition system
is operating properly, a blue spark
should jump across the spark plug
gap. If there is no spark, take your
machine to your authorized Suzuki
dealer or a qualified mechanic.

8-3
 COMPLAINT: Engine stalls.
 WARNING 1. Make sure there is enough fuel in
the fuel tank.
Performing the spark test improperly 2. If the fuel injection indicator displays
can be hazardous. You could get a “FI”, showing signs of trouble in the
high voltage electrical shock if you fuel injection system, take your
are not familiar with this procedure. machine to an authorized Suzuki
dealer. Refer to the “INSTRUMENT
Do not perform this check if you are PANEL” section for an explanation of
not familiar with the procedure. Do the fuel injection system indicator.
not point the spark plug near the 3. Check the ignition system for inter-
spark plug hole during this test. Do mittent spark.
not perform this test if you have a 4. Check the idle speed. The correct
idle speed is 900 – 1100 r/min.
heart condition or wear a pacemaker.

8-4
 STORAGE PROCEDURE AND
MOTORCYCLE CLEANING

STORAGE PROCEDURE ........................................................................................................................... 9-2

PROCEDURE FOR RETURNING TO SERVICE ........................................................................................ 9-4
CORROSION PREVENTION ...................................................................................................................... 9-4
MOTORCYCLE CLEANING ....................................................................................................................... 9-6
INSPECTION AFTER CLEANING ............................................................................................................ 9-10

9-1
STORAGE PROCEDURE AND MOTORCYCLE
Clean the entire motorcycle. Place the
MOTORCYCLE CLEANING motorcycle on the side stand on a firm,
flat surface where it will not fall over.
STORAGE PROCEDURE
If your motorcycle is to be left unused FUEL
for an extended period of time, it needs 1. Fill the fuel tank to the top with fuel
special servicing requiring appropriate mixed with the amount of gasoline
materials, equipment and skill. For this stabilizer recommended by the sta-
reason, Suzuki recommends that you bilizer manufacturer.
trust this maintenance work to your 2. Run the engine for a few minutes
authorized Suzuki dealer. If you wish to until the stabilized gasoline fills the
service the machine for storage your- fuel injection system.
self, follow the general guidelines
below:

9-2
ENGINE TIRES
1. Pour one tablespoon of motor oil into Inflate the tires to the normal specifica-
each spark plug hole. Reinstall the tions.
spark plugs and crank the engine a
few times. EXTERNAL
2. Drain the engine oil thoroughly and • Spray all vinyl and rubber parts with
refill the crankcase with fresh engine rubber preservative.
oil all the way up to the filler hole. • Spray the unpainted surfaces with
3. Cover the air cleaner intake and the rust preventative.
muffler outlet with oily rags to pre- • Coat the painted surfaces with car
vent humidity from entering. wax.

BATTERY MAINTENANCE DURING STORAGE

1. Remove the battery from the motor- Once a month, recharge the battery.
cycle by referring to the BATTERY The standard charging rate is 1.8A × 5
section. to 10 hours.
2. Clean the outside of the battery with
a mild soap and remove corrosion
from the terminals and wiring har-
ness.
3. Store the battery in a room above
freezing.

9-3
PROCEDURE FOR RETURNING TO CORROSION PREVENTION
SERVICE It is important to take good care of your
1. Clean the entire motorcycle. motorcycle to protect it from corrosion
2. Remove the oily rags from the air and keep it looking new for years to
cleaner intake and muffler outlet. come.
3. Drain all the engine oil. Install a new
oil filter and fill the engine with fresh Important Information About
oil as outlined in this manual. Corrosion
4. Reinstall the battery by referring to Common causes of corrosion
the BATTERY section. • Accumulation of road salt, dirt, mois-
5. Remove the spark plugs. Turn the ture, or chemicals in hard-to-reach
engine a few times. Reinstall the areas.
spark plugs. • Chipping, scratches, and any dam-
6. Make sure that the motorcycle is age to treated or painted metal sur-
properly lubricated. faces resulting from minor accidents
7. Perform the INSPECTION BEFORE or impacts from stones and gravel.
RIDING as listed in this manual.
8. Start the motorcycle as outlined in Road salt, sea air, industrial pollution,
this manual. and high humidity will all contribute to
corrosion.

9-4
How to Help Prevent Corrosion • Repair finish damage as soon as
• Wash your motorcycle frequently, at possible. Carefully examine your
least once a month. Keep your motorcycle for damage to the
motorcycle as clean and dry as pos- painted surfaces. Should you find
sible. any chips or scratches in the paint,
• Remove foreign material deposits. touch them up immediately to pre-
Foreign material such as road salt, vent corrosion from starting. If the
chemicals, road oil or tar, tree sap, chips or scratches have gone
bird droppings and industrial fall-out through to the bare metal, have a
may damage your motorcycle’s fin- Suzuki dealer make the repair.
ish. Remove these types of deposits • Store your motorcycle in a dry, well-
as quickly as possible. If these ventilated area. If you often wash
deposits are difficult to wash off, an your motorcycle in the garage or if
additional cleaner may be required. you frequently park it inside when
Follow the manufacturer’s directions wet, your garage may be damp. The
when using these special cleaners. high humidity may cause or acceler-
ate corrosion. A wet motorcycle may
corrode even in a heated garage if
the ventilation is poor.

9-5
• Cover your motorcycle. Exposure to MOTORCYCLE CLEANING
mid-day sun can cause the colors in
paint, plastic parts, and instrument WASHING THE MOTORCYCLE
faces to fade. Covering your motor- When washing the motorcycle, follow
cycle with a high-quality, “breath- the instructions below:
able” motorcycle cover can help 1. Remove dirt and mud from the
protect the finish from the harmful motorcycle with cool running water.
UV rays in sunlight, and can reduce You may use a soft sponge or brush.
the amount of dust and air pollution Do not use hard materials which can
reaching the surface. Your Suzuki scratch the paint.
dealer can help you select the right 2. Wash the entire motorcycle with a
cover for your motorcycle. mild detergent or car wash soap
using a sponge or soft cloth. The
sponge or cloth should be frequently
soaked in the soap solution.

NOTE: Clean the motorcycle with cool

water immediately after riding on road
salt or riding along the coast. Be sure to
use cool water because warm water
can hasten corrosion.

9-6
NOTE: Avoid spraying or allowing water
to flow over the following places: NOTICE
• Ignition switch
• Spark plugs High pressure washers such as
• Fuel tank cap those found at coin-operated car
• Throttle body washes have enough pressure to
• Fuel injection system damage the parts of your motorcy-
• Brake master cylinders cle. It may cause rust, corrosion and
• Air cleaner inlet increase wear. Parts cleaner can also
• Throttle cable boots damage motorcycle parts.

Do not use high pressure washers to

clean your motorcycle. Do not use
parts cleaner on throttle body and
fuel injection sensors.

9-7
3. Once the dirt has been completely NOTE: The headlight lens can be
removed, rinse off the detergent with fogged after washing the motorcycle or
running water. riding in the rain. Headlight fogging will
4. After rinsing, wipe off the motorcycle be cleared gradually when the headlight
with a wet chamois or cloth and is turned on. When clearing the head-
allow it to dry in the shade. light lens fogging, run the engine to
5. Check carefully for damage to avoid battery discharge.
painted surfaces. If there is any
damage, obtain “touch-up” paint and
“touch-up” the damage following the
NOTICE
procedure below: Cleaning your motorcycle with any
a. Clean all damaged spots and alkaline or strong acid cleaner, gaso-
allow them to dry. line, brake fluid, or any other solvent
b. Stir the paint and “touch-up” the will damage the motorcycle parts.
damaged spots lightly with a
small brush. Clean only with soft cloth and warm
c. Allow the paint to dry completely.
water with mild detergent.

9-8
SPEEDOMETER DISPLAY WAXING THE MOTORCYCLE
CLEANING After washing the motorcycle, waxing
When the speedometer display is to be and polishing are recommended to fur-
cleaned, wipe gently using a moist ther protect and beautify the paint.
cloth. • Only use waxes and polishes of
good quality.
• When using waxes and polishes,
NOTICE observe the precautions specified by
When the speedometer display is the manufacturers.
wiped or rubbed aggressively using
a dry cloth, the display might be WINDSHIELD CLEANING (VL1500T)
scratched. Clean the windshield with soft cloth and
warm water with mild detergent. If
Use a moist soft cloth. scratched, polish with a commercially
available plastic polish. Replace the
windshield if it becomes scratched or
discolored so as to obstruct view. When
replacing the windshield, use a Suzuki
replacement windshield.

9-9
SPECIAL CARE FOR MATTE FINISH INSPECTION AFTER CLEANING
PAINT For extended life of your motorcycle,
Do not use polishing compounds or lubricate it according to the GENERAL
waxes that contain polishing com- LUBRICATION section.
pounds on surfaces which have a matte
finish. The use of polishing compounds
will change the appearance of the matte  WARNING
finish. Operating the motorcycle with wet brakes
can be hazardous. Wet brakes may not
Solid type waxes may be difficult to provide as much stopping power as dry
remove from surfaces with a matte fin- brakes. This could lead to an accident.
ish.

Friction while riding, excessive rubbing Test your brakes after washing the
or polishing of a surface with a matte motorcycle, while riding at slow speed.
finish will change its appearance. If necessary, apply the brakes several
times to let friction dry out the linings.

Follow the procedures in the INSPEC-

TION BEFORE RIDING section to check
your motorcycle for any problems that
may have arisen during your last ride.

9-10
 CONSUMER INFORMATION

WARRANTIES .......................................................................................................................................... 10-2

EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS ............................................................................................................ 10-3
TAMPERING WITH NOISE CONTROL SYSTEM PROHIBITED ............................................................. 10-4
ON-BOARD MOTORCYCLE COMPUTER DATA INFORMATION ......................................................... 10-5
SERIAL NUMBER LOCATION ................................................................................................................. 10-6
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS ............................................................................................................ 10-7
LOCATION OF LABELS .......................................................................................................................... 10-8

10

10-1
CONSUMER INFORMATION Suzuki limited warranties and the Fed-
eral and California Emission Control
WARRANTIES System Limited Warranty may not cover
damage caused by modifications that
The warranties for your motorcycle are
would change the original vehicle speci-
explained in a separate warranty policy
fications including, without limitation,
booklet given to you at the time of sale.
modifications of any emission-related
Please read this booklet carefully so
parts such as the carburetor(s), fuel
you can understand your rights and
injection system components, the
responsibilities. The following warran-
engine control module, air suction sys-
ties are provided with your motorcycle:
tem components, the catalytic converter
• On-Road Motorcycle Limited War-
(if equipped), evaporative emission con-
ranty
trol system components, etc.
• Motorcycle Federal Emission Con-
trol System Limited Warranty
• California Emission Control System
Limited Warranty (Applies ONLY to
Suzuki street-legal emission-con-
trolled motorcycles certified for sale
and registered in California.)

10-2
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS Evaporative Emission Control
Your vehicle is subject to U.S. Environ- System (if equipped)
mental Protection Agency (EPA) and The evaporative emission control system
California Air Resources Board (CARB) of your vehicle consists of the carbon can-
emission regulations. These regulations ister, fuel tank, fuel hoses, and fuel vapor
set specific standards for exhaust emis- hoses. These parts incorporate technolo-
sion output levels and fuel permeation gies to control fuel evaporative emissions.
emissions, as well as particular servic- Servicing Requirements
ing requirements. It is essential to have your vehicle ser-
viced according to the maintenance
Exhaust Emission Control System schedule in this manual to maintain good
The exhaust emission control system of emission performance and to preserve
your vehicle includes a number of parts. your emission warranty coverage. If parts
While the emission-related parts may replacement is necessary, replace the
vary from model to model, they gener- parts with Genuine Suzuki parts or their
ally include components of the air equivalent. Installing improper replace-
induction system, fuel system, ignition ment parts or performing improper adjust-
system, and exhaust gas recirculation ments can cause your vehicle to exceed
system, as well as devices such as cat- emission level limits. Tampering with
alytic converters, emission-related sen- emission-related components in a man-
sors, and electronic control units. ner which defeats or reduces the effec-
tiveness of these components is
prohibited by federal and California law.
10-3
TAMPERING WITH NOISE CONTROL Among those acts presumed to consti-
SYSTEM PROHIBITED tute tampering are the acts listed below:
Federal law prohibits the following acts • removing or puncturing the muffler,
or the causing thereof; (1) the removal baffles, header pipes, screen type
or rendering inoperative by any person spark arrester (if equipped) or any
other than for purposes of maintenance, other component which conducts
repair, or replacement, of any device or exhaust gases
element of design incorporated into any • replacing the exhaust system or
new vehicle for the purpose of noise muffler with a system or muffler not
control prior to its sale or delivery to the marked with the same model spe-
ultimate purchaser or while it is in use, cific code as the code listed on the
or (2) the use of the vehicle after such Motorcycle Noise Emission Control
device or element of design has been Information label, and certified to
removed or rendered inoperative by any appropriate EPA noise standards
person. • removing or puncturing the air
cleaner case, air cleaner cover, baf-
fles, or any other component which
conducts intake air.

Whenever replacing parts on your

motorcycle, Suzuki recommends that
you use genuine Suzuki replacement
parts or their equivalent.
10-4
ON-BOARD MOTORCYCLE Some information may be stored by the
COMPUTER DATA INFORMATION on-board computer when malfunctions
Your motorcycle is equipped with on- occur. This stored information can
board computer systems which monitor assist technicians in repairing the
and control several aspects of motorcy- motorcycle. To read the stored informa-
cle performance, including the follow- tion, special equipment is needed and
ing: access to the motorcycle or storage
• Emission-related components and device is required. In addition, once
engine parameters such as engine Suzuki collects or receives data, Suzuki
speed and throttle position are moni- may use the data for research con-
tored to provide emission control ducted by Suzuki, make the data avail-
and to provide optimum fuel econ- able for outside research if need is
omy. Your motorcycle also has an shown and confidentiality is assured, or
on-board diagnostic system which make summary data which does not
monitors and records information identify specific motorcycles available
about emission-related malfunc- for outside research.
tions.
Others, such as law enforcement per-
sonnel, may have access to the special
equipment that can read the information
if they have access to the motorcycle or
storage device.

10-5
SERIAL NUMBER LOCATION
You need to know the frame and engine
serial numbers to get title documents
for your motorcycle. You also need
these numbers to help your authorized
Suzuki dealer when you order parts.

The frame number 1 is stamped on the

steering head as shown in the illustra-
tion. The engine serial number 2 is
stamped on the crankcase assembly.

Write down the serial numbers here for

your future reference.

Frame No:

Engine No:

10-6
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS To contact NHTSA, you may either call
If you believe that your vehicle has a the Vehicle Safety Hot Line toll-free 1-
defect which could cause a crash or 888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153);
could cause injury or death, you should go to http://www.safercar.gov; or write
immediately inform the National High- to: Administrator, NHTSA, 1200 New
way Traffic Safety Administration Jersey Ave., S.E., Washington DC
(NHTSA) in addition to notifying Suzuki 20590. You can also obtain other infor-
Motor of America, Inc. mation about motor vehicle safety from
http://www.safercar.gov.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it
may open an investigation, and if it finds To contact Suzuki Motor of America,
that a safety defect exists in a group of Inc., owners in the continental United
vehicles, it may order a recall and rem- States can call toll-free 1-800-444-
edy campaign. However, NHTSA can- 5077, or write to: Suzuki Motor of Amer-
not become involved in individual ica, Inc. Motorcycle Customer Service
problems between you, your dealer, or P.O. Box 1100, Brea, CA 92822-1100.
Suzuki Motor of America, Inc.
For owners outside the continental
United States, please refer to the dis-
tributor’s address listed on your War-
ranty Information brochure.

10-7
LOCATION OF LABELS 1
Read and follow all of the warnings
labeled on your motorcycle. Make sure WARNING
you understand all of the labels. Keep To reduce the risk of injury:
the labels on your motorcycle. Do not • Wear a helmet, eye
remove them for any reason. protection, and protective
clothing.
• R e a d ow n e r ’s ma nu a l
c a r e f u l ly.

The owner’s manual contains important safety

information and instructions which should be
read carefully before operating the vehicle.
If the vehicle has been resold, obtain the
owner’s manual from the previous owner or
contact your local SUZUKI dealer for
assistance.

10-8
3

WARNING AVERTISSEMENT

This unit contains high-pressure nitrogen gas.

Mishandling can cause explosion.
• Keep away from fire and heat.
• Read owner’s manual for more information.
L’amortisseur contient de l’azote sous haute pression.
Toute mauvaise manipulation peut causer une explosion.
• Tenir à l’écart du feu et de la chaleur.
• Lire le manuel du propriétaire pour plus d’informations.

COLD TIRE SOLO RIDING DUAL RIDING

PRESSURE kPa kgf/cm2 psi kPa kgf/cm2 psi
FRONT 225 2.25 33 225 2.25 33
REAR 250 2.50 36 280 2.80 41
FRONT REAR
TIRE SIZE 130/80R17M/C 65H 200/60R16M/C 79H
TYPE BRIDGESTONE G853 G G852 G

10-9
5

VEHICLE EMISSION CONTROL INFORMATION SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION DISPLACEMENT : cc

ENGINE FAMILY : PERMEATION FAMILY :
EXHAUST EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM :
ENGINE TUNE-UP SPECIFICATIONS : ALL ADJUSTMENTS ARE TO BE PERFORMED WITH TRANSMISSION IN NEUTRAL
VALVE LASH : FUEL :
IDLE SPEED :
ENGINE OIL : API SF / SG OR API SH / SJ WITH JASO MA, AND VISCOSITY RATING OF SAE 10W-40
REFER TO YOUR OWNER'S MANUAL FOR ADDITIONAL MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
THIS VEHICLE CONFORMS TO U . S . EPA REGULATIONS APPLICABLE TO MODEL YEAR NEW MOTORCYCLES
AND IS CERTIFIED TO HC + NOx ENGINE FAMILY EXHAUST EMISSION STANDARD

10-10
5 California

VEHICLE EMISSION CONTROL INFORMATION SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION DISPLACEMENT : cc

ENGINE FAMILY : EVAP FAMILY :
PERMEATION FAMILY : EXHAUST EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM :
ENGINE TUNE-UP SPECIFICATIONS : ALL ADJUSTMENTS ARE TO BE PERFORMED WITH TRANSMISSION IN NEUTRAL
VALVE LASH : FUEL :
IDLE SPEED :
ENGINE OIL : API SF / SG OR API SH / SJ WITH JASO MA, AND VISCOSITY RATING OF SAE 10W-40
REFER TO YOUR OWNER'S MANUAL FOR ADDITIONAL MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
THIS VEHICLE CONFORMS TO U . S . EPA AND CALIFORNIA REGULATIONS APPLICABLE TO MODEL YEAR NEW MOTORCYCLES
AND IS CERTIFIED TO (EPA) AND (CALIFORNIA) g/km HC + NOx ENGINE FAMILY EXHAUST EMISSION STANDARDS

10-11
 6 (VL1500T)

WARNING
Improper loading can make your motorcycle
unsafe and can lead to an accident.

• Do not exceed maximum loading capacity for

each sidecase.
• Balance the load between the right and left
sides of the motorcycle.
• Make sure the lid of the sidecase is locked
VL1500T with a key before riding.

Read the owner’s manual for important

loading and tire pressure information.

Maximum loading capacity: 4.5 kg (10 lbs.) for

each sidecase.

VL1500T

10-12
SPECIFICATIONS
DIMENSIONS AND CURB MASS
Overall length ....................................................................... 2560 mm (100.8 in)
Overall width......................................................................... 990 mm (39.0 in)
Overall height ....................................................................... 1135 mm (44.7 in)
1440 mm (56.7 in) ... VL1500T
Wheelbase ........................................................................... 1675 mm (65.9 in)
Ground clearance................................................................. 140 mm (5.5 in)
Seat height ........................................................................... 720 mm (28.3 in)
Curb mass ............................................................................ 344 kg (758 lbs)
363 kg (800 lbs) ... VL1500T

ENGINE
Type...................................................................................... Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, SOHC, 54-degree, V-twin
Number of cylinders ............................................................. 2
Bore...................................................................................... 96.0 mm (3.780 in)
Stroke ................................................................................... 101.0 mm (3.976 in)
Displacement........................................................................ 1462 cm3 (89.2 cu. in)
Compression ratio ................................................................ 9.5 : 1
Fuel system .......................................................................... Fuel injection
Air cleaner ............................................................................ Paper element
Starter system ...................................................................... Electric
Lubrication system ............................................................... Wet sump
DRIVE TRAIN
Clutch ................................................................................... Wet multi-plate type
Transmission ........................................................................ 5-speed constant mesh
Gearshift pattern .................................................................. 1-down, 4-up
Primary reduction ratio ......................................................... 1.407 (76/54)
Gear ratios, Low ................................................................. 2.187 (35/16)
2nd ................................................................. 1.400 (28/20)
3rd .................................................................. 1.038 (27/26)
4rd .................................................................. 0.875 (28/32)
Top.................................................................. 0.787 (26/33)
Final reduction ratio.............................................................. 3.137 (20/17 × 32/12)
Drive system......................................................................... Shaft drive

CHASSIS
Front suspension .................................................................. Telescopic, coil spring, oil damped
Rear suspension .................................................................. Link type, coil spring, oil damped
Front fork stroke ................................................................... 130 mm (5.1 in)
Rear wheel travel.................................................................. 108 mm (4.3 in)
Caster................................................................................... 31° 10’
Trail....................................................................................... 132 mm (5.2 in)
Steering angle ...................................................................... 37° (right & left)
Turning radius....................................................................... 3.3 m (10.8 ft)
Front brake ........................................................................... Disk brake
Rear brake............................................................................ Disk brake
Front tire size........................................................................ 130/80R17M/C 65H, tubeless
Rear tire size ........................................................................ 200/60R16M/C 79H, tubeless
ELECTRICAL
Ignition type .......................................................................... Electronic ignition (Transistorized)
Spark plug ............................................................................ NGK CPR6EA-9 or DENSO U20EPR9
Battery .................................................................................. 12V 64.8kC (18Ah)/10HR
Generator ............................................................................. Three-phase A.C. Generator
Main fuse.............................................................................. 30A
Fuse ..................................................................................... 10/10/15/10/10/15/10A
Headlight .............................................................................. 12V 60/55W (H4)
Brake light/Taillight................................................................ LED
Front turn signal light ............................................................ 12V 21W
Rear turn signal light ............................................................ 12V 21W
License plate light................................................................. 12V 5W
Speedometer light ................................................................ LED
High beam indicator light...................................................... LED
Neutral indicator light............................................................ LED
Turn signal indicator light...................................................... LED
Engine coolant temperature indicator light ........................... LED
Oil pressure indicator light.................................................... LED
Fuel injection indicator light .................................................. LED
CAPACITIES
Fuel tank............................................................................... 18.0 L (4.8 US gal)
Engine oil, without filter change ......................................... 3000 ml (3.2 US qt)
With filter change.............................................. 3200 ml (3.4 US qt)
Final gear oil......................................................................... 200 – 220 ml (6.8 – 7.4 US oz)
Engine coolant...................................................................... 2650 ml (2.8 US qt)
INDEX
A C
ACCESSORIES AND LOADING ........ 1-8 CARRYING A PASSENGER ..... 1-8,5-12
ACCESSORY INSTALLATION CATALYTIC CONVERTER ...............7-81
GUIDELINES ...................................... 6-3 CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT ..................7-42
ACCESSORY USE............................. 6-2 CONCLUSION ..................................1-10
AIR CLEANER.................................. 7-16 CORROSION PREVENTION..............9-4

B E
BATTERY ........................................... 7-9 EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS ....10-3
BE EXTRA SAFETY-CONSCIOUS ON ENGINE COOLANT ..........................7-44
BAD WEATHER DAYS....................... 1-6 ENGINE COOLANT SOLUTION.........2-8
BE STREET SMART .......................... 1-9 ENGINE IDLE SPEED
BRAKES ........................................... 7-48 INSPECTION ....................................7-39
BREAK-IN........................................... 4-2 ENGINE OIL............................... 2-5,7-29
F I
FINAL GEAR OIL........................2-8,7-46 IF A COLLISION IS IMMINENT,
FRONT WHEEL REMOVAL ............. 7-63 DO SOMETHING! ...............................1-4
FUEL................................................... 2-2 IF YOU DON’T HAVE A HELMET -
FUEL HOSE ..................................... 7-40 BUY A HELMET, AND WEAR IT
FUEL SUPPLY CHECK...................... 8-2 EVERY TIME YOU RIDE ....................1-3
FUEL TANK CAP.............................. 3-26 IGNITION SWITCH .............................3-5
FUSES.............................................. 7-78 IGNITION SYSTEM CHECK ...............8-3
INSPECTION AFTER CLEANING ....9-10
G INSPECTION BEFORE RIDING .. 1-7,4-5
GEARSHIFT LEVER ........................ 3-28 INSTRUMENT PANEL ........................3-8
GENERAL LUBRICATION ................. 7-8
K
H KEY .....................................................3-5
HELMET HOLDER ........................... 3-30 KNOW YOUR LIMITS .........................1-5
L O
LABELS .............................................. 1-9 ON-BOARD MOTORCYCLE
LEFT HANDLEBAR .......................... 3-18 COMPUTER DATA
LIGHT BULB REPLACEMENT......... 7-71 INFORMATION .................................10-5
LOADING GUIDELINES..................... 6-5
LOADING LIMIT ................................. 6-4 P
LOCATION OF LABELS................... 10-8 PRACTICE AWAY FROM TRAFFIC...1-7
LOCATION OF PARTS ...................... 3-2 PROCEDURE FOR RETURNING TO
SERVICE ............................................9-4
M
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ............. 7-2 R
MODIFICATION.................................. 6-7 REAR BRAKE PEDAL ......................3-30
MOST ACCIDENTS CAN BE REAR WHEEL REMOVAL ................7-66
AVOIDED............................................ 1-3 REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS ....10-7
MOTORCYCLE CLEANING ............... 9-6 RIDING ON HILLS ..............................5-9
MOTORCYCLE SAFETY RIGHT HANDLEBAR ........................3-21
FOUNDATION’S “RIDING TIPS AND
PRACTICE GUIDE” HANDBOOK
(FOR OWNERS IN USA).................... 1-9
S T
SERIAL NUMBER LOCATION ......... 10-6 TAMPERING WITH NOISE CONTROL
SIDE STAND .................................... 3-32 SYSTEM PROHIBITED ....................10-4
SIDE STAND/IGNITION THROTTLE CABLE
INTERLOCK SYSTEM ..................... 7-61 ADJUSTMENT ..................................7-38
SIDECASE (VL1500T)...................... 3-34 TIRES................................................7-56
SPARK PLUG................................... 7-24 TOOLS ................................................7-7
SPECIAL SITUATIONS REQUIRE
SPECIAL CARE.................................. 1-5 U
STARTING OFF AND SHIFTING ....... 5-5 USING THE TRANSMISSION ............5-7
STARTING THE ENGINE................... 5-2
STEERING LOCK............................... 3-7 W
STOPPING AND PARKING ............. 5-10 WARRANTIES ..................................10-2
STORAGE PROCEDURE .................. 9-2

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