Suzuki Boulevard C50: Specs, Background, Performance & More

Suzuki has made a name for itself by providing excellent cruiser technology to the world. The motorcycle company understands the needs of its target audience and never fails to deliver quality products. Suzuki motorcycles are considered some of the best in the world.

In this article, we bring you another outstanding cruiser that is great for daily commutes, urban joyrides, and adventurous exploration. The all-new dynamic Suzuki C50 Boulevard has an impressive traditional cruiser style, bold paint with subtle graphics, and a V-twin motor, this bike has dominated the market floor.

Read on to find out more about this exciting addition to the lengthy Suzuki C50 Boulevard lineup.

Suzuki introduced the first cruiser bike of the Boulevard C50 (VL 800) lineup back in 2001 at Daytona Bike Week. Initially, the bike was designated as a Volusia

because it was made for Volusia County, Florida. It was eventually rebranded in 2005 as the Suzuki Boulevard C50. For the convenience of our readers, we will refer to all the models (2001-present) as Boulevard C50.

From 2001 to 2004, all the Boulevard C50 bikes came with a carbureted fuel system. From 2005 onwards, Suzuki included the contemporary fuel injection system in its Boulevard C50 cruisers. At the heart of this bike lies an 800 cc engine that is slightly smaller for the bike’s large frame. However, it provides excellent low-end torque for cruising. For this reason, this small system captures the attention of bike enthusiasts. Other than the fuel system, the liquid-cooled four-stroke engine didn’t see any profound changes and kept the 45° V-twin design throughout the years. All Boulevard C50 cruisers feature a five-speed transmission, a shaft final drive, disc front, and drum rear brakes.

Here is a chart showing the differences between the 2001 to 2004 models and the 2005 onward models.

The 2005 model of Suzuki Boulevard C50 was available in the following color schemes:

• Black/Blue
• Black/Gray

The 2005 Suzuki Boulevard had a fuel injection system and wire wheels. Moreover, the cruiser was available in a touring variant called the Boulevard C50T. Let’s look at the similarities and differences:

The 2006 Suzuki Boulevard C50 bikes were only available in the classic black color.

The touring-focused variant known as the 2006 Boulevard C50T was a modish touring bike with extra premium travel-friendly accessories. The liberal use of chrome, the middleweight engine, deeply valanced fenders, and retro style were the same for both bikes. The only differences were:

The 2007 models of Boulevard C50 cruisers were similar to their predecessors in terms of bodywork and technology. The glossy paint job was revised and the cruisers were available in these head-turning color schemes:

• White/Silver
• Red/Black

The 2007 touring variant of the Boulevard C50 was a stunner with its leather studded saddle, liberal use of chrome, whitewall tires, stylish saddlebags, boulevard emblem, and bold fenders. Other than touring accessories, no major differences were found between the C50 and C50 T models of 2007.

The color scheme for the 2008 Suzuki Boulevard C50 bike were:

• Blue/Silver
• Black/Gray

These two tones were available for the standard bike. Another variant of the bike was available in a rich glossy black paintwork which contrasted well against the shiny, light-toned chrome. The 2008 models of the Boulevard C50 received a new lively design for an advanced and fresh look.

The travel-focused Boulevard C50T was also launched in 2008 for riders who liked traveling on uncharted motorcycle roads. No new changes were reported in the 2008 touring models.

The 2009 Boulevard C50 cruisers were available in two beautiful paints:

• Red
• Black

The 2009 Standard Boulevard C50 cruisers saw some new changes which were extended to the 2009 C50T trim. Here are the full details:

Some distinct features that the 2009 C50T Boulevard had but were missing in the standard C50 trim:

A special edition cruiser was also introduced in 2009, including the following exclusive features:

• Multi-spoke cast-aluminum wheels.
• Pinstripe design
• A new speedometer design
• Newly designed front and rear fenders. The rear fender also got a new LED taillight.

No changes were reported in the 2010 and 2011 Suzuki C50 Boulevard Standard and C50T Touring models. The color scheme was the same as the previous year.

In 2012, Suzuki introduced the Standard C50 model in black. However, the Boulevard C50T trim was available in the following two color tones:

• Metallic Triton Blue
• Glass Splash White

This year saw a classic middleweight cruiser being added to the lineup called the C50T Boulevard Classic. A perfect blend of standard and tourer specs, the bike had a strong retro style with modern technology which made it perfect for urban and highway settings.

The 2013 Standard variants of the Boulevard C50 were available in a single color:

• Glass Sparkle Black

The Tourer variants of the Boulevard C50T had these vibrant paint options:

• Glass Splash White/Metallic Mystic Silver
• Candy Sonoma Red/Glass Sparkle Black

A special edition Boulevard C50 was also released in 2013. With its retro style cues, modern design, golden pinstriping, drilled hydraulic brake discs, and teardrop fuel tank, the bike sizzled on the showroom floors and gained many admirers. The performance figures and engineering concept were similar to the standard bike which made it popular amongst riders.

In 2014, the bike didn’t see any new or significant changes. The paintwork for the C50 and C50T was the same as last year.

The 2015 C50 Boulevard motorcycle was introduced in the following color schemes:

• Glass Sparkle Black
• Candy Daring Red

The C50T version of the bike kept the glass sparkle black paint but was also available in a different red hue:

• Candy Dark Cherry Red

Just like the other members of the family, the 2016 Suzuki C50 Boulevard bike had a robust low-maintenance engine with a small displacement of 850 cc. Other notable features include dual exhaust, a fuel injection system, reliable brakes, and a smooth suspension system. The retro style and gorgeous frame design were repeated over the decade and were still a major hit among Suzuki fans.

Suzuki C50 Boulevard:

• Glass Black Sparkle 
• Pearl Glacier White

Suzuki C50T Boulevard:

• Glass Black Sparkle 

The color scheme for the 2017 bikes was the same as the previous year.

Other than the glass sparkle black, the 2018 models of the C50 Boulevard cruisers received the following paint option:

• Metallic Oort Gray

But the C50T Boulevard was only available in standard glass sparkle black paint.

Due to its high demand, the glass sparkle black paint was also used for the 2019 models. A new color was also added:

• Metallic Mystic Silver

The 2020 C50 Boulevard models were available in the following color schemes:

• Glass Sparkle Black
• Candy Daring Red

The C50T was available in the following color schemes:

• Metallic Oort Gray No.3

The 2021 C50 Boulevard models were launched in the following color schemes:

• Candy Daring Red
• Solid Iron Gray

The C50T came in the following color schemes:

• Pearl Brilliant White

The colors of the latest 2022 model included the following:

• Candy Daring Red
• Solid Iron Gray

The 2022 C50T Boulevard model launched in the following paint job:

• Pearl Brilliant White

The Suzuki Boulevard C50 cruiser is a head-turning bike with its traditional cruiser style, double-cradle steel frame, and small yet powerful 800 cc motor. At first glance, you will notice the aesthetic features of this bike including high-in-demand, stylish heavy valanced fenders, a kicked-out front fork, and a chrome decorated staggered dual exhaust system.

The front fork comes with stainless steel covers and the link-style rear suspension is hidden from view to give this bike a classic “hardtail” cruiser look.

Sleek and sophisticated, the frame of the bike looks beautiful with a shiny paint job and exquisite muted tank graphics. The fuel tank can hold 4.1 gallons of fuel for uninterrupted long hauls and complements the fenders and wheels.

The instrument panel is tank-mounted and includes a gear-position indicator, fuel meter, and clock. The rear fenders are equipped with turn signals and offer plenty of space for the convenient installation of custom saddlebags.

The engine greatly contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the bike. The Boulevard C50 engine features highly polished aluminum and chrome covers which looks striking against the frame and cylinders.

The four-stroke, liquid-cooled, V-twin engine has sufficient power and is designed to deliver low to mid-range rpm torque. The 3D-mapped digital ignition system utilizes a throttle-position sensor to enhance the signature low-end torque of the V-twin motor. Plus, it has an efficient fuel injection system with a Suzuki dual throttle valve to maintain the optimum rate of air velocity for a smooth throttle response at low to mid-rpm, ensuring a comfortable cruising experience. The engine utilizes offset crankpins and dual pipes to produce a deep, rhythmic rumble that will surely put a smile on your face as soon as you fire up the engine.

The wet clutch is effortless and supplies engine power to the five-speed transmission for smooth gear changes. All the gear ratios are carefully selected with a high fifth gear ratio for a smooth and comfortable riding experience. The clean low-maintenance shaft drive is responsible for transmitting power to the rear tire.

The strong telescopic front suspension provides 5.5 inches of wheel travel. On the other hand, the rear suspension with its seven-way adjustable spring preload is connected to the truss-style swingarm and single shock absorber. Moreover, it provides 5.5 inches of wheel travel. The 33° rake and 65.2-inch wheelbase add to the comfort of the bike.

The use of chrome on the orthodox spoke-style wheels gives the cruiser its traditional look. The wide 15-inch front tire and thick 16-inch rear tire augment the old-school character of the motorcycle. The tires offer excellent traction to reduce the risk of drifting in less than favorable weather conditions.

The Suzuki Boulevard C50 has a hydraulic front disc and rear drum brakes for confidence-boosting stopping power.

The Suzuki Boulevard C50 features wide buck-horn style handlebars, a spacious and firm leather saddle that reaches 27.6 inches above the ground, and roomy forward-mount floorboards for comfortable footrests. These accessories provide a relaxed and natural riding position that alleviates unnecessary strain on the back, nerves, and arms.

For maximum visibility at night, the bike comes with a bright multi-reflector headlight and an LED taillight.

For the 2022 Boulevard C50 model, Suzuki offers a 12-month unlimited mileage plan and a limited warranty to clients for peace of mind in case your bike suffers a mechanical breakdown.

The suggested base price of the Suzuki C50 Boulevard is $8,609. The price may vary depending on your location.

The bikes are low-maintenance, reliable, and will last for a long time if driven with care. It is estimated that with proper maintenance, the owner can easily get 75,000 miles on the Suzuki C50 Boulevard.

The Suzuki C50 Boulevard has a horsepower of 52 hp at 6000 rpm and can reach a top speed of 110 mph.

The Suzuki C50 Boulevard is a great bike and quite affordable. It has a powerful liquid-cooled four-stroke V-twin engine that supports long-distance cruising. The suspensions, brakes, fuel induction system, and five-speed transmission work perfectly together for a comfortable riding experience. The style and ergonomics augment the performance and rideability of the bike. Plus, its low-maintenance parts and 12-month warranty make it a catch. However, it is better to rent this bike first and see if it suits your needs. You can easily rent this bike from your nearest rental company for an enjoyable experience without fear of wasting your money over a misplaced investment.

The  Suzuki C50 Boulevard is an awesome ride with its small and lightweight engine that generates sufficient cruising power and peak torque. The bike is engineered to offer excellent maneuverability, handling, and braking. The retro style is nostalgic and awe-inspiring. You just can’t resist the charm of this outstanding middleweight cruiser. Not to mention you get all of these specs under $10,000.

The bike is available in two variants: the Standard (without touring accessories) and the pricier Tourer with accessories. If we look at the average base price of the Standard bike - as provided by Suzuki itself - it is $8,609 for the latest model. On the other hand, the Tourer variant is priced at $10,059. The question is which bike would be a better purchase if you plan to customize it?

Though both bikes are affordable and can be customized on a budget, in our opinion, it is far better to purchase the Standard C50 Boulevard and modify it according to individual needs and tastes. This is because, performance and technology-wise, both bikes are the same. Hence, your Standard variant can be changed into a Tourer with a few aftermarket parts.

Here are a few ways you can convert your Standard C50 Boulevard cruiser into a tourer.

First and foremost, add a pair of quality saddlebags. There is a large selection of luggage available online and in brick-and-mortar stores. You can install hard saddlebags or soft ones that are leather-textured, waterproof, and feature a security lock system. When planning a motorcycle tour on long and mysterious roads, you cannot compromise on riding comfort. The best comfort-enhancing accessories include  sissy bars,  passenger backrest,  handlebars, and  saddle/solo seats. Plus, this custom upgrade will allow you to replace the original leather saddle with a fancy metal studded, leather-textured seat.

Again, this is just a suggestion. If you are more inclined toward the Tourer version, go for it without any hesitation. After all, bike riding is nothing without sheer joy, personal satisfaction, and freedom.