The American cruiser motorcycle is a cultural icon, built for long, straight roads. While Harley-Davidson dominates the market, not all cruisers are made equal. Reliability has often been a weak point for American brands, though improvements have been made. Conversely, Japanese manufacturers prioritize dependability above all else – sometimes at the expense of traditional style. The Suzuki Boulevard M109R uniquely bridges this gap, delivering classic American presence with proven Japanese engineering.
The “Super Size Me” Cruiser Movement
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, motorcycle manufacturers engaged in a size arms race. Cruisers became increasingly massive, pushing the boundaries of practicality. The Boulevard M109R, launched in 2006, fully embraced this trend with the widest rear tire ever fitted to a production motorcycle and an oversized engine. Remarkably, Suzuki has left the design virtually unchanged for nearly two decades, proving its durability while maintaining a distinctive, aggressive aesthetic.
Value and Performance: A Unique Proposition
The M109R offers an unusual value proposition. At $15,799, it remains the most powerful cruiser under $20,000, outpacing competitors like the Harley-Davidson Low Rider S and Sport Chief. However, its lack of modern safety features such as ABS and traction control raises questions about its price relative to bikes like the Sportster S, which offer six-axis IMUs and ride-by-wire throttle for a similar cost.
Under the Hood: A Powerful V-Twin
The M109R’s 1,786cc, 54-degree V-twin engine is the heart of its appeal. Liquid-cooled despite its finned appearance, the DOHC head produces 123 horsepower at 6,200 RPM and 118 pound-feet of torque at 3,200 RPM. This configuration creates a broad torque band, making it exceptionally flexible. A five-speed transmission and shaft drive complete the drivetrain.
Conventional Chassis with Sportbike DNA
The chassis is a conventional steel double cradle frame, but the suspension setup defies cruiser norms. It features 46mm inverted cartridge forks upfront and a progressive linkage single shock hidden under the seat at the rear. The front brakes, sourced from an older GSX-R1000, include dual 310mm discs with radial four-piston calipers – a rarity on cruisers twenty years ago. The rear uses a more standard 274mm disc with a two-piston caliper.
Dimensions and Weight: A Heavy Hitter
The M109R is a full-size cruiser, measuring 95.5 inches long with a 67.3-inch wheelbase. The 27.8-inch seat height is surprisingly manageable given the engine’s height and the hidden rear shock. Weighing in at 764 pounds wet, it’s a substantial machine.
Unchanged for Two Decades: A Time Capsule on Two Wheels
The M109R remains remarkably unchanged after two decades on the market. The instrument cluster consists of a handlebar-mounted digital tachometer and a tank-mounted analog speedometer with digital readouts for fuel, odometer, tripmeters, and time. It lacks electronic throttle, assist, or slipper clutch, relying on a traditional cable-operated system.
Competition: Harley-Davidson and Beyond
The M109R competes with the BMW R 18 ($15,395), Indian Sport Chief ($19,999), Harley-Davidson Low Rider S ($19,999), and Harley-Davidson Sportster S ($15,999). Harley-Davidson’s recent price drops make its cruisers increasingly competitive. The Street Bob, in particular, offers comparable reliability and lower-rev torque for a slightly higher price, weighing 118 pounds less than the Suzuki. The choice between belt drive (Harley) and shaft drive (Suzuki) impacts driveline efficiency, meaning real-world performance may be similar despite the power differences. The Street Bob also offers greater potential for customization.
The Boulevard M109R is a niche offering: a powerful, reliable cruiser that blends Japanese engineering with a distinctly American aesthetic. While it lacks modern amenities, its raw performance and enduring design make it a unique contender in a crowded market.
