A hydraulic clutch, is great on that bike!! I have 2009 m109r with 95000 km on it and have changed the clutch, tires, oil, pipes, air cleaner, cams, remapped a 260 rear tire! Risers, windshield. Rode it every where!! Love that bike!! The shifting from 1st gear to 2 gear always makes a clunk, it’s normal !
I own one and I agree. The thing you always hear is how powerful they are. What no one says is that they're still a cruiser, they ride nice at the speed limit, and at low speeds. They use only marginally more fuel than the M50 if ridden respectfully. The ergonomics are amazing for us tall chaps. You can twist the wrist every now and then, but they're just awesome to cruise on
I had a pearl white one from 2007 (only had a year...moved to ski town in Colorado)....To this day it is still the best bike I have ever owned...And that is exactly why I am excited to get a new 2021 one in black/blue. You can't not smile on this bike.
Man I hear ya. I have a black & Chrome 109R that I absolutely love. Shaved the red tail light & blacked it out. I also moved the license plate to the side of the rear tire and lowered it 1.25 inches. It looks so tough & is such a fun bike to ride. I always wonder if I'm doing something wrong shifting from 1st to 2nd when I shift & hear that clunking sound. But I've read so much about them & learned these bikes have so much torque & beefy gears. I get so many compliments on it. I've had so many crotch rockets b4 this 1 and it would be hard to ever sell or trade ot man Be safe out there.
i love the wallowing of the bike at idle. Also its such a pretty bike I hope I can get one, one day if i ever have enough money for a just for fun bike.
Matthias It's a very relaxing bike to ride, corners surprisingly well, although it doesn't have much lean angle (most cruisers are similar), plenty of torque and comfortable for hours in the saddle.
Yes I just bought a 2017 2 weeks ago with just over 20,000 miles on it. My 2nd gear clunks in to place but works fine. It was clean until it was dropped in a parking garage :( Ah now it has character! Loving it. Cheers!
I have 2018 and still have, it is amazing still a conversation starter and still makes me giggle and smile while riding, have filter and freedom 2into1 and woke up the bike even more 😄 enjoy the ride
I really like the look of the M series bikes, the M90 and 109 look great. Almost the the Hyabusa of cruisers. Especially when they have the hard cover replacing the pillion seat.
Thanks for this presentation. I have an M90 I bought new in 2009. HA! only 9000 miles so far. Runs so nice, never in the shop for issues. I have changed the oil and filter twice and that is it. A great smaller brother to the 109. 🙂
Hey man. Have you been on an m109 also? Asking because I’m trying to figure out which to go with. I’m 6ft 250 and wondering if the M90 is a good choice. Unsure if it’s a lot smaller than the 109 or about the same size.
@@tdz69 Hello there! Sorry to say, I have never been on an M109. We did have one in our rider's group, but, that was a long time ago. I am about 6' and 168 lbs, so the M90 fits very well. The fellow in our group with the 109 sadly passed away. I would say he was around your weight and perhaps a bit shorter but the bike really looked good for him when I was behind in our rides. His was yellow with the white stripe. My M90 is the black with blue metallic flecks in it. You have to look close in direct sunlight to really see the beauty in that paint scheme. The M90 is a high revving, 100HP 1500 and will actually hit about 70mph in SECOND gear, you can ask around on that one! Good luck with your decision. 🙂
I have yet to get used to the power of my M109R but, I have rode other bikes and had to put them down and jump back on my M109R because it is just another feeling riding this bike. I have an 06 M109R and I've told myself that the only way i would get rid of it is to get another M109R.
The whine sounds is normal when it’s in first gear and the revs are on or If slowing down in first as the grind sound from first to second gear change is normal change gear earlier and use the power instead
Lane splitting on that bike looks like a slight chore. 🤣 But watching this reminds me of how gnarly the m109r is. Such a beast! And thanks for the shout out! 💯🤙
Such a beast indeed. Dude you’re a legend! Keep up the good work on the channel. I wanna buy a DRZ next based on your videos. You need to do more DR-Z content.
You also need to shift with authority when going from 1 to 2. That whine doesn't sound nornal though? The gas gauge will stay on Full 5 bars for a while but once you drop thst first notch it goes quick!
Actually it turns on on the M109 the whine is normal and you either have to shift at 2500 rpm or at 6500. Anything in between crunches. Authority or not. But when I shift at 2500 like some suggested here and on the forum it shifts nice and smooth. I did about 50 miles today. Lots of stop and go and 1->2 at 2500 was buttery smooth.
@@AverageCarGuy I dunno, I been riding mine for 3 years and mine doesn't whine. Thrn again my exhaust is so loud it probably drowns it out lol. Also check your clutch cable also, if it's too tight it makes it difficult to shift. This bike is also notorious for snapping the clutch cable because of the way it's routed OEM at the front motor mount. By the way, where do live? Those are some pretty backgrounds !
@@NSTY109 Yes the clutch cable was super taught. I loosed it yesterday quite a bit following the owner's manual. I live in SoCal. Thanks for the pointers!
I recently bought (on purpose) a '10 C-109R. Very similar bike, but with classic cruiser styling, and tuned for even more low down torque than the M, and it's a whole lot of bike, and as you said, at just shy of 800lb, it has no right being as fast as it is both in acceleration and handling. I also love hitting 4th where all the electronic power limiters are lifted. I swear it pulls as hard in 4th as it does in 1st. I hope you've still got it, are still enjoying it, and have a cheesy grin every time you ride it.
Change from 1st gear to 2nd at 1500 2000 rpm and make a 1 second pause in neutral ant u wont hear a thing ,when u have 4 lines from 5 at the fuel gauge u have around 9-10 liters left and from there will drop a line at every 2 litres.
@@AverageCarGuy got ya! I have an Electra glide right now. Looking to get a smaller cruiser . Let me know if you have any input ! I’m more into comfort than speed. Ride safe bro
I have s 2007 model. Actually this bike goes by a whole bunch of different names... M109R (Boulevard) in the States, M1800R (Intruder) here in the UK, and my log book has it under its other alias, VZR1800. But whatever you want to call it, it really is an awesome bike. I was looking for something in the genre you described, somewhere between cruiser and sports. If the Kawasaki Vulcan S had been a bit bigger I may well have gone for it; I at the other end of the scale I also considered the Triumph Rocket 3 but I'm 5"8* and it has a higher seat (didn't fancy balancing 800lbs of bike on my toes at the lights.) Then I happened on this and it seemed to tick all the boxes. I have never regretted it; it has the looks, presence and attitude, the "clamshell" riding position suits me perfectly, I can flat foot it at the lights, the seat is comf-or-table and the power is...well, it's what you said!! You don't even notice it, at first I was shocked when I checked the speedo after taking off. But it also demands a lot of respect, especially when you are still unfamiliar with it. The power draws you in but you have to resist because the sheer length means corners take a bit of extra planning especially on some of the narrow twisties we get over here. And on that subject, thanks to the low ground clearance I scraped the pegs a few times at first. Likewise with braking, you don't want to leave it until the last minute on a bike with this much weight and power Of course I'm comparing it with most other bikes, it might be different if you're already riding something like a Harley V-Rod but this is how it compares with my other bike (Kawasaki Z1000SX.) Which is also awesome in its own way and is my practical choice for commuting etc, or in poor weather conditions (it has Pilot 4 tyres and ABS which is sadly lacking on my M1800R/) But for me riding is about pleasure and much as I love them both, if I could only keep one, I would choose the M1800R.and use the car in the rain.
@@yourwindowguy1 Enjoy! Yes it lasts, and it will always turn heads as well! If I ever sold mine i(which I won't) it would only be to buy another M1800R.
The stock exhaust on the 9 is pretty sexy to look at. HOWEVER Once you get an open after market exhaust and roll the power on hard in 2nd or 3rd gear…. OH MY GOD! This Godzilla roars!
I've had my m190r for a year now and you DO get used to the power/torque and those rough shifts will come fewer and further between the more your muscle memory adapts
The brakes are fine considering the weight of the bike. I've lost traction on the back wheel maybe 3 times in all my time riding from emergency stops but the bike stayed upright
I felt the same way to be perfectly honest. I had only ever ridden sports bikes before this so it was a big switch in riding from feet position, weight, and response. This ended up being a good thing in a way because that made me extra careful at the beginning because everything felt so different. You will adjust to the power/torque but I do recommend being careful with the throttle from a dead stop because in really does not take much to get her moving, and it is really a blessing the more you do it.
Great tip on the RPMS. The blacked out exhaust etc look like they don’t wear too well. I love the look but I think chrome is the way to go. Not sure how you maintain the black. Can look ratty pretty fast.
Lovely bike, sound I think is transmission or shaft drive; watch your blinkers as a real hazard for oncoming traffic, can fear DDTFM in my ears.. nice video
Shaft drive does produce a whine. 1 to 2 shift on most M109's is not silky smooth. Yes...the giggle factor is ridiculous! Plus people are always curious about it and really seem to like it.
The M109 has a Bore and Stroke of 4.40" x 3.56" -Honda VTX1800 is 3.98 x 4.41" (way longer stroke). -Big block Chevy 454 7.1L is 4.25" x 4.00" Harley 2022 117ci stock engine: 4.075” x 4.50" (longest stroke of any engine?) -Chevy 8100 Vortec 496 heavy duty gas truck engine with a 4.31" x 4.25" (8.1L). -Dodge 360 has a 4.00 x 3.58." Nearly identical stroke to the M109 Suzuki. -Chevy 350 4.0" x 3.48" The elephant in the room, how the hell did VTX manage to run a 4.41" stroke, and not self destruct the bike with the torque. The VTX has 25% longer stroke, which is crazy.
These Bikes have issues with the 1st to 2nd shift, it's not the clutch. I preload the shifter before I pull in the clutch and it shifts much better. I also short shift from 1st to 2nd gear, it has so much torque it doesn't matter one bit. Also make that 2nd gear shift firmly. They also sell a shift improver kit that can help.
Your 1st to 2nd shift issue, if I understand it correctly, can be fixed with a ATRE. It makes low speed shifts less twitchy. I had one on my first 9 but not on my new one. I'm reminded I need to put one in every time I ride the new one. It's plug n play... and a cheap fix. Gman industries I think it was manufactured by. ✌
I have the yellow 2014 one. I have been riding for >20 years and this is one of the most interesting motorcycles I have ever owned. A quick question, what is your gas mileage on a tank? I have heard 32-33mpg although I might be in the 20s.
I use a double-check system before I walk out the door items I double check my wallet my scarf to keep the sun off my neck my cell phone and my hand sanitizer. The enthusiasm and anticipation it's so great sometimes before riding your bike it's easy to forget some of your stuff the double-check system works most of the time though.
Yeah 1st to 2nd it shifts like a tractor. However if you ever feel up to the labor, split the gear box open and send 2nd gear off to a machine shop to have the dogs back cut. It’s a bit of a design flaw. Once solved it’s much better.
That sound is normal. weight is low center of gravity which is why it is easy to handle. blinkers are not self cancelling. you will get use to it as you ride it for awhile. I would not recommend lane splitting. The older M109r were hard to go from 1st to 2nd gear. Mine was a 2014 and I did not have that problem. You can even start off in 2nd gear because of the torque. the problem of 1st to 2nd gear has nothing to do with the clutch. so leave the clutch alone. People who ride cruisers really need to be care when riding the bullet bikes or cafe bikes because of the torque and speed of the bike. You always have to respect the speed and torque of a motorcycle. From the sound of the engine it sounds like there is nothing to worry about. You need to get fuel. You have a great Motorcycle so enjoy it.
I had almost the same story. Friend brought bike over(R1) I hop on and minutes later wrecked at 150 with no helmet. Walked away. Lots of road rash. No head injuries. Released from hospital next day. Very banged up though
Wow. 150 and you walked?!! Dude. I hope you know how incredibly lucky you were. Make each day count. Actually I had a close call yesterday on Angeles Crest. Really spooked me.
They're great bikes I've got a 2015 I love it but they suck on mileage say I weighed in on my bike on a scale at work a couple years back it just under 1100 lb with me and the bike full tank of fuel and you say you were running at about 4,000 RPM I usually run mine for cruising at around 2,800 to 3,000 in fifth gear
I swear people are going to see me all o er these old videos praising this bike but i cant help myself lol i love my '08 i was trying to find the difference between the M109R & The B.O.S.S is the Boss just a trim? Paint,blacked out metal,etc...?
Welcome to the club! Highly recommended you check out the M109R Riders, Friends, and Family group on Facebook.. there's a large and knowledgeable community there worth being a part of. There's a ton of information on the various quirks of this beast. If you have questions it's a great place to research.. facebook.com/groups/209694252391978/?ref=share
So one of the first things many of us do is swap out the exhaust and send your ECU to BCS for flashing. Also check out Brandon Bicaso, he's an M109R You Tube'r out of AL.
I've got the exact one, same color and all. Love my M109r. Who need ABS on a ~800lb bike? Part of the thrill riding this beast. 😂 And, this bike ain't made for the man who needs to look down and see his speed.
It sounds like this bike is a little too much for you. Judging by the bikes in your garage I bet you've never ridden a bike with this much low end torque. If you go Wide Open in 1st gear it feels like the front will come up. Not bad for an 800lb cruiser.Right? Get used to it first then this bike will give you plenty of eye opening experience. I've owned 2. An 09 and a 2019. And I always get a kick out of Harleys racing me. Even with their 131cc SS engine they don't stand a chance. Enjoy!
"Accidentally" my ass, but hey...if that's your story. LOL I'd buy one of those in a heartbeat if one came up at auction at the right price. I've wanted an M109R since they first hit the market. That and a Gen2 Busa.
those shifts are lurching you pretty bad, because you're letting off the clutch pretty quick and twisting down at the same time. If you're clutch shifting, be more slow and deliberate. Otherwise, quick cuts on the throttle and firm lifts on that shifter my guy -edit- Also sounds like your clutch cable might be loose or something, causing that "grind".
The M109r has a similar problem as the Suzuki Marauder (1600cc) - to switch from 1st to 2nd; one has to really push it in to 2nd otherwise it goes into neutral. A Suzuki thing they say and I have owned both the bikes.
Get that noise checked its not normal unless someone with miles of 25,000 says that's what happens otherwise its a great muscle cruiser I have the 2018 M109R coming from a 2000 Suzuki TLR1000 and am enjoying this bike more than the street bike which I Rode for 18 years 60, 000 miles before if finally died.
If you research this problem there has been a Class Action Suit against Suzuki about this. Problem is people love to hotrod these and they're heavy bikes and can't take that fast 1st to 2nd shift. My 2008 is still just fine, just gotta beware.
A hydraulic clutch, is great on that bike!! I have 2009 m109r with 95000 km on it and have changed the clutch, tires, oil, pipes, air cleaner, cams, remapped a 260 rear tire! Risers, windshield. Rode it every where!! Love that bike!! The shifting from 1st gear to 2 gear always makes a clunk, it’s normal !
Holy Moly , man you are a lucky one ! Amazing bike 👍 thanks for the video 🇯🇵🇯🇵🇯🇵
Suzuki does not play. That's one of the most amazing bikes ever made.
Very true!
I own one and I agree. The thing you always hear is how powerful they are. What no one says is that they're still a cruiser, they ride nice at the speed limit, and at low speeds. They use only marginally more fuel than the M50 if ridden respectfully. The ergonomics are amazing for us tall chaps. You can twist the wrist every now and then, but they're just awesome to cruise on
There's always a modification literally inside a Suzuki waiting to be had/ opened like a gift from the manufacturer.
@@darryllzwiers7257 cruiser is a Harley term, these are muscle bikes I doubt youve ridden one saying that.
@jed-uq4yz your a goose
I had a pearl white one from 2007 (only had a year...moved to ski town in Colorado)....To this day it is still the best bike I have ever owned...And that is exactly why I am excited to get a new 2021 one in black/blue. You can't not smile on this bike.
I love it in white. Looks incredible. Reminds me a white orca. So badass.
The shift from first to second is an M109R special it always churches if you have a high rev on first, change it earlier and it shifts a lot smoother
Man that really sucks. Every time I shift I feel like I’m crushing puppy bones. Cringe worthy feeling.
@@AverageCarGuy shift around 2500rpm and on first and it changes like a sport bike
Man I hear ya.
I have a black & Chrome 109R that I absolutely love. Shaved the red tail light & blacked it out. I also moved the license plate to the side of the rear tire and lowered it 1.25 inches. It looks so tough & is such a fun bike to ride. I always wonder if I'm doing something wrong shifting from 1st to 2nd when I shift & hear that clunking sound. But I've read so much about them & learned these bikes have so much torque & beefy gears. I get so many compliments on it. I've had so many crotch rockets b4 this 1 and it would be hard to ever sell or trade ot man
Be safe out there.
i love the wallowing of the bike at idle. Also its such a pretty bike I hope I can get one, one day if i ever have enough money for a just for fun bike.
Matthias It's a very relaxing bike to ride, corners surprisingly well, although it doesn't have much lean angle (most cruisers are similar), plenty of torque and comfortable for hours in the saddle.
Hells yeah! The m109r is such a gnarly muscle cruiser! Congrats on the new ride!
Muscle? How cute.
@@jimanders9971 it's a cruiser with torque at the wheels that rivals most sport bikes.... I'd say that qualifies as "muscle"...
@@banggugyangu its got so so torque, nothing like my cruiser but ok.
@@jimanders9971 what bike are you running?
@@banggugyangu 2020 Triumph Rocket 3. But mostly I am just being snarky, lol. The M109 is a nice scoot.
Yes I just bought a 2017 2 weeks ago with just over 20,000 miles on it. My 2nd gear clunks in to place but works fine. It was clean until it was dropped in a parking garage :( Ah now it has character! Loving it. Cheers!
That’s normal lol
I have 2018 and still have, it is amazing still a conversation starter and still makes me giggle and smile while riding, have filter and freedom 2into1 and woke up the bike even more 😄 enjoy the ride
I really like the look of the M series bikes, the M90 and 109 look great. Almost the the Hyabusa of cruisers. Especially when they have the hard cover replacing the pillion seat.
Thanks for this presentation. I have an M90 I bought new in 2009. HA! only 9000 miles so far. Runs so nice, never in the shop for issues. I have changed the oil and filter twice and that is it. A great smaller brother to the 109. 🙂
Hey man. Have you been on an m109 also? Asking because I’m trying to figure out which to go with. I’m 6ft 250 and wondering if the M90 is a good choice. Unsure if it’s a lot smaller than the 109 or about the same size.
@@tdz69 Hello there! Sorry to say, I have never been on an M109. We did have one in our rider's group, but, that was a long time ago. I am about 6' and 168 lbs, so the M90 fits very well. The fellow in our group with the 109 sadly passed away. I would say he was around your weight and perhaps a bit shorter but the bike really looked good for him when I was behind in our rides. His was yellow with the white stripe. My M90 is the black with blue metallic flecks in it. You have to look close in direct sunlight to really see the beauty in that paint scheme. The M90 is a high revving, 100HP 1500 and will actually hit about 70mph in SECOND gear, you can ask around on that one! Good luck with your decision. 🙂
I have yet to get used to the power of my M109R but, I have rode other bikes and had to put them down and jump back on my M109R because it is just another feeling riding this bike. I have an 06 M109R and I've told myself that the only way i would get rid of it is to get another M109R.
The whine sounds is normal when it’s in first gear and the revs are on or If slowing down in first as the grind sound from first to second gear change is normal change gear earlier and use the power instead
Lane splitting on that bike looks like a slight chore. 🤣 But watching this reminds me of how gnarly the m109r is. Such a beast! And thanks for the shout out! 💯🤙
Such a beast indeed. Dude you’re a legend! Keep up the good work on the channel. I wanna buy a DRZ next based on your videos. You need to do more DR-Z content.
@@AverageCarGuy Thanks, man! I need to get the drz back up and running! 💯🤙
I’m an M109R owner! It’s pure love
I can identify with that. It’s like owning a pet rhino.
@@AverageCarGuyI'm stuck between my next bike being a c109r or Honda vtx1800. I currently have an 06 Suzuki s83
You also need to shift with authority when going from 1 to 2. That whine doesn't sound nornal though?
The gas gauge will stay on Full 5 bars for a while but once you drop thst first notch it goes quick!
Actually it turns on on the M109 the whine is normal and you either have to shift at 2500 rpm or at 6500. Anything in between crunches. Authority or not. But when I shift at 2500 like some suggested here and on the forum it shifts nice and smooth. I did about 50 miles today. Lots of stop and go and 1->2 at 2500 was buttery smooth.
@@AverageCarGuy
I dunno, I been riding mine for 3 years and mine doesn't whine. Thrn again my exhaust is so loud it probably drowns it out lol.
Also check your clutch cable also, if it's too tight it makes it difficult to shift. This bike is also notorious for snapping the clutch cable because of the way it's routed OEM at the front motor mount.
By the way, where do live? Those are some pretty backgrounds !
@@NSTY109 Yes the clutch cable was super taught. I loosed it yesterday quite a bit following the owner's manual. I live in SoCal. Thanks for the pointers!
Horrible gas mileage
I recently bought (on purpose) a '10 C-109R. Very similar bike, but with classic cruiser styling, and tuned for even more low down torque than the M, and it's a whole lot of bike, and as you said, at just shy of 800lb, it has no right being as fast as it is both in acceleration and handling. I also love hitting 4th where all the electronic power limiters are lifted. I swear it pulls as hard in 4th as it does in 1st. I hope you've still got it, are still enjoying it, and have a cheesy grin every time you ride it.
Change from 1st gear to 2nd at 1500 2000 rpm and make a 1 second pause in neutral ant u wont hear a thing ,when u have 4 lines from 5 at the fuel gauge u have around 9-10 liters left and from there will drop a line at every 2 litres.
I am so in love with this bike. I cannot wait to get one, being already a Suzuki owner.
Yeah it’s a sick bike. I’ve sold it since then and moved on to some others but it was fun while I had it.
@@AverageCarGuy what do you ride now
@@jDot2414 I have like 6 bikes right now. My custom vrod is closest to the M109 but nothing quite as big atm.
@@AverageCarGuy got ya! I have an Electra glide right now. Looking to get a smaller cruiser . Let me know if you have any input ! I’m more into comfort than speed. Ride safe bro
@@jDot2414Honda makes a VT1300 line
"accidently bought it" his wife must be watching
Dead lmao.
LMMFAO!!!
I have s 2007 model. Actually this bike goes by a whole bunch of different names... M109R (Boulevard) in the States, M1800R (Intruder) here in the UK, and my log book has it under its other alias, VZR1800. But whatever you want to call it, it really is an awesome bike. I was looking for something in the genre you described, somewhere between cruiser and sports. If the Kawasaki Vulcan S had been a bit bigger I may well have gone for it; I at the other end of the scale I also considered the Triumph Rocket 3 but I'm 5"8* and it has a higher seat (didn't fancy balancing 800lbs of bike on my toes at the lights.) Then I happened on this and it seemed to tick all the boxes. I have never regretted it; it has the looks, presence and attitude, the "clamshell" riding position suits me perfectly, I can flat foot it at the lights, the seat is comf-or-table and the power is...well, it's what you said!! You don't even notice it, at first I was shocked when I checked the speedo after taking off. But it also demands a lot of respect, especially when you are still unfamiliar with it. The power draws you in but you have to resist because the sheer length means corners take a bit of extra planning especially on some of the narrow twisties we get over here. And on that subject, thanks to the low ground clearance I scraped the pegs a few times at first. Likewise with braking, you don't want to leave it until the last minute on a bike with this much weight and power Of course I'm comparing it with most other bikes, it might be different if you're already riding something like a Harley V-Rod but this is how it compares with my other bike (Kawasaki Z1000SX.) Which is also awesome in its own way and is my practical choice for commuting etc, or in poor weather conditions (it has Pilot 4 tyres and ABS which is sadly lacking on my M1800R/) But for me riding is about pleasure and much as I love them both, if I could only keep one, I would choose the M1800R.and use the car in the rain.
Just bought my 2007 april 13th. So far i'm impressed,
Smiles for days. I sure Hope that the joy lasts.
@@yourwindowguy1 Enjoy! Yes it lasts, and it will always turn heads as well! If I ever sold mine i(which I won't) it would only be to buy another M1800R.
@@justinneill5003 I'm still loving this thing so much the weather has been crap and I cannot wait to get back on the road!
In Australia we call it a bully.
The stock exhaust on the 9 is pretty sexy to look at.
HOWEVER
Once you get an open after market exhaust and roll the power on hard in 2nd or 3rd gear….
OH
MY
GOD!
This Godzilla roars!
I've had my m190r for a year now and you DO get used to the power/torque and those rough shifts will come fewer and further between the more your muscle memory adapts
How are the brakes on the bike?
The brakes are fine considering the weight of the bike. I've lost traction on the back wheel maybe 3 times in all my time riding from emergency stops but the bike stayed upright
@@4WallsAndaScreen thanks for the reply. I’m picking up a 2022 M109R this weekend. I’m excited but nervous.
I felt the same way to be perfectly honest. I had only ever ridden sports bikes before this so it was a big switch in riding from feet position, weight, and response. This ended up being a good thing in a way because that made me extra careful at the beginning because everything felt so different. You will adjust to the power/torque but I do recommend being careful with the throttle from a dead stop because in really does not take much to get her moving, and it is really a blessing the more you do it.
I love this bike, I own the old one from 2006 with low miles on it. Found it at a dealer this Summer, tried it twice and I was sold
Great tip on the RPMS. The blacked out exhaust etc look like they don’t wear too well. I love the look but I think chrome is the way to go. Not sure how you maintain the black. Can look ratty pretty fast.
Lovely bike, sound I think is transmission or shaft drive; watch your blinkers as a real hazard for oncoming traffic, can fear DDTFM in my ears.. nice video
Shaft drive does produce a whine. 1 to 2 shift on most M109's is not silky smooth. Yes...the giggle factor is ridiculous! Plus people are always curious about it and really seem to like it.
@@markbender379 cool, I get similar sound on my Rocket, it’s like a mini supercharger 😎
The M109 has a Bore and Stroke of 4.40" x 3.56"
-Honda VTX1800 is 3.98 x 4.41" (way longer stroke).
-Big block Chevy 454 7.1L is 4.25" x 4.00"
Harley 2022 117ci stock engine: 4.075” x 4.50" (longest stroke of any engine?)
-Chevy 8100 Vortec 496 heavy duty gas truck engine with a 4.31" x 4.25" (8.1L).
-Dodge 360 has a 4.00 x 3.58." Nearly identical stroke to the M109 Suzuki.
-Chevy 350 4.0" x 3.48"
The elephant in the room, how the hell did VTX manage to run a 4.41" stroke, and not self destruct the bike with the torque. The VTX has 25% longer stroke, which is crazy.
These Bikes have issues with the 1st to 2nd shift, it's not the clutch. I preload the shifter before I pull in the clutch and it shifts much better. I also short shift from 1st to 2nd gear, it has so much torque it doesn't matter one bit. Also make that 2nd gear shift firmly. They also sell a shift improver kit that can help.
It will be fine if it's not popping out of 2nd gear, just have to shift it properly.
Your 1st to 2nd shift issue, if I understand it correctly, can be fixed with a ATRE. It makes low speed shifts less twitchy. I had one on my first 9 but not on my new one. I'm reminded I need to put one in every time I ride the new one. It's plug n play... and a cheap fix. Gman industries I think it was manufactured by. ✌
i had one from new, mine didn't make that noise, and yes, the power and torque is huge on those things.
Hi there, those saddle bags, where can one get them?...I'm based in South Africa 🇿🇦
one of the best tips when riding, turn off your turn signal blinker after a turn. Failure to do this will get you Tboned.
You just have to rev it a little high before shifting to second and you’ll notice that it’s a lot smoother.
the first to second gear change is a known thing on these transmissions. It will grind or clunk in every time.
I have the yellow 2014 one. I have been riding for >20 years and this is one of the most interesting motorcycles I have ever owned.
A quick question, what is your gas mileage on a tank? I have heard 32-33mpg although I might be in the 20s.
Well he rode around in 3rd when he should have been in 4th or 5th so I'm sure his mpg is terrible lol
I use a double-check system before I walk out the door items I double check my wallet my scarf to keep the sun off my neck my cell phone and my hand sanitizer.
The enthusiasm and anticipation it's so great sometimes before riding your bike it's easy to forget some of your stuff the double-check system works most of the time though.
Never thought I'd say this but..... My Raider is more than enough for me. The M109R makes my beast look slow.
Superb machine.I WANT ONE! 2 wheels down, brother
Yeah 1st to 2nd it shifts like a tractor. However if you ever feel up to the labor, split the gear box open and send 2nd gear off to a machine shop to have the dogs back cut. It’s a bit of a design flaw. Once solved it’s much better.
I was thinking the exact same thing about the placement of the tach and speedo before you said it. I hope Suzuki is listening.
You get used to the power after about 3k miles. I had a 2015 m109r boss and I miss that bike daily.
I had an 09 bully. I got a Roadglide now,and just got a 2021 cherry red bully. I'm so happy to be back on this bike! Its on my utube .
That sound is normal. weight is low center of gravity which is why it is easy to handle. blinkers are not self cancelling. you will get use to it as you ride it for awhile. I would not recommend lane splitting. The older M109r were hard to go from 1st to 2nd gear. Mine was a 2014 and I did not have that problem. You can even start off in 2nd gear because of the torque. the problem of 1st to 2nd gear has nothing to do with the clutch. so leave the clutch alone. People who ride cruisers really need to be care when riding the bullet bikes or cafe bikes because of the torque and speed of the bike. You always have to respect the speed and torque of a motorcycle. From the sound of the engine it sounds like there is nothing to worry about. You need to get fuel. You have a great Motorcycle so enjoy it.
A channel I watched (Brandon Bicasso) said the early ones had a 1st to 2nd gear failure. Did you solve the issue?
You can never have too much power!
I had almost the same story. Friend brought bike over(R1) I hop on and minutes later wrecked at 150 with no helmet. Walked away. Lots of road rash. No head injuries. Released from hospital next day. Very banged up though
Wow. 150 and you walked?!! Dude. I hope you know how incredibly lucky you were. Make each day count. Actually I had a close call yesterday on Angeles Crest. Really spooked me.
Impossible
They're great bikes I've got a 2015 I love it but they suck on mileage say I weighed in on my bike on a scale at work a couple years back it just under 1100 lb with me and the bike full tank of fuel and you say you were running at about 4,000 RPM I usually run mine for cruising at around 2,800 to 3,000 in fifth gear
Thats my home town! I live off Chapman. Also you have to pre load 2nd gear, you probably know that by now.
1st gear only to get you up to 10mph. Thats why 2nd pulls osk long
LOL no wallet? No Drivers License... NO problem! Apple Pay! LOL
2nd gear was problematic in the earlier 109's but it was supposed to be fixed in the later models.
All your power down low shift to next gear and run that one instead of redlining your engine
Does it put a smile on your face)?. That was awesome.
I surely do miss Hollywood 😁and the beach. The teen years were fun in the early 90s
You only need to rev a third of what you do now to shift.. its a torque monster
"I can't even go slow" :D
I swear people are going to see me all o er these old videos praising this bike but i cant help myself lol i love my '08 i was trying to find the difference between the M109R & The B.O.S.S is the Boss just a trim? Paint,blacked out metal,etc...?
So if I want the black Suzuki M109r I need to get the M109r Boss???
I want to buy a Suzuki M109r but I want it in black
Is this compare to the vtx1800 in performance?
1:30 It sounds like you are riding with the *Emergency Brake* on.... Try disengaging it. Not many people know that the 109 has an Emergency Brake.
Where is the release for it?
@@johnnieday7865 *Above "Deez Nuts". ;-D*
What is the green light flashing?
That noise (wind?) seems unusual. Mine doesn’t do it. I wonder if it’s the panniers?????
Nice and sincere review bro... 👍❤
Welcome to the club! Highly recommended you check out the M109R Riders, Friends, and Family group on Facebook.. there's a large and knowledgeable community there worth being a part of. There's a ton of information on the various quirks of this beast. If you have questions it's a great place to research..
facebook.com/groups/209694252391978/?ref=share
So one of the first things many of us do is swap out the exhaust and send your ECU to BCS for flashing. Also check out Brandon Bicaso, he's an M109R You Tube'r out of AL.
I've got the exact one, same color and all. Love my M109r. Who need ABS on a ~800lb bike? Part of the thrill riding this beast. 😂
And, this bike ain't made for the man who needs to look down and see his speed.
Faster than the big VTX?
Nobody is talking about the transmission issues these bikes have??? Is it only a certain years?? Thats the only reason i haven't gotten one
Bro is rich af! Love it
It’s a very common issue in this bike making the change 1 to 2 gear...
The noise sounds most likely to be the drive shaft at lower gears
Riding with your blinker on man!! "Ive never done that"😗...who does that...😚
How many miles to a tank of fuel. 😊
Looks like some where in the IE California
It sounds like this bike is a little too much for you. Judging by the bikes in your garage I bet you've never ridden a bike with this much low end torque. If you go Wide Open in 1st gear it feels like the front will come up. Not bad for an 800lb cruiser.Right? Get used to it first then this bike will give you plenty of eye opening experience. I've owned 2. An 09 and a 2019. And I always get a kick out of Harleys racing me. Even with their 131cc SS engine they don't stand a chance. Enjoy!
What area were you riding through? Looks like a good place to cruise
That's Santiago Canyon nearly Orange California.
I REALLY want one!!! But I should get a licence 1st...& some lessons...
"Accidentally" my ass, but hey...if that's your story. LOL
I'd buy one of those in a heartbeat if one came up at auction at the right price. I've wanted an M109R since they first hit the market. That and a Gen2 Busa.
was that 60mph in 2nd???
Yep I have ridden one and 2nd gear really slapps 😂😂😂
im so happy just watching u
How is the M109r so far? There is a used 2016 with 6500 miles at the dealer I want to check out. 1800cc insurance must be high?
I only had it for a few months before moving on. It’s definitely a cool bike but not make for a bad back.
I dont know if you ever got one, but i paid about $499 for the year with progressive in fl.
Wait, you can get bags for that bike?!?
That noise "rubbing" noise is because it's in 1st gear, my M50 does the same.
ditto. 2019 m50
@@2405therow 2016 M50
I put mine in fifth gear and leave it there. If I come to a fifty kilometre speed limit I change to fourth.
those shifts are lurching you pretty bad, because you're letting off the clutch pretty quick and twisting down at the same time.
If you're clutch shifting, be more slow and deliberate. Otherwise, quick cuts on the throttle and firm lifts on that shifter my guy
-edit-
Also sounds like your clutch cable might be loose or something, causing that "grind".
I recommend a windshield.
I want one of theses bikes so bad. And that color is awesome.
What are you riding now? And how long have you been riding?
I've been riding 5yrs. Started with a M50 and went to a Harley Fat Bob. Had to sell awhile back due to kids but looking at getting another
@@quintenhart8330 test ride it first. It’s a very different type of bike. I’ve sold mine since. It’s super cool but very different.
its a 2018?
I need one of these
you sir is so wealthy! Im curious what you do for a living hehe God Bless!
The M109r has a similar problem as the Suzuki Marauder (1600cc) - to switch from 1st to 2nd; one has to really push it in to 2nd otherwise it goes into neutral. A Suzuki thing they say and I have owned both the bikes.
Same thing with my V-Strom DL1000. I have to be deliberate. A quicker shift in the lower revs solves it.
Get that noise checked its not normal unless someone with miles of 25,000 says that's what happens otherwise its a great muscle cruiser I have the 2018 M109R coming from a 2000 Suzuki TLR1000 and am enjoying this bike more than the street bike which I Rode for 18 years 60, 000 miles before if finally died.
Can't decide whether to buy it or not?
Wait for my next video before you decide. ;)
I really think you would love it! I've had my 2008 for 7 years now and it still makes me smile every time I ride it!
@@robertalexander2506 They say it will spoil soon and it makes me think
If you research this problem there has been a Class Action Suit against Suzuki about this. Problem is people love to hotrod these and they're heavy bikes and can't take that fast 1st to 2nd shift. My 2008 is still just fine, just gotta beware.
Lane splitting is the dumbest thing ever. I find it very hard to believe that's legal in California. Wait... No. No I don't.
At sensible speed it's not a problem through gridlock. At highway speeds it's russian roulette.
Beast
Does anyone think this bike will do 145mph.
i need this in my life
Shift immediately to second after take off.
Yeah uhh, second gears a lil tricky😅😅
That's the rubber bushings on the gas tank
Hell of a first gear