True.. I bought a brand new Suzuki Intruder C800/VL800 K9 in 2009 and have been riding it until 2020 (when I had to sell it). It was truly a superb bike and a perfect fit for me and all my preferences. So naturally, after a forced break (2020-2022) I wanted to buy another brand new one for the 2023 season - but to my displeasure I have found out, that in the meantime, these ceased to be imported and sold in the EU, due to a few really stupid emission norms imposed on us here. The only new cruisers I could buy were from HD, Indian or BMW, with the lowest price for a very basic version of any of these was around 15k EUR - and frankly, I liked none of the models visually or performance-wise and I really felt quite a lot of discomfort, when I tried a few out - and just to provide some context here, the models I'd go for (visuals + performance + comfort) started around 25k and their regular maintenance in a service center would cost me 5 times more than what I had with the VL800. So I said "screw this shit" and bought a carburetor-operated 2003 model of VL800 for 4k and then, later the same year, a 2007 Boulevard C90T for 6,5k. With all the accessories and maintenance and new tires for the VL800 (which is the EU version of the C50), I didn't even get to the 5k level - and the bike runs perfectly. I yet have to do the service check & maintenance on the Boulevard C90T (I plan to replace the OEM rectifier/regulator with a mosfet one and possibly replace the stator), but I can already tell, that the cost of all that for both bikes won't even reach the price of any afore-mentioned base models from HD or Indian or BMW. BTW my Intruder VL800 K9 never had any issues, never left me stranded and the only type of service done on it over the period of 11 seasons were regular service checks & maintenance - and the first time I had to recharge the battery was prior to the 2019 season. In this regard I wish the best of luck to HD and Indian and BMW owners and their bikes.

Because of the way the higher octane fuel works & after 11+ seasons with the VL800 I tend to disagree.. Typically, the higher the octane number, the better the performance AND it also prolongs the longevity of the engine, as it lowers the chance of spontaneous combustion, which may damage the engine due to knocking. In the EU, you typically get 95oct, but ocassionally, it's good to blow out the carbon by putting in a 98oct or 100oct gas. 92oct is the minimum I'd put in - and coincidentally, it's what they recommend in the manual.

Still has the cat but we don't have the emissions test here in Arkansas so I don't se why it wouldn't with just a exhaust exchange..

Thats great to hear. I just bought it and in illinois it has to pass emmisions. I didnt know if it was catless or what. Thanks for the info bro

Right now he rides a harley and likes the bike he's on and if it was la little cheaper he definitely would switch over .. he found o e for about 22,000 in texas somewhere.. but still haven't been asked to go on a road trip...lol

Yes..size wise..

Intruder 800 may as well refer to the VZ800, which is a different beast (more chopper-esque). So you have to search for Intruder VL800 / C800 which is the EU designation of the US-labelled Boulvards C50.

Hi, can you share with us your experience with your C50?

It still.looked and sounded good all the way till it was wrecked last month.. never started to rust. Seemed to be a good kit.. was told the if you want a good sound to do a catless downpipe..

I've drove few of these boulevards and it sounds pretty normal...

@@bruboll74 yes I personally have one c50 and is completely normal, and it depends how you shift or your style of shifting, but great bike one of the best midsize cruiser on the market

@@bruboll74 your downshifting is crap,,blip the throttle when downshifting.

You ever end up getting it?

Got this exhaust at a good deal and plan to put a catted DP as well. Looking for good, loud-ish sound but minimal rasp-honda-scream as it is my daily driver. Do you have a sound clip of your setup? I would really appreciate it! Thanks you....happy driving!!

@@aerofox124 i do have a sound clip. How do I send it to you? I don’t see an option here.

@@ashtonjohnson343 u should upload a video so I can here yours and compare how they sound.

I'll check the drives haft splined.. thanks for the info and drive safely my friend 🙂...

@@bruboll74 I saw one vidio where the guy pulled his out and got a palm full of rust, no good. Can't wait to ride this year. Hit the burger joints of my younger years. Good riding to you again.

Funny, i just got a c50 last month and its my first bike in 30 years. Had to ride 55 miles to get it home then 40 miles to get new tires. Sounds like we are doing the same adventure. Peace guys.

@@edrussell7960 I was lucky only about 3 miles to get it home. Not used to a heel-toe shifter didn't realize I was going through gears wanting to go slow home. Like gee, seems awful fast for 3rd gear. 100 mile round trip for Michilin Commander 2 tires. And dodged rain on way home, good riding to you too. Make sure driveshaft spline has lube, Suzuki has reputation of sending them out dry.

I have the same motorcycle, same year and colors , for about three years, 18,000 a few days back, and I honestly have to say is one of the best machines I ever had ,no problems no issues runs like a tank very strong motorcycle, enjoy your ride buddy, and ride safe

Which seam did you seal with JB welds?

Exactly!!!