Mr. Burgman – Suzuki AN650 Burgman/Skywave

001_MOTO_0410_032

Suzuki AN650 Burgman/Skywave: 2002 - present
H., 638 cm3, 55 hp, 200,000 - 450,000 rub. Suzuki AN650 Burgman/Skywave: 2002 - present H., 638 cm3, 55 hp, 200,000 - 450,000 rub.

Overseas TWINS. Laziness and craving for comfort, as we know, are the main engines of progress, so the entire galaxy of maxi-scooters owes its birth to these two wonderful human qualities. Now the maxi scooter is one of the most popular two-wheeled vehicles in America, Europe and Japan. In Russia, as usual, belatedly, the demand for these cars is just waking up, gaining strength and strengthening. More and more people are choosing the Maksik as a means of transportation for every day, and there are many reasons for this, ranging from comfort and ease of control to purely psychological and social aspects. A Scoot, even a big one, always remains neutral in the eyes of society, unlike a motorcycle, which automatically labels its driver as a biker, with all the attendant prejudices - and this does not suit everyone.

004_MOTO_0410_033

The left remote control is second only to the Goldwing in terms of the number of keys.
Here, in addition to the standard keys, control of the variator and electric mirrors is concentrated. The left remote control is second only to the Goldwing in terms of the number of keys. Here, in addition to the standard keys, control of the variator and electric mirrors is concentrated.

Suzuki AN650 Burgman is one of the most common high-end devices in Russia. Suzuki created its 650 cc maxi scooter following the success of earlier models with 250 and 400 cc engines in 2002. Production began simultaneously in the USA under the name Burgman and in Japan, where the model was called Skywave. In the vastness of Russia, there are approximately equal numbers of both. there are practically no differences between them, and those that exist are insignificant: for example, the “Sky” is equipped with yellow turn signal lenses, and the “Burg” sports white ones. In 2004, in addition to the basic version of the scooter, a “luxury” version appeared. The Burgman Executive/Skywave LX is equipped with ABS, a power folding mirror mechanism, a passenger backrest and a chrome muffler trim instead of black. In 2005, the top version acquired an electrically adjustable windshield and an outside air temperature sensor, and in 2009, heated steering wheel grips and driver and passenger seats moved from the list of options to standard equipment.

005_MOTO_0410_033

On the right remote control of the top modification (Executive/LX) there is a control for electrically adjusting the height of the windshield.
On the right remote control of the top modification (Executive/LX) there is a control for electrically adjusting the height of the windshield.

ALMOST A CAR. The in-line two-cylinder injection engine is quite reliable and unpretentious. Thanks to the large displacement, low degree of boost and operation in tandem with a variator, the engine can easily maintain 100 thousand km or more without major repairs, or even without breakdowns at all. The engine easily digests 92-octane gasoline, which is very important for travelers and residents of the outback, and the appetite of a large scooter is very modest. If you do not raise the speedometer needle above 80 km/h, a 15-liter tank will be enough for 300–320 km (4.6-5 l/100 km), but if you constantly “unscrew” from traffic lights or drive along the highway faster than 100 km/h , consumption jumps to 7.5 l/100 km, and a full tank “flies down the drain” in just 200 km.

Suzuki Skywave 400: technical specifications

The Skyway 400 model is the only Japanese maxi scooter that is available in four body styles. Modifications are designated by numbers 41, 42, 43, 44.

Body 41 (produced since 1998) - without a tachometer, with one headlight, a small luggage compartment, carburetor injection.
Case 42 (manufactured since 2000) - no tachometer, one headlight, large trunk, two small glove compartments, carburetor.
Housing 43 (produced since 2002) - injection, two headlights, tachometer, combined brake.
Body 44 (produced since 2006) - an injector, two headlights, a fairing, a tachometer, one large glove compartment and two small ones, a spacious trunk, a combined brake.

Dimensional and weight parameters:

scooter length - 2270 mm;
height along the steering wheel - 1385 mm;
saddle height - 710 mm;
width - 760 mm;
gas tank capacity - 12 liters;
dry weight of the scooter - 150 kg;
fuel consumption per 100 km - 3 liters;

The Suzuki Skywave 400 model (for the European market the name Burgman) has been produced from 1998 to the present in various modifications. During the entire production period, the scooter was restyled twice. The modernization concerned mainly the front flap, chassis, brakes and electrical equipment. The engine was not subject to improvements, since its parameters were impeccable and did not leave much to be desired.

006_MOTO_0410_033

The richness of the dashboard will be the envy of other cars.
The richness of the dashboard will be the envy of other cars.

As befits a large scooter, the AN650 is equipped with a V-belt variator with SECVT electronic control. It is not the mechanics (weights and springs) that are responsible for changing the gear ratio, but the electronic control unit. It receives data from many sensors and sets the optimal diameter of the drive pulley using an electric motor. The trick of the variator is that instead of the usual Kevlar, it uses a stacked plate belt, like those installed in CVT transmissions of cars. Such a belt is capable of transmitting much more torque than a regular one, due to the fact that it does not pull the driven pulley, but pushes it. Another plus of a dialed belt is durability. On average, it has to be changed no more than once every 60–80 thousand km, and for the average rider this is at least four to five years of active riding. Electronics, unlike mechanics, allows you to instantly change control algorithms. In normal mode, the transmission saves fuel, and Power provides the scooter with the best dynamics. In addition, the control unit contains five fixed “virtual” gears, and the pilot can, by turning on the manual mode, independently “switch” the gears using the keys on the steering wheel. The variator contains perhaps the most serious “sore” of the scooter. The position of the drive pulley halves is changed through two plastic gears. Although the load on them is not great, they work almost non-stop, which leads to wear after 25–30 thousand kilometers. It is clear that with “eaten” gears, normal operation of the variator is impossible, and repairing the defect will cost no less than 10 thousand rubles. Moreover, it will only cost about four thousand for new gears; the rest will be taken from the service center for the work. So when buying a used Burg or Skye, it’s worth asking the owner whether such repairs have been made (especially if the scooter has the appropriate mileage), and perhaps bargain.

Review of advantages and disadvantages

The Suzuki Burgman 650 maxi-scooter has a number of serious advantages. Main advantages:

automatic variator with the ability to switch to manual mode;
powerful power plant providing quick acceleration;
the ability to work on gasoline with an octane number of 92-95;
heated steering grips and seat surfaces;
high-quality optics that allow you to drive in low visibility conditions;
increased volume of the luggage compartment, allowing you to place helmets and things;
convenient placement of mirrors providing increased visibility.

In addition, the thoughtful placement of the seat and steering wheel ensures a comfortable driving position, which is important when covering long distances.

The Suzuki Burgman 650 maxi-scooter has a number of serious advantages

Along with the advantages, this model also has weaknesses:

increased weight and dimensions make it difficult to control the vehicle, especially in heavy traffic;
deterioration in scooter controllability for a short period of time when quickly reaching the speed limit;
the possibility of losing control of a vehicle stopped by emergency braking at high speed.

Controlling a scooter takes some getting used to - the many switches located on the steering wheel sometimes make novice drivers think. In addition, a tall driver will have to move closer to the passenger seat to ensure a comfortable foot position on the platform.

011_MOTO_0410_034

The electronic variator is quite reliable and pleasant to use, and only the plastic gears of the servo drive (white) “die” by 30 thousand km.
The electronic variator is quite reliable and pleasant to use, and only the plastic gears of the servo drive (white) “die” by 30 thousand km.

NOT A “STOOL” AT ALL. Ensuring the comfort of the driver and passenger is perhaps the main purpose of the existence of any maxi. Burgman is no exception. It is comfortable for a person of almost any size to drive. Even with a height of 190 cm, the pilot will be able to fully extend his legs. A large saddle with adjustable lumbar support is comfortable both in the city and on long-distance trips. The wind protection of the scooter is designed so well that the helmet visor can be left open, and in the rain the pilot remains practically dry. The passenger of the "burg" is given a royal seat. The size of the passenger “sofa” this Suzuki can easily compare even with the Honda Goldwing or BMW K1200LT. The impressive “toilet bowl” matches the size of the device itself - 56 liters of usable volume allows you to easily fit two integral helmets.

General description of Suzuki Burgman 650

Trying to characterize the 650th model, it would be more correct to call it a motorcycle that looks like a scooter. After all, the driver’s seating position is the same as on a regular scooter, called a “stool.” At the same time, the level of functionality and comfort corresponds to touring motorcycles. In the Japanese market this scooter model is called Skywave, and in European and American markets it is called Burgman. Structurally and externally, both models are identical. Let's look at their design and construction.

Appearance and design

Looking at the 650th model of the Burgman scooter, you are surprised at how expressive the shapes and impressive dimensions are. Noteworthy is the volumetric lining made of high-quality plastic, which gives this model solidity. The aerodynamics are well thought out - the windshield is like a visual continuation of the skin and gives the front part an arrow-shaped shape. Two powerful headlights located above the front fender provide good illumination.

Bright turn signals are located in the folding side mirrors, located slightly above the headlights. There is an electric drive for changing the angular position of the windshield, which increases comfort while driving. The windshield covers the dashboard display, which provides essential information about the scooter's operation. The space between the steering column and the driver's seat is used to accommodate closed storage boxes.

The comfortable seat has a stepped shape and is equipped with a driver's backrest with the ability to adjust its position. For the convenience of passengers, there are two handles on opposite sides of the plastic body kit. Comfortable platforms are provided for the feet of the driver and passenger. Under the seat there is a storage container with a volume of 56 liters.

Japanese engineers thought through all the components of the maxi-scooter in detail.

Design

Japanese engineers thought through all the components of the maxi-scooter in detail. The supporting structure is made of a tubular profile and forms a rigid frame to which a plastic body kit is attached. Unlike the typical small scooter arrangement of the engine located next to the rear wheel, the maxi scooter has the power unit located under the driver's seat.

To maintain the operating temperature of the two-cylinder engine, a liquid cooling system is installed. The radiator is conveniently located at the front of the scooter in close proximity to the front wheel. It receives a powerful air flow, providing effective cooling of the motor. Externally, the radiator is not visible, as it is successfully hidden under plastic.

The developers used the right side of the scooter to locate the exhaust pipe. The possibility of burns from the top and side parts of the hot muffler, which are hidden under the protective cover, is eliminated.

The scooter is equipped with a CVT gearbox, which differs from a classic motorcycle with a gearbox. It provides quick acceleration and the ability to ride comfortably on a maxi-scooter. The transmission can operate in two modes, one of which is automatic and the other with manual gear shifting.

The scooter is equipped with a CVT gearbox

The pendant has a classic design. The front wheel is mounted on a telescopic fork, and the rear wheel has a pendulum suspension and is mounted on two lateral shock absorbers. The front wheel of the scooter is locked by two disc brakes, and the drive wheel by one.

002_MOTO_0410_033

The size of the maxi and seat capacity match it. It can easily “swallow” two integrals or a medium-sized bag with things.
The size of the maxi and seat capacity match it. It can easily “swallow” two integrals or a medium-sized bag with things.

The scooter's suspensions are, of course, tuned for comfort, so the smoothness of the device is at the highest level, but on our roads, excessive softness is inappropriate. And if the suspensions cope with one pilot on board at the very least, then with a passenger the rear shock absorbers break even on not very large bumps, and the fork works at the limit of its capabilities. This ailment is treated with traditional means: replacing the springs with tuning ones, for example from HyperPro (about 10 thousand rubles). It’s a little expensive, but if you’re going to be traveling together often, it makes sense to splurge. If mainly only the driver moves on the scooter, then you can get by by simply changing the oil in the fork from the standard 15W to a thicker “twenty”.

The braking system of the scooter works great, and if it is the Executive/LX version equipped with ABS, then the brakes can be called almost perfect. The only drawback of the system is that the levers are too flimsy. Even with completely new copies, both levers can easily be pressed to the handle. To remove this unpleasant effect and improve feedback, it is worth installing reinforced brake lines. Another “family” drawback of the Burgs and Skyes is the weakness of the plastic linings. Often the rear facing mounting brackets break due to vibrations, and it hangs on a single screw. Due to the miniature nature of the brackets themselves, it is not possible to glue or weld them in place, so you have to splurge on a new part (see table).

Chassis

Both suspensions of the scooter, its elongated base, the angle of departure of the front wheel - everything is designed for stable riding on a flat, hard-surfaced road. 13-inch wheels provide a soft ride, and the smooth thrust of the engine allows movement without jerking at speeds in the range from 28 to 100 kilometers per hour. The front suspension is single-pole, with effective linkage damping and vibration damper. The mechanism is equipped with a reinforcing spring. The rear suspension is an articulated short-link with an adjustable mono-shock absorber. Due to the low center of gravity, the scooter is stable on course and corners stably. However, on small radius turns, the car needs to reduce speed, since the lower part of the body can touch the asphalt if it is tilted too much. Insufficient ground clearance has an effect.

008_MOTO_0410_034

...and break.
...and break.

The “ears” that attach the plastic on the “belly” to the radiator lining suffer from the same problem. True, apart from an increased gap at the joint, this does not threaten anything. And if you drive a lot at high speeds, the windshield trim fasteners become loose and begin to rattle. This “jamb” can be corrected by placing pieces of polyethylene foam or porous double-sided tape between the glass and the cladding. For the same reason, Burgs often lose the plastic cover that covers the fuse compartment located on the front panel, near the driver's knee, so that the cover falls directly onto the road. That is, it is irretrievably lost. Knowing this feature, sellers keep a stock of these caps in stock. It is also worth remembering that the scooter is equipped with an immobilizer with a tag chip in the ignition key. Unfortunately, it is impossible to make a duplicate of a chip key, even if you have the original in hand. The loss of all the keys leads to the replacement of not only a set of cylinders, but also the engine control unit (about 35 thousand rubles), since it is this that “identifies” the marks in the keys.

003_MOTO_0410_033

The fuse compartment cover, which “loves” to get lost.
The fuse compartment cover, which “loves” to get lost.

INDIVIDUALIZATION. With tuning “burgs” (in the technical sense), things are a little tight. Unlike the 400th model, which comes with all the imaginable bells and whistles, the list of factory and aftermarket options is quite meager, so it’s not possible to build a rocket out of a “burg.” The only thing that sellers offer to “pick up” the car is a power commander, which, together with a direct-flow “can” of a muffler, is capable of increasing engine power by 5–7 forces. By the way, the choice of tuning exhaust systems is also small: Leo Vince and Yoshimura have only one model of “cans”. You can complete the list of available tuning with the already mentioned set of suspension springs. Probably, such scarcity is due to the fact that Burgman is still considered a representative of the “business class”, and respectable guys in jackets are not supposed to “have a blast”. But for those who like to stand out from the crowd of their own kind, there is somewhere to turn around. The voluminous sections of the catalogs of leading manufacturers offer a lot of all kinds of carbon and wood trims, visors, light bulbs, mules and pieces of iron, and specialized companies offer all kinds of lighting. So the question of individualization is limited only by the thickness of its owner’s wallet.

009_MOTO_0410_034

The engine number is stamped on the left side of the crankcase, and can be read through a hole in the plastic in the area of the side stop.
The engine number is stamped on the left side of the crankcase, and can be read through a hole in the plastic in the area of the side stop.

BUSINESS CLASS TICKET. Prices for used Burgs and Skyes vary widely. It all depends on the mileage and general condition of the car, as well as on tuning, because sometimes the cost of “sound” on a scooter comes close to the price of the device itself. True, the market also offers an abundance of copies untouched by the tuner, so there is always a choice. Copies of the first years of production with a decent mileage are offered from 200 thousand rubles, and sometimes even lower, but when choosing a device from the lower price range, it is worth considering that a possible overhaul of the engine and variator can greatly undermine even a fairly solid budget.

Fourth place: Maxi scooter Honda Silver Wing

Maxi scooter Honda Silver Wing

Thanks to its low price and light weight, the Honda Silver Wing maxi scooter took first place in objective parameters, and these are important factors for choosing a simple, reliable motorcycle that is easy to ride and steer. However, our subjective assessments of this model were the lowest. The models we compare are quite new or significantly updated, and the Silver Wing is already 12 years old.

We liked the way it rides in the city and handles well, but we are disappointed with the flimsy chassis and single-helmet case, despite its second largest volume. The lack of modern technology other than ABS was another disadvantage compared to the others, but how you feel about it depends on your needs and preferences.

The 583cc Honda Silver Wing has the smallest engine displacement in our comparison. But if you want a scooter that can handle the motorway and don't want to pay for the bells and whistles, then the Silver Wing is for you.

010_MOTO_0410_034

The frame number is stamped on the left (in the direction of travel) vertical pipe.
But to read it, you need a flashlight. The frame number is stamped on the left (in the direction of travel) vertical pipe. But to read it, you need a flashlight.

Due to belonging to that very “business class”, “burgs” are most often bought by mature people and not inclined to crazy shooting, often just as an expensive toy. So there are quite a lot of devices on the secondary market with very low mileage and truly in perfect condition. But the cost of such devices is sometimes close to that indicated on the price tag of a new scooter in the showroom. In short, the choice of options is quite wide. The only recommendation is that it is better to look for a top-spec scooter (Executive or LX). The number of options does not affect the price so much, and ABS will never be superfluous. Selling a used Burg, of course, is somewhat more difficult than selling a classic 400; after all, a maxi-scooter is not a motorcycle. But, like any equipment from the top of the model range, maxikis do not lose much in price, especially if the appearance has not been damaged during operation and the mileage has not exceeded five figures.

Maxi scooters on serpentine road

When driving on twisty roads, there is no doubt about the BMW's leadership. Equipped with 15-inch wheels shod in Metzeller Feel Free,

BMW is exactly the kind of bike that you simply enjoy sporty riding on.

Another colleague of mine noted that

It doesn’t just handle better than anyone else, it handles the way I’m used to with regular motorcycles.

The BMW C650GT's suspension happily absorbs cornering bumps and performs correctly under braking without flex or bite, and the chassis performs perfectly. The Metzeller tires hold the road confidently, and in order to scrape something on the asphalt, the C650 needs to be seriously tilted.

The BMW's near-limitless lean angle makes it ideal for twisting roads, leaving its rivals to slowly grind into the asphalt somewhere behind, says my colleague.

We were pleasantly surprised by the BMW's sport-driving capabilities and are seriously considering taking it to a track day.