Suzuki Burgman 650 (2003-2015) Review | Specs & Prices

Highlights

  • The biggest-capacity scooter on the market at launch
  • Speed of a motorbike with the practicality of a scooter
  • One of the first maxi-scooters

At a glance

Owners' reliability rating: 4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5)
Annual servicing cost: £410
Power: 54 bhp
Seat height: Low (29.5 in / 750 mm)
Weight: High (525 lbs / 238 kg)

Prices

New N/A
Used £1,900 - £4,700

Overall rating

Next up: Ride & brakes
3 out of 5 (3/5)

The biggest maxi-scooter in the two wheeled world (when it was launched), the Suzuki Burgman 650 was really a mid sized touring motorcycle under its plastic panels, with a punchy 638cc twin cylinder motor making a claimed 54bhp. That's enough to send the 650 'Burgervan' to about 110mph.

This means the Burgman an get you to work in comfort with the weather protection and practicality of a scooter but can easily tackle the A roads and motorways you would avoid on a 125 motorbike.

Unfortunately, the Burgman is too heavy, too wallowy in the corners and too short on luggage capacity to be considered by serious touring riders. Plus, here in the UK we don't seem to get maxi scooters in the same way as our European cousins.

Suzuki Burgman 650 on the road

Ride quality & brakes

Next up: Engine
3 out of 5 (3/5)

The 650 is simply too heavy to handle really well at high speed, but below 80mph it's fine. There's a feeling of real luxury in the suspension set-up and the saddle is so soft you'll feel like your in your fave TV armchair as you glide down the A38.

Suzuki Burgman 650 is too heavy to handle really well

Engine

Next up: Reliability
3 out of 5 (3/5)

The Burgman 650 has normal and `Power' auto modes on its auto gearbox, which allows the rider to select how much acceleration they require - plus a manual mode, so there are five push button gears to choose from. Trick, but about 50bhp in a scoot weighing 238kgs dry is never going to win any drag races against proper bikes.

Suzuki Burgman 650 front fairing

Reliability & build quality

Next up: Value
4 out of 5 (4/5)

Suzuki excelled themselves when they created the 650 Burgman, as if they wanted to out-Honda the Silver Wing. It almost comes off, but the underside of all the Burgman models - from 125 to 650 - need careful attention to prevent corrosion setting in rapidly.

Our Suzuki Burgman 650 owners' reviews show just one thing of note: "the sidestand and the cutout control switch should be sorted as it picks up debris and interferes with the running of the machine causing the scoot to either cut out completely whilst running or has a mind of it's own to go manual or automatic and in which gear."

Value vs rivals

Next up: Equipment
3 out of 5 (3/5)

The 650 Burgman Executive (with ABS) costs a whopping seven grand. Ridiculous for a scooter and the Deauville 700 does the job of touring just as well for nearly a grand less. The smaller 250/400 Burgman models make better everyday commuters, with almost as much luggage space under their seats.

Although the idea of a large capacity scooter was novel back in 2003, these days there are plenty to choose from including the immensely popular Yamaha TMAX, the X-ADV-based Honda Forza 750 and the relative newcomer Kymco AK550.

Suzuki Burgamn 650 left hand bend

Equipment

4 out of 5 (4/5)

Underseat storage is vast, easily enough for commuters and solo touring riders. The  2004 onwards 650 models had an ABS equipped option, which is worth having. Excellent lighting, dashboard - plus electric folding mirrors.

Suzuki Burgman 650 dash

Specs

Engine size 638cc
Engine type 4 stroke, parallel twin, auto
Frame type Steel tubular type
Fuel capacity 15 litres
Seat height 750mm
Bike weight 238kg
Front suspension None
Rear suspension Preload
Front brake 2 x 260mm discs
Rear brake 250mm disc
Front tyre size 120/70 x 15 in
Rear tyre size 150/70 x 14 in

Mpg, costs & insurance

Average fuel consumption 43 mpg
Annual road tax £117
Annual service cost £410
New price -
Used price £1,900 - £4,700
Insurance group 10 of 17
How much to insure?
Warranty term Two year unlimited mileage

Top speed & performance

Max power 54 bhp
Max torque 45.7 ft-lb
Top speed 110 mph
1/4 mile acceleration 16 secs
Tank range 130 miles

Model history & versions

Model history

1999: Suzuki Burgman AN250 and AN400 models launched.
2002: Burgman 250 dropped, Burgman AN125 replaces it.
2003: Burgman AN650 launched.
2004: Burgman 650 Executive appears.

Other versions

Burgman AN125; Burgman AN250; Burgman AN400.

Owners' reviews for the SUZUKI BURGMAN 650 (2003 - 2015)

11 owners have reviewed their SUZUKI BURGMAN 650 (2003 - 2015) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.

Review your SUZUKI BURGMAN 650 (2003 - 2015)

Summary of owners' reviews

Overall rating: 4.1 out of 5 (4.1/5)
Ride quality & brakes: 4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5)
Engine: 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5)
Reliability & build quality: 4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5)
Value vs rivals: 3.9 out of 5 (3.9/5)
Equipment: 4.3 out of 5 (4.3/5)
Annual servicing cost: £410
5 out of 5 Great machine
17 April 2023 by BikerMick62

Version: 2018 ZL8

Year: 2015

Ridden everything from sports bikes to big tourers in 43 years & this is easily one of the best I've had.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

As good as the big BMW tourers I've had in the past (K1100LT, K1200LT & R1200RT)

Engine 5 out of 5

Excellent response in all modes. Power mode transforms acceleration & engine braking

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Exceptional build quality & reliability

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

Not had it serviced yet as only had it since Oct 2022 but so far its cheap to run compared to the FJS600 I had before it.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Buying experience: Bought second hand from small dealer in Manchester. Paid £6750

4 out of 5 Bring a Pillow!
06 June 2021 by Rick P.

Version: AN-650

Year: 2003

Fun to ride but for a long trip you better bring a pillow. This thing will kill your butt. Rode about 2 hours and felt like I'd been on a horse.

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
1 out of 5
14 October 2020 by Tututut1312

Year: 2003

Bösta är att den är så bekväm Sämsta är la stöldskyddet

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 2 out of 5

Bara växrlådan har lagt sig en gång

Value vs rivals 1 out of 5
Equipment 1 out of 5
5 out of 5 Suzuki Burgman AN650 - Quality, versatility & value - a truly great bike/scooter
09 October 2020 by Howard Vollans

Version: Executive

Year: 2011

Annual servicing cost: £90

Best features - build quality, equipment specification, comfort, underseat storage, DIY serviceability & weather protection - Fast, comfortable, powerful & versatile Worst features - weight (288kgm wet), mirror retract button & dealer service costs (lot of fairings to remove.)

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

The large super scooter takes a little getting used to - you sit on it rather than mould into it like a conventional bike. It is fast, flickable and incredibly comfy with excellent underseat storage that can take two full-face helmets. Long distance all-day cruising at 70+mph is no problem with the floorboards offering good rider leg movement on the go. Pillion is only slightly less flexible so 100miles is no problem between breaks.

Engine 5 out of 5

The engine is quiet with good torque/power characteristics providing rapid acceleration at all speeds. The centrifugal clutch is a little snatchy at low revs but the continuously variable drive system/transmission is both smooth & effortless. High speed motorway cruising at 70+mph is effortless. Fuel consumption is good to average at just over 60mpg.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Excellent build quality (except mirrors retract button which sticks), never broken down or parts failed & always starts on first push of the button.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

DIY recommended servicing is relatively easy & straightforward on the main stand using standard tools & a castor moving plate. OEM parts are readily available & reasonably priced. Extensive fairing panel removals are required which is why dealers charge up to £350.00 for a full service.

Equipment 5 out of 5

The raise/lower on the move screen, rear mirrors, underseat storage, heated seats & grips, fuel filler location & overall build quality and comfort are first class. A cruise control would have been a useful accessory but not one provided by Suzuki. OEM parts such as rear rack plate are useful & stylish but very expensive. Always found the OEM Bridgestone tyres to be best in the wet or dry

Buying experience: Traded my Bandit 1250 for the new Burgman 650 executive from Streetbike motorcycle dealers in Halesowen. Negotiated a good trade in deal based upon the advertised price (£9,500) but with Datatool S4 Red & Optimate charger connections supplied & fitted by the dealer prior to collection.

5 out of 5
26 June 2020 by Philip Hoare

Version: Executive

Year: 2011

Wheels are small so difficult to clean . I’m 73 so speaks for itself. But quick comfortable loads of luggage room brilliant for long tours. Mine has touring screen which works well.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Brakes are very good

Engine 5 out of 5

So far bullit proof, I’ve had three Suzuki bikes and all sure footed

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Like I say wheels are manky because of lack of attention.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

Running costs have been a bit hit and miss because of Covid 19

Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 Burgman for all seasons
17 March 2018 by Marvin

Version: Executive

Year: 2008

Annual servicing cost: £728

The Burgman 650 is a very practical machine, fun to ride and easy to maintain. It replaced the last of a long string of BMW bikes that I owned through the years, and I have not regretted moving to the Burgman.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5

This replaced a 2008 Burgman 400, which was stolen. The gear driven final drive on the 650 makes it more difficult to back it Into the garage (particularly when cold) than it was with the belt drive on the 400. That has been addressed with the newer models. Once moving it is very easy to handle, with quite adequate power and reasonably good fuel economy. This is just light enough to be a practical commuter bike but heavy and powerful enough to be more than competent on the expressway for extended trips.

Engine 5 out of 5

I actually like the engine braking of the 2008 650. When I first went from a motorcycle to the 400 Burgman the lack of engine braking bothered me. On the 650 I can increase the amount of engine braking using "power" mode.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

This includes tire replacement and riding about 4,000 miles a year. That is way down from when I was younger.

Equipment 5 out of 5

It is fabulous for those of us that have to commute and carry a lot of equipment. I am a musician, and my instrument (sometimes 2 trumpets) fit under the seat, locked up and out of site.

Buying experience: I bought it on consignment through a dealer who had sold it it to the original owner and serviced it.

3 out of 5 An accomplished scooter but comes at a price.
23 June 2017 by steve

Year: 2016

By far the worst feature is the price. However, it is probably the best super scooter on the market today

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Great on fast country roads. Its performance will surprise other riders of conventional machines. Car drivers who perhaps think it is just another 125cc scooter can be left standing. A pity you never get to see their faces.

Engine 5 out of 5

A lovely and surprisingly quick motor.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 3 out of 5

Thirsty in town, probably where it is going to be used most. Most small capacity cars are going to beat it on mpg.

Equipment 4 out of 5

For most riders, the manual gear change facility is going to be redundant 99% of the time. A pity it wasn't fitted with something really useful instead, eg cruise control. You can buy extra luggage but would you ever need it, the under seat storage is cavernous.

4 out of 5 AN400 anyone?
11 June 2013 by blockbuster1

Recently acquired a 400 Burgman after riding sportsbikes for 12 years. Toured W of Scotland last week and did over 1000mls. 72mpg keeping up with bigger tourers. Surprised a few cars along the way. Top whack on this model is 90mph. comfort, handling and storage are superb

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 2007 Burgman 650 for Touring
08 August 2009 by BIGFOOT650

Having owned my 2007, 650 Executive for 2 1/2 years now I think it is a very capable One-Up cross country tourer. I am retired and use my scoot for pleasure only and have over 28,000 trouble free miles on it. I often take rides of 200-350 miles into Ohio Amish country or southeastern Ohio just to ride the twisties of the county roads. It handles them and higher speed sweepers quite well. I've had mine up to 107-108 MPH(GPS)many times and it never exibited any wobble or other negative handling characteristics. I have taken 2 long trips this summer, one of 3,000 miles and the other of 6,400 miles. During those trips I have beaten my scoot mercilessly, asking it to do 3, one thousand mile plus single day rides, and overall averaging 700 miles per day. It will cruise all day, day after day, at a true 75-80 MPH. The last trip (6400 miles in 9 days) my scoot carried over 350 pounds of rider/tools/luggage weight and I still got 49 miles to the USA gallon. My wife will ride anywhere with me as long as it is within 350 miles. Over that and she won't come due to the comfort level of the seat. My Scoot is 100% stock. I would encourage anyone considering this scooter to opt for the ABS. Now for the negatives; A little rough over elevated road seams and pot-holes due to smaller tires. Rear tire tends to wear out around 8,000 miles and the front tire 16,000 miles. It would be almost perfect if it had cruise control and a tire pressure monitoring system.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 3 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
5 out of 5 Suzuki Burgman AN650
21 November 2008 by Blake1

The Suzuki Burgman AN650 is about the best bike/scoot that you could possibly ever want, I've had in my lifetime about 100 motorcycles, and this easily is the most neutral, the smoothest, the most economical and comfortable for rider and passenger that money can buy, how you can say this is wallowy I'll never know. Travelling through Germany never went under 100mph through to Poland and back again, so much so my passenger was falling asleep with the comfort. This bike/scoot needs seatbelts fitted to restrain passenger from falling off. It's true it's like your fav armchair on wheels, a bit like driving a Range Rover on two wheels, how the police do not use these as their bikes I'll never know. However, there is a glitch, the sidestand and the cutout control switch should be sorted as it picks up debris and interferes with the running of the machine causing the scoot to either cut out completely whilst running or has a mind of it's own to go manual or automatic and in which gear.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
4 out of 5 THINK!
12 April 2007 by

I do not know who did the original review (but probably a sports bike rider) or on what useage the review was based upon. This review is based on 2 years and 10,000 miles+. Overall: Yes a true motorcycle covered in tupperware with a suprisingly responsive engine/transmission and chassis. Always sure footed it is suprising nimble which belies the rather Lardy look and statistics. It is a versatile package and most definitely acquits itself well as a tourer. Engine/Transmission: This has to be covered as one system because that is how it is controlled. A very clever package that provides deceptive performance (no NOT SPORTS bike) which will put you at illegal speeds if you do not look at the instruments - key words - Deceptive, Fast! Few owners bother with the manual or 'tiptronic' option and most will leave in 'Drive' all the time - the more adventurous slipping it into 'Power'(Higher RPM threshold for ratio changes) for the twisties. Ride and Handling: I agree this is a Lardy machine! The stock screen is nearly always swapped out by owners (Givi or Clearview) and a number of owners have uprated the shocks. That said with the rear suspension adjusted for the load carried - the lardy does not wallow in high speed twisties (at all!)A common phrase by experienced owners and riders is that it always feels planted. The 'smaller' than 'conventional' wheels are perhaps the compromise in the design and there can be no arguing that it can be uncomfortable taking a pothole.The brakes are excellent but again deception rules with such a low centre of gravity there is very little front end dive even in the most severe application - this weight distribution also allows the rear brake to be much more effective than on a 'conventional' bike. Equipment: In addition to the 52 Litre (2 full face helmets worth) underseat storage area, there is a lockable glovebox (with accessory socket) and two dashboard compartments. More than sufficient for everyday use, those that undertake serious touring normally fit the Givi 52 - and the mentalists fit side panniers too! I won't metion the die hards who haul camping trailers with them (seriously). Do not underestimate the advantage of weather protection afforded by this body style - really comes into its own in the UK!! Quality and Reliability: The basic package is well designed and executed and is typically reliable. I must agree the material specification and preservation is typically Suzuki and lets the package down from a salt laden winter perspective. The alloy wheels are particularly susceptible to attack. Value: The ticket price is far too high (who pays that anyway)In terms of sheer practicality, versatility and grinnability - it has been worth every penny.

Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
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