This is based on the fact the Intruder weighs in at 347kg leaving the petrol station; has the biggest cylinder bore size (112mm) of any current production bike; and produces a claimed 118ftlb of torque, which it needs to shift its weight. Although shunned as a Harley clone, it is, in every respect apart from lacking character and soul, a better machine; a flawless performer.

For a 1783cc 54° V-twin, the Intruder engine is remarkably smooth. Not even the clutch – a seriously heavy duty piece of kit – is noticeable at the clutch lever; two fingered use of the lever isn’t a problem and the actuation isn’t grabby. And with typical Suzuki fault-free fuel injection and ignition, even the most nervous of hands can pilot the Suzuki without any stutters, jumps and clatters in any traffic conditions. It is a well engineered engine but fails to get the respect it deserves because; in the eyes of the cruiser purist it’s just another Japanese water-cooled engine.

For such a lump the Intruder is remarkably easy to ride. The 705mm seat height makes standing at the lights a pain-free affair, and the feet forward ride position isn’t such as stretch as you’d think, although if less than a 29in inside leg measurement you will struggle. The weight isn’t an issue on the move because the bike’s fairly well balanced. But it takes a good squeeze and stamp of the brake levers to bring the Intruder to a swift stop, otherwise plan braking way in advance.

Chrome. More chrome. And even more chrome on plastic but separated by paint and more paint. It has four-piston radially-mounted front brake calipers, too. And an engine that could spin a powerstation’s turbine. The base model M1800R is £200 cheaper and doesn’t feature the M1800RZ’s limited black with orange stripe, or white with blue stripe paint scheme.

Although Suzuki is arguably more famous for its GSX-R sport machines, it’s cruisers are just as popular in Germany and America – yeah, the home of Harley. The only criticism would be the finish quality. Nuts and bolts, and crankcase finish, especially in the firing line of front wheel spray, soon looks jaded.

http://www.suzukimotorcycle.co.in/Intruderprice.aspx

http://www.m1800r-forum.de/forum/index.php

http://www.suzukimoto.lv/suzuki/en/models/intruder/m1800r/color/305

http://www.customcruisers.com/Custom2005/customshop2005/contents/en-uk/d1182.html