2018 Suzuki Boulevard C50T

Back in the previous century, an 800cc touring bike was a substantial bit of kit. But these days, it’s considered a middleweight. And that’s exactly the role the Boulevard C50T is intended to fulfill. Translation: Light-duty touring with just the bare necessities, such as a large windshield, floorboards, soft saddlebags, and a passenger backrest. The 805cc V-twin has a narrow 45-degree cylinder angle for visual appeal and compactness, and utilizes a trick stepped crankpin (plus handlebar-mounted “mass dampers”) to ward off vibration, rather than a counterbalancer, which would add engine complexity.

A compact 15-inch rear wheel helps keep the C50T’s seat height down to a reasonable claimed 27.6 inches. Together with the wide pullback handlebar and not-too-terribly-hefty 644-pound curb weight, this Boulevard can serve experienced riders and newbie tourers equally well. A relaxed 33-degree steering-head angle and long 65.2-inch wheelbase make the C50T a lazy-handling, rather than highly responsive, machine.

Likes: EFI, liquid-cooling, a wide-ratio gearbox, and shaft final drive directly improve the touring experience.

Dislikes: A drum rear brake and imitation seat leather are clearly cost-cutting features.

Verdict: An affordable, reliable casual tourer that's built to a price.