Suzuki Burgman 650 Executive (AN650AK9)

Summary: My first impressions about the Suzuki Burgman 650 K9 (model 2009), which I bought in February 2009 to replace the Suzuki Burgman 400 I had for 2.5 years, after which I totalled it unexpectedly.

Suzuki Burgman 650 Executive © Suzuki Australia

Since February 27th, 2009 I am a proud owner of a Suzuki Burgman 650 Executive, a.k.a. as Suzuki Burgman 650A K9 (AN650AK9). 

On February 21st, 2009 I wrote off my Burgman 400 in an accident. I loved riding it. It did all I wanted it to do. Unfortunately, no Burgman 400 was in the country when I needed one, hence, the Suzuki Burgman 650 was the next best thing, or was it?

Well, four weeks and 1,900 km later I can truly say: It was the best thing I could settle for!

Huh, it is July 27, 2009… four months and 10,000 km later I can still truly say: It was the best thing I could settle for! 

Huh, me again! It is February 14, 2010… one year and almost 20,000 km later I can still truly say: It was the best thing I could settle for!  Something I cannot say for the workshop; but I am going elsewhere now.

May 11, 2010: huh, 30,000 km now and darn happy about my Burg! I am currently going Around Australia 

August 11, 2010: 47,000 km — Just came back from Birdsville!

December 7, 2010: 54,000 km — After coming back from the Great Dividing Range trip.

Information

Information, more so detailed information, seems hard to come by; at least here in Australia. Yes, the  Suzuki Burgman 650 website lists most information, though it lacks some of the performance details / data (though typical for Australian sites), and had only one photo of the scooter (when I compiled this page originally in late February 2009).

I have therefore put my own technical specifications page together, providing you with much more detailed information (compared to Suzuki web sites or any other sources) about the scooter's specifications. The sales rap page provides general information about the Burgman 650 Executive features.

What a Ride!

I am not overstating when I say this is the best scooter I have had the pleasure to ride, and in this case: to own!

Suzuki Burgman 650 Executive © Max Gren•ko•witz

When do you know that a bike is right for you? I think you should like how it looks and how it feels. Comfort doesn't just apply to your riding position, but also your mental state. In this regard, the Burgman 650 offers easiest most hassle free riding I have ever done. Sure, the comfortable upright riding position with multiple choices where to put your feet is great, but the mental ease of riding this bike is just marvellous for those of us who want to do anything a street bike can do without trepidation.

I am glad I did not throw a coin to make my decicion between the Honda Silver Wing 600 and the Burgman 650 Executive. As it turned out the Executive deserves the crown. I updated this page after riding the Burgman 650 Executive for two consecutive day trips and some 600 km through the country — hence, I am now certain what I am talking about. 

I have found the Suzuki Burgman 650 Executive to be the bike for those who value comfort, convenience, and performance more than the approval of hardcore bikers. Its 638 cm³, twin-cylinder, fuel-injected, four-valve per cylinder engine is as quiet as it is powerful. Further convenience is provided by the onboard 12 Volt outlet.

Although many hard core bikers will recoil at the fact that it is an automatic, the Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT), electronically controlled, has a clutch-less manual mode for those times when one wants to "run it through the gears". I could not even be bothered trying! This particular CVT is so smooth, providing the right power at any opening of the throttle, in any situation; I simply love it. Ground clearance is good. This is where the ECVT Automatic Transmission is most impressive. You can go manual and treat it like a paddle shifter, you can go in power mode or leave it in standard mode. In all cases the transmission feels very intuitive. Just a roll off of the throttle seems to put the bike in just the right gear to negotiate a curve with the greatest of ease. Would it be crazy to classify this as a sport-scooter? I think that is a valid description.

It's large, padded seat and long floorboards make it easy to get comfortable and stay comfortable for hours at a time. The low, covered engine does not emit heat on the driver on hot days. The fairing and the electrically adjustable windshield provide substantial protection, which reduces driver fatigue on long trips.

The almost 60 litre under seat storage accommodates two full-face helmets or a helmet, jacket, gloves and other incidentals. Have a look at the picture of the gear I had with me on a recent trip.

In short, it is fun yet practical machine that can be used as a daily commuter or long distance tourer, and no doubt, for me: the Suzuki Burgman 650 Executive is simply "a better ride" compared to the normal motorbike.

Having also read multiple reviews of satisfied owners and not readily finding any reviews that pan this bike, I am thrilled that I own this machine. I can see this bike providing many years of satisfied ownership. At this point I can say this is my most favourite two-wheel machine that I have ever owned.

Coming up soon:

• I have plans to compile and link to the first riding reports… here a very exciting third ride-out 
• See below for my first 27 km quick trip "around the block"
• I have now written a comparison between the Burgman 400 and Burgman 650.

First Short Ride-Out

Yes, pain or no pain, how could I sit there and not go for a ride?!

Well, I put the gear on, and off I went. A short trip around the block, and 27 km later, I came home with the biggest grin  on my face you could imagine!

Burgman 650A Executive: "Lane Split Button" a.k.a. Mirror Flip Switch

What happened? Well, it was a very nice ride. Wobbly at first; I always have this experience for the first few kilometres… yes, new tyres, no real grip yet. The first thing to do was adjusting mirrors. These are the most important bits for me: my rear and sideway eyes!
The Executive was quietly humming along. It is breaking-in time. I had no manual that day, but half the maximum revs was my self-imposed — and I am sure sensible — limit for the first 1,000 km.

In essence: The 30 kilometres were comprised of suburbia in 50, 60, 70 zones, some kilometres on the freeway at 100 km/h flat, and back to suburban roads, plus some back streets in-between to do some figures of eight to get a grip on the handling, weight, balance, feel, etc.

But wait, where was this big grin  coming from I mentioned before? While I certainly enjoyed the ride, the Executive made my day when I approached some traffic lights: a bus on the left lane, some ten cars on the right lane, and I had to cut through, (with the Burgman 400 I would have); I pressed the button, mirrors rotated in, I went through like I would have on my 400, I snug through, incidentally got the green light, opened the throttle a bit, pushed the button again, and the mirrors came out again. Marvellous!
It is all too new to make further comments right now, but it felt good!

What a Fine Piece of Machinery!

Burgman 650 Executive: Step Through, Right Side

In March, when I lined my upper glove boxes with EVA foam sheets, I also removed the step-through cover; just out of curiosity. I sat there in awe for a while, pondering and admiring the engineering skills behind this machine. Yes, computer-aided design helps in the process of building these bikes, but it is still great to see the quality and precision that goes into the fabrication of this bike. The small tolerances, the different materials involved, and the craftsmanship are just mindboggling.

Burgman 650 Executive: Petrol Consumption

The petrol consumption of my Burgman 650 Executive has been much better than I originally anticipated. My initial assumption was close to 6 litres per 100 km. So far, after 2,739 km — admittedly mostly out of town and peak hour traffic, the petrol consumption sits at 4.94 l/100 km.

Burgman 650 Executive: Petrol Consumption for the first 2,739 km

Visitor's Comments

Entries are shown in the order of latest first. The following comments are user submitted, and as such do not necessarily reflect my interests, opinion or beliefs. As such, I reserve the right to moderate any inappropriate content.

Author Date / Time	Comment
Bob from Market Harborough UK wrote on Thursday, February 08, 2018 05:47	Hi, I have been a motorcyclist for 54 years, the last 25 on a Triumph trophy 900, just turned over 110,000 miles and getting a bit sad condition-wise and beginning to be a bit thirsty. I like to attend FIM camping events sometimes the other side of Europe so fuel consumption is a big concern (government pension). After reading many reviews and especially this site I am going for an early 400 as a starter to see how I get on with small wheels and auto box. I will keep the site posted as to developments.
Roy from Thonotosassa wrote on Saturday, December 16, 2017 01:00	Suzuki 650 ex 2012 this is a great scooter up graded from a 400 I did up grade the back rest by going to the junk yard and finding a front seat head rest out of a suv with the same mesuremts as the suzuki back rest then bending the supports to slide in the seat it took two short pipes from a disgarded folding lawn shair to get the popoer support TOTAL COST WAS 2.00 really great up grade
MaxG from Brisbane wrote on Tuesday, December 12, 2017 11:37	Hi Charles, Thank you for your message, and apologies for my delayed reply. Good to hear you found a bike that suits you well. :) Fully agree with you... If I had bought another bike, it would be the 650 Burgman. Many happy miles. Ride safely. Thanks and regards, Max
Charles C from Attleborough U.K. wrote on Monday, October 02, 2017 06:19	Having owned a Burgman 400 for 11yrs I finally made up my mind to upgrade to a 650 Executive. BEST thing I ever did. It is so smooth and sophisticated I'm almost lost for words.. It is just a magnificent piece of Motorcycle engineering. I thought my Burgy 400 was good and it was but this is just so much better in every aspect. I've ridden bikes for 45+ yrs. I won't buy a new geared bike ever again. I still have my Suzi FreeWind.Nice bike which I enjoy. I look forward to using a recent Burgy 125 for town use. Started my CVT experience with a DAF 33 car and have never thought to bu a manual car since... Each to his own but my experience with the 650 Burgman has me convinced that this is the way to go. Sports bikes are good for sports but for Comfort - Convenience - and a fair turn of speed this is better than sliced bread. Charles
Garry from Warragul wrote on Tuesday, June 20, 2017 23:47	Hi Max. I am retired and I have a lot of spare time. I've spent months looking at Suzuki Burgs. I've looked at EVERY YouTube video. And I've owned a 400, and a 650 before. And many others before those. There may be one new one in Queensland and the occasional second hand one, but when I was told about this last one in Perth, I took no convincing. I've spent hundreds of hours looking — seriously! I am extremely confident that this is the last bike I'll ever buy. And that there are no dealer bikes, or private ones that suit. This Dandenong dealership is shipping it across at their expense.($600 approx.) (Peter Stevens) They just aren't around. That's not to say I am desperate... I'm being quite cautious, and my guts tell me I am doing the right thing. I appreciate your response and opinions — very much. I won't be riding very much, and certainly not the distances you've done! I am a fair-weather rider. To me, it will be a thrill just to own it. To have it there, in my garage. I may only have it a year or so (I've got chronic back pain), but that is not my plan. To me, they are a work of art, and very practical. Yes, I am obsessed! Have a look at the market place... there ain't much there. I wish we had the Canadian system where you could register a vehicle for just 6 months... but there are winter days when I'd like to ride anyway. I am not concerned that it is a 2015 model. So long as it has got zero on the clock. They haven't changed much at all. I think there are bigger modifications coming with the 2017 model in November. But even they will be slight, and not necessarily for the better. I hate wasting money, but I am prepared to buy this as my little luxury. (apparently it's got heated grips — which I don't need) Anyway, I'll let you know how I go, especially if I get ripped off! Cheers, Garry.
Garry from Warragul wrote on Tuesday, June 20, 2017 21:42	I've done it. Deposit down on a 2015 'new' 650. It's the only one in the country at the moment ( apparently!). It's coming from Perth, so I'm having to wait 10 days. Heated grips - woohoo! I know I won't ride very much ( that's the reason I sold my previous model), but I've worked out that I only live once (apparently). At 65 years old , it's rather nice to feel the Adrenalin running through my heart (a recent ablation). I bought a backrest from USA a month ago, so I just had to buy a bike. I've also just bought a laminar lip from England,so I'm set! I can't wait for my steed to arrive (and for 20 degree days).
MaxG from Brisbane wrote on Tuesday, June 20, 2017 20:29	Hi Garry, Congratulations on the new ride... however, what puzzles me is that they sell you a 2015 plate... claiming it is the only one — whatever this means? Only one left? Only one in the country? I doubt it... as the 650 sells quite well in AU. Also, I would not buy it, — unless you get a significant discount; say you get it for 10 grand -- as the 2017 model (can be had for 13.5k$) has improved fuel consumption (15% better), and econo mode, floating front disc brakes, etc. If you can, I suggest you reconsider your offer, unless you are fully aware what you are getting yourself into. E.g in case you have to sell it (for whatever reason), you will sell a 2015 plate; making two years old, thus loosing on resell value. As I said, if you're happy with the deal, congratulations... Ride safely. Cheers, Max
Garry from Warragul wrote on Monday, June 19, 2017 11:44	I'm about to get another 650. I should not have sold my last one. I won't use this one much either, but it can be buried alongside me. I'm looking at a couple... I'll let you know!
Garry from Warragul wrote on Monday, June 12, 2017 15:13	I'm about to buy another 650 Burgman. I shouldn't have sold my first one, but I wasn't using it often enough. I'll have the same issue this time, but I just don't care. Even if I only ride a few times a year. I'm now 65, and I understand you only live once. I've already bought the backrest, and my laminar lip will be on its way. Cheers from Australia.
Ken from Glasford, Il wrote on Saturday, April 15, 2017 11:58	Recently picked up a 2017 model 650 and couldn't be happier with it. I was on the fence for a very long time about getting one of these due to the fuel capacity being a little less than what I was used to but after a week and a little over a 1,000 miles I can now see that my fears were a bit unfounded. I can make about 150 miles without getting too deep into the reserve. Power and handling are great and just a comfortable ride all the way around. I am a little surprised at the sort of stigma attached to having a "scooter" and after riding this I would not call this a scooter at all. Just a motorcycle with an automatic transmission. Count me as a happy owner.
william edmonds from bristol wrote on Monday, September 14, 2015 19:15	Ihave owned so may motorcycles in my life that i would have to sit down with pen and paper and write them all down that is if i can remember all . My last bikes before my present one were Honda Goldwings 1800. My present bike is Burgman 650 and i can without hesitation say it is far superior to the Wing. Each morning i wake up i hope its not raining because i need to ride my Burgman every day . It gives me more pleasure than Wing at a fraction of the cost With my top box, panniers and underseat storage space i have more luggage capacity than the Goldwing The Burgman 650 executive is by far the best motorcycle i have ridden in my 62 years of motorcycling
kevin from Hamilton on.ca wrote on Tuesday, September 30, 2014 10:55	I to am the very proud owner of a 2014 Suzuki Bergman executive 650 and over joyed to own such a nice bike. I read all kinds of reviews watched videos for a long time before buying the berg and can't say enough about it from the style to the performance its just a gem. the heated seats and hand grips are a plus on the cool fall days. i don't know what to say about the actual ride other than you have to ride one to get it. this bike handles so smoothly that you actually get to enjoy the ride,no when do i shift have to remember the clutch OK shift and clutch and shift. this bike you simply ride and that's what its about the ride and none of the other hassles just ride a machine that seems to be built for the rider to enjoy.
alanl from Sydney wrote on Saturday, September 27, 2014 17:55	Thanks for your website quality information. I Now own a 650 after 3 years on a 250 Yamaha star / virago. Loved the Yamaharley as it was economical, reliable and highly manouverable through traffic snarls by lane splitting. Anyway, I wanted a better bike with disks front & back, more power, and a wind shield. Also the legs forward seating arrangement was critical as my hip muscles cramp up when riding a sports bike set up. Along came a 2007 burgman 650 with 18K on the clock that ticked all the boxes. 300km later I am still happy with the upgrade but do notice the more considered driving manner the burgman has forced me into due to its weight & power. Also noticed the difference in economy but have not studied it in depth to date. One dissapointment with the burg is the exhaust noise and I am looking into modifiying it to sound like a Motor bike rather than a small truck. So far my research shows the only reasonable replacement muffler to be a TWO Brothers carbon fibre exhaust based upon my criterea of sound, looks & cost. Any constructive advice in this respect would be appreciated. Also notice the chatter about PPS stopper bolt replacement for the 650 is this still a concern ?
Garry from DrouinEast wrote on Tuesday, May 06, 2014 02:32	I bought a 2012 bergman 650 about a month ago. I'm 62. It provides me with great riding pleasure. I've just had its 1000 k service- so I can open it out a wee bit more than the 4000 revs. But I'm no daredevil...... The service guy in Warragul made some comments on how these machines can drag off most sports bikes from the lights! I can highly recommend the backrest ( I have a crook back) and the Laminar Lip for the screen. These make the bike an even greater pleasure to ride. I did have the 400 cc a couple of years ago- but this machine is the one for me!
Ron from Johannesburg, South Africa wrote on Saturday, February 22, 2014 02:30	In 2005 I owned a BMW 1200 RT and the following year I replaced it with the BMW 1200 LT. Things changed and I was without a bike for quite some time until March 2011 when I got a Big Boy 250 Citiflite scooter for creating a website for a motorcycle dealer. Having owned bigger, more powerful bikes I was frustrated by the hard suspension and different style of riding. Needing a bigger bike and more power to travel on the freeway I have been trying to decide on what to get next. I have, for some time, been eyeing the Suzuki 650 Burgman Executive, but have read some unflattering remarks about it being heavy and thirsty on fuel. This morning I came across your website and was pleasantly surprised by the positive write-up you had on your Burgman. Advertising is great but everyone is either punting their favourite motorcycle or the reviews are by people more biased towards something else. An honest to goodness website like yours gives me a better perspective on what the Burgman is all about. I used to think that scooters were for students to get around on or for eccentric old gentlemen who were not into riding real motorcycles. After riding my Big Boy for the last year I have changed my opinion on scooters. I get 25 km/litre commuting around town which is three times better than my E230 Mercedes. Now I am accustomed to the riding position and find big bikes “different” and a bit uncomfortable to ride. My 250cc scooter easily leaves the traffic behind at the robots and traffic jams are not a problem anymore. So my next ride will most likely be a Burgman 650 Executive after reading your website.
Willie from Perth Scotland UK wrote on Saturday, December 14, 2013 10:20	At the age of 61 I wanted a bike/scooter to run about on, I bought a 13 year old Burgman 400 off ebay, I then joined the Royal British Legion Riders branch, to have riders to get out and about with. I loved it so much, I sold the 400 after 4 months and bought a 2010 650 executive. I find it a bit high for me, being short legged. But just love it, The weather is never great for riders in Scotland, But the Burgman gives loads of protection and lots of room to carry extra great. Ps. love your site and the information on it, thenks
Alan Davis from Doncaster UK wrote on Wednesday, June 05, 2013 16:40	I am loving the web-site. I keep dipping in and reading a bit more! Many years ago, when I was a lad, I lived in Brighton, Brisbane and loved every minute, I still have an affinity for the Aussies and your great country and was very sad when I came back to cold and grey England. I am now a scooter rider, after many years of motorcycle riding I took the plunge and bought a Yamaha Majesty, after 2000 miles I can say I doubt I will ever return to a geared bike. I love the big Burgmans however my Maj does the job, she will cruise at an indicated 70-80mph which is fast enough for me!
Bo Nyqvist from Nynäshamn wrote on Thursday, May 02, 2013 01:41	i and my wife travling round in sweden whith a burgman 650 2010 and love it
Martin Sanchis from Miami FL wrote on Saturday, March 30, 2013 15:23	I am also addicted to the Burgman 650 (White 2009 Exec.), I bought it in Wisconsin and rode all the way to Miami in 6 days (2500 Miles) and I was hooked for life .... I own a Mini Cooper convertible and a Bmw SUV but my primary form of transportation is my Burgman ... I handle groceries, kid to school, work related trips.... just love it more and more everyday. Manteinance is a breeze and I love to do it myself (whenever possible)... My life can be divided into before Burgman and after Burgman . Must be cool to ride in Australia and maybe one day I can visit your beautiful country...
Jimmymac wrote on Wednesday, February 13, 2013 09:17	Very good,well detailed review. My experience however is a bit different. I ran my Burgman 400 K8 for 3yrs. I covered 36000 miles problem-free. The only maintenance (other than scheduled) was a replacement lightbulb and tyres-truly amazing! I found the 400 far better economically and a better bike for riding on busy streets-I could throw it around a lot easier! I love the 650- but on balance I think the 400 is a lot more versatile, if lesser-equipped. I rode the 400 on trips between England-Scotland-France and it ate up miles with ease. Yes, there is more comfort(marginal) and power (also marginal) and certainly more gadgetry on the 650, but it's really not as much fun or as economic! Either way the Burgmans beat the Honda/Yamaha/BMW competition onto the ground, and I know what my next bike will be! happy riding!
LES PALMER from Gosford wrote on Saturday, June 16, 2012 15:45	Very impressed by the detail you go in to. I believe my next bike will be the burgman 650. You have convinced me. Currently riding a piaggio x8 400ie. I have owned the 400 for three years now and have clocked 103,000 km. I ride daily from Gosford to Sydney for work which is a round trip of 150km. The scooter performs magnificently and is as practical for me as you described your scoot for yourself. These scooters are fantastic machines, I would not try doing the distances I do regularly on a regular bike. Normal bikes are just not cut out for practical long distance transport. There are some of cause but I speak in general terms. As some one that has owned motorcycles in the past I would now say give me a maxi scooter any day. Cheers and well done on your article. Les
Russell from Bendigo, Vic wrote on Friday, November 04, 2011 09:56	I am about to take the plunge and trade up my Burgman 250 for the 650 Ececutive. Your site has made great reading for me, thanks. Makes me wonder why I didn't do it ages ago, but my needs have changed from an inner city commute to a distance traveller - having recently moved to rural Victoria. Two things I have learned over the last few days, one is get the GIVI larger sceen and the second is to buy a throttle rocker. I see there haven't been any posts since 2009 and no site update since December 2010, but I thought I'd post anyway. cheers
MaxG from Brisbane wrote on Thursday, September 17, 2009 20:23	I would suspect that the service intervals and costs are pretty much the same; at least this is the case for the Burgman 400 and 650. I have focussed on my requirements and evaluated which bike offers the best bang for the buck and what I wanted to do with it. You may want to look at my Burgman 400 vs. 650 comaprison for more information. I had a 400 before the 650, and also test rode the Silver Wing. See the parent page for further comparisons. I am sure you will find details about the features on Suzuki websites. I have a link on this page to the Tech Specs in AU (see top right menu).
Joel from Milford, PA wrote on Wednesday, September 16, 2009 21:56	I am looking for a scooter and can not decide between the Yamaha Majesty or the Burgman by Suzuki (400 or 650). Yamaha has the manual on their website and Suzuki does not, so I can not see features and maintenance intervals. Do you or anyone have experience with both bikes. Primary use would be for commuting 50–70 miles to work and what ever else. Thanks
MaxG from Brisbane wrote on Sunday, March 15, 2009 18:59	You are welcome Big Harv … I am glad my spin was of assistance, and hope you will enjoy your 650 over many years to come!
Big Harv from US wrote on Saturday, March 14, 2009 22:22	Thanks Max. Appreciate the feedback you have left at the Burgman Riders Forum. I am very excited, because today I bought a nice used (12,000 miles) 2006 650. Now I understand what I read in the forums before about how the 650 feels way different, better grounded, better at handling road grooves, pot holes, etc. And lots more oomph. After trying both, I am thrilled I was able to find a deal on a 650. Thanks again for your help!
MaxG from Brisbane wrote on Saturday, March 14, 2009 22:15	Hmm, 120 mph, must have been downhill?! Looks like you are pushing it a bit I would suggest to ride safely and let the "daring" go past you Why would you be running this scoot at maximum throttle? If speed is your thing, why not getting something that does 120 mph with a breeze and has got ample juice left?
Carl from Wsinston-Salem, North Carolina wrote on Saturday, March 14, 2009 22:04	I am 51, and have owned three other scooters, that is what they were scooters. Two of the scooters went up in a house fire in November 2008, that was a blessing! In February 2009 I purchased a Burgman 650 Executive K6 with 1,112 miles on it. This is not a scooter (Suzzie) that's her name. This bike has it all: power, comfort and style. I went to Alamountie Florida with a friend to pick it up and rode to Forth Myers Florida, a 250-mile trip. The ride was great, until a sportster rode passed me making all that noise; well Suzzie didn't like that. Before I knew it I was over 120 mph. Then I had the Burgman smile I slowed down to let the holley catch up. The rider didn't look at me; he just keep going, got slammed by Suzzie. I loved it! This is the best bike I have ever owned. Ride safe everyone!
MaxG from Brisbane wrote on Wednesday, March 11, 2009 16:40	Hi Wijay :) Sure you do; it is the more serious business look. I would have loved to get the 650 in red, but silver-grey is the only colour for the Burgman 650 Executive in Australia.
Wijay from Sydney wrote on Wednesday, March 11, 2009 09:16	I prefer the grey to the previous red. Good luck.