Engineered by Suzuki for the custom - cruiser motorcycle segment, the 1997 Suzuki VS 800 GL Intruder relies on a 805 cc (49.1 cu in) liquid-cooled v2, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 50 HP (36.5 kW) at 6,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 62 Nm (45.7 lb-ft) at 4,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 62.1 HP per liter and a 2,500 rpm working window between peak torque (4,000 rpm) and peak power (6,500 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the VS 800 GL Intruder measures 212 kg (467 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.24 HP/kg (4.24 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 700 mm (27.6 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,560 mm (61.4 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 12-liter (3.2 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 5.9 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 203 km (126 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 160 km/h (99 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's Suzuki archive, this model family spans 3 indexed model years from 1996 to 2002, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
62.1 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.24 HP/kg (4.24 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
4,000–6,500 rpm
Theoretical Range
~203 km (126 mi)
Engine
Displacement805.0 ccm (49.12 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Power50.0 HP (36.5 kW)) @ 6500 RPM
Torque62.0 Nm (6.3 kgf-m or 45.7 ft.lbs) @ 4000 RPM
Compression10.0:1
Bore x Stroke83.0 x 74.4 mm (3.3 x 2.9 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemCarburettor. 2 x Mikuni BDS36
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)
IgnitionDigital transistorized
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed160.0 km/h (99.4 mph)
Fuel Consumption5.90 litres/100 km (16.9 km/l or 39.87 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases136.9 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Chassis
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork, coil spring, oil damped
Rear SuspensionSwingarm, oil damped, 5-way adjustable spring preload
Wheelbase1560 mm (61.4 inches)
Ground Clearance125 mm (4.9 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre80/90-19
Rear Tyre140/90-15
Front BrakesSingle disc. Two-piston calipers.
Front Brake Ø310 mm (12.2 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight204.0 kg (449.7 pounds)
Weight incl.212.0 kg (467.4 pounds)
Power/Weight0.2451 HP/kg
Seat Height700 mm (27.6 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
