Dreaming of turning your Suzuki Volusia 800 into a true reflection of your personality? You’re not alone—many riders crave a custom look and feel for their bikes but aren’t sure where to begin.
Customizing your Volusia 800 isn’t just about style; it’s about enhancing comfort, performance, and pride of ownership. Knowing how to approach modifications can make all the difference.
This article will walk you through essential steps, practical tips, and inspiring ideas to transform your ride. Let’s dive in!
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Customizing Your Suzuki Volusia 800: A Comprehensive Guide
The Suzuki Volusia 800, also known as the VL800 or Intruder Volusia, is celebrated for its classic cruiser style, reliable performance, and smooth ride. For many owners, making it truly their own through custom modifications is an exciting journey. But how do you go about customizing a Suzuki Volusia 800? Let’s break down what it takes to turn your VL800 into a unique expression of your style and needs.
Understanding Customization: The Basics
Customizing a Suzuki Volusia 800 means altering the bike to fit your personal tastes and performance desires. Riders often modify for improved comfort, enhanced performance, standout looks, or a mix of all three. Some turn their Volusia into bobbers or café racers, while others go for practical upgrades that make long rides more enjoyable.
Common Reasons to Customize
- Personal Expression: Stand out and showcase your individual style.
- Comfort: Make long rides more enjoyable with tailored seats and handlebars.
- Performance: Enhance your bike’s power and handling.
- Functionality: Add luggage racks, footboards, or windshields for practicality.
Top Customization Options for the Suzuki Volusia 800
There are countless ways to make your Volusia unique. Here are the most popular modifications, broken down into key categories:
1. Appearance Upgrades
- Paint and Graphics: Custom paint jobs or decals can give your bike a striking new look.
- Seats and Saddles: Swap out the stock seat for a solo bobber seat, low-profile saddle, or comfort touring seat. High-quality options are readily available.
- Lighting: Upgrade to LED headlights, add under-glow kits, or install custom indicator lights for better visibility and enhanced style.
- Fenders and Side Covers: Shortened “bobber” fenders or custom side covers create a retro or minimalist vibe.
- Handlebars: Ape hangers, drag bars, or beach bars adjust both look and ergonomics.
2. Performance Enhancements
- Exhaust Systems: Swapping in an aftermarket exhaust, such as slash-cut or “drag pipes,” not only changes the look but often boosts performance and creates a throatier sound.
- Air Intake: Upgrading to a high-flow air filter or intake system can improve throttle response.
- Tuning: Adjust the fuel injection or re-jet the carburetor (on carbureted models) to match exhaust and intake upgrades.
- Suspension: Better shocks or fork springs help the bike handle potholes and twisty roads with ease.
3. Comfort and Touring Additions
- Windshields: Tall or short windshields cut wind buffeting for long rides.
- Luggage Solutions: Saddlebags, top cases, and luggage racks make it easier to carry gear for touring.
- Foot Controls: Highway pegs and floorboards provide more comfortable riding positions.
4. Custom Accessories
- Mirrors: Swap stock mirrors for custom or bar-end options.
- Levers and Grips: Upgraded grips and adjustable levers enhance ergonomics and control.
- Crash Bars/Engine Guards: Provide extra protection for both the bike and rider.
Steps to Customizing Your Suzuki Volusia 800
Let’s break down the process of customizing your cruiser into simple, actionable steps.
- Decide Your Vision and Budget
- Are you aiming for a classic bobber, modern cruiser, or a touring machine?
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Set a realistic budget for parts and labor.
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Research and Select Parts
- Find parts compatible with the VL800, whether for performance, comfort, or style.
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Consider browsing specialty retailers for unique accessories.
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Gather Tools and Resources
- Basic tools: Sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers, etc.
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Installation guides or online forums can be a big help.
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Start with Easy Upgrades
- Swap out grips, mirrors, and levers for a quick confidence boost.
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Install auxiliary lighting or replace stock seat for instant comfort changes.
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Progress to Advanced Modifications
- Install new exhaust systems or air filters.
- Adjust carburetor/fuel settings if needed.
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Switch out handlebars or fenders for a more dramatic transformation.
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Test and Tweak
- Take short rides after each change to assess comfort, handling, and performance.
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Make adjustments as needed.
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Document Your Work
- Keep notes on modifications for future reference or resale.
- Take photos to track your build’s evolution.
Benefits of Customizing Your Volusia 800
When you invest in customizing your Suzuki Volusia 800, you get much more than a unique look.
- Enhanced Comfort: Ride further and more comfortably with tailored ergonomics.
- Improved Performance: Unlock your bike’s potential with a tuned engine and upgraded parts.
- Personal Satisfaction: The pride that comes from riding a machine that’s uniquely yours.
- Resale Value: Well-done customizations can make your bike more appealing to certain buyers.
Challenges to Consider
Customizing isn’t without its hurdles. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Compatibility: Not all aftermarket parts fit perfectly. Double-check compatibility with your exact model year.
- Technical Skills: Some mods are simple; others may require DIY know-how or professional installation.
- Legal Regulations: Custom exhausts or lighting mods may violate local laws; check before making changes.
- Budget Creep: Costs can add up quickly—factor in shipping, installation, and potential mistakes.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
- Start Simple: Begin with small, reversible mods like seats, grips, or mirrors.
- Join the Community: Online forums and groups provide a wealth of advice, troubleshooting, and inspiration.
- Invest in Quality: Choose reputable brands and reliable parts, especially for critical components.
- Document Everything: Note which parts you’ve installed and when; it helps with troubleshooting and resale.
- Maintain Safety: Always prioritize safety—use proper torque specs, secure bolt fasteners, and test after modifications.
Cost-Saving Advice for Parts and Shipping
Customizing costs can vary widely based on your vision. Here are ways to keep expenses in check:
- Shop Around: Compare multiple sellers and brands before buying major parts.
- Bundle Items: Buying several items from one vendor may qualify you for combined shipping discounts.
- Consider Used Parts: Salvaged or gently used parts can save you money. Just inspect for wear.
- Map Out Purchases: Plan what you need and buy parts in stages to spread out costs.
- Watch for Sales: Many retailers offer periodic discounts on accessories and upgrade kits.
- Mind Import Fees: If sourcing parts internationally, check for additional shipping or customs charges.
Bringing It All Together: Your Perfect Custom Volusia 800
Customizing your Suzuki Volusia 800 is a rewarding adventure. Whether you’re adding chrome, creating a bobber, pursuing better performance, or simply making your ride more comfortable, the possibilities are nearly endless. Remember to start with a plan, pace yourself, and always prioritize safety and compatibility. Before long, your Volusia won’t just be a motorcycle—it’ll be a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that reflects who you are on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does it cost to customize a Suzuki Volusia 800?
Costs vary widely depending on the complexity and number of modifications. Small changes like grips or mirrors can be under $50, while complete transformations with paint, exhaust, and custom seats can run into the thousands. Budget carefully and plan your upgrades.
Can I install most upgrades myself, or do I need a mechanic?
Many cosmetic and bolt-on modifications (like seats, handlebars, and lights) are doable for mechanically-inclined owners with basic tools. More complex upgrades, such as exhaust systems or carburetor tuning, may be better handled by a skilled mechanic to ensure safety and performance.
Will modifications affect my bike’s resale value?
Quality upgrades that boost performance, comfort, or appearance can enhance resale appeal, especially to fellow enthusiasts. However, extreme customizations might narrow your pool of potential buyers. Keeping original parts allows you to revert to stock if desired.
Are there legal concerns with custom exhausts or lighting?
Yes. Some aftermarket exhausts are louder than is legally allowed, and certain lighting upgrades (like colored under-glow) can violate road safety laws. Always check your local regulations before installing such modifications to stay compliant.
Where can I find inspiration or support for my VL800 project?
Online communities, motorcycle forums, and specialty retailers dedicated to the VL800/Volusia family offer ample inspiration, step-by-step guides, and troubleshooting help. Attending local bike nights or shows can also spark new ideas and connect you with like-minded riders.
With some patience, creativity, and thoughtful planning, your Suzuki Volusia 800 can become a true reflection of your personality and riding style. Enjoy the journey of making your cruiser uniquely yours!