2018 Suzuki Boulevard M50

The Boulevard M50 is one of three 805cc 45-degree V-twin cruisers in Suzuki’s lineup. Whereas the basic C50 and touring C50T adopt timeless classic styling, the M50 looks like the product of a performance/custom shop. Its bobbed fenders, billet-style tri-spoke wheels, bikini fairing, and dark finishes add a menacing attitude absent in the other models. As well, forward-mounted footpegs replace the C50’s floorboards, and the handlebar bend is flatter and more aggressive.

Functionally, the M50 leapfrogs ahead of its stablemates with an inverted fork instead of a conventional fork, 16-inch tubeless tires in lieu of tube-type rubber, and from 3 to 8 percent less curb weight (593 pounds for the C50 versus 611 and 644 pounds for the C50 and C50T, respectively). Truthfully, the M50 is a fairly modest performer, habituating in a Goldilocks zone between lightweight posers and heavyweight braggarts. And this, combined with its ultra-clean look and friendly price point, wins the perennial C50 plenty of fans in the crowded middleweight cruiser space.

Likes: An exceptionally stylish budget cruiser.

Dislikes: Looks this great deserve front and rear disc brakes.

Verdict: Maximum bling, minimum money.