What is the Difference Between a Suzuki M50 & C50?

In 2005, Suzuki overhauled many of its motorcycle models, offering new names and features to keep its brand fresh and draw new buyers into its showrooms. Beginning with the 2005 models, Suzuki's cruiser models became known as the Boulevard series. The new Boulevard models were archetypal cruisers, featuring classical styling and low-slung frames. These motorcycles traded high-performance capabilities for appearance and comfort on long-distance drives and were intended to be a separate and distinct category from Suzuki's sport models. Among the Boulevard cruisers were the Boulevard M50 (the new name for the old Marauder model) and the Boulevard C50 (previously known as the Volusia).

Suzuki unveiled its Boulevard line at the American Suzuki National Motorcycle and ATV Dealer Meeting in Las Vegas in 2004. Both the Boulevard M50 and the Boulevard C50 were similar to the models they replaced. The most notable difference with the introduction of the Boulevard nameplate was the introduction of a fuel-injection system that replaced the carburetors Suzuki had used on previous motorcycles. Originally, the Boulevard series features models known as the S40, S50, S83, C50 and C90. Boulevard motorcycles featuring an "S" designation were sometimes referred to as the "stylish" models, for their appearance upgrades. The "C" models, including the C50, were known for their "classic" cruiser design. Later in 2005, Suzuki would add the "M" series of "muscle" motorcycles to cap off the list of boulevard offerings.

Suzuki referred to the Boulevard C50 as model VL800. This was due to its 805cc engine (listed in some sales brochures as an 800cc engine). This engine was a liquid-cooled 45-degree V-twin. The Boulevard C50 also features a five-speed transmission and a solid shaft final drive. All Boulevard C50 models came from Suzuki with a rear seat and foot pegs so that they could carry a passenger behind the driver without the need for any additional equipment. Since 2005, the Boulevard C50 has been available as a series of specialty models, usually designated by an additional letter at the end of the name. The C50T came with a touring package that included extra storage compartments in the form of saddlebags, a backrest for the passenger seat and a windscreen. The C50SE was a limited-edition Boulevard C50 model with a flame paint job and the C50C featured special cast-aluminum wheels.

The Suzuki Boulevard M50 was released later in 2005. It was known internally at Suzuki as the VZ800, again in reference to its 805cc engine rated at 56 horsepower (a liquid-cooled 45 degree V-twin). The Boulevard M50 also included the same five-speed transmission and shaft drive as those used on the Boulevard C50. The Boulevard M50 was also offered as a Special Edition model that allowed buyers to choose from several two-tone color schemes. The standard M50 model was available only in black.

As members of the same Boulevard cruiser model line, the C50 and M50 are actually quite similar. Both feature an 805cc engine and a relatively light weight (around 650 pounds for the C50, under 600 for the M50). Besides weighing less, the M50 is a slightly more powerful motorcycle with 56 horsepower as opposed to the C50's 53 and 69 Nm of torque instead of 62. For as long as Suzuki has been offering the Boulevard line, the C50 has been known as the simplest model with few optional features and a more pure, classic design. However, it is also available in more variants than the M50, which only gains a new color scheme in the case of the M50 Special Edition. Sales have been strong for both the C50 and M50 since 2005, and Suzuki's place as a major player in the design, manufacture and marketing of cruisers is firmly established today.