The Intruder is up against some stiff competition in the 125 cruiser market. Honda's VT125 Shadow and Yamaha's XVS125 Dragstar are both great little bikes so buyers really are spoilt for choice.
But the Suzuki still hit the spot when it was launched in 2000, quickly becoming the best selling custom in the UK. The three valves per cylinder 124cc air cooled four-stroke is a neat design, with single overhead cam operation and a healthy 13.3bhp at a heady 10,500rpm from the 65 degree V-twin.
Cruising at 50mph is relaxed, with fifth gear acting as an overdrive. The engine has been tuned for torque and the two chrome exhausts emit a rather pleasing noise as well - you want to live the cruiser dream, after all.
At 685mm the low saddle height makes the VL 125 Intruder a perfect bike for learners, and as they can't carry a pillion passenger they'll probably take off the removable pillion seat so that the bike has leaner lines. Dry weight is only 140kg so the Intruder is easy to handle as well. Stopping is taken care of by a single disc up front and a drum at the rear.
There are two classic shock absorbers at the rear, with five-way pre-load adjustment. The raked out front end and fat tyres contribute to the long, lean cruiser image and delivers easy handling at speed. The foot forward riding position is comfortable, and the 12-litre tank means you can fill up and head off into the sunset without worrying about where you are going to gas up.
Riding two-up might make the 125 V-twin work hard and you'll probably spend more time in fourth than fifth gear. But hey - pass your test you can move up to the VL1600 Intruder?
