[edorfox]

Hello from Bremerton, WA!
I recently picked up a 2013 AN650AL3 from Aurora Suzuki in Seattle. I find it interesting reading all the pros and cons about the new "BigBurg" on this and other forums. Personally, I have nothing to compare the new BB to as I have always ridden "motorcycles"...frequently, airhead BMW's. What I CAN tell you is...WOW...it is a really weird feeling doing 70 MPH sitting seemingly on a nicely padded barstool! Not having a gas tank to squeeze between your legs for stabilization is an interesting feeling for sure! Oh, and not to mention the first "quickie" stoplight out of the dealer caught me grabbing a fistful or rear brake! Yes, the ABS works.
Mine is white as I hear all the others will be for a while. I mistakenly had the impression that the new BB's had the heater grips and seat...wrong...not here. Oh well, I read that some folks think they don't work very well anyway (sour grapes...I went ahead and ordered some Oxford heated grips off ebay). I like the adjustable wind screen but dislike the gap letting the air rush to the hands when raised. The folding mirrors...not too useful here, no lane splitting allowed. Manual mode...will probably never be used...I wanted the CVT for a reason. Styling is a bit "busy" for me but I certainly like the dual H4 beams and the substantial blinkers. I am right at home with the analog guages and on the other end, I really appreciate the locking gas cap. What I truly find amazing is how incredibly smoothly and effortlessly this Scoot cruises at 65-70 MPH and it is essentially a laid-over vertical twin thumper as both pistons run side by side...amazing! High Five for the engine design team! Handling is MUCH quicker than I am used to. This thing drops into turns too easily at low speeds and I find myself grabbing more throttle to bail myself out...fortunately, the throttle is ALWAYS there and in the correct gear to boot. I am sure that I will become accustomed to the behavior in short order...I only have 175 miles under my belt so far. It is quite the "thing" being able to charge up to a turn, cram the brakes, roll in and hit the gas for the fast exit, never missing a beat! I think I am in love. Cruising is best with the feet forward...flat footing it gets uncomfortable way too soon. My first gas check showed 57 MPG. The dealer sold it to me for $10,662 +$398 freight but, softened the blow with a free 4 Yr warranty. Oh, and did I mention the 0%/60MO.! Sweet deal on a motorcycle/scooter.
The Tupperware on this model is a bit different. I struggled a bit to get the maintenance (tunnel) cover off, I think the snap tabs will get easier after a few removals. I'm hoping it won't be too long before the aftermarket folks catch up to this revised model. I would like to get a side bag setup and a tail rack at some point. Hopefully we will have some sunshine after 3 days of rain...I'm ready to ride!

Ed

 

[InfernoST]

Congrats on your new ride and welcome to BUSA. The 650 is a different animal and does many things very well.

 

[Dave_J]

Ed, I am just a short hop across that little pond. Anytime you need a question ask the forum. You are within the 120 mile range of my offer to ride over and give a hand on a repair or project, for a small fee, a sandwich and a cold drink.

The 2013 is not supost to have as much engine breaking but get in to the habit of putting the brakelight on when slowing so the tailgater behind you can respond. Also trail the rear brake with a bit of throttle in a slow corner and it wont seem to fall as much.

 

[NormanB]

Welcome to the forum. :hello2: and a great first post.

A good first impressions report, thank you.

Pleas keep an accurate track of fuel consumption it is one of the two main questions current 650 owners have (the other is how easy is it to man handle cold in the garage).

I am sure you will elevate your cruising speed once you become accustomed.

 

[edorfox]

Hi again,

Thanks for the welcome, advice and offers of local help. DaveJ, I'm hoping that won't be needed (even though the price is right!), at least for a while. I have learned the trick of a little rear brake adding stability in feet-up slow turns...thanks. I am currently clocking mileage on my first tankful after the dealers supply ran out. As far as engine-off cold maneuvering, I have no difficulty at all rolling it around...just a very slight drag...very slight. I notice there is a smaller than "normal" engine braking effect, I can live with that as the brakes are excellent, and when slowing through about 3-2-1 mph, the drive "lets go" and you coast. I suspect that is normal. I have no trouble "elevating" my cruising speed...just the opposite, I look down and I'm doing 75! Yikes! What a sweet ride!

Ed

 

[model28a]

Ed, welcome to the best Burgman forum on the web. And thank you for the fine introduction, which so often people overlook. I'm sure you will have a lot of good times on your new ride.

 

[Noth]

I assume the same benfits exist from the "power" button on the new 650 as the others.. I use that a ton when stopping, or slowing down for twisty's.. reduces the brake work a lot.. curious about that based on the claims of reduced engine braking..