After three years of happily riding a Peugeot Satelis 250, I found myself ready for a more capable and comfortable two-person touring machine. That’s when a 2009 Suzuki Burgman AN650 Executive came into my life—and what a leap it was.
I had long been searching for a maxi scooter that could handle longer journeys, offer true two-up comfort, and still maintain scooter practicality. The Burgman 650 checked all the boxes—on paper, at least. My first real impressions? Two words: size and presence.
First Impressions: Big Looks, Big Weight
The styling of the Burgman 650 was immediately impressive. It looks more like a modern touring motorcycle than a scooter, with sleek bodywork, integrated lighting, and a commanding road presence. But with that presence comes weight—over 270 kg wet, making it easily one of the heaviest scooters on the market.
Navigating through tight city traffic on this machine felt a bit like using a 20-kilogram sledgehammer to push in a thumbtack—technically effective, but far from ideal. Still, once you’re accustomed to the weight, the Burgman becomes surprisingly agile for its size, and its low center of gravity helps tremendously in slow-speed maneuvers.
Tech Overload (In a Good Way)
The Executive trim is loaded with features. At first, the array of buttons on the handlebars felt overwhelming. There’s a button for the electronically adjustable windshield, power mode, folding mirrors, and even manual gear selection via a 6-speed electronic transmission—similar to what you’d find in high-end sports cars.
Are they all necessary? Maybe not. But they all work well, and after a while, you begin to appreciate the thoughtful engineering. Those folding mirrors, for example, are a lifesaver when parking in tight spots—and they’re fully electronic, not the manual kind.
The Suzuki Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (SECVT) is another standout feature. It delivers buttery-smooth acceleration and, in most situations, there’s no real need to bother with the manual shifting option. Set it and forget it is my motto. Surprisingly, the engine braking when releasing the throttle at low speeds is quite strong—almost jarring at first—but I quickly adjusted my riding style.
Touring Scooter in Disguise
While the Burgman may technically be a scooter, in reality, it’s a fully equipped touring motorcycle disguised in a step-through frame. The 2009 model brought even more to the table with standard ABS, a passenger backrest, and an immobilizer system—all while maintaining the same €12,999 price tag as the 2007 model.
Long-distance riding is where the Burgman shines. It offers exceptional wind protection, a luxurious saddle (with heating!), and 50 liters of under-seat storage, which can accommodate two full-face helmets. Up front, the fairing houses three additional compartments, perfect for gloves, documents, or snacks on the go.
Performance and Efficiency
Powered by a 638cc parallel-twin engine, the Burgman AN650 remains one of the most powerful scooters ever built. It effortlessly cruises at highway speeds and remains stable even at higher velocities thanks to its size and weight. Fuel efficiency is respectable for its class, with real-world consumption averaging 5.7 L/100 km in urban areas and 5.0 L/100 km on the open road. With a 15-liter fuel tank, that translates to a range of roughly 280 kilometers.
Maintenance and Ownership Notes
The Burgman’s SECVT is both a blessing and a known weak point. Proper rider input—smooth acceleration, gentle throttle changes—can significantly extend its lifespan. While parts for the transmission can be pricey, the good news is that all components remain available, and many used parts can be found on the second-hand market, helping to ease long-term ownership costs.
Final Thoughts
The Suzuki Burgman AN650 Executive isn’t just a scooter—it’s a statement. It combines touring bike comfort, urban commuter practicality, and a feature list that rivals luxury cars. Sure, it’s bulky, and it may take some getting used to in heavy traffic, but once you hit the open road, you realize why this machine has such a loyal following.
It’s not for everyone—but if you’re looking for the king of maxi scooters, the Burgman might just be your perfect throne on two wheels.