I just watched a TON of videos and this one is BY FAR #1 . I have always loved GoldWings, Vulcans, and never heard of the Suzuki but they sold me on it !
HANDS DOWN THE BEST BIKE REVIEW, EVER. I have watched this so many times now because of your comment, because it really planted the seed in my head of what to look for, and how to make content from now on, so thanks ! I bet you didn't see that coming, @Terry Anderson.
Great presentation! I owned a cavalcade for 5 years and enjoyed the heck out of it. Unusual enough to get admiring and questioning glances from others, and powerful enough to get the job done. Criticized for being a heavy bike with a high center of gravity, it was still more readily handled than many bikes, and was not subject to high speed long sweeper wobbles. It would out-accelerate BMW GS 1150s! (Much to everyone's surprise including mine..). That V4 is one heck of an engine!, And at full chat was a lovely thing to hear! Thank you.
This video makes me want to buy a Cavalcade. Great job on the review of each bike. I wish Suzuki would bring this bike back in an 1800cc and keep all the cool gadgets. This bike was ahead of its time. Love it !!
I enjoyed hearing both of you present your observations of the realities of these two motorcycles! You are a very informative pair of motorcycling enthusiasts!
That was a bit crazy, but a fun and interesting review. When it comes to touring nothing really beats the old touring bikes of the 80's. Truly the Suzuki Calvacade, the Honda (GW) Aspencade & the Yamaha Venture Royale all from that same era were the best that touring had to offer. King of the road by anybody's definition and quite frankly, they still are, even today. Modern bikes certainly have many great features like fuel Injection, bluetooth audio, built in navigation, etc. but as you pointed out they lack many thoughtful details, like the reinforced hinges, heavier/stronger plastics, adjustable floorboards, large capacity saddlebags, etc. In the 80's bikes like the Calvacade were built with a function over form purpose. Bikes today largely seem to be built more around a form over function purpose. As much as I like the new bikes....the Suzuki Calvacade wins for doing what it does best, touring. If it were a beauty contest, my vote would go to the Kawasaki Voyager. Thanks for sharing both of these bike.
Why didn't I think of using that phrase "Function over form - form over function" when I was making this video, because it would have summed it all up easier? I do love the way the older bikes function. Thanks for watching and taking time to comment!
I had a pair if the Kawasakiger voyager 1300's swapped one out for a row home in coal country in northeast PA , I thought I was getting the better end of the stick but, alas that was not the case.
So nice to see that old Cavalcade still kicking. I had one around the same year and loved it. I was a younger man at the time and sold it for a sport bike. Now at 62 years old I would love to still have that all day bike (as in I could ride it all day without and worry). I just bought a 1998 Kawasaki Voyager xii that is of similar size and shape as the Cavalcade and am loving it as well but still have such fond memories of that Cavalcade running up and down the highway between Nebraska and Michigan.
Enjoyed the video. I have a 1200 voyager from 1995 and it’s similar to the Suzuki. You didn’t mention how powerful those things were back then. The 86 voyager and 87 calvacade were extremely powerful for the time. Also I have family from Keokee it’s so beautiful where you are from!
Wow great review! I am thinking of buying a Voyager and your review is one of the most in depth out side the box reviews out there. I mean you mention the things that most people wouldnt even think to say but would bother a person like me if I didnt know going into the purchase. Thank you so much and have a great day!
Really enjoyed your video. As a former cavalcade owner of 30 years and 90,000 miles I can tell you it’s everything you said and more. I would still have it if not for being rear ended on a California freeway last year. Fortunately I came away with minor injuries but due to the low value of the bike and the rarity of parts of course it was totaled by the insurance company. The Cade was top-of-the-line in touring motorcycles when it appeared in the fall of 1985. It was also the most expensive at least among the Japanese motorcycles and had the largest engine. They do have features that even modern motorcycles don’t. If I may be a bit critical I don’t think it’s fair to compare the cavalcade to the new Voyager which is a low budget motorcycle and built accordingly.. The Kawasaki is considerably cheaper than any of its competitors and that can be seen in the quality and design as you pointed out. That said, almost any motorcycle made today will handle better than the Cade in terms of straight line tracking. Shoppers need to realize just how old they are. They will cost you money if you want to fix them up correctly. Yes it’s easy to change the water pump and even the clutch but each spark plug will take you 20 minutes if you can reach them at all depending on the size of your knuckles. The carburetor diaphragms will hopefully be replaced before you find the bike of your dreams. The automatic rear suspension is great when it works but most of them have been replaced with progressives by now which really are not that compatible with the air system in my experience. There are several cavalcade mechanics with nationwide reputations. About seven years ago I sent mine to Tracy Presnell about an hour north of Wichita. He had it for a year working on it in his spare time. When it came home it was like having a new bike all over again. I agree with another post saying “best Cavalcade video ever😁”
I would love to send our Cade to Tracy Pressnell! He has an outstanding reputation with Cavalcades. I frequently see Cavalcades for sale with 10 to 15,000 miles on them (and an inch of dust) for just a few thousand dollars and I'm tempted to buy another one, but my wife would leave me if I did. Since you owned one for 30 years, then your knowledge of them far exceeds mine and I really appreciate your input. Thanks for watching!
Thank you both for the detailed review! I got my eyes on a well-maintainted Cavalcade. Just not able to find much useful information about it online until seeing your review.
This was a fun video. I love the old style touring bikes. I think I prefer this one over the goldwing. If I had that bike I would take days just to clean, polish, wax, armor all everything to make it look brand new. Good job guys. Yeah I don't get that ugly looking "nut buster" seat either. What was Kawi thinking? Damn!
I loved this video. Beautiful and articulate overview of all the features and common sense employed in bikes of yesteryear versus a modern machine. Loved your ending. God bless y'all!
I am looking at the following bikes now for my next purchase: Voyager, Road Glide, Goldwing, and Challenger. On first pass the Kawasaki seems like a great deal, but it becomes evident why the cost is lower. It is a low budget bike. Years ago I had an Aspencade. It was a great bike, well ahead of it time. I wish I had kept that bike. Thanks for posting.
I had a chance to buy a new Aspencade back in the 80's and I didn't because of it's imposing size, and I was a small bike rider at the time. Now, I wish I had bought it.
I LIKE MY VOYAGER AND IF YOU DECIDE TO GET ONE TRY AND GET A 2011 AND NEWER. COLOR MAY DICTATE THE YEAR SINCE THERE WERE ONLY TWO COLORS EACH YEAR AT MOST. THE 2011 UP WILL HAVE THE COOLING SYSTEM ON THEM. MINE IS A 2010 AND DOES NOT HAVE THE COOLING SYSTEM, BUT IT CAN BE PURCHASED SEPARATE. I LIKE THE COLOR OF MY 2010 WHICH ONLY HAD ONE COLOR THAT YEAR. YOU CAN FIND GOOD DEALS ON A USED VOYAGER IF YOU LOOK HARD. I FOUND MINE THREE YEARS AGO WITH 2,670 MILES AND LIKE NEW CONDITION FOR $7,700.00.
Great review...in the 80s the idea of bikes like the Cavalcade was to push things as far as the technology of the time would allow. The Voyager is however a retro attempt to 'out Harley' Harley, which by definition means looking backwards. Neither is right nor wrong, just different
I've heard this about the Voyager before - not the retro, but the HD comparison - simply, I think, by virtue of the engine type - even moreso than styling. I don't get it. That said, labels off, isn't the Kawasaki more affordable and reliable?
The Cavalcade looks like my Goldwing GL1200. The Voyager looks like my Harley Ultra Classic Electra Glide Both touring bikes, yet very different from each other.
Excellent comparison. I was going to shop around for the K. After your review, specially her ergonomics and comfort references! I am going to shop for the cavalcade (which I had never known existed until today). So thank you!!!
Oh my thank you so much for your honest review. I have been afraid to jump on the chance at owning a cavalcade but you make it sound like the best for the buck. I’m definitely going for it. Than you again.
My wife and I own 4 motorcycles. Two Harley's, two 1986, Kawasaki Cavalcades, one LXE and a LX . When we ride two-up the Cavalcade is more comfortable. The first month we own the LXE, we took the bike on a Iron Butt ride, the Saddlesore 1000, and the Bun Burner 1500. When we arrived home, 33 hours later, we took our Lincoln to get something to eat, and we thought the car had a flat tire, because the ride felt so rough. The reason why, we thought that is because the ride on the 1500 mile ride was so soft on the Cavalcade. These are nice motorcycles....
What a great review! I've always been curious about the Calvacade! What great features! I own the exact Kawasaki you guys have, and you're right about that seat and the heat! My wife SWEARS her right foot gets super hot. Thank you for the video!
Hello from Ohio. Your review is one of the best motorcycle reviews I have seen on RUclips. Your review is based on experience, not someone producing content. I really like your channel and content. I'm now a subscriber. Ride safe. OHIOBACKROADS.
Best Cade video I’ve seen. I own 2 Cade LXEs and lots of parts and a HD Ultra Classic. I’m fortunate and can have several bikes, but if I could have only one, it’d be the Suzuki, hands down. Thanks a million for an outstanding video. Looking forward to more. Subscribed. 👍
I've never seen your video because I don't own a touring bike, but love them and started watching videos a few days ago. I like how your wife is your co-pilot on reviews. I never knew Suzuki made a touring bike. I usually think of the big 3 - GoldWing, Harley Touring, Vulcan. I've always loved Vulcans, but that Suzuki is SWEET !!! I think you won me over on the Suzuki. I'm sure someone could 3D print fairing parts for the Suzuki, too.
I had a 1986 cavalcade lxe for 20 years until 4 years ago when I sold it and got a 2001 gl1800. I had over 100,000 miles in the case with the only trouble I had was the stator on a trip down near Ashville North Carolina. Put a car battery in the saddle bag and hard wired to the bike battery to get home. The Honda goldwing motor is much more powerful and smooth but the storage and ride was better on the Cavalcade. Good review!
I hoped the Voyager would be a could alternative to the road glide but every review has a long list of things they don't like or things that needed to be customized before falling in love with it. You guys are really making me want to start looking into some of these older bikes as a first, at least you can get more for your money. :)
It's almost $10,000 less than the Harley competitor, and for that you get a TFT screen and TPMS. That's it. I can have ANY new bike I want. I came from a Gold Wing GL1800, and I bought a 2012 Voyager 1700 with 60,000 miles. It's more reliable, and a better riding bike than a new Harley. If I wanted to spend ANOTHER additional $10,000 on a Harley, sure, then you're getting into BMW niceties.
Great review on the Cade. Being an owner of one, they are a beast. They have a bunch of accessories you can put on them, but you have to keep an eye on eBay to find them. There are riders in the group that have 200k plus miles on them. I’m looking at the fork brace on your Cade, if it hasn’t been updated, you really should. Prone to crack. These are a fun bike to ride. Take care and ride safe. My icon is my bike.
Boy when you busted out that radio on the Suzuki I thought I would die laughing, great review of bikes many years apart, just shows how far technology has come.
Great vid. First time I ever saw a comparison of old to new. Lots of differences. The forward thinking of the big four Asian bike makers and their futuristic designs back in the 80's are always going to be timeless. I would like to see more comparisons of this sort . Recently I bought a 2000 kawasaki xii with 18000 MI on the clock. According to the factory specs this bike has 97 horsepower and I believe it. It keeps up with a lot of modern should I say American bikes, but also is comfy and smooth running.
I found out about this bike by accident. I was looking to replace my 100K mile 1999 Harley FLHTCI, I was looking at Harley's, Goldwings, Kawasaki's Voyagers. I saw this add for the Cavalcade. The picture didn't look very clear, I couldn't tell what was on top of the rear seat. I wanted to see what the bike looked like, I didn't go there to buy it, I just wanted to see it. Just one look, I bought it on the spot. I have never looked back.
Very nicely done ✔ 👏 👍 👌. The way yu guys tell the story is great, and this kind of insight is not given by many vedios i have seen. Very informative. I'm considering a Voyager as my next ride, this will help a lot. I currently ride a 2012 Victory Vision, which is a full dresssed touring bike and I love that bike because of some features not seen, like the adjustable windshield. BTW, how many miles do you have on each bike?
The Cavalcade looks like an early Goldwing especially from the rear. I own the 2010 model of the Kawasaki. I haven't ridden the Calvacade but I have ridden a Goldwing. It seems to me that although you have done a thorough review you're sold on the Cavalcade. I've never seen one in Australia and the Voyager is also no longer available in Australia. I find the screen on the Kawasaki screen more than adequate for both wind and cold protection.
No more Voyager in Australia!? Meanwhile, they're still churning them out over here! But i found that the stock windscreen virtually encapsulated me while riding, so i bought another screen from Kawasaki, but 4 inches shorter! That made a big difference. Now, i can see over it.... And I still find myself wanting an even shorter one! There's no pleasing me! Lol
I just come across this review after watching a review on a 2022 R18 Transcontinental BMW. That cost almost 30,000. It's amazing all the thought that went into the Calvacade. Like the turn down handlebars that are easier on your arms. The center stand helper thing, the adjustable air suspension, rear radio control, driver seating position, the heat control, the angled rear footrest for passengers, the grab bar on back. Seems lot of these little things that make riding easier are being lost on the new high tech bikes. The R18 has pocket for cell phone with cooling fan. How crazy is that? If you have cell phone case it won't fit in pocket. BMW over engineers everything. Not always a good thing in my opinion. Especially if your doing the maintenance on your bike. It's good to see a review where people actually own and ride these bikes for long time instead of the reviewers that make a living doing reviews on You Tube. This makes me wanna find one of these old bikes. Only 7500 sold in the USA before production ended.
Damn! Suzuki was way ahead of their time with this bike! I think I may start looking for one of those...thing looks like a box truck from the back though...Lol!
I ride a 1991 Kawasaki Voyager. Fabulous machine, lots of character, goes like stink when you wind her up, comfy as a gentleman's club armchair, and never let me down...
Thanks for the nice comparison video. I would say (not having) the center stand is a big negative on Kawasaki (KW), I have always had to take few extra steps whenever changing the oil, and the fog-light switch is at somewhat inconvenient reach. EFI, cruise-control, hydraulic valve-lifters are a plus on KW. I have never owned Suzuki, still it would be interesting to compare the service needs and technical points on both.
Personally I like the Voyager much better between the two, not really into the junk look of the Cavalcade plus I am more into just a basic motorcycle. A better comparison would have been between the Cavalcade's rial which was the old Voyager II. The New Voyager is looking to compete with Harley's from a value standpoint. Basically not everyone wants to pay $25K and up for a large touring twin.
I've had 1800 GW 1600 and 1700 Nomad and a Harley all r good GW was the best overall except foot placement realy like the 1700 Nomad which I thought was a Voyager without the trunk and fairing but with windshield very easy to reach the ground and air shocks rides very good not rough (does you do the air fryer stuff) enjoyed your vid.
This was the most informative video. I'm currently debating on buying a 86calvalcade and this video really gave me a lot of knowledge about the bike. I currently ride a Suzuki intruder 1400. My complaint about my current bike is the tiny gas tank. Being that the calvalcade is such a slender bike I'm curious about the gas tank capacity. Any thoughts or advice?
I just bought a Cavalcade in mint condition and so far I love it except it's so top heavy and if it tips too far it's going to end up on its crash bars ... Ask me how I know lol And even though this is my 39th Motorcycle it will take some getting used to. Too bad Suzuki gave up on V4s Because it is a great engine
Yea, i really liked their review and i went looking, but i think they weigh like 800 pounds, uug. May need to stay with my 96 Trophy for my aging bones and muscles 😫
I am not a fan of the new voyager but I love my voyager 12 very basic for a cruiser bike but seems to have everything you need and handling is great dosent have that heavy feeling.
Nice review, different and interesting. But if you want a bike that will make you a coffee in the morning, look for a newer Goldwing. You will have to take a weekend classes to figure out all the buttons on it. Thanks again.
I feel like a more accurate comparison would have been to a 2013 Goldwing. A 2013 goldwimg with all of the features your Suzuki has would be over 25k. After inflation the Suzuki in today's money would have been around 18k. What you get for 18k today is not what you got back then. But I will say if I came across an 87 Cavalcade for less than 3 grand I would buy it before the Kawasaki any day of the week.
I HAVE A VOYAGER, THE FRONT LEG FAIRINGS MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO USE A FOOT REST. THERE ARE SOME THAT ARE MADE TO MOUNT ON THE BOTTOM OF THE FLOOR BOARDS WHICH WORK WELL. I HAVE ONLY HAD ONE SUZUKI, A HAYABUSA, AND I FOUND THE OVERALL QUALITY OF SUZUKI TO BE BETTER. I WISH SUZUKI MADE AN EQUIVALENT CRUISER TO THE VOYAGER. I HAVE BEEN PRETTY MUCH SATISFIED WITH MY VOYAGER OVERALL. MOST OF THE NEGATIVES YOU POINTED OUT ON THE VOYAGER ARE NOT A PROBLEM FOR ME AND DUE TO HEALTH ISSUES I CANNOT MAKE THE REALLY LONG RIDES LIKE MOST OF MY RIDING BUDDIES LIKE TO GO ON. I GUESS MY LEGS MUST BE QUITE A BIT LONGER THAN YOURS BECAUSE AT A STOP I AM FLAT FOOT WITH SLIGHTLY BENT KNEES. I ENJOYED THE VIDEO, GOD BLESS YOU FOLKS.
The long rides are getting extremely difficult for me as well because of health issues. I think when I made this video it sounded like I was dissatisfied with a Voyager, but I'm not at all. I absolutely love it. I also wish that Suzuki made a Voyager equivalent though. Thanks for your comment!
Bret Becky I COULD TELL IN THE VIDEO, WHICH WAS VERY GOOD AND INFORMATIVE, THAT YOU LIKED BOTH BIKES AND THAT WE BASICALLY AGREE ABOUT THE QUALITY DIFFERENCES. IN MY OPINION THE CAVALCADE WAS THE BEST “SPORTY” TOURING BIKE BACK IN IT’S DAY AND WOULD BE GREAT IF THEY MADE IT WITH TODAYS TECHNOLOGY, IE FUEL INJECTION ETC. OH, AND I HAD TWO SUZUKI CARS SOLD BY CHEVROLET THAT WERE VERY GOOD QUALITY WITH UNBELIEVABLE GAS MILEAGE. AGAIN I ENJOYED YOUR VIDEO WITH GOOD UNBIASED OPINION AND INFORMATION.
@@noahdunaway Noah, while I prefer the Calvacade over the other touring bikes of that time, I wouldn't say that it was the "Best Sporty Touring Bike" back in the day. That award would have gone to the Yamaha Venture Royale. That bike definitely had more of a sporty nature, but lacked all the many great amenities the Calvacade offered, not to mention plenty of storage for those long trips. It's mind boggling to me why Suzuki no longer offers a world class touring machine to compete against Honda, Kawasaki and Yamaha.
We did buy the lowering kit that cost about $250.00 (the best I can remember) and we didn't use it. It's still in the box out in the garage and you're welcome to it at no charge if you decide to buy a Voyager and you want the kit. I really don't think it's safe though. I'm not an engineer, but I worked on car suspensions professionally for over 20 years and I see multiple, serious problems with it. I see the potential for it to destroy the rear brake caliper if you hit a moderate bump in the road, because it rests against the caliper and uses the caliper as a "stop". I believe it would be very noisy because it's steel and it bangs against the caliper at every bump. Also, it uses a threaded bolt with no sleeve, that goes through the rubber shock absorber grommet. Without a sleeve (there's no room for one in the grommet) the bolt threads will chew up the rubber grommet very fast because of the constant motion.
Add a trunk slide to the Kawasaki.....the other big difference is the Suzuki is no longer made where the Kawasaki is.... adjustment for things on the Kawasaki is easy to install
Great video, thanks! It's kind of funny, because it does seem like you don't care for the Voyager (when doing the comparisons). Okay. This is kind of crazy. I've been riding for decades and have never owned a tourer (well, a bike made for that purpose - any bike can be a tourer). For the past week or so, I've been going down the rabbit hole of (older) tourers... and this is first time I've heard of the Suzuki, period. From how you described the bike, I don't understand why it didn't do well and why it seems almost no one talks about it (outside of people mostly talking about whatever's new). Why was only released for four years in the states (and until 91 in Europe)? When it comes to tourers, my first thought was, no surprise, the Honda Goldwing. Then came the Kawasaki Voyager (specifically the XII). Then the Yamaha Venture (which I think is now off the table - Sorry, Venture lovers - after a lot of research, I don't know about this confusing run of bikes). Now, I'm looking in the Suzuki Cavalcades. My biggest concern is the short run and subsequently, the lack of parts and possibly support - although I've only ever taken two bikes to a shop - working on bikes is a satisfying (and sometimes maddening) part of the hobby for me. Nope, no Harleys or BMW on this table. I've long wanted an older BMW boxer toaster, but... well, the cost of maintain one seems off the charts. Harleys? Well, I don't care for the culture or the corporation, which has informed my view of the brand. Also, for any bike, reliability is important (especially for touring). Some makes and models have better track records than others. It seems the touring bikes I'm interested in are mostly from the 80s, carried through the 90s and dip a toe into the early 2000s. I've only ever bought one bike new, which I sadly regret (a Triumph). I don't think I'll do that again, other than a less expensive bike or one that doesn't seem to depreciate much, in which case, it'd may make sense to pay a little more. Considering a lot of tourers were maintained and cared for by their owners, I think there's a much higher chance of finding ones in good condition. Also, I think due to the people who bought a lot of them and the time, many are becoming available as those bikers have aged or otherwise no longer ride. I thought I was playing the waiting game for the "right" tourer to become available (made difficult by dealers snatching them up - I'd prefer not to deal with one, as, well, I don't much trust them and they tend to jack prices up to ridiculous levels)... now I have, for me, a surprise dark horse to research and consider. Anyways, I've written a book. Sorry about that. I'm just surprised to hear all this about a bike I didn't know existed. It sounds better than the other two that are still on the table for me - a Goldwing (mid-80s to 90s) and Voyager (probably the XII). Thanks again for the video. If you made it down here you probably deserve some type of award. Anyone who has unbiased thoughts or helpful info on tourers, please share. I'm going to try to find locals with the various bikes and see if I can try them out. I know, at the end of the day, it's what you like that matters.
As an aside, I've a soft spot for Suzuki. It was the first bike I bought after getting divorced many moons ago. An 83 GS650GL. I ended up getting it for $300 and a handshake. It checked pretty much every box of the type of bike you shouldn't buy. Took it apart. Fixed it up. Got a title (depending on where you live, this can be a nigh unwinnable battle - Thankfully, it turned out someone I went to high school with worked in the court that does this - She made it possible/easier for me). Had it up to about 4 years ago. A now speck-in-the-rearview-mirror talked me into selling almost all my bikes. I always had a lot of bikes because I'd fix, restore (depending), ride, and sell them - a self-funding hobby... and well, bikes. You get into them and sometimes you get the fever and want to wrench and ride them all. Shouldn't have sold her, though. The bike, that is. It's good that the other bit moved on. I'm only now dusting off and getting back into the garage. Something to look forward to. Riding has always been one of the main things in life that puts a smile on my face and makes me feel free.
You could fit a nice nav system in that cavalcade... suzuki was trying to compete with the goldwing back then.. I think the new voyager is trying to compete with Harley..
Hmmmm....what a great idea!! I assume that you mean to remove the old radio and put one in there? If that's what you mean, then yes, one would fit nicely in that compartment. It would probably start a trend with Cavalcade owners. Thanks Greg!
Try comparing the Cavvy to a Kawi from the same generation like the KZ1300 dresser from the same decade. The plastics are the same quality. I know, I replaced the first Cavvy engine in the midwest that had porous cylinder heads with a # 3 engine from Brea the same decade. It was a Kawi and Suzuki dealer so I'm familiar with most of them. Unless you are paying 20,000 bucks or more ANY plastics from the last 15 years is CHEAPER and more flimsy than the '80's. Kind of like comparing the steel on a '57 Chevy to a Cadillac CTS from the current era. No comparison!
I'm a little confused why you are comparing a bike (calvacade) that has not been made in 35+ years? A better comparison would have been the OLD Voyager or even the old Yamaha Venture, much more similar in style.
This the best video out,I love how both of you covered everything and the honesty.
Outstanding review. This puts many professional reviewers to shame.
I just watched a TON of videos and this one is BY FAR #1 . I have always loved GoldWings, Vulcans, and never heard of the Suzuki but they sold me on it !
HANDS DOWN THE BEST BIKE REVIEW, EVER. I have watched this so many times now because of your comment, because it really planted the seed in my head of what to look for, and how to make content from now on, so thanks ! I bet you didn't see that coming, @Terry Anderson.
Honest appraisals from real users with lots of experience.
Great presentation!
I owned a cavalcade for 5 years and enjoyed the heck out of it. Unusual enough to get admiring and questioning glances from others, and powerful enough to get the job done. Criticized for being a heavy bike with a high center of gravity, it was still more readily handled than many bikes, and was not subject to high speed long sweeper wobbles.
It would out-accelerate BMW GS
1150s! (Much to everyone's surprise including mine..). That V4 is one heck of an engine!, And at full chat was a lovely thing to hear!
Thank you.
This video makes me want to buy a Cavalcade. Great job on the review of each bike. I wish Suzuki would bring this bike back in an 1800cc and keep all the cool gadgets. This bike was ahead of its time. Love it !!
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I enjoyed hearing both of you present your observations of the realities of these two motorcycles! You are a very informative pair of motorcycling enthusiasts!
wow talk about a thorough review! great job touching on everything imaginable.. first vid i ever saw where i had all questions answered!
Thanks!
great job, thanks! I own a 1986 Cavalcade and your commentary is right on target. 😄
That was a bit crazy, but a fun and interesting review. When it comes to touring nothing really beats the old touring bikes of the 80's. Truly the Suzuki Calvacade, the Honda (GW) Aspencade & the Yamaha Venture Royale all from that same era were the best that touring had to offer. King of the road by anybody's definition and quite frankly, they still are, even today. Modern bikes certainly have many great features like fuel Injection, bluetooth audio, built in navigation, etc. but as you pointed out they lack many thoughtful details, like the reinforced hinges, heavier/stronger plastics, adjustable floorboards, large capacity saddlebags, etc. In the 80's bikes like the Calvacade were built with a function over form purpose. Bikes today largely seem to be built more around a form over function purpose. As much as I like the new bikes....the Suzuki Calvacade wins for doing what it does best, touring. If it were a beauty contest, my vote would go to the Kawasaki Voyager. Thanks for sharing both of these bike.
Why didn't I think of using that phrase "Function over form - form over function" when I was making this video, because it would have summed it all up easier? I do love the way the older bikes function. Thanks for watching and taking time to comment!
I had a pair if the Kawasakiger voyager 1300's swapped one out for a row home in coal country in northeast PA , I thought I was getting the better end of the stick but, alas that was not the case.
So nice to see that old Cavalcade still kicking. I had one around the same year and loved it. I was a younger man at the time and sold it for a sport bike. Now at 62 years old I would love to still have that all day bike (as in I could ride it all day without and worry). I just bought a 1998 Kawasaki Voyager xii that is of similar size and shape as the Cavalcade and am loving it as well but still have such fond memories of that Cavalcade running up and down the highway between Nebraska and Michigan.
Enjoyed the video. I have a 1200 voyager from 1995 and it’s similar to the Suzuki. You didn’t mention how powerful those things were back then. The 86 voyager and 87 calvacade were extremely powerful for the time. Also I have family from Keokee it’s so beautiful where you are from!
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Love my voyager do a lot of long trips and absolutely love it. Good review but the kawi comes out on top for me everytime.
Wow great review! I am thinking of buying a Voyager and your review is one of the most in depth out side the box reviews out there. I mean you mention the things that most people wouldnt even think to say but would bother a person like me if I didnt know going into the purchase. Thank you so much and have a great day!
Awesome, thank you!
Really enjoyed your video. As a former cavalcade owner of 30 years and 90,000 miles I can tell you it’s everything you said and more. I would still have it if not for being rear ended on a California freeway last year. Fortunately I came away with minor injuries but due to the low value of the bike and the rarity of parts of course it was totaled by the insurance company. The Cade was top-of-the-line in touring motorcycles when it appeared in the fall of 1985. It was also the most expensive at least among the Japanese motorcycles and had the largest engine. They do have features that even modern motorcycles don’t. If I may be a bit critical I don’t think it’s fair to compare the cavalcade to the new Voyager which is a low budget motorcycle and built accordingly.. The Kawasaki is considerably cheaper than any of its competitors and that can be seen in the quality and design as you pointed out. That said, almost any motorcycle made today will handle better than the Cade in terms of straight line tracking. Shoppers need to realize just how old they are. They will cost you money if you want to fix them up correctly. Yes it’s easy to change the water pump and even the clutch but each spark plug will take you 20 minutes if you can reach them at all depending on the size of your knuckles. The carburetor diaphragms will hopefully be replaced before you find the bike of your dreams. The automatic rear suspension is great when it works but most of them have been replaced with progressives by now which really are not that compatible with the air system in my experience. There are several cavalcade mechanics with nationwide reputations. About seven years ago I sent mine to Tracy Presnell about an hour north of Wichita. He had it for a year working on it in his spare time. When it came home it was like having a new bike all over again. I agree with another post saying “best Cavalcade video ever😁”
I would love to send our Cade to Tracy Pressnell! He has an outstanding reputation with Cavalcades. I frequently see Cavalcades for sale with 10 to 15,000 miles on them (and an inch of dust) for just a few thousand dollars and I'm tempted to buy another one, but my wife would leave me if I did. Since you owned one for 30 years, then your knowledge of them far exceeds mine and I really appreciate your input. Thanks for watching!
Thank you both for the detailed review! I got my eyes on a well-maintainted Cavalcade. Just not able to find much useful information about it online until seeing your review.
This was a fun video. I love the old style touring bikes. I think I prefer this one over the goldwing. If I had that bike I would take days just to clean, polish, wax, armor all everything to make it look brand new. Good job guys. Yeah I don't get that ugly looking "nut buster" seat either. What was Kawi thinking? Damn!
I loved this video. Beautiful and articulate overview of all the features and common sense employed in bikes of yesteryear versus a modern machine. Loved your ending. God bless y'all!
I love these types of videos. I save them for the evening when I run the giant picture from my projector. Thank you so much.
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I am looking at the following bikes now for my next purchase: Voyager, Road Glide, Goldwing, and Challenger. On first pass the Kawasaki seems like a great deal, but it becomes evident why the cost is lower. It is a low budget bike. Years ago I had an Aspencade. It was a great bike, well ahead of it time. I wish I had kept that bike. Thanks for posting.
Just don't get an 09 Voyager. Had too many problems first year
I had a chance to buy a new Aspencade back in the 80's and I didn't because of it's imposing size, and I was a small bike rider at the time. Now, I wish I had bought it.
I LIKE MY VOYAGER AND IF YOU DECIDE TO GET ONE TRY AND GET A 2011 AND NEWER. COLOR MAY DICTATE THE YEAR SINCE THERE WERE ONLY TWO COLORS EACH YEAR AT MOST. THE 2011 UP WILL HAVE THE COOLING SYSTEM ON THEM. MINE IS A 2010 AND DOES NOT HAVE THE COOLING SYSTEM, BUT IT CAN BE PURCHASED SEPARATE. I LIKE THE COLOR OF MY 2010 WHICH ONLY HAD ONE COLOR THAT YEAR. YOU CAN FIND GOOD DEALS ON A USED VOYAGER IF YOU LOOK HARD. I FOUND MINE THREE YEARS AGO WITH 2,670 MILES AND LIKE NEW CONDITION FOR $7,700.00.
Great review...in the 80s the idea of bikes like the Cavalcade was to push things as far as the technology of the time would allow. The Voyager is however a retro attempt to 'out Harley' Harley, which by definition means looking backwards. Neither is right nor wrong, just different
Great point!
I've heard this about the Voyager before - not the retro, but the HD comparison - simply, I think, by virtue of the engine type - even moreso than styling. I don't get it. That said, labels off, isn't the Kawasaki more affordable and reliable?
The Cavalcade looks like my Goldwing GL1200.
The Voyager looks like my Harley Ultra Classic Electra Glide
Both touring bikes, yet very different from each other.
Excellent comparison. I was going to shop around for the K. After your review, specially her ergonomics and comfort references! I am going to shop for the cavalcade (which I had never known existed until today). So thank you!!!
Oh my thank you so much for your honest review. I have been afraid to jump on the chance at owning a cavalcade but you make it sound like the best for the buck. I’m definitely going for it. Than you again.
My good friend just bought a Cavalcade. I’m glad to hear this review. I wonder if he watched this first. If not, I’ll let him know about it.
My wife and I own 4 motorcycles. Two Harley's, two 1986, Kawasaki Cavalcades, one LXE and a LX . When we ride two-up the Cavalcade is more comfortable. The first month we own the LXE, we took the bike on a Iron Butt ride, the Saddlesore 1000, and the Bun Burner 1500. When we arrived home, 33 hours later, we took our Lincoln to get something to eat, and we thought the car had a flat tire, because the ride felt so rough. The reason why, we thought that is because the ride on the 1500 mile ride was so soft on the Cavalcade. These are nice motorcycles....
What a great review! I've always been curious about the Calvacade! What great features! I own the exact Kawasaki you guys have, and you're right about that seat and the heat! My wife SWEARS her right foot gets super hot. Thank you for the video!
Thank you for watching. God bless you!
just got a Suzuki Cavalcade Lxe Radio works an almost everything else so excited about this video you made thank you so much!
Hello from Ohio. Your review is one of the best motorcycle reviews I have seen on RUclips. Your review is based on experience, not someone producing content. I really like your channel and content. I'm now a subscriber. Ride safe. OHIOBACKROADS.
Best Cade video I’ve seen. I own 2 Cade LXEs and lots of parts and a HD Ultra Classic. I’m fortunate and can have several bikes, but if I could have only one, it’d be the Suzuki, hands down. Thanks a million for an outstanding video. Looking forward to more. Subscribed. 👍
If I had 2 Cade LXE's, I'd want 3. In my opinion, they're the best bike ever made. Thanks for watching and subscribing!
I've never seen your video because I don't own a touring bike, but love them and started watching videos a few days ago. I like how your wife is your co-pilot on reviews. I never knew Suzuki made a touring bike. I usually think of the big 3 - GoldWing, Harley Touring, Vulcan. I've always loved Vulcans, but that Suzuki is SWEET !!! I think you won me over on the Suzuki. I'm sure someone could 3D print fairing parts for the Suzuki, too.
I had a 1986 cavalcade lxe for 20 years until 4 years ago when I sold it and got a 2001 gl1800. I had over 100,000 miles in the case with the only trouble I had was the stator on a trip down near Ashville North Carolina. Put a car battery in the saddle bag and hard wired to the bike battery to get home. The Honda goldwing motor is much more powerful and smooth but the storage and ride was better on the Cavalcade. Good review!
Thanks for watching and sharing that.
I hoped the Voyager would be a could alternative to the road glide but every review has a long list of things they don't like or things that needed to be customized before falling in love with it. You guys are really making me want to start looking into some of these older bikes as a first, at least you can get more for your money. :)
It's almost $10,000 less than the Harley competitor, and for that you get a TFT screen and TPMS. That's it. I can have ANY new bike I want. I came from a Gold Wing GL1800, and I bought a 2012 Voyager 1700 with 60,000 miles. It's more reliable, and a better riding bike than a new Harley. If I wanted to spend ANOTHER additional $10,000 on a Harley, sure, then you're getting into BMW niceties.
Man, I grew up riding "Zukes". I need to buy another one. Thanks a thousand for the review.
Thank you very much, God bless you!
Great review on the Cade. Being an owner of one, they are a beast. They have a bunch of accessories you can put on them, but you have to keep an eye on eBay to find them. There are riders in the group that have 200k plus miles on them. I’m looking at the fork brace on your Cade, if it hasn’t been updated, you really should. Prone to crack. These are a fun bike to ride. Take care and ride safe. My icon is my bike.
Good video. You brought up a lot of stuff people don't think of.
I appreciate that
Excellent Motorcycle Comparison Video.
Thank you for creating and sharing.
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This is a Great Video. I got more useful information from this then any other video
Think I'm keeping my 05 venture
Boy when you busted out that radio on the Suzuki I thought I would die laughing, great review of bikes many years apart, just shows how far technology has come.
Very well presented and detailed. Thank you, sir.
Great vid. First time I ever saw a comparison of old to new. Lots of differences. The forward thinking of the big four Asian bike makers and their futuristic designs back in the 80's are always going to be timeless. I would like to see more comparisons of this sort . Recently I bought a 2000 kawasaki xii with 18000 MI on the clock. According to the factory specs this bike has 97 horsepower and I believe it. It keeps up with a lot of modern should I say American bikes, but also is comfy and smooth running.
Thanks for watching, have fun on your new, low mileage Kawasaki!
Greetings,
As always another fantastic detailed video 🇺🇸🎉🍾🇺🇸
Keep producing more videos.
Look at you, Becky!!! Totally into watching your recipe videos, glad you like bikes, too!!!
Nice review. I never heard of the cavalcade but they thought things through.
Thank you!
I found out about this bike by accident. I was looking to replace my 100K mile 1999 Harley FLHTCI, I was looking at Harley's, Goldwings, Kawasaki's Voyagers. I saw this add for the Cavalcade. The picture didn't look very clear, I couldn't tell what was on top of the rear seat. I wanted to see what the bike looked like, I didn't go there to buy it, I just wanted to see it. Just one look, I bought it on the spot. I have never looked back.
Hope everything's okay for you. I found your channel because of this video and ending up liking a lot of your videos, especially the DIY type.
FYI, I've read, the LXE model has an adjustable rear trunk, with fore and aft movement!
I once owned a Voyager XII. It had most of the same features as the Cavalcade, even the mirror in the trunk.
Thanks for watching!
I really like the voyager 12 great motorcycle
Very nicely done ✔ 👏 👍 👌.
The way yu guys tell the story is great, and this kind of insight is not given by many vedios i have seen. Very informative. I'm considering a Voyager as my next ride, this will help a lot.
I currently ride a 2012 Victory Vision, which is a full dresssed touring bike and I love that bike because of some features not seen, like the adjustable windshield.
BTW, how many miles do you have on each bike?
The Cavalcade looks like an early Goldwing especially from the rear. I own the 2010 model of the Kawasaki. I haven't ridden the Calvacade but I have ridden a Goldwing. It seems to me that although you have done a thorough review you're sold on the Cavalcade. I've never seen one in Australia and the Voyager is also no longer available in Australia. I find the screen on the Kawasaki screen more than adequate for both wind and cold protection.
No more Voyager in Australia!? Meanwhile, they're still churning them out over here! But i found that the stock windscreen virtually encapsulated me while riding, so i bought another screen from Kawasaki, but 4 inches shorter! That made a big difference. Now, i can see over it.... And I still find myself wanting an even shorter one! There's no pleasing me! Lol
Good job , I brought it from Canada, Cavalcade LX model GV1400GDG
Very nice comparison..thank yall
I just come across this review after watching a review on a 2022 R18 Transcontinental BMW. That cost almost 30,000. It's amazing all the thought that went into the Calvacade. Like the turn down handlebars that are easier on your arms. The center stand helper thing, the adjustable air suspension, rear radio control, driver seating position, the heat control, the angled rear footrest for passengers, the grab bar on back. Seems lot of these little things that make riding easier are being lost on the new high tech bikes. The R18 has pocket for cell phone with cooling fan. How crazy is that? If you have cell phone case it won't fit in pocket. BMW over engineers everything. Not always a good thing in my opinion. Especially if your doing the maintenance on your bike. It's good to see a review where people actually own and ride these bikes for long time instead of the reviewers that make a living doing reviews on You Tube. This makes me wanna find one of these old bikes. Only 7500 sold in the USA before production ended.
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Damn! Suzuki was way ahead of their time with this bike! I think I may start looking for one of those...thing looks like a box truck from the back though...Lol!
I ride a 1991 Kawasaki Voyager. Fabulous machine, lots of character, goes like stink when you wind her up, comfy as a gentleman's club armchair, and never let me down...
As a former Cavalcade owner I can say these were nice bikes. Seemed a bit top heavy but I like it.
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Love there honest review 🙏 thank you so much
You guys are awesome! Thanks.
Our pleasure!
I've had the Voyager, ... Next time, I'll look at a Suzuki. Thanks for the Video.
Thanks for watching!
Excellent review
Thanks for the nice comparison video. I would say (not having) the center stand is a big negative on Kawasaki (KW), I have always had to take few extra steps whenever changing the oil, and the fog-light switch is at somewhat inconvenient reach. EFI, cruise-control, hydraulic valve-lifters are a plus on KW. I have never owned Suzuki, still it would be interesting to compare the service needs and technical points on both.
Thanks for watching!
Personally I like the Voyager much better between the two, not really into the junk look of the Cavalcade plus I am more into just a basic motorcycle. A better comparison would have been between the Cavalcade's rial which was the old Voyager II. The New Voyager is looking to compete with Harley's from a value standpoint. Basically not everyone wants to pay $25K and up for a large touring twin.
Hi B & B. I enjoyed your video. There is a 1986 Suzuki Cavalcade LXE for sale in my area. It has 25,000 miles, the seller is asking $1250.00.
Oh my goodness!! 25,000 miles is almost new. I heard that they'll do 1/2 million miles and more if you take care of them. And $1,250.00 is dirt cheap!
My Highway pegs are great. I pull a trailer with my Voyager.
😂 😂 I laughed when it came to the hand grips to “help roll the bike “
I seem to have zero issues
I recently bought a cavalcade and am fixing it up. How do you adjust the air ride suspension?
ONE REASON IS THE VOYAGER IS REALLY A CONVERTED CRUISER LIKE A HARLEY.
I've had 1800 GW 1600 and 1700 Nomad and a Harley all r good GW was the best overall except foot placement realy like the 1700 Nomad which I thought was a Voyager without the trunk and fairing but with windshield very easy to reach the ground and air shocks rides very good not rough (does you do the air fryer stuff) enjoyed your vid.
They (kawasaki) don't build em like they (suzuki) used to.
This was good 👍
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I have a 2nd gen 2008 Yamaha Royal Star Venture v41300 ... you should try ride one. It looks like a mix between the 2 bikes you have.
Good job guys
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R.I.P. Bret. You've traded your two wheels for two wings. Enjoy the ride up there, brother biker.
Good job, I have Yamaha Venture XVZ 1200
Cool, thanks!
This was the most informative video. I'm currently debating on buying a 86calvalcade and this video really gave me a lot of knowledge about the bike. I currently ride a Suzuki intruder 1400. My complaint about my current bike is the tiny gas tank. Being that the calvalcade is such a slender bike I'm curious about the gas tank capacity. Any thoughts or advice?
great video
Thanks!
I just bought a Cavalcade in mint condition and so far I love it except it's so top heavy and if it tips too far it's going to end up on its crash bars ...
Ask me how I know lol
And even though this is my 39th Motorcycle it will take some getting used to.
Too bad Suzuki gave up on V4s Because it is a great engine
Yea, i really liked their review and i went looking, but i think they weigh like 800 pounds, uug. May need to stay with my 96 Trophy for my aging bones and muscles 😫
I am not a fan of the new voyager but I love my voyager 12 very basic for a cruiser bike but seems to have everything you need and handling is great dosent have that heavy feeling.
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Nice review, different and interesting. But if you want a bike that will make you a coffee in the morning, look for a newer Goldwing. You will have to take a weekend classes to figure out all the buttons on it. Thanks again.
I feel like a more accurate comparison would have been to a 2013 Goldwing. A 2013 goldwimg with all of the features your Suzuki has would be over 25k. After inflation the Suzuki in today's money would have been around 18k. What you get for 18k today is not what you got back then. But I will say if I came across an 87 Cavalcade for less than 3 grand I would buy it before the Kawasaki any day of the week.
Thanks for your input!
Hello, I have a Voyager. Can you post pics of where you mounted a hand grips?
Kuryakyn 1462 for the front cup holder.
Great review, wish i could handle the 800 pounds, i went looking after your review! I better stick with my 96 Trophy and add a rear bag.
Plus I like that they where 4 cylinder 16 valve
I HAVE A VOYAGER, THE FRONT LEG FAIRINGS MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO USE A FOOT REST. THERE ARE SOME THAT ARE MADE TO MOUNT ON THE BOTTOM OF THE FLOOR BOARDS WHICH WORK WELL. I HAVE ONLY HAD ONE SUZUKI, A HAYABUSA, AND I FOUND THE OVERALL QUALITY OF SUZUKI TO BE BETTER. I WISH SUZUKI MADE AN EQUIVALENT CRUISER TO THE VOYAGER. I HAVE BEEN PRETTY MUCH SATISFIED WITH MY VOYAGER OVERALL. MOST OF THE NEGATIVES YOU POINTED OUT ON THE VOYAGER ARE NOT A PROBLEM FOR ME AND DUE TO HEALTH ISSUES I CANNOT MAKE THE REALLY LONG RIDES LIKE MOST OF MY RIDING BUDDIES LIKE TO GO ON. I GUESS MY LEGS MUST BE QUITE A BIT LONGER THAN YOURS BECAUSE AT A STOP I AM FLAT FOOT WITH SLIGHTLY BENT KNEES. I ENJOYED THE VIDEO, GOD BLESS YOU FOLKS.
The long rides are getting extremely difficult for me as well because of health issues. I think when I made this video it sounded like I was dissatisfied with a Voyager, but I'm not at all. I absolutely love it. I also wish that Suzuki made a Voyager equivalent though. Thanks for your comment!
Bret Becky I COULD TELL IN THE VIDEO, WHICH WAS VERY GOOD AND INFORMATIVE, THAT YOU LIKED BOTH BIKES AND THAT WE BASICALLY AGREE ABOUT THE QUALITY DIFFERENCES. IN MY OPINION THE CAVALCADE WAS THE BEST “SPORTY” TOURING BIKE BACK IN IT’S DAY AND WOULD BE GREAT IF THEY MADE IT WITH TODAYS TECHNOLOGY, IE FUEL INJECTION ETC. OH, AND I HAD TWO SUZUKI CARS SOLD BY CHEVROLET THAT WERE VERY GOOD QUALITY WITH UNBELIEVABLE GAS MILEAGE. AGAIN I ENJOYED YOUR VIDEO WITH GOOD UNBIASED OPINION AND INFORMATION.
@@noahdunaway Noah, while I prefer the Calvacade over the other touring bikes of that time, I wouldn't say that it was the "Best Sporty Touring Bike" back in the day. That award would have gone to the Yamaha Venture Royale. That bike definitely had more of a sporty nature, but lacked all the many great amenities the Calvacade offered, not to mention plenty of storage for those long trips. It's mind boggling to me why Suzuki no longer offers a world class touring machine to compete against Honda, Kawasaki and Yamaha.
All the old touring bikes where built very well
Cavalcade is a great bike. Even better than the goldwing of its time. Wonder why they stopped making it
Wish you could compare the 1987 Kawasaki voyager
And the 1987 Yamaha venture
I am looking into getting a voyager just like yours. Have you looked into getting the lowering kit?
We did buy the lowering kit that cost about $250.00 (the best I can remember) and we didn't use it. It's still in the box out in the garage and you're welcome to it at no charge if you decide to buy a Voyager and you want the kit. I really don't think it's safe though. I'm not an engineer, but I worked on car suspensions professionally for over 20 years and I see multiple, serious problems with it. I see the potential for it to destroy the rear brake caliper if you hit a moderate bump in the road, because it rests against the caliper and uses the caliper as a "stop". I believe it would be very noisy because it's steel and it bangs against the caliper at every bump. Also, it uses a threaded bolt with no sleeve, that goes through the rubber shock absorber grommet. Without a sleeve (there's no room for one in the grommet) the bolt threads will chew up the rubber grommet very fast because of the constant motion.
Add a trunk slide to the Kawasaki.....the other big difference is the Suzuki is no longer made where the Kawasaki is.... adjustment for things on the Kawasaki is easy to install
Great video, thanks! It's kind of funny, because it does seem like you don't care for the Voyager (when doing the comparisons).
Okay. This is kind of crazy. I've been riding for decades and have never owned a tourer (well, a bike made for that purpose - any bike can be a tourer). For the past week or so, I've been going down the rabbit hole of (older) tourers... and this is first time I've heard of the Suzuki, period.
From how you described the bike, I don't understand why it didn't do well and why it seems almost no one talks about it (outside of people mostly talking about whatever's new). Why was only released for four years in the states (and until 91 in Europe)?
When it comes to tourers, my first thought was, no surprise, the Honda Goldwing. Then came the Kawasaki Voyager (specifically the XII). Then the Yamaha Venture (which I think is now off the table - Sorry, Venture lovers - after a lot of research, I don't know about this confusing run of bikes). Now, I'm looking in the Suzuki Cavalcades. My biggest concern is the short run and subsequently, the lack of parts and possibly support - although I've only ever taken two bikes to a shop - working on bikes is a satisfying (and sometimes maddening) part of the hobby for me. Nope, no Harleys or BMW on this table. I've long wanted an older BMW boxer toaster, but... well, the cost of maintain one seems off the charts. Harleys? Well, I don't care for the culture or the corporation, which has informed my view of the brand. Also, for any bike, reliability is important (especially for touring). Some makes and models have better track records than others.
It seems the touring bikes I'm interested in are mostly from the 80s, carried through the 90s and dip a toe into the early 2000s. I've only ever bought one bike new, which I sadly regret (a Triumph). I don't think I'll do that again, other than a less expensive bike or one that doesn't seem to depreciate much, in which case, it'd may make sense to pay a little more.
Considering a lot of tourers were maintained and cared for by their owners, I think there's a much higher chance of finding ones in good condition. Also, I think due to the people who bought a lot of them and the time, many are becoming available as those bikers have aged or otherwise no longer ride.
I thought I was playing the waiting game for the "right" tourer to become available (made difficult by dealers snatching them up - I'd prefer not to deal with one, as, well, I don't much trust them and they tend to jack prices up to ridiculous levels)... now I have, for me, a surprise dark horse to research and consider.
Anyways, I've written a book. Sorry about that. I'm just surprised to hear all this about a bike I didn't know existed. It sounds better than the other two that are still on the table for me - a Goldwing (mid-80s to 90s) and Voyager (probably the XII).
Thanks again for the video. If you made it down here you probably deserve some type of award. Anyone who has unbiased thoughts or helpful info on tourers, please share. I'm going to try to find locals with the various bikes and see if I can try them out. I know, at the end of the day, it's what you like that matters.
As an aside, I've a soft spot for Suzuki. It was the first bike I bought after getting divorced many moons ago. An 83 GS650GL. I ended up getting it for $300 and a handshake. It checked pretty much every box of the type of bike you shouldn't buy.
Took it apart. Fixed it up. Got a title (depending on where you live, this can be a nigh unwinnable battle - Thankfully, it turned out someone I went to high school with worked in the court that does this - She made it possible/easier for me).
Had it up to about 4 years ago. A now speck-in-the-rearview-mirror talked me into selling almost all my bikes.
I always had a lot of bikes because I'd fix, restore (depending), ride, and sell them - a self-funding hobby... and well, bikes. You get into them and sometimes you get the fever and want to wrench and ride them all.
Shouldn't have sold her, though. The bike, that is. It's good that the other bit moved on.
I'm only now dusting off and getting back into the garage. Something to look forward to. Riding has always been one of the main things in life that puts a smile on my face and makes me feel free.
Do they even make the suzuki cavalcade?
I need to shave about an inch of the seat of my Voyager. What's the name of the video how to do this?.
ruclips.net/video/Qw_E5DLo7gk/видео.html
Im sorry suzuki quit making the calvacade! I wonder how great the bike would've evolved into!
Right after Becky said put God first I hit the Subscribe button
From her part, his wife has explained very well this comparison.
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You could fit a nice nav system in that cavalcade... suzuki was trying to compete with the goldwing back then.. I think the new voyager is trying to compete with Harley..
Hmmmm....what a great idea!! I assume that you mean to remove the old radio and put one in there? If that's what you mean, then yes, one would fit nicely in that compartment. It would probably start a trend with Cavalcade owners. Thanks Greg!
@@bretbecky711 yep.. looks like it could fit... alot of great ideas in that calvacade... the dash looks very advanced for 1986...
Oh yeah just one more thing!
The Suzuki Cavalcade would have been a perfect bike if it had a reverse gear. !
Try comparing the Cavvy to a Kawi from the same generation like the KZ1300 dresser from the same decade. The plastics are the same quality. I know, I replaced the first Cavvy engine in the midwest that had porous cylinder heads with a # 3 engine from Brea the same decade. It was a Kawi and Suzuki dealer so I'm familiar with most of them. Unless you are paying 20,000 bucks or more ANY plastics from the last 15 years is CHEAPER and more flimsy than the '80's. Kind of like comparing the steel on a '57 Chevy to a Cadillac CTS from the current era. No comparison!
The Cavalcade is a forty-year-old dinosaur. The Voyager is still in production! It seems to me that it is clear!
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I like the Suzuki better. God bless ya'll. Be safe.
We do too! It's a little old looking, but it's built better and rides better.
🤘🏻 🌟 🤘
The road glide lol
I'm a little confused why you are comparing a bike (calvacade) that has not been made in 35+ years? A better comparison would have been the OLD Voyager or even the old Yamaha Venture, much more similar in style.
The center stand alone on a bike like that is worth 30k.
Lol. They do come in handy.