Suzuki Intruder VL800, Manual

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5-4
STARTING OFF AND SHIFTING
Make sure that the side stand is in
the fully up position. Squeeze the
clutch lever in and pause momen-
tarily. Engage first gear by
depressing the gearshift lever
downward. Turn the throttle grip a
little toward you and at the same
time release the clutch lever gen-
tly and smoothly. As the clutch
engages, the motorcycle will start
moving forward. To shift to the
next higher gear, accelerate gen-
tly, then close the throttle and
squeeze the clutch lever in simul-
taneously. Lift the gearshift lever
upward to select the next gear
and release the clutch lever as
you open the throttle again. Select
higher gears in this manner until
top gear is reached.
NOTE: This motorcycle has a side
stand/ignition interlock system. If
you shift the transmission into
gear when the side stand is down,
the engine will stop running.

WARNING
Riding at excessive speeds
increases your chances of los-
ing control of the motorcycle,
which can result in an acci-
dent.
Always ride at a speed that is
proper for the terrain, visibility
and operating conditions, and
your skills and experience.

WARNING
If you remove even one hand or
foot from the motorcycle, you
can reduce your ability to con-
trol the motorcycle. This could
cause you to lose your balance
and fall off the motorcycle. If
you remove a foot from a foot-
rest, your foot or leg may come
in contact with the rear wheel.
This could injure you or cause
an accident.
Always keep both hands on the
handlebars and both feet on
the footrests of your motorcy-
cle during operation.

WARNING
Sudden side winds, which can
occur when being passed by
larger vehicles, at tunnel exits
or in hilly areas, can cause you
to lose control of the motorcy-
cle.
Reduce your speed and be
alert to the possibility of sud-
den side winds.