Suzuki Boulevard C50t Problems

The Suzuki Boulevard C50t, with its classic cruiser styling and comfortable touring features, is a popular choice for riders seeking a reliable and affordable motorcycle. However, like any machine, it's not immune to problems. Understanding the common issues that can arise with the C50t can help you anticipate potential maintenance needs, troubleshoot problems effectively, and ultimately, ensure a smoother and more enjoyable riding experience. Let's dive into the world of C50t quirks and how to tackle them.

Is My C50t Acting Up? Common Culprits and What to Look For

Let's be honest, no motorcycle is perfect. The Boulevard C50t, despite its generally solid reputation, has a few recurring issues that owners should be aware of. Knowing what to look for can save you time, money, and frustration down the road.

The Dreaded Fuel Injection Woes:

One of the most frequently discussed issues with the C50t revolves around its fuel injection system. While fuel injection is generally more reliable than carburetors, it's not without its potential problems.

• Rough Idling and Stalling: This is a common complaint. Riders often report that their C50t idles roughly, especially when cold, and may even stall unexpectedly, particularly at stoplights. This can be caused by a number of factors, including:

  • Dirty Throttle Position Sensor (TPS): The TPS tells the engine control unit (ECU) the throttle position. A dirty or malfunctioning TPS can send incorrect signals, leading to poor fuel delivery and erratic idling.
  • Faulty Idle Speed Control (ISC) Valve: The ISC valve regulates the amount of air that bypasses the throttle plates at idle. If it's clogged or malfunctioning, it can disrupt the idle speed.
  • Vacuum Leaks: Vacuum leaks can disrupt the air/fuel mixture, causing rough idling and stalling. Check all vacuum hoses and connections for cracks or leaks.
  • Fuel Injector Clogging: Over time, fuel injectors can become clogged with deposits, restricting fuel flow and affecting engine performance.
• Poor Fuel Economy: A sudden drop in fuel economy can also be a sign of fuel injection problems. This could be related to the same issues mentioned above, such as clogged injectors or a malfunctioning TPS.
• Hesitation Upon Acceleration: Some riders experience a hesitation or lag when accelerating from a stop or at low speeds. This can be caused by a lean fuel mixture, which can be due to clogged injectors or a faulty oxygen sensor.

Addressing the Fuel Injection Issues:

Several steps can be taken to address these fuel injection problems:

• Throttle Body Cleaning: Regularly cleaning the throttle body with a throttle body cleaner can help prevent the buildup of deposits that can affect the TPS and ISC valve.
• TPS Adjustment/Replacement: If the TPS is suspected to be faulty, it may need to be adjusted or replaced. This is best done by a qualified mechanic.
• Fuel Injector Cleaning: Fuel injector cleaner additives can sometimes help clear minor clogs. For more severe clogging, professional fuel injector cleaning services are available.
• Vacuum Leak Inspection: Carefully inspect all vacuum hoses and connections for cracks or leaks. Replace any damaged hoses.

The Not-So-Smooth Transmission:

Another area where the C50t can sometimes exhibit issues is with its transmission.

• Difficulty Shifting: Some riders report difficulty shifting gears, particularly between first and second gear. This can be caused by:

  • Clutch Adjustment: An improperly adjusted clutch can make shifting difficult. Ensure the clutch cable has the correct amount of free play.
  • Worn Clutch Plates: Over time, clutch plates can wear out, leading to slipping and difficult shifting.
  • Low Oil Level or Incorrect Oil Type: Using the wrong type of oil or running the oil level too low can also affect transmission performance.
• Clunky Shifting: Even when shifting is relatively smooth, some riders find the transmission to be clunky or noisy. This is often considered a characteristic of the C50t's transmission design, but it can be exacerbated by improper clutch adjustment or worn clutch components.

Tackling Transmission Troubles:

• Clutch Adjustment: As mentioned above, proper clutch adjustment is crucial for smooth shifting. Consult your owner's manual for the correct adjustment procedure.
• Oil Change: Ensure you are using the correct type of oil and that the oil level is within the recommended range.
• Clutch Inspection: If shifting problems persist, have the clutch inspected for wear. Replace worn clutch plates as needed.

Electrical Gremlins: A Source of Frustration:

Electrical issues can be particularly frustrating because they can be difficult to diagnose. The C50t is not immune to these problems.

• Battery Issues: Batteries are a common source of electrical problems in any motorcycle.

  • Dead Battery: A dead battery can prevent the bike from starting. This can be caused by leaving the lights on, a faulty charging system, or simply an old battery that needs to be replaced.
  • Charging System Problems: A faulty alternator or voltage regulator can prevent the battery from charging properly.
• Wiring Problems: Damaged or corroded wiring can cause a variety of electrical issues, such as intermittent lights, a malfunctioning starter, or even a complete electrical failure.

Battling Electrical Bugs:

• Battery Maintenance: Keep your battery properly charged, especially during periods of inactivity. Use a battery tender to maintain the charge.
• Charging System Testing: Have the charging system tested to ensure it's functioning properly.
• Wiring Inspection: Regularly inspect the wiring harness for damage or corrosion. Repair or replace any damaged wiring.

Beyond the Big Three: Other Potential C50t Concerns

While fuel injection, transmission, and electrical issues are the most commonly reported problems with the C50t, there are a few other potential concerns to be aware of.

• Rear Brake Squeal: Some riders experience a squealing noise from the rear brake, especially in wet conditions. This can be caused by brake dust accumulation or worn brake pads.
• Sagging Suspension: The C50t's suspension is adequate for general riding, but it can feel soft or saggy, especially when carrying a passenger or luggage.
• Chrome Corrosion: The chrome on the C50t can be susceptible to corrosion, especially in areas with harsh weather conditions.

Keeping Your C50t Happy: Preventative Maintenance is Key

The best way to avoid problems with your C50t is to perform regular preventative maintenance. This includes:

• Regular Oil Changes: Change the oil and filter at the recommended intervals.
• Air Filter Cleaning/Replacement: Clean or replace the air filter as needed.
• Spark Plug Replacement: Replace the spark plugs at the recommended intervals.
• Brake Pad Inspection: Regularly inspect the brake pads for wear.
• Tire Pressure Monitoring: Maintain the correct tire pressure.
• Lubrication: Lubricate all moving parts, such as the clutch cable and throttle cable.
• Thorough Cleaning: Keep the motorcycle clean to prevent corrosion.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why does my C50t stall when it's cold? This is often due to a lean fuel mixture. Check the throttle body for cleanliness and consider adjusting the idle speed.
• How often should I change the oil on my C50t? Suzuki recommends changing the oil every 3,500 miles or six months, whichever comes first. Use a motorcycle-specific oil that meets Suzuki's specifications.
• My C50t's battery keeps dying. What could be the problem? This could be due to a faulty charging system, a parasitic draw, or a bad battery. Have the charging system tested and check for any accessories that might be draining the battery.
• Is it normal for the C50t's transmission to be clunky? While it's not uncommon for the C50t's transmission to be a bit clunky, excessive clunking could indicate a problem. Check the clutch adjustment and consider using a motorcycle-specific transmission oil.
• What is the recommended tire pressure for the C50t? Refer to the sticker on the swingarm or your owner's manual for the recommended tire pressure. Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for handling and safety.

The Road Ahead: Keeping Your C50t Running Strong

The Suzuki Boulevard C50t is a great motorcycle that offers a lot of value for the money. By understanding the common problems that can arise and performing regular preventative maintenance, you can keep your C50t running smoothly for years to come. Remember, a little maintenance goes a long way in preventing major headaches down the road.