Multiple mods for M50 Boulevard (2012 Aus/Canada/Euro)

Hey guys,

I live in Melbourne, Australia and bought a 2012 Australian/Canadian/Euro Spec M50 Boulevard.

Love it to bits. Been working on it lately and have so far made these modifications to it:

- Distribution block (under the seat), currently wired using a relay to only go on when the rear running light does (Park lights) or I can switch it to hot battery bus mode.

- 12VAC accessory plug, mounted on the handlebar, powered by distribution block

- Kuryakyn Mechanical throttle assist. Friction locks from the bar end and holds the throttle at its current setting. Great for freeway riding.

- Cobra Streetrod Slashdowns with O2 Bungs. I can't believe I waited so long to put these on. I love the bike stock but the only thing I had a real problem with was the sewing machine like exhaust. I'd heard things about how loud Cobra exhausts were and didn't think it would be loud enough for me. So somehow the baffles "fell" out when I installed the Streetrods on. When I started it up, I almost went deaf at idle. The baffles are now back in and I couldn't be happier with the music!

- GMan Bully Fuel Processor. Really easy to use and I noticed the smoothness straight away. Plus I can tell when I'm riding for best economy by keeping it in the cruise power zone.



PLANNED MODIFICATIONS:
And this is where I need help. I'd assume those in the UK received the Euro model for 2010-2012?
Its very different to the US 05-09 model and its VERY hard to find compatible parts for it. The 2013 release looks almost Identical to the 2012 A/C/E version so I'm hoping aftermarket parts for it will become available soon...

- Kuryakn Pro-R Hypercharger. Mainly for aesthetics. Already on order and the bracket is being machined by Thunder MFG. Should arrive in the next month.

- Edge Brackets for Saddlebags. Currently being shipped now. I wanted the EDGE system so it was detachable but also so it was flexible for saddlebag options. I need suggestions for leather saddlebag manufacturers:
MUST be hard leather and lockable bags. So far the only thing I've found is the 108 Lockables from Edge. If anyone knows any other manufacturers that do lockable bags, please link!


The things I need help with:

Firstly, looking for a Detachable Sissy Bar Mount. Narrowed it down to National Cycle and Jardine, and emailed both. They make them for the US models but not the A/C/E spec. I asked if they would make it for the 2013, both said they will let me know.

Does anyone know of any other aftermarket manufacturers that sell a detachable sissy bar mount to my bike?
I haven't even found one that makes a compatible permanent sissy bar mount for my model!



Secondly, Heated Handgrips. I need suggestions for easy installs on the M50. I don't mind doing a bit of soldering, which was why I was looking at the heat demons. However, I'm worried because the mechanical throttle assist sits inside the throttle bar atleast 2.5 inches...enough to move an internal heat bar significantly offset.
So now I'm looking at complete heated handgrips. HOWEVER, they can't cover the end of the bar, as that is where my throttle assist is located.
Any Suggestions?



Thirdly, and this is only a speculative addition at this stage, but I'm looking for a Tachometer (as the M50 has none). Something that will just mount on the bars. Although Google hasn't really shown me any success stories. Anyone know anything that would work and how hard it is to install?


Any suggestions/links/tips would be greatly appreciated. In return if anyone has any questions I'd be happy to provide pics/info.
Thanks again guys!

I've got the 2010 Aust. M50.
Have the Palladin removable sissy bar and rack from National Cycles. The spacing between the mounting points is slightly less than the older models so I had to elongate the front mounting slots about 15mm to make it fit. Works a treat.

I also have the Oxford heated grips running from a switched power source so they can't be left on accidentally. Cut the screwed end off the grips to allow the original bar end weights to be used.

Have been looking at the Edge brackets also because they have mounts compatible with the Palladin sissy bar but need to research getting them to Australia as they don't ship directly.

-JohnD- wrote:

I've got the 2010 Aust. M50.
Have the Palladin removable sissy bar and rack from National Cycles. The spacing between the mounting points is slightly less than the older models so I had to elongate the front mounting slots about 15mm to make it fit. Works a treat.

I also have the Oxford heated grips running from a switched power source so they can't be left on accidentally. Cut the screwed end off the grips to allow the original bar end weights to be used.

Have been looking at the Edge brackets also because they have mounts compatible with the Palladin sissy bar but need to research getting them to Australia as they don't ship directly.

Thanks a lot mate!

Your bike looks fantastic! That's exactly what I'm looking for!

Looks like the Paladin backrest is back on the table. How hard was it to modify? And how did you do it? (Drilling and filing?)
I'm an amateur in the workshed but I guess I could get the old man to help me out. What sized backrest is that? Is it the standard paladin backrest?
Can you link the supplier at all? I'm assuming you went with the '09 mounting kit.

As for the edge brackets, I bought from the supplier linked directly from their website:
http://www.edgeleather.com/Suzuki-Motorcycles/Suzuki-Boulevard-C50-/-M50-and-Volusia-Models/Boulevard-M50-2001-Present.html


Extreme Sports. Shipping was about $50 but the order went through so I can only assume its on the way. I will let you know if/when I receive them. I'll be looking at the 108 lockable bags in the future.


Thanks for all the info on the oxford handgrips, they're the next thing coming after I sort out this paladin backrest bit. Lately I've been warming my hands on the no. 2 cylinder on the freeways at night :P

I only just noticed your 12vac accessory plug. What did you mount it to in there? I've got mine on the handlebar. Your choice seems better, out of the way and not imposing.

Again, thanks for your help bro!

Bought the following parts back in 2010 from CruiserCustomizing.com
NC-P9BR205 Paladin QuickSet Mounting Hardware
NC-P9800A Paladin Backrest
NC-P9900 Paladin Luggage Rack

Used a drill press and file for the mod. Had to be careful as it didin't require a full hole. Was a bit concerned the drill bit might veer off but it didn't. Clamp the bracket down well.

I just cable tied the accessory plug to the clutch and electrical cables and tucked it into the headlight cowl.

Thanks for the link. Seems they've changed their shipping policy since I last looked.

-JohnD- wrote:

Bought the following parts back in 2010 from CruiserCustomizing.com
NC-P9BR205 Paladin QuickSet Mounting Hardware
NC-P9800A Paladin Backrest
NC-P9900 Paladin Luggage Rack

Used a drill press and file for the mod. Had to be careful as it didin't require a full hole. Was a bit concerned the drill bit might veer off but it didn't. Clamp the bracket down well.

I just cable tied the accessory plug to the clutch and electrical cables and tucked it into the headlight cowl.

Thanks for the link. Seems they've changed their shipping policy since I last looked.

Awesome. Thanks for that. Will look into it soon.

What exhaust system are you running there?

Vance & Hines Cruzers with an extra baffle fitted.

Strange baffles...how does that work??

I thought the same as you Marcin, I also have V&H Cruisers,but the baffles I fitted are nothing like those,seems strange to have a baffle outside of the exhaust closure plate.

Are they like an extra baffle to slide inside the existing to reduce the noise.

Look at the way the air has to flow, great for reducing noise i am sure but with an added issue of reducing smooth flowing gases which is ok if you are not after power stage 2 or 3 but if you are your buggered but saying that it would only be a couple of self tapping screws to put them in and take them out again so it could be a real winner

Looks interesting how do they fit/work John d

simbo wrote:

Are they like an extra baffle to slide inside the existing to reduce the noise.

That's exactly correct Simbo. Baffle adds a little more of a tortuous exhaust gas path. Still more free flowing than stock.
Little bit of fine tuning to get the correct number of holes each side so as not too restrict gas flow too much. Noise is reduced enough to not attract undue attention but still gives a nice note. Feels like it has a bit more power than stock but that wasn't the reason for fitting them.

Originally just slipped them into the end of the supplied baffles but had to secure them with a couple of screws to stop them rattling.

Simple to remove if necessary and there is no damage to the pipes themselves.

Made from a 1" galvanised tube from hardware shop and a bit of scrap round bar from work machined to fit baffle and tube.

sounds like a good mod and does the job you wanted it to do

Today I decided to remove the O2 Sensors to give complete control to the Bully unit.

It was both a nightmare and a relief!

12mm gasket plugs were easy enough to source from ebay. Bit of loctite and they were in and secure.

I taped up the electrical sockets on the bike end and have removed the O2 sensors.


I knew I would have an FI light issue but there is an instruction printoff floating online telling you to cut Pin 23 on the ECU main socket.
It is noted that it would be a black and brown wire.
Followed the diagram, snipped the wire. Reconnected everything for the test run.

FI warning, ODO flashing. wouldn't start. Turned over but no life in it.

After much investigation I found a thread that said the instructions were incorrect, that it was Pin 23, but the diagram was from the wrong perspective, and I had actually cut Pin 6.

So I reconnected the wire using a Splice tap and started her up. She ran fine but I still had the FI light.

Looking at this new diagram I determined the new wire, and snipped it.

Only to find it didn't do anything. bike still ran, but still had the FI light on.

Further scrutinizing had shown the diagram was not for the ECU socket, but for the ECU (so everything was horizontally inverted)

After reconnecting the second snipped wire, I cut a third.

This time it was successful. Noticed more response from the Bully. Very happy so far!

Glad you sorted it, shame you didn't mention you were going to cut the wire before as a lot of members have done that and we would have given you the correct instructions with photo, never mind you got there in the end thats the main thing
Must say I really like the screen it gives a much nicer look to the front over the stock light

Thanks for the info,it is always nice when somebody puts their negative mods to the forum to help others not to do the same thing.Glad you have got it sorted now.

Thats a very unusual baffle but I can see it working very well.

This is just FYI as I have a 2012 M50 Aus model and have done some mods.
Mostly different , but similar.
I have left the exhaust stock so far.
A 12v power and USB combo socket on the handle bars.
An Eagle screen.
Highway bars.
Two Ram mount balls, one on highway bars (for Hero cam) and one on Handlebars (for gps).
Kuryakin Dually pegs (wide ones, almost mini boards)
Ventura rack kit (includes saddle bag rails).
Removed the rear seat and replaced it with a rack bag.
I have managed to acquire all the stuff through Aus dealers and it all fit without hassle.
I have also put on a GIpro and an Oxford clock (velcro attached) on the "T" section near the handle bar top. I use the trip meter a lot so needed a clock too.
Grip warmers are IP as I have ordered some grips like Maecins , and am working out wether to put them on now or when the grips arrive.
I will be changing the tyres to Michelins at some point, as well as adding a white dragon sticker.
If any of you Aussy blokes are in Tass let me know as I ride all our roads that are either graded or paved. I camp as well as stay in cheap hotels so may be of some help.

If you don't supply pictures it means it didn't happen!!!!!

At the mo the grips are off and about to be replaced so pics will be coming as fast as my grips arrive.

coffeescoffer wrote:

This is just FYI as I have a 2012 M50 Aus model and have done some mods.
Mostly different , but similar.
I have left the exhaust stock so far.
A 12v power and USB combo socket on the handle bars.
An Eagle screen.
Highway bars.
Two Ram mount balls, one on highway bars (for Hero cam) and one on Handlebars (for gps).
Kuryakin Dually pegs (wide ones, almost mini boards)
Ventura rack kit (includes saddle bag rails).
Removed the rear seat and replaced it with a rack bag.
I have managed to acquire all the stuff through Aus dealers and it all fit without hassle.
I have also put on a GIpro and an Oxford clock (velcro attached) on the "T" section near the handle bar top. I use the trip meter a lot so needed a clock too.
Grip warmers are IP as I have ordered some grips like Maecins , and am working out wether to put them on now or when the grips arrive.
I will be changing the tyres to Michelins at some point, as well as adding a white dragon sticker.
If any of you Aussy blokes are in Tass let me know as I ride all our roads that are either graded or paved. I camp as well as stay in cheap hotels so may be of some help.

Definitely need pics of this!

I highly suggest you get some exhausts asap. The stocks are just insulting to her potential!

I agree, bike sound great but that would probably mean robbing another bank as I am sure that lot would have used up the first snatch.

Done bit by bit it become almost painless.
Grips have not arrived yet and I will take some when they do.
My opinion is the bike looks more useful than beautiful as the ram mounts etc kind of stick out. Pics coming when grips do. Thanks for the compliments.
I will start another thread as I don't want to hijack this one, when I take the pics.

I have put up some pics in another thread a while ago. That thread is at Mods done so far.
I will take some new ones when the grips arrive near the end of the month.

Sent ThunderMFG a message because its been over a month since I put my order in.

Got a reply with a tracking number, said it had been delivered on the 6th.

To Ontario, Canada.

Let's hope they just gave me the wrong tracking number...

fasddd wrote:

Sent ThunderMFG a message because its been over a month since I put my order in.

Got a reply with a tracking number, said it had been delivered on the 6th.

To Ontario, Canada.

Let's hope they just gave me the wrong tracking number...

I ordered from Thunder mfg and I ended up canceling my order, because it took them ages to deliver, I had a parcel recently with tracking number saying it had been delivered to Canada? I think it's just a distribution centre and your parcel goes from there to your address.

simbo wrote:

I ordered from Thunder mfg and I ended up canceling my order, because it took them ages to deliver,  I had a parcel recently with tracking number saying it had been delivered to Canada?  I think it's just a distribution centre and your parcel goes from there to your address.

Yeah I've been told that they sent me the wrong tracking number and it would be "another 2 weeks" until it is shipped. I'm not cancelling my order yet, This is the last performance mod I need.

2 days ago I ordered some Oxford Cruiser heated handgrips. I installed them yesterday in 2.5 hours.
I can't believe I've ridden through 2 winters without them. One of them died yesterday but I discovered the pin had been pulled out from the plug socket so it was an easy fix. So far, amazing!

here is a sissy bar option - http://www.hac-products.nl/list/4/0/sissy-bars

After 3 months, got my Hypercharger from Thunder MFG. Took a while, but I reckon it looks great! I'll try get some pictures soon!

3 Months.
We will look forward to the pics.

fasddd wrote:

After 3 months, got my Hypercharger from Thunder MFG. Took a while, but I reckon it looks great! I'll try get some pictures soon!

I'll look forward to those pics  I ended up cancelling my order from Thunder mfg as they took ages! they make some good stuff but don't rush 

    LINK to "fasddd's" install of the thunder air kit

More picks uploaded in the other thread, check it out!