Suzuki recently launched the new Burgman 650, claiming it to be the world's biggest scooter.

A 638cc twin-cylinder engine provides the motivation, which should prove to be more than ample. The fact that the new engine is a four-stroke will ensure low emissions while the electronic fuel injection system should provide a lengthy range from the large 15-litre fuel cell.

Liquid cooling will ensure the Burgman keeps it's cool under the most trying conditions while a large 3.4-litre oil capacity should help to guarantee a long service life. The relatively high 11.2:1 compression ratio points to the fact that Suzuki has also tuned the engine for plenty of performance.

Suzuki have also broke pioneering ground with a new style continuously variable transmission (CVT). The departure from the norm' comes in the shape of push-button controls on the handlebars which enables the rider to change through five 'preset' gear ratios. Of course there is also the fully automatic mode, which is switchable between 'normal' and 'power' options.

The comprehensive digital dash layout puts most full size motorcycles to shame. With an LCD speedo, tachometer, gear ratio indicator, odometer, tripmeter, clock, fuel and temperature gauges.

Seating arrangements are also more than accommodating. A wide sculpted seat looks to provide excellent comfort for both the rider and pillion. A small backrest and sturdy grab handles are provided for the passenger. A large adjustable backrest is also provided for the rider, making a lot of fully fledged touring motorcycles look decidedly ordinary in this area.

A wide front fairing combines with a tall screen to provide good weather protection for the pilot. Another detail which seems to show that this is a well thought out scoot are the wide rear vision mirrors. These also house the indicators and pull double duty to keep the weather away from the rider's hands.

Plenty of storage space is provided in four separate front compartments, one of which also has a DC outlet to power aftermarket accessories such as a mobile phone charger or heated handgrips. More storage space is available under the seat, enough space to fit two motorcycle helmets in fact.

Motorcycle style front forks and adjustable rear shock absorbers should provide a comfortable ride and give the machine a reasonable 125mm of ground clearance.

A pair of 260mm discs combine with a 230mm rear disc to bring the hefty 238-kilogram machine to a halt. A quite low 750mm seat height should make light work of getting on and off the machine.

Suzuki is backing their new scooter with an excellent two-year unlimited kilometre warranty. The machine is available in Metallic Silver only and retails for $12,990 + on road costs.

There is no doubt that the Burgman is an excellent scooter, perhaps the best available. But when there are new cars available for only a couple of thousand dollars more, one has to wonder just how popular the Burgman will be.