12/10/2017
Keeping track of time is essential, whether you're commuting to work, planning a weekend ride, or simply trying to arrive fashionably late (or, more likely, on time!). For many Suzuki Burgman scooter owners, one common, albeit minor, annoyance can be a clock that's showing the incorrect time. This often happens after a battery replacement, a period of storage, or, inevitably, with the changing of daylight saving hours. Fortunately, adjusting the clock on your Burgman series scooter is a straightforward process that requires no special tools and can be done in just a few moments. This guide will walk you through the general steps applicable to most Burgman models, ensuring your dashboard is as precise as your riding.

The Suzuki Burgman series, renowned for its comfort and practicality, features a clear, easy-to-read digital display that includes the time. While the exact button layout or labelling might vary slightly between different models – such as the Burgman 400 (AN400), Burgman 650 (AN650), or newer iterations – the fundamental principle for setting the clock remains largely consistent. Understanding the common buttons, typically labelled MODE, SET, or sometimes ADJ (for Adjust), is the first step towards rectifying an out-of-sync timepiece.
Understanding Your Burgman's Dashboard Controls
Before diving into the adjustment process, it's helpful to familiarise yourself with the buttons on your Burgman's instrument panel. Most Burgman models feature two primary buttons located near the digital display. These are usually on the left or right side of the main cluster, or sometimes beneath the display itself. One button typically cycles through display modes (like trip meters, odometer, and clock), while the other is used to select or adjust values. Identifying these buttons is crucial for a smooth clock-setting experience.
- MODE Button: This button is commonly used to switch between different display modes, such as the odometer, trip meter A, trip meter B, and the clock. A short press usually cycles through these displays.
- SET Button: Often used in conjunction with the MODE button, the SET button is typically employed to enter adjustment mode for the clock or to increment values (hours, minutes) once in adjustment mode.
- ADJ Button: On some models, you might find an 'ADJ' button instead of or in addition to 'SET'. Its function is generally similar – to adjust the selected value.
It's worth noting that while the functions are similar, their exact placement and labelling can differ. If you're unsure, a quick glance at your owner's manual (if you have it to hand) will confirm the specific buttons for your Burgman model.
Step-by-Step Guide: Adjusting the Time on Your Burgman
Here’s the general procedure for setting the digital clock on most Suzuki Burgman series scooters. Follow these steps carefully, and you'll have your clock showing the correct time in no time.
- Turn the Ignition ON: Ensure your Burgman's ignition is switched to the 'ON' position. The engine does not need to be running, but the dashboard display must be active.
- Display the Clock: If the clock isn't already displayed, use the MODE button (or equivalent) to cycle through the display options until the clock (time) is shown on the digital panel.
- Enter Adjustment Mode: This is the critical step. Typically, you'll need to press and hold either the MODE or SET button (or sometimes both simultaneously for a few seconds) until the hour digits start flashing. The exact button or combination varies, but a common method is to press and hold the SET button.
- Adjust the Hours: Once the hour digits are flashing, use the SET button (or the ADJ button) to increment the hour. Each press will advance the hour by one. Be mindful of AM/PM if your Burgman uses a 12-hour format, or simply cycle through to the correct 24-hour time.
- Move to Minutes: After setting the correct hour, you'll usually need to press the MODE button (or sometimes the SET button again) briefly to switch the flashing to the minute digits.
- Adjust the Minutes: With the minute digits flashing, use the SET button (or ADJ button) to increment the minutes until the correct time is displayed.
- Confirm and Exit: Once both the hours and minutes are set correctly, press the MODE button (or hold down the SET button again for a few seconds) to exit the adjustment mode. The flashing digits should stop, and the clock will now display the newly set time.
Example: Common Scenario for Burgman 400 (AN400)
For many Burgman 400 models, the process often involves:
- Ignition ON.
- Press the 'MODE' button repeatedly until the clock is displayed.
- Press and hold the 'ADJ' button for a few seconds until the hour digits flash.
- Press the 'ADJ' button repeatedly to set the correct hour.
- Press the 'MODE' button once to make the minute digits flash.
- Press the 'ADJ' button repeatedly to set the correct minutes.
- Press the 'MODE' button once more to save the setting and exit.
While this is a common example, always refer to your specific model's instructions if you encounter difficulties.
Why Does My Clock Need Adjusting? Common Scenarios
There are several reasons why your Burgman's clock might need a reset. Understanding these can help you anticipate when you might need to perform this adjustment.
- Battery Disconnect or Replacement: This is by far the most frequent reason. When the main battery is disconnected or replaced, the clock's memory (which often relies on a continuous, albeit small, power supply) is lost, causing it to revert to a default time (often 00:00 or 12:00).
- Daylight Saving Time (DST): In regions that observe DST, you'll need to 'spring forward' or 'fall back' twice a year. Your Burgman's clock, being a simple digital display, doesn't automatically adjust for these changes.
- Extended Storage: If your scooter has been in storage for a very long period, especially if the battery has discharged significantly, the clock might lose its setting.
- Electrical Glitch: Although less common, a momentary power interruption or an electrical anomaly could cause the clock to reset.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While setting the clock is usually straightforward, you might occasionally encounter a minor hitch. Here are a few troubleshooting tips:
- Buttons Not Responding: Ensure the ignition is fully in the 'ON' position. Sometimes, a weak battery might cause erratic behaviour on the display, so ensure your battery is in good health.
- Clock Won't Hold Time: If you set the clock, but it resets itself shortly after turning the ignition off, or reverts to an incorrect time, this strongly suggests an issue with your scooter's battery or its connection. A failing battery, loose battery terminals, or even a blown fuse in the clock's circuit could be the culprit. It's worth having your battery tested or checking the relevant fuses.
- Display Not Showing: If the entire digital display isn't active, this indicates a more significant electrical problem, possibly a completely dead battery, a main fuse issue, or a fault with the instrument cluster itself. This would require professional diagnosis.
Beyond the Clock: Other Dashboard Functions to Know
While you're familiarising yourself with your Burgman's dashboard, it's a good opportunity to understand some of its other useful features. Most Burgman models offer:
- Odometer: Displays the total distance your scooter has travelled.
- Trip Meters (A & B): These allow you to measure distances for specific journeys, useful for fuel consumption tracking or planning routes. They can usually be reset independently by holding down the SET or ADJ button while that trip meter is displayed.
- Fuel Gauge: Indicates the approximate fuel level.
- Engine Temperature Gauge: Monitors the engine's operating temperature.
- Service Indicators: Some models may have lights or messages that alert you when routine maintenance is due.
Knowing how to navigate these functions will enhance your overall riding experience and help you keep your Burgman in prime condition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions riders have about adjusting their Burgman's clock:
Q: Do all Burgman models adjust the clock the same way?
A: While the general principle of using two buttons (often MODE and SET/ADJ) to enter an adjustment mode and then incrementing values is consistent across the Burgman series, the exact sequence, button labels, and duration of presses can vary slightly between models (e.g., Burgman 400 vs. Burgman 650). Always try the general method first, and if that doesn't work, consult your owner's manual or specific online forums for your model.
Q: Why does my clock keep resetting even after I've set it correctly?
A: If your clock consistently loses time or resets to 00:00, it's a strong indicator of an issue with your scooter's electrical system, most commonly the battery. A weak or failing battery, loose battery terminals, or even a small fuse in the clock's circuit could be the cause. It's advisable to have your battery tested or inspected by a qualified mechanic.
Q: Do I need any special tools to adjust the clock?
A: No, absolutely not! Adjusting the clock on your Suzuki Burgman requires no tools. All you need are your fingers to press the appropriate buttons on the instrument panel.
Q: Can I adjust the clock while riding?
A: While technically possible on some models, it is highly unrecommended and unsafe to attempt to adjust the clock while riding. Your full attention should always be on the road and surrounding traffic. Always perform this adjustment when your scooter is stationary and safely parked.
Q: What if I don't have my owner's manual?
A: If you don't have your owner's manual, don't worry. The general steps provided in this guide will work for most Burgman models. You can also often find digital versions of owner's manuals online on the Suzuki UK website or through various motorcycle forums specific to the Burgman series. A quick search with your specific model year (e.g., 'Burgman AN400 2010 clock set') should yield helpful results.
Conclusion
Setting the clock on your Suzuki Burgman series scooter is a simple, routine maintenance task that keeps your dashboard accurate and functional. Whether it's due to a battery change or the biannual daylight saving adjustment, knowing how to quickly reset your clock is a handy skill for any Burgman owner. By understanding your dashboard controls and following these straightforward steps, you can ensure your scooter is always ready for your next journey, keeping you perfectly on schedule. Happy riding!
If you want to read more articles similar to Setting Your Burgman's Digital Clock, you can visit the Maintenance category.
