The GS500 was my first bike, 27 years ago. I bought it brand new from the Suzuki dealer in Pompano Beach, Florida. Looking back, it truly is a great bike.
I'm 6'2 (188cm) & have no comfort problems. Trick to riding long distance is to build yourself up to it - start w/ 30 minute rides before a break, then 45, then 60. If you can't have a break every hour or so, move around on the bike, change feet positions, put toes on pegs & raise lower foot to stretch calf, change seat from one cheek to the other, knees in knees out, stretch legs out, change grip. At a pinch, take some paracetamol to help relax muscles, use ear plugs, drink plenty of water.
I'm just under 6' and finally got a GS twin last week, after looking for 14+ years. I had you pegged at 6' 2", around 200#. Excellent video- longest one I've ever watched on YT. Now I'm just waiting for a warm, sunny day!
by all that is holy, this review is worth its length in gold! I love it how You went into intricate details and provided pictures and separate camera angles to boot
@TheUplink777 The GS500 is a very learner friendly bike. A lot of the liter bike riders think of it as just for beginners, but it is not. It can do 100mph fairly easy. Heck, riding in 4th gear it will go from 37mph (60kph) to 87mph (140kph), which is plenty fast enough. Of course, we are biased towards the GS, but we have good reason too - cheap, reliable, plenty of help if you want to wrench on it yourself.
Really appreciate the level of detail afforded to this review, if only more bike reviews actually gave this much detail. I really appreciated the oil filter tip, I'm considering buying one of these bikes on the cheap for a project and knowing that the 500f's can look almost identical once the fairings are removed is great to know. Now I'm not just limited to the naked models. Great video, thanks.
I remember watching this video when I was trying to choose my first bike. I got a Honda VTR250 but switched to a GS500F ("F" with the fairing) after 6 weeks. I've had the GS500F for a year now and it's been great. Being around 100kg it suits me better than the 250, feels more stable at high speeds especially in the wind. I'm more than happy to ride it for another 2 years on LAMS, and would be happy to keep it after that. If you want super fast acceleration you could go for something bigger capacity. But it does 0-100kph in a little under 6 seconds which is pretty good I find. Get the occasional driver trying to drag you but.. hey "cars will be cars". I expect the worst of them so I'm always prepared. Great video- really well done.
I have a naked 1994 model, and I never give throttle to start, only choke. Then, as it goes to 4,000rpm, I slowly, very slowly, back-off on the choke. Other than that great video on our beloved bike!
Thank you, Mike for the most user friendly overview of the SZK GS500 on the Internet. That would bring me definitely into the bike shed. Keep up your excellent work.
...hi Michael...i riding bike in Europa for about 30 years...i now lttle more thinks about bike...i apreciate so much your pattience and that special review...i am ready old(65) bot i think to buy GS 500F...may be you must to do comercial profesional factory review for SUZUKI...thank you so much...ride safe...
That oil cooler thing is a great tip! I currently have a boat that I have posted in the barter section on Craigslist and someone offered a trade for a naked 2005 GS500. Something didn't look right with the rear seat and seat fairing, so as I was watching this video, I rechecked the pictures he sent and lo and behold, there is an oil cooler, the seat and seat fairing don't match any models from 2005 and it doesn't have a front fairing. I think I'll have to pass on the trade now that I know about the oil cooler tip! Thanks a lot!
Glad this video saved you from buying a probable crashed bike. While some people do remove the fairing because naked GS500s were removed from the USA market before faired models, and those people want a naked bike, it's usually removed due to a crash. Best to just avoid and find something else.
+Michael Ross Just wanted to add another thank you for this video and mentioning the oil cooler. This exact situation just happened to me where I had the opportunity to get a "2005 GS500" from Craigslist that just so happened to have the front fairing missing. It also happened to have an oil cooler. Needless to say, I will not be buying it. You just saved me from making a very bad decision. Thank you!
@@wasabi3 why is it so bad if the fairings are gone? Yeah they probably broke off or removed them, but if everything else is straight then why would it be a bad decision?
I bought this bike over a ninja 250 last summer and I dont regret a thing. I fall in love with this bike over and over again. Great bike, love the power in it, easy to work on. Took it out of state, around town, country roads, all around great. Bought mine for 1500 at 10250 miles. I've had it for two seasons, and am now at 18350. Thought about selling it but not even!
I am getting a 1990 GS500E from my brother in the next few weeks. I rode a couple of months back and was absolutely amazed at the power and how well it handled. It has straight handle bars, so I was leaning forward a little more than what you showed on your bike. It was still comfortable to ride though. The power is not too much to be intimidating and still enough to get out of its own way. Also, the curves were a blast to go around with no ill tendencies. I really enjoyed watching your video a
Thank you for this comprehensive review. As someone who has just acquired one of these bikes, but hasn't ridden for many years, I've found this very informative, helpful and reassuring.
great vid thank you. I've been riding 10 years now and passed my test of a GS500e. I've had lots of bikes since and came off an R1 for not concentrating properly (luckily nothing more than pride and a bit of fairing scratches. Now I have a Gixer Thou (last 4 years) and a 2001 GS500e for pillion/comutes. Love it a much as the day I went from a 125 to direct access 500. Taught me some things I didn't know, so thank you!
The GS500 is known to have a very solid engine. And 100+ miles on the clock has been known. As the bike is used by a Lot of beginners (not that is to be thought of only as a beginner bike though) most bikes don't make it that far due to crashes. But in the hands of a competent rider and when well maintained, the engines are quite solid. Mine now has 53,000km on it and it doing fine.
I have a GS500F and previously I would manhandle it up onto the centre stand. Now I lift it with my right arm the way you instructed and find it much easier. Thank you!
This is just great. About to buy a 1990 gs500 for a first bike, gonna check it out this week or the next. I think it looks great and and is going to help me create my own drivingstyle the next few years before i get something bigger. These tips are going to help me a lot!
My owner's manual reccomends leaving it at 3000 RPM for at least half a minute. I found that on days above 20°C it's good to go after half a minute and below that it'll need 45-60 seconds on 2/3 choke. Don't ride with the choke cranked. The bike when warm should idle at about 1200-1400 RPM, give or take (at different altitudes and different weather it can go as low as 1100 or as high as 1500, I set mine to about 1300 so it levels out) . Great review! These bikes are bulletproof if no engine/intake/exhaust mods are done. Mine has 93K on the clock and still runs like new.
@WillBadRacing Thank you for watching and sharing your thoughts. Glad you discovered something new. They are great little bikes. Completely underestimated. Versatile. Just a pleasure to ride.
I just bought a gs500f 2005 love it. I started to ride with a 2012 Honda cbr 250r ....it was way to small for me as I got suckered in by dealership. I returned the cbr and got the gs its way more safe for a begginer. And everything feels like it should on a bike at 60 mph on gs is floating on cbr 250r I felt like I was gonna fly off the bike ...thanks for the great video I learned at least 3 new things about my bike ill be subscribing to your great videos.
Hey Timothy, did you end up getting the GS500? Has it been going alright for you? I'm really thinking about getting one after watching this review... Got a 2012 gs500 with 17k kms, single owner full books and 3 month rego for around 3,900 sitting at my local dealer... Tempted now...
Mine is a 2004 model...also made in Spain ....I have done only 37,000 as I have two other bikes ...One a GSX-R 400cc Suzuki... 1984 with 76,000kms on the clock...both bikes are completely oil tight and a joy to ride...especially in the hills surrounding Perth, Western Australia where I live ...
Thank you. Yup, nothing wrong with the GS500. Litre bike riders dis it cause it's not ego stroking. But it doesn't pretend to be anything other than what it is. A rider friendly bike suitable for new and experienced riders alike.
I just purchased a 2001 gs500, its winter here now, so I have to wait til ride it, but really looking forward to learning to ride. Good to hear that this is a very forgiving learners bike...
I bought one, it had an oil cooler and no fairing. I bought my 500 new. In 2009. So alot came with oil cooler and no fairing. I like the looks of the bike with no fairing. Nice ride . I should of not sold it. Maybe I will get a new one some day.
Perfect explanation of just about every aspect. Strangely had the chain lubed last week and have had some leak for the first time and think that you covered it well from the beginning. Much appreciated. M
Yeah. I have ridden a 750 Honda and a 900 Kawasaki. Although both were cruiser style bikes, the GS500 was just so easy to ride and just a blast to ride. I really enjoyed your video. Have a good day and ride safe.
Great review of this bike- I've owned a 2008 for a year now and you taught me several things about it! I only get about 90-120 miles per fill-up and yet I've been told that's because the previous owner did several modifications. Next up- luggage rack!
Finally a good review/talkthrough of this.."older" bike. I've decided thisnwill be my bike as well. Fun fact...you're as tall as me so i know the ergonomics work for me. Thnx alot!
Nice video. I've been riding one of these for a few years, and have loved every ride. I've never been let down or left stranded by it. I agree with all of your points! Great luggage wrack too. That would be great for my student commuting needs.
Thanks for enjoying the video. My 09 has a 20 litre tank but when it hits reserve and I refill it usually only takes around 14 litres. I fill up on the centre stand and stop when the fuel hits the filler sleeve. Claimed specs can count the entire tank entire size not Useable tank. With your rear shock check the preload. It comes set at 4 from the factory. Crank it up to 5, test ride and adjust up further as needed. Highest setting is 7.
I'm thinking of getting a license and we have this one sitting in the garage. I must say i'm a bit scared cuz it's quite bulky and I've never sat on anything but a tiny 50cc 3 gear rattlecage moped....Your videos gave me a bit of confidence, hopefully I won't get myself killed. cheers
Useful info here- thanks! Seems like it's getting harder all the time to find much else on YT but sophomoric trash-talking junk. I'm just returning to riding after 20+ years off the bike. I'm way past caring anything about rocket-like acceleration or mind-numbing top speed. Rather, I value reliability, simplicity and stable, predictable handling. I am seriously considering the GS500F, and your reasoned and informative video has helped me finalize that decision. Thanks again, and do ride safe!
I have one of these bikes. I have been riding a long time. Air-cooled mid-sized fours will outrun this bike, but the GS500 is a very satisfying bike to own. That is why I kept mine. I put a lot of miles on it and I have maintained it. It is the inner half of a GS1000. It has an inner beauty all its own. Here we are in 2011 and we can still buy a new air-cooled motorcycle. Down the line that will be a governmental feat.
Mate, you made a fantastic review. Oth I think proper way to lubricate chain is to spray on left and right wall of the chain segment, that's where the O-ring is located.
@wesg77 It can do 100mph+. So fast enough to hurt you if you come off, fast enough to lose your license, fast enough to overtake B-Double trucks. Don't know if you'd say it went like the Clappers, but it will do the job. Just don't expect to outrun an R1, CBR1000, etc.
Awesome review Michael - really enjoyed having a look at your GS500. Thanks for putting the clocks for bikes link up too, I'll be ordering some of those for the Hornet. I'm a little disappointed the Honda didn't come with a center stand as standard. I priced a new unit from Rocklea - over $500!! Can't blame you for holding onto that bike - and thanks for your vids through the Border Ranges on it. Cheers mate!
Just remember to take it easy as your skills improve. There is a lot to learn about riding that takes more than a few weeks riding to develop. With that in mind you will be fine.
What a fantastic video. I am very glad that I found such a informative and nicely explained video. I don´t have a license yet but when I was a kid I saw this bike and I just rembered the single and round head light and since then I was quite intersted in these. Hmm let´s just see what comes to the craigslist when I have the license and all the gear. Thx again
awesome video!thanx...i just bought an 09, was wondering the correct coldstart procedure. I was about to take it to a mechanic to have the oil on the sidestand looked at, thought it was an engine leak...lucky i watched this vid before i went!!! your attention to detail is excellent...this was just the video i needed...thanx again!
great review, clock and thermo you added look real good, I was wonderin where to get a clock from, great tip about the oil cooler, sold my gs500f and miss it, an awesome practical bike.
@eoxter You're welcome :) When the bike was introduced in 1989 it had the GS500E designation. It had a 2 circuit carb and 17 liter (4.5gal) gas tank. In 2001 the carbs were changed to a 3 circuit version, the tank increased to 20 liters (5.3gal) and the E dropped from the name. So the E version has the 2 circuit carbs and a smaller tank than those without the E designation which were made from 2001 and on. The F version was introduced in 2003 & has the oil cooler as shown in the video.
Ethan, ALWAYS keep your chain lubed. The owners manual says every 1000kms. That's too long for me, I like to do it after each tank full - every 2nd tank at the most. Keep an eye on the tyre pressures - 33 front & 36 rear for solo riding. If the bikes starts to get sluggish to start, check the battery levels - they will most likely be low, top up & go for a ride to recharge. Stay on top of the oil changes. With new-to-me bikes I always change the oil & filter first up. Any questions? Ask here.
Most people who dislike the exhaust replace the lot. There are a few options but the one I personally like the sound of is the Screaming Demon. May or may not need to rejet the carbs after though. Easier than trying to remove just the inside part of the exhaust from the outer heat shield.
i did just that. cleaned, ran it for a few days, nothing...then cleaned and lubed the chain and a day later, a drop showed up, so im good to go! thtnx again!! gonna attempt an oil change next week...looooving the bike so far, such a nice comfy smooth bike
Wow...very thorough...the only thing I caught that you mentioned but didn't explain was why it is important to switch back from RES to RUN on the fuel petcock...I know it is kinda self explanitory, but not all have common sense...if you forget to return the petcock to RUN after a fill and you usually just run it to the reserve then switch and find a fuel station, you won't have fuel in the tank because you are already on reserve... And that's picking nits...excellent walk through of the bike!!
Great video. Ive got a uk spec version,and wasn't aware of the oil coolers fitted to faired bikes.Dont think ive seen the helmet locks either,so will have to check under the seat.Many thanks.
The video is very good and helped me make my mind up in buying a GS500 and I am very happy with it. What engine oil do you use for oil changes on your bike and which stores can you get it from in Queensland. Thanks,
Thanks mate for the info about the oil cooler now I know about my bike I bought in 2017 it was naked gs 500 but had the oil cooler and the handling wasn't good , nowci know exactly why. Thanks again for explaining that.
If you are refering to how the engine sounds one idling or riding, as shown in the video, then Yes that noise is normal. Being an air-cooled engine the tolerances are slightly larger and so they tend to be noisier than water-cooled bikes. However, as mentioned in the description they can also have some cam noise and if your valve clearances are tight you'll get valve noise as well.
I got a gs500 2003 a year ago with a rather high 64000 miles on the clock!.i paid 500 pounds,and road it every day to work and back and fun on the weekends and its great!!.ive had faster stuff but the gs as fast as i need and its acceleration makes me smile ,so its not slow. I would get another one:)ps top video!.
If only all reviewers were this good.
Thank you!!
So true dude
Brilliant! You have no idea how valuable a review as thorough as this one is for someone who doesn't know a lot about bikes. Thank you so much!
you said it! just bought one of these babies as my first bike. this REALLY helped!
Completely agree
The GS500 was my first bike, 27 years ago. I bought it brand new from the Suzuki dealer in Pompano Beach, Florida. Looking back, it truly is a great bike.
Your video helped me buy a GS500 last year. Love it so far. Thanks!
I dig videos like this. No fancy production and You know the presenter isn't exactly doing it for money. Just a genuine review :)
I'm 6'2 (188cm) & have no comfort problems. Trick to riding long distance is to build yourself up to it - start w/ 30 minute rides before a break, then 45, then 60. If you can't have a break every hour or so, move around on the bike, change feet positions, put toes on pegs & raise lower foot to stretch calf, change seat from one cheek to the other, knees in knees out, stretch legs out, change grip. At a pinch, take some paracetamol to help relax muscles, use ear plugs, drink plenty of water.
paracetamol is a medicine.... bad idea.
I'm just under 6' and finally got a GS twin last week, after looking for 14+ years. I had you pegged at 6' 2", around 200#. Excellent video- longest one I've ever watched on YT. Now I'm just waiting for a warm, sunny day!
Thank you very much for this!
I've just bought a GS500 and found this video to be a perfect introduction to new bike-owners.
Thanks!
by all that is holy, this review is worth its length in gold! I love it how You went into intricate details and provided pictures and separate camera angles to boot
@TheUplink777 The GS500 is a very learner friendly bike. A lot of the liter bike riders think of it as just for beginners, but it is not. It can do 100mph fairly easy. Heck, riding in 4th gear it will go from 37mph (60kph) to 87mph (140kph), which is plenty fast enough. Of course, we are biased towards the GS, but we have good reason too - cheap, reliable, plenty of help if you want to wrench on it yourself.
Really appreciate the level of detail afforded to this review, if only more bike reviews actually gave this much detail. I really appreciated the oil filter tip, I'm considering buying one of these bikes on the cheap for a project and knowing that the 500f's can look almost identical once the fairings are removed is great to know. Now I'm not just limited to the naked models. Great video, thanks.
I remember watching this video when I was trying to choose my first bike. I got a Honda VTR250 but switched to a GS500F ("F" with the fairing) after 6 weeks. I've had the GS500F for a year now and it's been great. Being around 100kg it suits me better than the 250, feels more stable at high speeds especially in the wind. I'm more than happy to ride it for another 2 years on LAMS, and would be happy to keep it after that. If you want super fast acceleration you could go for something bigger capacity. But it does 0-100kph in a little under 6 seconds which is pretty good I find. Get the occasional driver trying to drag you but.. hey "cars will be cars". I expect the worst of them so I'm always prepared.
Great video- really well done.
I have a naked 1994 model, and I never give throttle to start, only choke. Then, as it goes to 4,000rpm, I slowly, very slowly, back-off on the choke. Other than that great video on our beloved bike!
Thank you, Mike for the most user friendly overview of the SZK GS500 on the Internet. That would bring me definitely into the bike shed. Keep up your excellent work.
...hi Michael...i riding bike in Europa for about 30 years...i now lttle more thinks about bike...i apreciate so much your pattience and that special review...i am ready old(65) bot i think to buy GS 500F...may be you must to do comercial profesional factory review for SUZUKI...thank you so much...ride safe...
Wow- Thanks Michael- that was such a huge help for me. I am getting my first bike ( in 27 years) its a 2005 GS500. Again, thanks mate!
Thinking of buying one of these next weekend as my first bike. Found your excellent post to be very informative. Thanks for doing it.
That oil cooler thing is a great tip! I currently have a boat that I have posted in the barter section on Craigslist and someone offered a trade for a naked 2005 GS500. Something didn't look right with the rear seat and seat fairing, so as I was watching this video, I rechecked the pictures he sent and lo and behold, there is an oil cooler, the seat and seat fairing don't match any models from 2005 and it doesn't have a front fairing. I think I'll have to pass on the trade now that I know about the oil cooler tip! Thanks a lot!
Glad this video saved you from buying a probable crashed bike. While some people do remove the fairing because naked GS500s were removed from the USA market before faired models, and those people want a naked bike, it's usually removed due to a crash. Best to just avoid and find something else.
+Michael Ross Just wanted to add another thank you for this video and mentioning the oil cooler. This exact situation just happened to me where I had the opportunity to get a "2005 GS500" from Craigslist that just so happened to have the front fairing missing. It also happened to have an oil cooler. Needless to say, I will not be buying it. You just saved me from making a very bad decision. Thank you!
Wasabi Maybe it was the same one! Wouldn't that be weird? The one I was talking about was in Minnesota.
+Zen Valo Haha, that would be crazy! Mine was in Texas, but who knows, maybe he moved!
@@wasabi3 why is it so bad if the fairings are gone? Yeah they probably broke off or removed them, but if everything else is straight then why would it be a bad decision?
I bought this bike over a ninja 250 last summer and I dont regret a thing. I fall in love with this bike over and over again. Great bike, love the power in it, easy to work on. Took it out of state, around town, country roads, all around great. Bought mine for 1500 at 10250 miles. I've had it for two seasons, and am now at 18350. Thought about selling it but not even!
I am getting a 1990 GS500E from my brother in the next few weeks. I rode a couple of months back and was absolutely amazed at the power and how well it handled. It has straight handle bars, so I was leaning forward a little more than what you showed on your bike. It was still comfortable to ride though. The power is not too much to be intimidating and still enough to get out of its own way. Also, the curves were a blast to go around with no ill tendencies. I really enjoyed watching your video a
Thank you for the update. Glad you are enjoying it. Welcome to the family ;)
Thank you for this comprehensive review. As someone who has just acquired one of these bikes, but hasn't ridden for many years, I've found this very informative, helpful and reassuring.
great vid thank you. I've been riding 10 years now and passed my test of a GS500e. I've had lots of bikes since and came off an R1 for not concentrating properly (luckily nothing more than pride and a bit of fairing scratches. Now I have a Gixer Thou (last 4 years) and a 2001 GS500e for pillion/comutes. Love it a much as the day I went from a 125 to direct access 500. Taught me some things I didn't know, so thank you!
That's the way to do a review1
Very informative and thorough. The only small issue was the wind noise from the microphone. Other than that fantastic.
The GS500 is known to have a very solid engine. And 100+ miles on the clock has been known. As the bike is used by a Lot of beginners (not that is to be thought of only as a beginner bike though) most bikes don't make it that far due to crashes. But in the hands of a competent rider and when well maintained, the engines are quite solid. Mine now has 53,000km on it and it doing fine.
I have a GS500F and previously I would manhandle it up onto the centre stand. Now I lift it with my right arm the way you instructed and find it much easier. Thank you!
Wow! in depth, pointed, useful information on youtube! It's a miracle!
Hands down the most thorough GS500 review I've seen. Good thing too, going tmrw to look at one and possibly buy. Great vid, Thank you
This is just great. About to buy a 1990 gs500 for a first bike, gonna check it out this week or the next. I think it looks great and and is going to help me create my own drivingstyle the next few years before i get something bigger. These tips are going to help me a lot!
Just got a 2005 GS500F today. Thanks for the video, I learned plenty.
I wish all reviews were this good, great job, covered many topics.
What a great, descriptive, detailed motorcycle. This is my favorite bike at the moment.
My owner's manual reccomends leaving it at 3000 RPM for at least half a minute. I found that on days above 20°C it's good to go after half a minute and below that it'll need 45-60 seconds on 2/3 choke.
Don't ride with the choke cranked. The bike when warm should idle at about 1200-1400 RPM, give or take (at different altitudes and different weather it can go as low as 1100 or as high as 1500, I set mine to about 1300 so it levels out) .
Great review! These bikes are bulletproof if no engine/intake/exhaust mods are done. Mine has 93K on the clock and still runs like new.
93K Amazing! km or miles ? :) Is bike still with you ?
@WillBadRacing Thank you for watching and sharing your thoughts. Glad you discovered something new. They are great little bikes. Completely underestimated. Versatile. Just a pleasure to ride.
I just bought a gs500f 2005 love it. I started to ride with a 2012 Honda cbr 250r ....it was way to small for me as I got suckered in by dealership. I returned the cbr and got the gs its way more safe for a begginer. And everything feels like it should on a bike at 60 mph on gs is floating on cbr 250r I felt like I was gonna fly off the bike ...thanks for the great video I learned at least 3 new things about my bike ill be subscribing to your great videos.
Amazing genuine review! Thanks! Going to pick one up this week!
Hey Timothy, did you end up getting the GS500? Has it been going alright for you? I'm really thinking about getting one after watching this review... Got a 2012 gs500 with 17k kms, single owner full books and 3 month rego for around 3,900 sitting at my local dealer... Tempted now...
Nice review. Its rare to find a nice clear and thorough review these days
Just got my first bike, an 04 gs500e, so your excellent video has been great! Cheers from Canada.
Man this is awesome awesome information, very well done video and all, thanks. I'm sold on the GS500 for my first bike.
Mine is a 2004 model...also made in Spain ....I have done only 37,000 as I have two other bikes ...One a GSX-R 400cc Suzuki... 1984 with 76,000kms on the clock...both bikes are completely oil tight and a joy to ride...especially in the hills surrounding Perth, Western Australia where I live ...
Heck yeah. I just bought a 95 gs500e. Still waiting on parts but can't wait to ride her. Great video!
@903apc @Adnoctumz Thanks. Glad you found it helpful to you. My 2009 GS500 is nearing 44,000km now and still purring like a kitten. Sweet!
Thank you. Yup, nothing wrong with the GS500. Litre bike riders dis it cause it's not ego stroking. But it doesn't pretend to be anything other than what it is. A rider friendly bike suitable for new and experienced riders alike.
Absolutely phenomenal overview of the bike. Very much appreciated!
I just purchased a 2001 gs500, its winter here now, so I have to wait til ride it, but really looking forward to learning to ride. Good to hear that this is a very forgiving learners bike...
Thanks, Mike. I really enjoyed your review. Very clear and to the point. You've answered pretty much every question I had about this bike. Good job!
I bought one, it had an oil cooler and no fairing. I bought my 500 new. In 2009. So alot came with oil cooler and no fairing. I like the looks of the bike with no fairing. Nice ride . I should of not sold it. Maybe I will get a new one some day.
Perfect explanation of just about every aspect. Strangely had the chain lubed last week and have had some leak for the first time and think that you covered it well from the beginning. Much appreciated. M
Really great review. Easily the most comprehensive and thoughtful review I ever seen of a bike. :D Would like to see more bike reviews from you!
This was very helpful and down to earth. we need videos like these.
thanks for the review. I just bought an 03 GS500 as my first bike today. :) this was very helpful.
This is the best review I have seen about this bike, thanks a lot man!
Yeah. I have ridden a 750 Honda and a 900 Kawasaki. Although both were cruiser style bikes, the GS500 was just so easy to ride and just a blast to ride. I really enjoyed your video. Have a good day and ride safe.
Great review of this bike- I've owned a 2008 for a year now and you taught me several things about it! I only get about 90-120 miles per fill-up and yet I've been told that's because the previous owner did several modifications. Next up- luggage rack!
loved your laid back and informative style. Thank you.
Great video. Very thorough and easy to follow. You've convinced me to get one. Thanks, Michael.
Finally a good review/talkthrough of this.."older" bike. I've decided thisnwill be my bike as well. Fun fact...you're as tall as me so i know the ergonomics work for me. Thnx alot!
Hi from Brisbane! Excellant review and video Michael. My GS500F is going a treat and I am finding it a great bike just like you say.
Nice video. I've been riding one of these for a few years, and have loved every ride. I've never been let down or left stranded by it. I agree with all of your points! Great luggage wrack too. That would be great for my student commuting needs.
Thanks for enjoying the video.
My 09 has a 20 litre tank but when it hits reserve and I refill it usually only takes around 14 litres. I fill up on the centre stand and stop when the fuel hits the filler sleeve. Claimed specs can count the entire tank entire size not Useable tank.
With your rear shock check the preload. It comes set at 4 from the factory. Crank it up to 5, test ride and adjust up further as needed. Highest setting is 7.
I'm buying one next week, first time rider and you have given me a bit more confidence, thank you :)
I know you posted this a while ago but it continues to be helpful. Thanks!
I'm thinking of getting a license and we have this one sitting in the garage. I must say i'm a bit scared cuz it's quite bulky and I've never sat on anything but a tiny 50cc 3 gear rattlecage moped....Your videos gave me a bit of confidence, hopefully I won't get myself killed. cheers
I finally got my gs500 today an '03 with 13000kms and it is a fantastic bike thanks heaps for the review definitely happy as a pig with it
Excellent review, thanks! I just paid the deposit on one. It is a 1993 model. Will check your other vids too.
Useful info here- thanks! Seems like it's getting harder all the time to find much else on YT but sophomoric trash-talking junk.
I'm just returning to riding after 20+ years off the bike. I'm way past caring anything about rocket-like acceleration or mind-numbing top speed. Rather, I value reliability, simplicity and stable, predictable handling. I am seriously considering the GS500F, and your reasoned and informative video has helped me finalize that decision.
Thanks again, and do ride safe!
WOW, Thank you so much Brian for this amazing review. I'm looking to buy a GS500 this month and this video was so helpful!!
My pleasure! Though my name is not Brian :)
2000 suzuki gs500e first bike owned it for 3 years never had any problems. topped out 105 mph
Really top quality review mate, really informative and super in-depth. Definitely do more of these!
I have one of these bikes. I have been riding a long time. Air-cooled mid-sized fours will outrun this bike, but the GS500 is a very satisfying bike to own. That is why I kept mine. I put a lot of miles on it and I have maintained it. It is the inner half of a GS1000. It has an inner beauty all its own. Here we are in 2011 and we can still buy a new air-cooled motorcycle. Down the line that will be a governmental feat.
Mate, you made a fantastic review. Oth I think proper way to lubricate chain is to spray on left and right wall of the chain segment, that's where the O-ring is located.
Thank you so much. Just bought a 2006 today, looks just like your bike.👍🏼😎
@wesg77 It can do 100mph+. So fast enough to hurt you if you come off, fast enough to lose your license, fast enough to overtake B-Double trucks. Don't know if you'd say it went like the Clappers, but it will do the job. Just don't expect to outrun an R1, CBR1000, etc.
Awesome review Michael - really enjoyed having a look at your GS500. Thanks for putting the clocks for bikes link up too, I'll be ordering some of those for the Hornet. I'm a little disappointed the Honda didn't come with a center stand as standard. I priced a new unit from Rocklea - over $500!! Can't blame you for holding onto that bike - and thanks for your vids through the Border Ranges on it. Cheers mate!
Just remember to take it easy as your skills improve. There is a lot to learn about riding that takes more than a few weeks riding to develop. With that in mind you will be fine.
What a fantastic video.
I am very glad that I found such a informative and nicely explained video.
I don´t have a license yet but when I was a kid I saw this bike and I just rembered the single and round head light and since then I was quite intersted in these.
Hmm let´s just see what comes to the craigslist when I have the license and all the gear.
Thx again
all you need to know top review well put together with no stupid music top job well done.
Great bike, great review. Had mine for ~2 years and it has ran flawless.
Thanks to you for this instructional video. I'll buy one of this babies and there's a lot that I didn't know.
It was very helpful!!!
awesome video!thanx...i just bought an 09, was wondering the correct coldstart procedure. I was about to take it to a mechanic to have the oil on the sidestand looked at, thought it was an engine leak...lucky i watched this vid before i went!!! your attention to detail is excellent...this was just the video i needed...thanx again!
great review, clock and thermo you added look real good, I was wonderin where to get a clock from, great tip about the oil cooler, sold my gs500f and miss it, an awesome practical bike.
@eoxter You're welcome :)
When the bike was introduced in 1989 it had the GS500E designation. It had a 2 circuit carb and 17 liter (4.5gal) gas tank. In 2001 the carbs were changed to a 3 circuit version, the tank increased to 20 liters (5.3gal) and the E dropped from the name. So the E version has the 2 circuit carbs and a smaller tank than those without the E designation which were made from 2001 and on.
The F version was introduced in 2003 & has the oil cooler as shown in the video.
Hey Michael great review! I am thinking about getting this as my first bike in a couple years. :D
I've got one like this one, 1990 model. Slingshot, I love it!
Ethan, ALWAYS keep your chain lubed. The owners manual says every 1000kms. That's too long for me, I like to do it after each tank full - every 2nd tank at the most. Keep an eye on the tyre pressures - 33 front & 36 rear for solo riding. If the bikes starts to get sluggish to start, check the battery levels - they will most likely be low, top up & go for a ride to recharge. Stay on top of the oil changes. With new-to-me bikes I always change the oil & filter first up. Any questions? Ask here.
Most people who dislike the exhaust replace the lot. There are a few options but the one I personally like the sound of is the Screaming Demon. May or may not need to rejet the carbs after though. Easier than trying to remove just the inside part of the exhaust from the outer heat shield.
Thank for this very educational video. Seriously, well done.
Best review I've ever watched! Thank You! 👍
The best review of a bike out there
i did just that. cleaned, ran it for a few days, nothing...then cleaned and lubed the chain and a day later, a drop showed up, so im good to go! thtnx again!! gonna attempt an oil change next week...looooving the bike so far, such a nice comfy smooth bike
Thanks so very mutch ! I'm about to buy one of these. I learned so mutch !
Ideally you have the bike now and are currently riding it and discovering how good a bike it is. Good choice of bike to ride :)
Wow...very thorough...the only thing I caught that you mentioned but didn't explain was why it is important to switch back from RES to RUN on the fuel petcock...I know it is kinda self explanitory, but not all have common sense...if you forget to return the petcock to RUN after a fill and you usually just run it to the reserve then switch and find a fuel station, you won't have fuel in the tank because you are already on reserve...
And that's picking nits...excellent walk through of the bike!!
Great video. Ive got a uk spec version,and wasn't aware of the oil coolers fitted to faired bikes.Dont think ive seen the helmet locks either,so will have to check under the seat.Many thanks.
thats really great informational video ! Thanks man
The video is very good and helped me make my mind up in buying a GS500 and I am very happy with it.
What engine oil do you use for oil changes on your bike and which stores can you get it from in Queensland. Thanks,
Thanks mate for the info about the oil cooler now I know about my bike I bought in 2017 it was naked gs 500 but had the oil cooler and the handling wasn't good , nowci know exactly why.
Thanks again for explaining that.
If you are refering to how the engine sounds one idling or riding, as shown in the video, then Yes that noise is normal. Being an air-cooled engine the tolerances are slightly larger and so they tend to be noisier than water-cooled bikes. However, as mentioned in the description they can also have some cam noise and if your valve clearances are tight you'll get valve noise as well.
Very comprehensive and helpful. Thank you very much from Virginia, USA.
I got a gs500 2003 a year ago with a rather high 64000 miles on the clock!.i paid 500 pounds,and road it every day to work and back and fun on the weekends and its great!!.ive had faster stuff but the gs as fast as i need and its acceleration makes me smile ,so its not slow. I would get another one:)ps top video!.