Suzuki GS500

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Suzuki GS500E/F
1997 Suzuki GS500E
Manufacturer: Suzuki Motor Corporation
Production: 1989 - present (E)
2004 - present (F)
Predecessor: GS450
Class: Naked bike (E)
Sport bike (F)
Engine: 487 cc, 4-stroke, air-cooled parallel twin, DOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Transmission: 6-speed
Rake: 25 degrees
Trail: 97 mm
Wheelbase: 55.5 inches
Seat Height: 31.1 inches
Dry weight: 396.8 pounds
Fuel economy: 45-55 mpg
Fuel capacity: 5.3 gals
Similar: Kawasaki Ninja 500R

The Suzuki GS500 is a popular entry level motorcycle manufactured by the Suzuki Motor Corporation. Suzuki produces two forms of the bike; the GS500E from 1989 onwards and the GS500F from 2004 onwards.

Contents

[edit] GS500E

The GS500E was released in to the US in 1989. It was equipped with an air-cooled 487 cc parallel twin engine derived from the earlier GS450. The bike is widely used for commuting purposes due to its relatively low horsepower, decent torque, light weight, highly reliable engine, as well as its excellent fuel economy. They are also a popular choice for beginner riders because of their low price and cost of ownership. The GS500E is able to be restricted for use in countries where restrictive motorcycle licenses are issued (such as the UK Class 'A' motorcycle license) which added to its worldwide popularity. In 2002, Suzuki stopped producing the GS500E for the US market and didn't release a GS500 for 2003. The GS500E still continues to be sold in many other countries.

[edit] GS500F

The GS500F has the headlight unit taken from the Suzuki gsx supersports range.
Enlarge
The GS500F has the headlight unit taken from the Suzuki gsx supersports range.

In 2004 after a year hiatus, Suzuki came out with the GS500F to fill the void left by the GS500E. This bike was very similar to the previous E model, but now comes with a fully enclosed fairing. The fairing offers a sportier, aggressive look and improved rider comfort by providing wind protection and better aerodynamics. An oil cooler was also added. As with the previous E model, the F is able to be restricted for use in countries where restrictive motorcycle licenses are issued. The GS500F is still available today with the 2006 model at an MSRP of $5149 USD.

[edit] Performance

The difference in performance between the GS500E and GS500F is minimal. Standing quarter miles are said to be about 15 seconds. Top speed is about 115 mph. The light weight means minimal effort is needed for turning.

[edit] Model History

  • 1989 GS500E introduced to North America
  • 1990 Clip-on handlebars replaced with standard bars.
  • 1994 Gunmetal colored rims and slightly different frame color for this model year.
  • 1996 Front brakes changed.
  • 2001 Tank, rear plastics, seat, and tail light redesigned. Carburetor changed from a two-circuit design (pilot jet and main jet) to a three-circuit design ( pilot jet, mid-main jet, main jet) to help with better carburetion throughout the rev range. Loss of "E" designation.
  • 2003 No GS500 model sold in the US.
  • 2004 GS500F introduced. A full fairing and oil cooler added.

[edit] Future of the GS500

Current event marker This article or section contains information about a scheduled or anticipated future motorcycle.

It is likely to contain information of a speculative nature, but is usually sourced from the motorcycle news media, motorcycle media press releases, or other news sources. The content and specifications for upcoming motorcycles may change significantly as the motorcycle nears production and more information becomes available. Upcoming motorcycles are also subject to delays or even cancellation by the manufacturer.

Although it is a strong seller, Suzuki hasn't given word on the future of the current GS500F. There are no signs of the bike being discontinued or not past the 2006 model year but fans of the little bike feel like it will be in the Suzuki line up for at least a couple more years before being revised or replaced. In the first half of 2006, Suzuki created a new web site, Suzuki Fuel, because of the high demand for better fuel economy. They aimed at showing how much money motorists could save when riding a fuel efficient motorcycle and, even though the GS500 was never a part of major advertising, Suzuki featured the GS500F on the site. Because of this, it is now widely believed the GS500, in whatever form it take in the future, will have a much longer life span in the Suzuki lineup than originally expected.

[edit] GS500E Specifications

Engine

  • Type: four-stroke, air-cooled parallel twin, DOHC, two valves per cylinder
  • Displacement: 487 cc
  • Bore/Stroke: 74.0 mm x 56.6 mm
  • Fuel System: Mikuni BSR34SS
  • Ignition: CDI, maintenance-free battery
  • Compression Ratio: 9.0:1
  • Engine Redline: 11,000 rpm
  • Horsepower: 51.3 hp @ 9500 rpm
  • Torque: 30.4 lb-ft @ 7500 rpm
  • Fuel Economy: 50-60 mpg

Drive train

  • Transmission: 6-speed
  • Final Drive: #520 chain
  • Front Sprocket: 16 tooth
  • Rear Sprocket: 39 tooth

Brakes

  • Front: Single hydraulic disc 310 mm, Dual-Piston Calipers
  • Rear: Single hydraulic disc 250 mm, Dual-Piston Calipers

Wheels and Tires

  • Front: 110/70-17 tire
  • Rear: 130/70-17 tire

Suspension

  • Front: Telescopic, coil spring, oil damped
  • Rear: Link-type, 7-way adjustable spring preload

Dimensions & Geometry

  • Length: 81.7"
  • Width: 29.3"
  • Height: 41.1"
  • Seat Height: 31.1"
  • Wheel Base: 55.5"
  • Ground Clearance: 6.1"
  • Rake (89-00): 25° 30'
  • Rake (00+): 25°
  • Trail (89-00): 95 mm
  • Trail (00+): 97 mm
  • Weight: 372 lb. (dry)
  • Fuel Capacity: 4.5 gal.

Warranty

  • Suzuki offers a 24 month unlimited mileage limited warranty.

[edit] GS500F Specification differences

2004 GS500F with Suburban Machinery handlebars
Enlarge
2004 GS500F with Suburban Machinery handlebars
  • Length: 81.9"
  • Weight: 396.8 lb. (dry)
  • Fuel Capacity: 5.3 gals.
  • MPG: 58 MPG

Colors

  • 2004: Yellow/Gray, Blue/White
  • 2005: Black/Red, two-tone Blue/White
  • 2006: Black/Silver, Greenish-Blue/White

[edit] External links

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