Suzuki GS500
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Suzuki GS500E/F | |
|---|---|
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| 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 |
| Wheelbase | 55.5 inches |
| Seat Height | 31.1 inches |
| 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. In 2007, Suzuki dropped the GS500E from it's U.K. range. The GS500E still continues to be sold in many other countries.
[edit] GS500F
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 was dropped from the U.K. Suzuki range in 2007. The GS500F is still available in the U.S., Canada, Germany and France.
[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] GS500E Specifications
Engine
- Type: four-stroke, air-cooled In-Line Parallel Twin Cylinder, 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
- 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, Dark Blue/White (Canada)
- 2007: Black/Grey, Light blue/White.
[edit] Comparative Reviews
In February 1992, Cycle World magazine, in an article titled "Bargain Blasters," compared the Kawasaki EX500, the Yamaha Seca II, the Suzuki Bandit, and the Suzuki GS500. The Seca II came in first, with the Bandit, the EX500, and the GS500 following in that order.
In April 1994, in an article titled "Bargain Hunters," Cycle World compared the Kawasaki Ninja 500, the Suzuki GS500E, the Suzuki Katana 600, the Yamaha FZR600, and the Yamaha Seca II.
[edit] External links
- Suzuki Fuel - official Suzuki site for fuel efficient motorcycles featuring the GS500F
- 2007 Suzuki GS500F - official 2007 GS500F page
- 2006 Suzuki GS500F - official 2006 GS500F page
- 2005 Suzuki GS500F - official 2005 GS500F page
- GS500 Wiki - Technical spec of the various models, maintenance How-tos and useful information
- GStwin - Another good resourse on the GS500, along with some modification and maintenance how-tos
- Suzuki GS500E model history - GS500's history
