2005 Suzuki GS500F from Canada - Comments

Nothing!

Excellent beginner bike, this was my first ride and it's perfect for someone looking to get into the scene.

I like the looks of the fairings and it handles amazingly well.. It's affordable and the insurance is cheaper that most other bikes, other than cruisers.

Gas mileage is good, averaging around 60MPG. The drive train is a little outdated as it hasn't changed much since late 1980's, but is very reliable! There is a reason why Suzuki didn't change much mechanically.

The downsides:

- The front suspension is soft. I replaced them with stiffer after market springs, and I recommend this to anyone who owns a GS500.

- Front brakes are weak, could use dual front discs to support its 400lb weight.

- The rear tire is skinny, needs to be wider as when leaning into sharp turns, I'm almost hitting the sidewall on occasion.

Overall:

An excellent bike for the price! You just cannot beat it. I will be upgrading to a GSXR-600 very soon.

Thanks for the help. I'll go for this one soon.

Me too.

I just bought this bike and love it. I used to own a CBR 600 and got rid of it because it was too uncomfortable. The GS500F in my opinion blows the Honda away; they accelerate almost the same, and I don't find much difference in the handling. The front end could be a little stiffer, but if you're not doing heavy braking it's fine. It's a easy bike to ride. If you're just learning to ride, or you're looking for a sporty bike that's comfortable to ride, then this is a perfect bike for you.

Very solid motorcycle on the road, easy to handle (both pushing out of the garage, and on the road), good looks, great price, basic proven engine = lower maintenance, lots of power for the casual rider, safe (you can gun it and not worry about wheelies). Not a 'crotch rocket' by any means.

Highly Recommended.

This is a great starter bike, was in the market early this year to buy my first bike and checked out quite a few, from the Honda CBR125 to a variety of 600s. I'm loving this bike, easy to ride, looks great, enough power to be fun but mild enough not to intimidate a new rider. The drive train is bullet proof, easy to maintain most of it yourself.

Have decided after next season I will get a 600 gixxer, but think I will be keeping this one in the stable, too much fun to give it up. You want great looks, decent performance and a reliable ride, then this is your bike. I have had mine just a few months and 4800km, no problems, worries or regrets, just a lot of good times and memories. GS twin forever!!