Is the Suzuki GS500 a good bike?

[Rolo P]

I'm just in the process of getting my motorcycle licence and looking at the Suzuki GS500 for my first bike (an used one). Is it too much cc's for me or should I look at something with less cc's. I'm 5'7" female and looking also use the bike on the highway and as well go on some long day trips. What do you think?

 

[Bart S]

I don't like it, its a basic-cheap-generic bike with a Chinese engine, I would pick the Kawasaki 250 Ninja over it.

 

[master H]

if i runs and runs well its a good bike i think you worry to much chill out

 

[stevenvt1]

Yes, I'm looking for one of those myself. I saw a nice clean 2002, but damn people never answer their phone.

 

[CheGuevara]

This bike is an excellent choice as a starter bike for young riders and those on the shorter end of the scale and at 5'7" your height is above average compared to many veteran women riders I've met over the years. Even though a 500cc it's one of the least powerful parallel twin cylinder engines mostly because its an older design and in some highway situations you might find you'll need to downshift for more power in order to get pass quickly. Its a light bike too, so watch out for wind gusts or crosswinds when out on the open highway.

 

[Dimo J]

Bart is against it so it must be a good bike.

I had a Suzuki GS450E back in '82 or so. Took it from Los Angeles to Just north of San Fransico up the Interstate, mostly around 85mph. Very buzzy, need to stop hourly for a 5 minute cigarette break. After a night's rest continued on to Seatle via 2-lane roads, then back via the coast to Ventura -- mostly 50-60 mph, 80 mpg, could ride like that indefinely.

500cc is more than sufficient. A 250 would be struggling on the highways.

 

[ohyeagirl]

suzukis are good.