GS500F: any good? [Archive] - Kiwi Biker forums

Stylo

30th December 2011, 18:12

short-circuit

30th December 2011, 18:23

Nup - crap

paturoa

30th December 2011, 18:28

Nup - crap

Crappiness is in the eye of the beholder.

Fellow commuter at my wokr has one, and he thinks it is a good bike for the money he paid. He rekons that it gets about 4l/100km, has never failed him and is easy to ride.

robinm

30th December 2011, 18:35

I had one a few years back, they are a sweet wee bike. go well, cheap as to run and a great no frills back to basics bike.

Nasty

30th December 2011, 18:36

So I take it she has a full license already ... or is that on the yet to be approved list that is coming out soon?

blackdog

30th December 2011, 18:40

Yup great little machine for getting back into it on. Don't expect to have it forever as its more of a 'step up' bike to get confidence as opposed to a machine you'll want to keep forever. Good value for money and as long as not a very early model they are extremely reliable as a rule.

Oakie

30th December 2011, 19:14

I looked at one and even test rode one before deciding on the Bandit for the extra 30hp.

Not an exciting bike but solid engine so a bit dated but reliable as hell I'd imagine. When it's time to say bye bye to the Bandit I'd probably look at the GS500 again if I knew touring was no longer going to happen.

sil3nt

30th December 2011, 19:25

They are barely faster than a 250. I would say good for the short ones.

riffer

30th December 2011, 19:54

They are barely faster than a 250. I would say good for the short ones.

Be that as it may, two members of the BRONZ Wellington Executive have GS500Fs, Cathy and Paul. Actually Paul's just traded his in on a C50 Boulevard but he had his for yonks and he's well over six foot. Cathy's about 5'5" and she's not the only female rider I've seen around that height who has lots of good things to say about them.

I reckon it's a pretty good bike for the money, and for how you want to use it. I'd say definitely give it a test ride.

Stylo

30th December 2011, 19:54

Nup - crap

Thanks Short Circuit and..another display of your total brilliance with that one...

Oh dear ......

Stylo

30th December 2011, 19:58

So I take it she has a full license already ... or is that on the yet to be approved list that is coming out soon?

No, she has the FL and all good to go ..funny how all the Bike mags are on her side of the bed now...

:laugh:

Nasty

30th December 2011, 20:03

No, she has the FL and all good to go ..funny how all the Bike mags are on her side of the bed now...

:laugh:

thats great .. as well as you get a bike well maintained and that fits her and that she loves that is really all that counts :)

Stylo

30th December 2011, 20:04

Be that as it may, two members of the BRONZ Wellington Executive have GS500Fs, Cathy and Paul. Actually Paul's just traded his in on a C50 Boulevard but he had his for yonks and he's well over six foot. Cathy's about 5'5" and she's not the only female rider I've seen around that height who has lots of good things to say about them.

I reckon it's a pretty good bike for the money, and for how you want to use it. I'd say definitely give it a test ride.

Thank's Riffer , we'll wait till after next week and go shopping. Probably online as the majority of Bike shops here in ChCh are history at present , been demolished or, moved out of town ..cheers

riffer

30th December 2011, 20:07

Thank's Riffer , we'll wait till after next week and go shopping. Probably online as the majority of Bike shops here in ChCh are history at present , been demolished or, moved out of town ..cheers

No sweat Stylo. Hey - Paul's handle on kb is Bald Eagle - pm him and ask about the GS500F if you like. http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/member.php/24898-Bald-Eagle

Stylo

30th December 2011, 20:08

thats great .. as well as you get a bike well maintained and that fits her and that she loves that is really all that counts :)

Nice one Nasty one :-) , I'll pass it on, Bike trip to Akaroa tomorrow for a big night ... on the 'Busa of course

Captain_Salty

30th December 2011, 20:08

a good bike to start with and a step above her CB125 she took to Uni a few years ago ...

I had a ten year break between my first bike, a GN250, to getting my 500E. Has been a good bike to relearn on and capable enough for highway riding, which is all I use it for. The power is predictable and the bike is light and forgiving when I occasionally cock up a corner. Will be moving on to something 750ish but still got some learning to do on it this summer.:ride:
Edit: I think avon city has a demo/loan 500F

Stylo

30th December 2011, 20:10

No sweat Stylo. Hey - Paul's handle on kb is Bald Eagle - pm him and ask about the GS500F if you like. http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/member.php/24898-Bald-Eagle

Cheers Riffer , Nice one .....

kiwifruit

30th December 2011, 20:19

Good basic bike. Built for reliability. Not a performer, power is very flat. There is enough of it though, it's not like you need to keep it on the boil just to do the speed limit. It'll feel quite powerful after a 125. Neutral handling. Par for the course suspension (quite poor). Great brakes. Lasertecs work well on them, cheap too.

Here's the one me and uncle ride: http://www.bikepics.com/members/kiwifruit/05gs500/

Katman

31st December 2011, 10:52

They were one of the more popular choices for motorcycle couriers in London. Says a lot about them.

Mind you, the CX500 (the maggot) was the most popular choice. Maybe that says a lot about motorcycle couriers. :crazy:

caspernz

1st January 2012, 17:41

Good bike if you accept it's basic. Yes I had one for a spell, after a GN250 (I can hear some folks laughing) and it was fine by me. Wouldn't say I loved it, but covered some serious clicks on it without any drama. Horses for courses.:cool:

Crasherfromwayback

1st January 2012, 18:13

nzspokes

1st January 2012, 18:17

They're fucking great wee bikes. Bullet proof and cheap to maintain. Yes I have one for sale. 1 owner from new, 5000km's...$3000.00

When you say I do you mean your shop? Got some pics?:drool:

Crasherfromwayback

5th January 2012, 16:01

When you say I do you mean your shop? Got some pics?:drool:

Yep. email me and I'll send you some pics back if you like?

pmcdonald@wmcc.co.nz

grbaker

6th January 2012, 08:26

Ahh the GS500E... bit of a wuss bike. Built for the progressive learner if you like.

Normal Suzuki reliablity (ie not a modern GN250)

I would have trouble parting my money for one tho and would go looking at other bikes (Bandit 600, Gladius, Honda CB600F, Kawasaki 650 etc).

Katman

6th January 2012, 08:59

Ahh the GS500E... bit of a wuss bike.

u r

BMWST?

6th January 2012, 09:14

its funny how the people who have graduated past this sort of bike all say its ho hum,but in the position of the OP i cant see a better bike for the purpose.

Crasherfromwayback

6th January 2012, 09:18

If I wanted/needed a cheap reliable bike to use every day I'd happily own one.

pritch

6th January 2012, 09:34

It does seem that some hereabout who deride other peoples choices are a tad coy about their own ride?

Recently I was briefly loaned a scooter by Energy Honda while they had my bike for a minor repair, since then I've found myself searching Trademe to ascertain what sort of "proper" bike I could get for the same money. The OPs choice would do just fine.

nzspokes

6th January 2012, 09:37

its funny how the people who have graduated past this sort of bike all say its ho hum,but in the position of the OP i cant see a better bike for the purpose.

Agreed. Funny thing is my 250 will hold the spped limit fine. A 500 would give me a bit more for overtaking. Thats all some want. Like me.

nzspokes

6th January 2012, 09:37

Yep. email me and I'll send you some pics back if you like?

pmcdonald@wmcc.co.nz

Cheers, e-mailed ya.

PrincessBandit

6th January 2012, 14:28

My 20 year old son loves his. It's a great bike, which I've enjoyed riding occasionally. (He borrows my bandit from time to time, but would not part easily with his GS). Only thing he's spent money on is the faring (which he dropped at walking pace turn, twice :blink:). Other than that an ideal bike for someone getting back into riding, or a step up. Reality is, the open road speed limit is only 100kph so all the grunt, scream and g-force that other bikes give is pretty redundant for lots of people.

Ender EnZed

6th January 2012, 15:05

I would have trouble parting my money for one tho and would go looking at other bikes (Bandit 600, Gladius, Honda CB600F, Kawasaki 650 etc).

You'd be looking at parting with significantly more money than would get you a GS500 of the same age, milage and condition.

They're fucking great wee bikes.

+1

davebullet

6th January 2012, 20:32

Just watch out for rust on later models. You need to be onto the upkeep / WD40 etc.. to prevent early corrosion.

nzspokes

6th January 2012, 20:59

Seems they go ok. 200kph would be fast enough for me. :shifty:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fWnUsWGnaoI

Tigadee

6th January 2012, 22:25

205kph?! :crazy: Madness!

Looks like your next bike, Spokes? :msn-wink:

nzspokes

7th January 2012, 05:53

205kph?! :crazy: Madness!

Looks like your next bike, Spokes? :msn-wink:

We shall see. All I really want over my 250 is more go from say 90 to 120 for overtaking. Not interested in any more than that. Only thing I have against them is no fuel guage. Going to go sit on one today. Overnight web surfing has come up with a couple of websites with mods you can do. They race them in the US. And the pre 95 ones are better because they are made in Japan.

Going to try sit on one today.

jrandom

7th January 2012, 06:05

Usarka

7th January 2012, 08:34

I learnt to ride on a gs500E - fond memories.

Oakie

7th January 2012, 08:37

Yeah, I really don't think you'd be disappointed if your intended use fits its modest capabilites. Like I said, I'd look at one again after the Bandit if touring two up was no longer going to be an option.

Tigadee

7th January 2012, 15:27

Only thing I have against them is no fuel guage. Overnight web surfing has come up with a couple of websites with mods you can do.

Are these mods to fit a fuel gauge? I'd be interested in that as the Venox I just bought doesn't have a fuel gauge and I'd very much prefer that it does...

Katman

7th January 2012, 15:31

I have never yet found a fuel guage on a motorcycle that reads anything resembling accurately.

Between the trip meter, the reserve tap, and the ability to remove the cap and look in the tank, there is no need for a fuel guage.

Tigadee

7th January 2012, 15:33

Still, a fuel gauge is better than none...

Katman

7th January 2012, 15:36

Still, a fuel gauge is better than none...

Perhaps you should get yourself a nice little Mazda.

FJRider

7th January 2012, 15:36

Are these mods to fit a fuel gauge? I'd be interested in that as the Venox I just bought doesn't have a fuel gauge and I'd very much prefer that it does...

Trust a fuel gauge and that trust will be let down. If you need to know ... LOOK ...

sil3nt

7th January 2012, 15:41

Still, a fuel gauge is better than none...Probably not. If you get used to relying on a fuel gauge you will most likely find yourself standing next to the bike on the motorway....

Everyone else manages without a gauge i am sure you can too.

Oakie

7th January 2012, 18:18

Still, a fuel gauge is better than none...

Your tripmeter is a way better fuel guage than a fuel guage ... on a motorbike anyway.

Tigadee

9th January 2012, 08:51

Unfortunately the tripmeter on the Venox is broken... :o It does have a 'fuel low' warning light though - is that reliable?

Speedo still works at least. Is it worth replacing it just to get the tripmeter working (as a 'fuel gauge')?

Perhaps you should get yourself a nice little Mazda.

Mazda makes fuel gauges? Cool, thanks!

Ender EnZed

9th January 2012, 09:39

Unfortunately the tripmeter on the Venox is broken... :o It does have a 'fuel low' warning light though - is that reliable?

Speedo still works at least. Is it worth replacing it just to get the tripmeter working (as a 'fuel gauge')?

Does the odometer(total distance the vehicle has travelled) still work? Becuase if it does then if you can remember what it's reading when you fill up then you'll still know how far you've been.

Tigadee

9th January 2012, 10:57

Yes, the odometer still works, but I'm worried I'll forget and then I'm screwed!

"Wait, was it 6,690km when I last filled or 6,960?" :eek5:

Not to mention the embarassment of pushing one's bike into the petrol station...

javawocky

9th January 2012, 15:54

Mrs Me is looking at getting off the back of my bike and being in command of her own destiny when we go for a ride....

She likes the look of the GS500F with the fairing which, I agree is a good bike to start with and a step above her CB125 she took to Uni a few years ago ...

She's about 5'5 so the low seat help is a good start - on paper ...any opinions ?

I think for the Mrs it could be a good option if performance is not a requirement.

I have had a couple as loaners when my bikes have been in for repair and the are really :yawn: boring.

The suspension is soft, so when you try push it a little through the twistiest it feels like you are on a boat. Its not unsafe, just average.

On the motorway it will be happy to at 104.9kph but isn't happy being pushed over that. (I'm sure the 205kph video was photoshoped ;) )

For a non-biker it would make a good commuter and that's about it.

Captain_Salty

9th January 2012, 16:17

my one's only half way to the red line at 110kph

Edbear

9th January 2012, 16:24

I think for the Mrs it could be a good option if performance is not a requirement.

I have had a couple as loaners when my bikes have been in for repair and the are really :yawn: boring.

The suspension is soft, so when you try push it a little through the twistiest it feels like you are on a boat. Its not unsafe, just average.

On the motorway it will be happy to at 104.9kph but isn't happy being pushed over that. (I'm sure the 205kph video was photoshoped ;) )

For a non-biker it would make a good commuter and that's about it.

my one's only half way to the red line at 110kph

Back in the day, 500cc was a big bike! My old '73 T500 would cruise happily at the old ton and top out at 112mph, (177km/h)! Surely a modern 500 wouldn't be slower?

MSTRS

9th January 2012, 17:11

Back in the day, 500cc was a big bike! My old '73 T500 would cruise happily at the old ton and top out at 112mph, (177km/h)! Surely a modern 500 wouldn't be slower?

You'll remember the T500 having a too-tall 5th gear. Ie - 110-ish mph in 4th and drop back to 105-ish mph in top (5th).
They had between 45-47hp.
The GS500 appears to have about 52hp and 6 gears. So, realistically, they have a higher top speed.
YTs old EX500 (Kawasaki's equivalent of the GS) has about 53hp and does around 190kph tapped out. But then it's got a few miles under it's belt now...

whowhatwhere

9th January 2012, 17:18

What you really want is a CB500. Pity they were never sold here.

Crasherfromwayback

9th January 2012, 17:20

I have had a couple as loaners when my bikes have been in for repair and the are really :yawn: boring.

For a non-biker it would make a good commuter and that's about it.

I know a fair few people that find 600SS bikes boring. Horses for courses and all that.

For a non biker? So no REAL biker would ride a GS500?

I would.

Edbear

9th January 2012, 17:23

You'll remember the T500 having a too-tall 5th gear. Ie - 110-ish mph in 4th and drop back to 105-ish mph in top (5th).
They had between 45-47hp.
The GS500 appears to have about 52hp and 6 gears. So, realistically, they have a higher top speed.
YTs old EX500 (Kawasaki's equivalent of the GS) has about 53hp and does around 190kph tapped out. But then it's got a few miles under it's belt now...

Yup! The usual mod was to drop the countershaft sprocket a tooth and bring fifth gear into play when you'd get about 115mph in fifth.

newhere

9th January 2012, 17:43

Ender EnZed

9th January 2012, 18:38

YTs old EX500 (Kawasaki's equivalent of the GS) has about 53hp and does around 190kph tapped out. But then it's got a few miles under it's belt now...

I had one of those, they were 61hp in their older GPZ form. It certainly wasn't intimidating but the reality is that on many roads 3 times the power will only get you there any faster if you're not worried about having your licence intact when you arrive.

Usarka

9th January 2012, 18:44

I have had a couple as loaners when my bikes have been in for repair and the are really :yawn: boring.

The suspension is soft, so when you try push it a little through the twistiest it feels like you are on a boat. Its not unsafe, just average.

These bikes aren't designed to be "pushed throught the twisties". That's like saying a GSXR sucks because you can't lean back put your feet up and cruise around at 50kph.

nzspokes

9th January 2012, 19:59

For a non-biker it would make a good commuter and that's about it.

Hmmmmmmmmmm

nzspokes

9th January 2012, 20:07

I know a fair few people that find 600SS bikes boring. Horses for courses and all that.

For a non biker? So no REAL biker would ride a GS500?

I would.

Agreed.

I reckon there perfect if you dont want to be in a racer boy position and race everything on the road. I need to keep my licence so have no need to go 200kph. They seem to be a good reliable basic bike. Having owned a bike thats hard to get bits for theres something to be said for a bike thats been sold new for 13 years.

If im lucky enough to own one I would be very happy.

Talk of soft suspension etc seems to be standard on KB no matter what bike it is.

Grant`

9th January 2012, 20:07

I have had a couple as loaners when my bikes have been in for repair and the are really :yawn: boring.

The suspension is soft, so when you try push it a little through the twistiest it feels like you are on a boat. Its not unsafe, just average.

On the motorway it will be happy to at 104.9kph but isn't happy being pushed over that. (I'm sure the 205kph video was photoshoped ;) )

For a non-biker it would make a good commuter and that's about it.

I thought the same thing with hopping off my predator onto a suzuki gladius to ride but in reality it was just me having a skewed way of looking at things now that I have been riding a bike with 120hp and oodles of torque.

Nothing wrong with it but again not what I am used to riding anymore.

nzspokes

9th January 2012, 20:14

I thought the same thing with hopping off my predator onto a suzuki gladius to ride but in reality it was just me having a skewed way of looking at things now that I have been riding a bike with 120hp and oodles of torque.

Nothing wrong with it but again not what I am used to riding anymore.

And I would guess that the cost of the extras on your bike would be worth more than your average GS? :yes:

Im coming from a 250, anything is faster.....

Grant`

9th January 2012, 20:24

And I would guess that the cost of the extras on your bike would be worth more than your average GS? :yes:

Im coming from a 250, anything is faster.....

Yeah if you added them altogether ummmm no comment.

Its just one of those things, I think bang for buck ya couldn't go wrong it, although I think personally the Gladius/ER6/sv650 would give better performance and useable power. The ER6 was best step up I could of ever done in my eyes.

It didn't have the torque of my new bike or the roll on power in top gear but I am no Faster I just don't have to change as many gears and Fuel Economy vs Mileage vs Tyre longevity the ER6 won hands down. However I love my current bike.

nzspokes

9th January 2012, 20:38

Yeah if you added them altogether ummmm no comment.

Its just one of those things, I think bang for buck ya couldn't go wrong it, although I think personally the Gladius/ER6/sv650 would give better performance and useable power. The ER6 was best step up I could of ever done in my eyes.

It didn't have the torque of my new bike or the roll on power in top gear but I am no Faster I just don't have to change as many gears and Fuel Economy vs Mileage vs Tyre longevity the ER6 won hands down. However I love my current bike.

But the cost on those bikes is higher. Also I would be happy to repair any system on a GS myself. Apparently GSXR rear shocks bolt in and some preload + 15w oil sorts the forks. Wouldnt mind making a shim stack dampener as well.

Its something MarkW said to me on the Cape trip, a boring bike is most versatile. He said Honda didnt bring his model in due to it being boring but he loves it. And he didnt go slow on it.

Your current bike is beautiful. You obviously have done well for yourself and can afford such things which is great. :Punk:

Considering 8 months ago I didnt think I could ever have a bike let alone something like a GS im pretty happy at the moment.

Grant`

9th January 2012, 20:43

But the cost on those bikes is higher. Also I would be happy to repair any system on a GS myself. Apparently GSXR rear shocks bolt in and some preload + 15w oil sorts the forks. Wouldnt mind making a shim stack dampener as well.

Its something MarkW said to me on the Cape trip, a boring bike is most versatile. He said Honda didnt bring his model in due to it being boring but he loves it. And he didnt go slow on it.

Your current bike is beautiful. You obviously have done well for yourself and can afford such things which is great. :Punk:

Considering 8 months ago I didnt think I could ever have a bike let alone something like a GS im pretty happy at the moment.

Just lucky enough to have disposable cash, my bike is my baby and I have no other committments - People keep telling me to buy a house but I don't want one at the moment.

I don't think you would be unhappy with the GS - Just my opinion that bang for buck alround the 650's are where its at, I will definitely migrate back to one at somestage. :rockon:

Speaking of MarkW's bike I saw a red on on the Iron Horse Rally on sunday, didn't expect to ever see another one again.

nzspokes

9th January 2012, 21:10

This GS seems to get along ok.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ep3YIRs5EDk

actungbaby

9th January 2012, 22:05

I always thought theywhere boring ,bikes good reliable but changed my mind when brought old gs 450 twin
It was not in best shape yet got me down to chch only cost 300.00 at the time

know if 20 year old plus bike can manage that with ease was great bike really liked it handled well i was amazed how stable it was and netural steering much better than my cb 400 n i first started on riding in 1981

And the suzuki was 81 model too , so rekon with 500 cc and modern chassis its got be great bike i buy one thats for sure

i went from think they crap to loving mine and my cosins was even better he had baffles out bit and sound like mini duke hehe

well thats what told myself , i buy myself old gs 450 again esp the s model so relaxing to ride i thought dam thing seems drives itself arround corners was on raiils it wasint like sports bike but who cares its not desined for that
But i got into chch i rode port hills for hours anyway was a blast. but 2 n 1 on them sound cool.

Mrs Me is looking at getting off the back of my bike and being in command of her own destiny when we go for a ride....

She likes the look of the GS500F with the fairing which, I agree is a good bike to start with and a step above her CB125 she took to Uni a few years ago ...

She's about 5'5 so the low seat help is a good start - on paper ...any opinions ?

actungbaby

9th January 2012, 22:17

its funny how the people who have graduated past this sort of bike all say its ho hum,but in the position of the OP i cant see a better bike for the purpose.

I tell what when had no job and been of bikes for decade i loved my one thought was great smooth as well
engine got up when had revs over 4 grand reved freely too nothing wrong with them damm better than a 125 thats for sure

javawocky

10th January 2012, 07:05

I know a fair few people that find 600SS bikes boring. Horses for courses and all that.

For a non biker? So no REAL biker would ride a GS500?

I would.

*Sigh* - what I am trying to get at is the difference between someone who uses bike as check transport only, and someone who enjoys riding. A car enthusiast wouldn't choose a 1.6 toyota corolla as his primary car.

These bikes aren't designed to be "pushed throught the twisties". That's like saying a GSXR sucks because you can't lean back put your feet up and cruise around at 50kph.
A GSXR is not design to be cruising around at 50kph with your feet up. It can do it but its designed to go fast. In the same way the gs500 can navigate twisties, but its primarily designed as a budget commuter.

Hmmmmmmmmmm
You do know their are people that race scooters in this world? :girlfight:

I thought the same thing with hopping off my predator onto a suzuki gladius to ride but in reality it was just me having a skewed way of looking at things now that I have been riding a bike with 120hp and oodles of torque.

Nothing wrong with it but again not what I am used to riding anymore.
My way of looking at things was horribly skewed when my mate said I should hop on his 1200 Bandit and take it for a test ride when I was still on my RG150. I suppose if someone upgraded from their GN125 to a GS500 they would think they had died and gone to bike heaven, but out of the range of bikes I have ridden GS has to be one of the more boring ones.

Crasherfromwayback

10th January 2012, 07:19

. In the same way the gs500 can navigate twisties, but its primarily designed as a budget commuter.

.

Which...funnily enough is pretty much what they want it for.

Tigadee

10th January 2012, 07:31

Spokes - I think the GS500 will serve you well so long as you know what to expect from it, and what you want out of it. :yes:

nzspokes

10th January 2012, 07:41

*Sigh* - what I am trying to get at is the difference between someone who uses bike as check transport only, and someone who enjoys riding.

But I enjoy riding and want a GS or another brands version. So what your saying is based on the ability to go fast then, but not everybody wants to.

nzspokes

10th January 2012, 07:45

Spokes - I think the GS500 will serve you well so long as you know what to expect from it, and what you want out of it. :yes:

I know what I want from a bike, it just finding one that fits that need with my tiny budget. :blink:

3 main things I want.

1, Not be tucked down into a race position.

2, Ability to overtake when needed.

3, Simple enough that I can work on it myself.

Tigadee

10th January 2012, 07:47

Have you looked at the Kawa ER5?

nzspokes

10th January 2012, 08:15

Have you looked at the Kawa ER5?

I would if one came up at the right price. But seem to prefer the GS due to ease of getting bits.

MSTRS

10th January 2012, 08:33

I know what I want from a bike, it just finding one that fits that need with my tiny budget. :blink:

3 main things I want.

1, Not be tucked down into a race position.

2, Ability to overtake when needed.

3, Simple enough that I can work on it myself.

Some posters just need to let the above sink in...
With a couple of cheap suspension mods (if you really find the originals to be too soft) then you have just described the GS500 to a T.
Why are you still posting here...go buy that one Pete has...

Edbear

10th January 2012, 08:35

Some posters just need to let the above sink in...
With a couple of cheap suspension mods (if you really find the originals to be too soft) then you have just described the GS500 to a T.
Why are you still posting here...go buy that one Pete has...

Wot he sed! :yes:

javawocky

10th January 2012, 08:54

I know what I want from a bike, it just finding one that fits that need with my tiny budget. :blink:

3 main things I want.

1, Not be tucked down into a race position.

2, Ability to overtake when needed.

3, Simple enough that I can work on it myself.

1 - Check, its riding position is comfortable - the F version has a nice full fairing that will protect you nicely from the weather.
2 - Granted (but only just).
3 - Check.

nzspokes

10th January 2012, 10:28

Why are you still posting here...go buy that one Pete has...

I tried. :bye:

Got beaten to it.

MSTRS

10th January 2012, 10:31

Pfft!! Snooze and you lose. Appeared an excellent buy, so someone will be very happy.

Crasherfromwayback

10th January 2012, 10:39

I tried. :bye:

Got beaten to it.

Pfft!! Snooze and you lose. Appeared an excellent buy, so someone will be very happy.

He didn't snooze, it was unbeknown to me promised to someone else god dammit! I'll do my best to find him something similar asap though.

nzspokes

10th January 2012, 10:41

He didn't snooze, it was unbeknown to me promised to someone else god dammit! I'll do my best to find him something similar asap though.

All is good. Something will come along. :woohoo:

Not Pete's fault. Ive worked in Retail enough to know these things happen.

Edbear

10th January 2012, 12:46

He didn't snooze, it was unbeknown to me promised to someone else god dammit! I'll do my best to find him something similar asap though.

Have a look on TradeMe... :pinch:

Oakie

10th January 2012, 13:35

Have you looked at the Kawa ER5?

Many dollars more.

Ender EnZed

10th January 2012, 13:53

Many dollars more.

It shouldn't be for the same year. They're very similar in all respects but the GS500 is more common in NZ.

nudemetalz

12th January 2012, 07:36

Have you looked at the Kawa ER5?

I ride the Missus's GPZ400S (EX-4) twin during the winter when the Guzzi is in hibernation. Great wee bike. Not a whole heap of power but once again , like the GS500, upright and comfortable, handles okay and great around town. Recommend one of those (or the 500 version).

Ender EnZed

12th January 2012, 17:00

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-439417189.htm

Crasherfromwayback

12th January 2012, 17:07

I reckon that's great buying!!

Milts

12th January 2012, 19:29

If you really are interested in an ER5....
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/tourers/auction-439163212.htm

Tigadee

12th January 2012, 19:35

I reckon that's great buying!!

It is indeed!

nzspokes

12th January 2012, 20:39

The ER and Gs are both nice but this is current favourite,

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=438083165

Milts

12th January 2012, 20:57

Oooo I just saw this:

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-439504712.htm

Not that it's any of my business, but I seriously regret selling my ZZR250 even though I love my street triple - something about the 'plantedness' of the ZZR made it a fantastic ride, and not supersport hunched over either....

whowhatwhere

12th January 2012, 21:11

Either that ZZR has been on Trademe for 12 months or it's being sold again. It was on there when I was looking last Jan.

MSTRS

13th January 2012, 08:15

The ER and Gs are both nice but this is current favourite, (XJ600)

I wouldn't go there...
They are anything but light, and not exactly simple machines to work on. And old CV carbs? :no:
Was the SV I linked to you not a goer?

nzspokes

13th January 2012, 08:17

I wouldn't go there...
They are anything but light, and not exactly simple machines to work on. And old CV carbs? :no:

Jezzzzz, tough crowd. let a man dream.......

Cant afford it anyway.

MSTRS

13th January 2012, 08:55

Cant afford it anyway.

Maybe you should let us all know how much $ you can dole out? Might stop us from getting all excited in our helpfulness...

Tigadee

13th January 2012, 09:03

Cant afford it anyway.

Then go for that ER5, it looks in really good nic and mileage isn't as high as the XJ plus the price is very good/affordable! AND it's here in AKL...

MSTRS

13th January 2012, 09:10

Then go for that ER5, it looks in really good nic and mileage isn't as high as the XJ plus the price is very good/affordable! AND it's here in AKL...

PLUS they have that marvellous Kawasaki innovation...positive neutral finder.

nudemetalz

13th January 2012, 09:14

PLUS they have that marvellous Kawasaki innovation...positive neutral finder.

...that is until you want to push start them when the battery goes flat and you can't get second gear due to the "Positive Neutral Finder" !!!

nzspokes

13th January 2012, 09:46

PLUS they have that marvellous Kawasaki innovation...positive neutral finder.

Whats that?

Will be going to look. Got 2k once my bike sells.

Tigadee

13th January 2012, 09:47

Here's a nice GPZ500 - colours remind me of your current bike too...

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-439342390.htm

Crasherfromwayback

13th January 2012, 09:48

...that is until you want to push start them when the battery goes flat and you can't get second gear due to the "Positive Neutral Finder" !!!

Just gotta push 'em faster mate!

Whats that?

When sitting at the lights (or anywhere for that matter) in 1st gear not moving...they will only go up into neutral.

nzspokes

13th January 2012, 09:54

Here's a nice GPZ500 - colours remind me of your current bike too...

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/dual-purpose/auction-439342390.htm

Oh thats nice to and got a bit more poke over the other 500s.

MSTRS

13th January 2012, 10:04

Oh thats nice to and got a bit more poke over the other 500s.

Another thing you need to consider....
Older bikes (like that one) usually have odd rim sizes. Tyre selection is limited. And availability may be an issue.

nzspokes

13th January 2012, 10:12

Another thing you need to consider....
Older bikes (like that one) usually have odd rim sizes. Tyre selection is limited. And availability may be an issue.

Kill yoy. <_<

:bleh:

MSTRS

13th January 2012, 10:14

Well - you did come here for help and advice...

Tigadee

13th January 2012, 10:20

:confused: Uhhhh, this may seem like a dumb question, but is it possible to change the rim to a more modern and available size?

MSTRS

13th January 2012, 10:29

Sometimes. Not usually worth the trouble and expense tho. Racers do it to get the best rubber...

nzspokes

13th January 2012, 10:34

Sometimes. Not usually worth the trouble and expense tho. Racers do it to get the best rubber...

The ER5 is what i will look at and it has 17" so sweet.

nzspokes

13th January 2012, 11:09

What about this? In budget. not to much powa.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/other/auction-439650902.htm

Katman

13th January 2012, 11:12

GPZ500s prior to 1994 had 16" tyres front and rear. 100/90-16 and 130/90-16.

Both those sizes are available in Bridgestone BT45, Metzeler Lasertec and Pirelli Sport Demons. All great tyres.

nudemetalz

13th January 2012, 11:15

The later ones (GPZ like our 400) have a 110/70 17 and 130/70 17 which are easy to get. I believe GS500's have the same size too.

MSTRS

13th January 2012, 11:58

What about this? In budget. not to much powa.

G'wan g'wan g'wan. You know you want to...

MSTRS

13th January 2012, 12:01

GPZ500s prior to 1994 had 16" tyres front and rear. 100/90-16 and 130/90-16.

Both those sizes are available in Bridgestone BT45, Metzeler Lasertec and Pirelli Sport Demons. All great tyres.

Yep. And rarely available off the shelf anymore. Who's got the time to think/plan ahead and order 'em in? <_<

Katman

13th January 2012, 12:13

Yep. And rarely available off the shelf anymore. Who's got the time to think/plan ahead and order 'em in? <_<

Well I must admit, I prefer them sitting on the wholesalers shelf rather than mine - but they're only a click of the mouse away.

nzspokes

13th January 2012, 12:15

So the ERs are ok? No dramas to look for?

MSTRS

13th January 2012, 12:20

Not that I'm aware of. My other half has an EX500, and barring some styling differences, they'd be the same bike. The motors are a design that ran for some 20 years without any real change. Says it all really.

Ender EnZed

13th January 2012, 12:21

What about this? In budget. not to much powa.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/other/auction-439650902.htm

Well that would be the obvious choice.

Ender EnZed

13th January 2012, 12:29

So the ERs are ok? No dramas to look for?

If they have the same gearbox as the GPZ/EX then make sure you take it for a ride and try some decent engine braking in second gear. Take it out to redline in second then just throttle off and see what happens. Some of them (including my one) would drop into neutral, which was very annoying but not really worth the cost of fixing ($$$). It meant that you couldn't use second gear for anything other than accelerating.

http://www.ex-500.com/index.php?action=printpage;topic=3485.0

nzspokes

13th January 2012, 12:42

If they have the same gearbox as the GPZ/EX then make sure you take it for a ride and try some decent engine braking in second gear. Take it out to redline in second then just throttle off and see what happens. Some of them (including my one) would drop into neutral, which was very annoying but not really worth the cost of fixing ($$$). It meant that you couldn't use second gear for anything other than accelerating.

http://www.ex-500.com/index.php?action=printpage;topic=3485.0

Well thats a major problem

MSTRS

13th January 2012, 12:46

Well thats a major problem

Never had any trouble here. And nor have any of the other 3 or 4 that I know of. The man in that link does say
All the early 500s had crappr bushings in the trannies
Mid/late 90s aren't 'early' models...

nzspokes

13th January 2012, 12:54

Never had any trouble here. And nor have any of the other 3 or 4 that I know of. The man in that link does say
Mid/late 90s aren't 'early' models...

One im going to look at is 96. Cant test ride due to licence. :no:

Ender EnZed

13th January 2012, 12:59

Well thats a major problem

I think it's reasonably rare. Just make sure you put it through it's paces on the test ride and it'll be pretty obvious if it's one to avoid.

Ender EnZed

13th January 2012, 13:00

One im going to look at is 96. Cant test ride due to licence. :no:

Did the seller say that or did you? Most people aren't going to place the letter of the law above selling a bike. It's only a problem for them if you break the bike and won't pay, your general respectable-ness will matter more than a piece of plastic.

nudemetalz

13th January 2012, 13:07

Our EX-4 (400 version of MSTRS's one) definitely doesn't do the second gear pop out, as I might...ahem...give it some redline "every nown and then".... :shifty:
Lovely bike to own and ride and when the 400 engine goes pop (which it probably won't) , going to slot a 500 one in. Apparently they're a virtual bolt straight in.

Back to the GS500's,..a mate bought one new last year and liked it. The only thing he didn't like about it was it was affected by crosswinds down the motorway quite badly (as most lightweight full faired bikes would be). His new SV1000 isn't though...

MSTRS

13th January 2012, 13:18

One im going to look at is 96.
It'll be fine.

Cant test ride due to licence. :no:
Don't get caught. 'Someone' I know rode her's (oops - I mean - their's...) for a year or more before getting full licence.
They are not a hoon bike and don't really draw attention to themselves.
Besides - they comply under LAMS, anyway. Just say you thought it was in already if you do get spoken to.

nzspokes

13th January 2012, 13:30

Back to the GS500's,..a mate bought one new last year and liked it. The only thing he didn't like about it was it was affected by crosswinds down the motorway quite badly (as most lightweight full faired bikes would be). His new SV1000 isn't though...

Ive heard that about the Faired ones.

nzspokes

14th January 2012, 18:05

Went and looked at the ER5. Sold while I was there. There was a horrid noise coming from the clutch cover, guess the plates or basket. Apart from that It looked ok.

Crasherfromwayback

15th January 2012, 07:00

Went and looked at the ER5. Sold while I was there. There was a horrid noise coming from the clutch cover, guess the plates or basket. Apart from that It looked ok.

They can be quite 'knocky' at idle if the carbs aren't balanced properly.

nzspokes

15th January 2012, 07:46

They can be quite 'knocky' at idle if the carbs aren't balanced properly.

He did say the carbs were out. Could be it.

What do we think of Yamaha 900 Diversion, 2001?

Cant seem to find much info on them.

Crasherfromwayback

15th January 2012, 09:57

He did say the carbs were out. Could be it.

What do we think of Yamaha 900 Diversion, 2001?

Cant seem to find much info on them.

No such thing as a bad Japanese bike after the mid to late 80's mate. But I think a 900 is getting away from what you were originally after?

nzspokes

15th January 2012, 10:42

No such thing as a bad Japanese bike after the mid to late 80's mate. But I think a 900 is getting away from what you were originally after?

Yeah it is. But at least its still for sale. :doh:

i have a nack of missing bikes.

But in saying that Ive done a stack of work on the little CBX and its looking good. New dash, guages, switch gear, recovered seat, CDI, Coil and the such like. It will do me for a bit yet.

Just need to work out how to swap speedo needles over.

Tigadee

15th January 2012, 20:00

Hey Spokes, check these out:

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/cruiser/auction-440082777.htm

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-440127737.htm

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/tourers/auction-438083165.htm

MSTRS

16th January 2012, 08:20

They can be quite 'knocky' at idle if the carbs aren't balanced properly.

Is that the reason?
I just thought it was a Kawasaki twin thing.
A young friend's old GPX250 did it, YT's EL250 did it and her EX500 does it. Sounds like the bigends were gone years ago. Until you open the throttle...

Crasherfromwayback

16th January 2012, 08:23

Is that the reason?
I just thought it was a Kawasaki twin thing.
A young friend's old GPX250 did it, YT's EL250 did it and her EX500 does it. Sounds like the bigends were gone years ago. Until you open the throttle...

They do sound a bit like that anyway for sure. Just worse when the carbs are out.

nudemetalz

16th January 2012, 09:30

That's exactly right. My friends 250 Eliminator sounded rattly as hell when it was cold but once warm was very quiet.
The EX-4 not quite as bad as cold though.
Just block your ears until the temp gauge shows ;)

Tigadee

18th January 2012, 07:51

Hey Spokes, how's about a cruiser? :cool:

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/cruiser/auction-440804708.htm

Tigadee

18th January 2012, 08:03

Seen these?

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-437243944.htm
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-440826334.htm
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-440814325.htm
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-440578443.htm

nzspokes

18th January 2012, 08:04

Hey Spokes, how's about a cruiser? :cool:

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/cruiser/auction-440804708.htm

Im not old enough to own a cruiser.....

Tigadee

18th January 2012, 08:06

:innocent: Yeah, but you'd look cooler though...

5150

18th January 2012, 14:14

nzspokes

19th January 2012, 06:44

I rode a Hornet 250 last night. Yup modern bikes are sooo much better. It was way quicker above 100, not sure if it was at lower speeds.

But currently Im looking at a XJR400. Just struggling to get much info on them. Nice looking bike. http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=432981462

MSTRS

19th January 2012, 08:00

Edbear

19th January 2012, 08:27

A 17yo bike that's done 14k? Hmmmm. I know there are really low mileage imports around, but that low?
I'd have to know something of it's history to not be suspicious.
As for what it is...I thought you wanted a bike that was cheap, common (for parts etc) and was easy for someone to learn a bit about maintenance?

Suspicious? Shame on you to doubt a dealer! :whistle:

It is a piece of cake to wind those speedo's back, and with 14k I'd be expecting a virtually brand new bike, not "just" a tidy one. And yeah, a full documented history would be mandatory.

nzspokes

19th January 2012, 08:34

A 17yo bike that's done 14k? Hmmmm. I know there are really low mileage imports around, but that low?
I'd have to know something of it's history to not be suspicious.
As for what it is...I thought you wanted a bike that was cheap, common (for parts etc) and was easy for someone to learn a bit about maintenance?

Are they not common? 3 on TM at the moment.

Of course I would check it out.