I'm looking at buying this, wanting advice

[BikerChick101]

Hey guys, as the title says, I'm looking at buying this bike and wanting some advice on it. Please and thank you! [emoji4]

It's a Suzuki GS500, 1994, just had an overall of carb, brakes, new filters etc, has mint tyres and will be sold with rego and a new wof.

I'm told it was owned by an old guy who has passed on and his family is using the bike shop to sell on behalf.

I was originally told it would be around 2 to 2.5 grand but that they still had to work out the price with the work they've done on it. I've just had an email saying they want $3,600 for it which I'm leaning towards being too much for an older bike.

This is the same as the last bike I had which I had an absolute ball on. I don't want to be spending big bucks until I've got my full licence, then I'll buy something new...

What's everyone's thoughts on it?

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[TheDemonLord]

Hey guys, as the title says, I'm looking at buying this bike and wanting some advice on it. Please and thank you! [emoji4]

It's a Suzuki GS500, 1994, just had an overall of carb, brakes, new filters etc, has mint tyres and will be sold with rego and a new wof.

I'm told it was owned by an old guy who has passed on and his family is using the bike shop to sell on behalf.

I was originally told it would be around 2 to 2.5 grand but that they still had to work out the price with the work they've done on it. I've just had an email saying they want $3,600 for it which I'm leaning towards being too much for an older bike.

This is the same as the last bike I had which I had an absolute ball on. I don't want to be spending big bucks until I've got my full licence, then I'll buy something new...

What's everyone's thoughts on it?

What sort of Warranty are they offering for $3,600? If they are offering none then I would leave it, if they will do a 6 month or a years warranty, then that is more reasonable.

[jasonu]

That is a bullet proof bike that will get you to where you are going for not much money.
However $3600 sounds like a lot considering its age and highish km's.
The original asking money sounds more like it. The work they did on the bike doesn't add any value to the bike, just makes it more sellable and attractive to a buyer. Offer them say $2500 and if they don't take it there are always other fish in the sea.

[BikerChick101]

I know they are really good, reliable bikes which is why I was looking at it. He says the lowest he'll go is 3400

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[SVboy]

Good bike, but too dear.

[BikerChick101]

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=975875898
What about this one? Might go look at it this weekend

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[smmudd83_1999]

It sounds to me like the original sellers let slip what they were expecting. And then it sounds like the shop has added servicing and resell margin on top.
If this is sold through a dealer and not privately than they are within their right to do that.
If it is sold privately, then those costs should really be passed back onto the seller.

I don't really understand these "I'm selling it privately - just using the dealer to sell on behalf" arrangements. And then get big pre-sale servicing done. And pass that $s onto the buyer. Plus dealer margin $s....because that's just exactly what a used dealer sale is. Aye? So the dealer has every right to sell at the bigger $s to recoup business. Shops and keeping people employed costs big money afterall.

[TheDemonLord]

It sounds to me like the original sellers let slip what they were expecting. And then it sounds like the shop has added servicing and resell margin on top.
If this is sold through a dealer and not privately than they are within their right to do that.
If it is sold privately, then those costs should really be passed back onto the seller.

I don't really understand these "I'm selling it privately - just using the dealer to sell on behalf" arrangements. And then get big pre-sale servicing done. And pass that $s onto the buyer. Plus dealer margin $s....because that's just exactly what a used dealer sale is. Aye? So the dealer has every right to sell at the bigger $s to recoup business. Shops and keeping people employed costs big money afterall.

Hence my comment about a Warranty - if you are paying Dealer prices, you except Dealer service (a Warranty), if it's a private sale, then you pay private sale prices (which is about a grand less than what they want).

[Big Dog]

I know they are really good, reliable bikes which is why I was looking at it. He says the lowest he'll go is 3400

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It might be different standing in front of him with 2800 cash.

He will probably then day he can't go under 3. Then you get the eftpos card out.

But you have to be prepared to walk and the test ride has to be done before you haggle.
Until you have been for a test ride he needs to leave some padding to cover any changes you want. E.g. like bike but xyz is worn out.

If that is your tipping point a 6 month warranty for 3400. Probably is better value than 3000 with no warranty.

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[WNJ]

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=975875898
What about this one? Might go look at it this weekend

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You could bungee your dog to the pack rack :whistle:

[tigertim20]

break the mold, get something different. they are a solid dependable bike, but there are some way more fun / exciting rides out there that you're missing out on!

[bmws1r]

Its a 20+ year old bike, keep saving for something at least year 2002+, but if you really really want it 2 grand tops.

[bogan]

3,600 for that is I want this bike money. If you just want a bike, which is dependable, goes well, blah, blah, blah that is too dear given the kms and age.

I paid 3,600 for a 1990 model bike earlier this year with similar kms, but it was the exact model bike I wanted (and it came with a parts bike to sweeten the deal).

[nzspokes]

Way to many $$$ for an old bike with higher Ks. 2k bike max.

[schrodingers cat]

It might be different standing in front of him with 2800 cash.

He will probably then day he can't go under 3. Then you get the eftpos card out.

But you have to be prepared to walk and the test ride has to be done before you haggle.
Until you have been for a test ride he needs to leave some padding to cover any changes you want. E.g. like bike but xyz is worn out.

If that is your tipping point a 6 month warranty for 3400. Probably is better value than 3000 with no warranty.

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Almost.

$2800 in pocket. Wave $2500 under his nose (in $10 notes so it looks like a fair old wodge)
When you're talking keep the money moving a bit. If he keeps looking at it you're there.
If he says more don't even pretend to go to the atm, just whip it out and get the deal done.

Remember you're the one doing the favour.

[BikerChick101]

Thank you everyone for the input, I guess next step is trying to find the time to go and look at it when I work from 4am to 6pm, 6 days a week lol

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[Oakie]

Thank you everyone for the input, I guess next step is trying to find the time to go and look at it when I work from 4am to 6pm, 6 days a week lol

Jeez mate ... you gonna have time to ride it?

[BikerChick101]

Jeez mate ... you gonna have time to ride it?
That's what Sunday's for lol. Half the reason I want to be able to take the dog too

I'm considering taking a hyosung 250 for a ride. I think I'm getting caught up on a 250cc being too small. I know some 250s have more performance than alot of larger bikes

[tigertim20]

That's what Sunday's for lol. Half the reason I want to be able to take the dog too

I'm considering taking a hyosung 250 for a ride. I think I'm getting caught up on a 250cc being too small. I know some 250s have more performance than alot of larger bikes

not if you think its going to lug a trailer and a mutt around as well.

life is short

get a 650

[Big Dog]

Thank you everyone for the input, I guess next step is trying to find the time to go and look at it when I work from 4am to 6pm, 6 days a week lol

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They work you to the edge of the logbook huh?

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[Big Dog]

Jeez mate ... you gonna have time to ride it?
Maybe the dog can ride it while she is at work?
https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSlwg4_22SvqfTGft-azhDFXXUrmaAZ3z3pbEQS4uJtIqJYvHKg6Q

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[Big Dog]

https://youtu.be/xdj67XknFrM

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[BikerChick101]

They work you to the edge of the logbook huh?

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Sure do. Not looking forward to the Christmas rush

[Big Dog]

Sure do. Not looking forward to the Christmas rush
The one and only reason I am glad I had trouble getting a driving gig. I did more work experience than paid work before falling into something else as a career.

Still do my share of 60+ weeks but not every week.

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[BrendonF]

In all honesty, both bikes are overpriced. The Suzi I wouldn't pay any more than $1500-1800 for, It is an old bike and a few KMs on it, but not too many for it's age about 3,000km a year. The Kawa $1500 max as it needs cosmetic work and rusty frame, maybe stay away. As they still make the Suzi you should get a lot newer one for just over $3k. new in Aus there just under $10 to give you an idea on what there actually worth. remember when buying or selling, an item is only worth what someone will pay. You see adds for bikes that have been there forever as there asking too much. If you see an add that's at a reasonable price and they state negotiable then these items normally sell quickly.

[BikerChick101]

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-975731059.htm

What are your thoughts on this one? I've just been to have a look at it and take it for a ride. I must say, I really enjoyed the feel of it.
It's got a new warrant, sold with 3 months rego and a decent amount of rubber on the tyres (and a full tank of gas). It does need a service (the oil looks pretty shabby) and it does have slight surface rust around the welds on the frame.
I've talked him down to 2k and he'll even deliver it for me.
What's everyone's thoughts before I say yes? I told him I'd let him know tomorrow

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[Big Dog]

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-975731059.htm

What are your thoughts on this one? I've just been to have a look at it and take it for a ride. I must say, I really enjoyed the feel of it.
It's got a new warrant, sold with 3 months rego and a decent amount of rubber on the tyres (and a full tank of gas). It does need a service (the oil looks pretty shabby) and it does have slight surface rust around the welds on the frame.
I've talked him down to 2k and he'll even deliver it for me.
What's everyone's thoughts before I say yes? I told him I'd let him know tomorrow

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If it makes your heart go boom 2k is not too much... on the other hand if it is not exactly want it is harder to justify.
It is at the very top end of what I would pay for a Hyosung, but it is not visually a top example.

I have ridden a few Hyosungs and some were a treat that made rubbish of the claims some around here make about them but I have also ridden a couple of rotters.
The design is pretty good for the price but the quality control can be very variable. A mech inspection is a must for a Hyosung in my books because so much depends on how it was looked after and which batch it was in.


I liked about the ones I liked: (2 faired and a naked.)
The generous size.
The turn in style.
The fact you don't need to wring it to get a good pace even with me on board (6'4", and 140kg)
The brakes are pretty good on some.
Mirrors were pretty effective even at my size.

I didn't like about the ones i didn't like: (3 faired and a naked.)
Poor setup or maintenance made turning difficult.
Pre 06 the turning lock stops was much tighter on one side than the other making it difficult to make right handers. (is it first registered in 06 or an 06 model? easy way to tell if you can turn it just as far to the right as the left it is an 06 or they have cut the lock stop back.)
The seat tears easily if not parked under cover.
The engine runs rough if not maintained at 4k intervals (as opposed to 6k for Japanese models of similar spec).
The throttle tube can be quite brittle if not parked inside.
Winter ridden examples have a bit of oxide about on what should be shiny surfaces.
The brakes are pretty nasty on others.


I should add what I didn't like about all of them:
Cheaper materials:
Make cleaning a bitch.
Mean the mirrors and foot pegs break very easily.
Mean the tank is prone to rusting anywhere the smallest bit of metal sticks out.
The swichgear does not inspire confidence. All had some sort of issue with the switchgear for me in some way.



The common themes: if it is serviced according to manual, parked under cover and set up properly they are a nice bike... just remember to hose your bike off after wet rides.

[Big Dog]

ps. those don't look like stock mirrors and there is some indication that there has been water inside the part of the dash the idiot lights are on.

I may be wrong but that bike looks like it has been detailed so the whiting on the lenses is more than likely inside.

[AllanB]

3600 is mint dealer $.

Reliable workhorse but nothing special (well until it is loved, then it is special to the owner).

Under 3k is OK I'd say if it is a good one. Maybe it is a immaculate one - then above 3 may be just fine.

[F5 Dave]

Hyobag 250s aren't known for their Stella reliability. One that has missed oil changes would be a risk.

An old gf had a GS when they were new. It was actually quite fun. But there will be others about.

[BikerChick101]

Alrighty then. Keep looking it is. I'm trying not to jump into buying something just because it's in my budget and I desperately want to get back out there

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[F5 Dave]

You're in the biggest marketplace, something has to turn up.

[Oakie]

Alrighty then. Keep looking it is. I'm trying not to jump into buying something just because it's in my budget and I desperately want to get back out there

You probably know it anyway but I guess if you have that sort of budget don't try and find a bike that is going to run great and last forever because you're always going to be taking a punt on some part of any purchase. Probably anything you get will cost you a bit more initially to fix up little unseen issues (rooted batteries and electrical componants in my personal experience). Relax, accept that and then as long as there are no obvious issues, get something that moves you (emotionally I mean). Connecting with your bike on that level makes it easier to deal with the little problems that will arise.

[BikerChick101]

You probably know it anyway but I guess if you have that sort of budget don't try and find a bike that is going to run great and last forever because you're always going to be taking a punt on some part of any purchase. Probably anything you get will cost you a bit more initially to fix up little unseen issues (rooted batteries and electrical componants in my personal experience). Relax, accept that and then as long as there are no obvious issues, get something that moves you (emotionally I mean). Connecting with your bike on that level makes it easier to deal with the little problems that will arise.
Yeah. I'm not too worried about a few issues. The rust and service on the hyosung I could sort out myself easily enough, will probably service whatever bike I end up with anyway.
I know 3k isn't alot to have to spend, but yeah, hoping that being in Auckland works in my favour

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[Maha]

You probably know it anyway but I guess if you have that sort of budget don't try and find a bike that is going to run great and last forever because you're always going to be taking a punt on some part of any purchase. Probably anything you get will cost you a bit more initially to fix up little unseen issues (rooted batteries and electrical components in my personal experience). Relax, accept that and then as long as there are no obvious issues, get something that moves you (emotionally I mean). Connecting with your bike on that level makes it easier to deal with the little problems that will arise.

You wont find better advice when shopping for a bike with a limited budget. :niceone:

[MarkH]

I think I'm getting caught up on a 250cc being too small. I know some 250s have more performance than alot of larger bikes

I would urge you to ride some larger bikes and some 250cc bikes, get a feel for the differences and for what you like & don't like about them.
I changed from a 900cc to a 1300cc and the 900cc had as much top speed and was a much lighter bike, but there is something I like about the engine of the 1300 not needing to rev so hard to make great power and having bags of torque from quite low down in the rev range.

A 250cc bike can go quite fast and corner really well being so light, but a 500cc or 650cc bike will lug along very happily at a speed where the 250cc is reving quite high and will therefore provide more relaxed riding. Sometimes the service interval is shorter on the smaller bikes that work harder and there can be more frequent repairs.

Some will like the quicker handling of the lighter 250cc bikes.
Some will like the better torque from the bigger bikes.
Figure out what you like and hunt out a decent example at a fair price, then buy, ride & enjoy!

[Conquiztador]

The compromise is the 400cc bikes coming in from Japan. My son has an older Honda NV400 that does a good job even with two pers on. I am not currently selling it, but if I was it would be $1K with WOF and a few months of rego. (They came in to NZ as 550cc I seem to remember.). Many other 400cc ones have been brought in to NZ and are at reasonable prices.

[Ender EnZed]

Worth a look.

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/tourers/auction-981442418.htm

[F5 Dave]

Nah nah. This is a KB new bike thread, you have to suggest this;

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/tourers/auction-972498905.htm

[Oakie]

Nah nah. This is a KB new bike thread, you have to suggest this;

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/tourers/auction-972498905.htm

Ha ha. I thought "bet it's a Hayabusa"