Pwalo
11th February 2005, 10:02
I guess that this is really more of an update as I have already put in a review of my previous '97 GS500E.
The 2001 GS (hence K1) is the first significant update of the GS500. Changes included:
-new body work - new larger sculpted tank, and new tail/seat unit - similar to the Bandit.
-uprated forks with longer springs.
-larger carbs
-newer switch gear and push/pull throttle
There are no other changes to the frame or engine so dimensions remain the same:
Wheelbase 1405mm
Seatheight 790mm
Weight 175kg
Ground clearance 145mm
Steering head angle/trail 25degrees/95mm
These changes are pretty minor, but they add up to make the K1 a much better all round bike than the earlier GS models.
The uprated forks are a definite improvement, and don't bottom out when braking or riding on rougher surfaces (most NZ roads).
The new carbs are a huge improvement over the earlier jobbies. The earlier GS500s tended to run very lean off idle, and took forever to warm up. This is not a problem with the K1, and driveability is much better. If you don't snap open the throttle you can pull away cleanly from 2.5k in most gears.
The new body work is also a step forward. It adds a more up to date look to the bike, and the new seat is wider and more comfortable. Ergonically it feels closest to Honda's 600 Hornet (that's got to be a good thing).
Some things don't change however. It's still got the same GS400 derived air cooled, two valves per cylinder lump. I guess you could say that this is both a disadvantage, and a plus.
It's not very powerful, but it's tough as anything, well sorted, easy to ride in any condition, and very economical (mid 60s mpg). It's still faster than any car off the line, and much more fun. Maintenance is very simple, and servicing costs are very reasonable. No water cooling, fairing etc.
Suprisingly the K1 and later GS500s have got some really good reviews in a range of magazines, including Two Wheels (K1 & 500F), Ride (K1), and CycleWorld (K2).
Since this is my second GS (after having my '97 written off) I have to admit to really liking the little beast. I know that it's not the fastest bike, but it handles well, sees off the cagers, and lets me have a lot of cheap entertainment (did I mention that the GS is cheap to buy, and insure).
The 2001 GS (hence K1) is the first significant update of the GS500. Changes included:
-new body work - new larger sculpted tank, and new tail/seat unit - similar to the Bandit.
-uprated forks with longer springs.
-larger carbs
-newer switch gear and push/pull throttle
There are no other changes to the frame or engine so dimensions remain the same:
Wheelbase 1405mm
Seatheight 790mm
Weight 175kg
Ground clearance 145mm
Steering head angle/trail 25degrees/95mm
These changes are pretty minor, but they add up to make the K1 a much better all round bike than the earlier GS models.
The uprated forks are a definite improvement, and don't bottom out when braking or riding on rougher surfaces (most NZ roads).
The new carbs are a huge improvement over the earlier jobbies. The earlier GS500s tended to run very lean off idle, and took forever to warm up. This is not a problem with the K1, and driveability is much better. If you don't snap open the throttle you can pull away cleanly from 2.5k in most gears.
The new body work is also a step forward. It adds a more up to date look to the bike, and the new seat is wider and more comfortable. Ergonically it feels closest to Honda's 600 Hornet (that's got to be a good thing).
Some things don't change however. It's still got the same GS400 derived air cooled, two valves per cylinder lump. I guess you could say that this is both a disadvantage, and a plus.
It's not very powerful, but it's tough as anything, well sorted, easy to ride in any condition, and very economical (mid 60s mpg). It's still faster than any car off the line, and much more fun. Maintenance is very simple, and servicing costs are very reasonable. No water cooling, fairing etc.
Suprisingly the K1 and later GS500s have got some really good reviews in a range of magazines, including Two Wheels (K1 & 500F), Ride (K1), and CycleWorld (K2).
Since this is my second GS (after having my '97 written off) I have to admit to really liking the little beast. I know that it's not the fastest bike, but it handles well, sees off the cagers, and lets me have a lot of cheap entertainment (did I mention that the GS is cheap to buy, and insure).