In the world of motorcycles, there are flashy super-sport bikes, rugged dual-sports, premium cruisers—and then there are the reliable workhorses. The Suzuki GS500, and its faired sibling the GS500F, fall firmly into the latter category. Not as flashy, not as fast, but arguably more enduring and beloved by riders than many high-end machines.
Suzuki introduced the GS500E in the late 1980s as a simple, reliable, and efficient parallel-twin motorcycle aimed at beginner and intermediate riders. In 2004, the GS500F joined the lineup with a full fairing and a sportier appeal, continuing Suzuki’s focus on accessible, everyday motorcycles.
Both models are powered by a 487cc air-cooled DOHC parallel-twin engine producing around 47–51 horsepower and 40–43 Nm of torque. The powerband is linear and forgiving, ideal for commuting or learning the ropes of motorcycle control.
Expect around 4.0–5.0 L/100 km (47–60 mpg), which makes the GS500 an economical daily rider. The carbureted system may seem outdated, but it's a dream for DIY maintenance.
The 6-speed transmission is smooth and easy to manage, with enough range for both city traffic and highway cruising. Power delivery is consistent, and chain drive makes maintenance accessible for all levels of riders.
The GS500's steel tubular frame is paired with telescopic front forks and a rear monoshock that provides a decent level of comfort and agility. With a dry weight of around 180 kg, the bike is light enough for easy handling, yet stable at higher speeds.
With a 310 mm front disc and a 250 mm rear disc, braking performance is decent for daily riding. New riders will find them predictable, and those seeking more performance can easily upgrade.
You can explore various brake upgrade options tailored specifically for the GS500 and GS500F models.
This is where the GS500 shines. Minimal electronics, no liquid cooling, and a robust engine design mean fewer things to go wrong. Regular oil changes, valve checks, and chain maintenance will keep this bike running for 100,000+ km easily.
From bolts and nuts to carbon parts, there's no shortage of replacement and upgrade components for the GS500/F.
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 487cc air-cooled DOHC parallel-twin |
| Power | 47–51 hp @ 9,200–9,500 rpm |
| Torque | 40–43 Nm @ 7,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual, chain drive |
| Fuel System | Mikuni BSR 34mm carburetors |
| Front Suspension | Telescopic forks |
| Rear Suspension | Monoshock with preload adjustability |
| Front Brake | 310 mm disc |
| Rear Brake | 250 mm disc |
| Front Tire | 110/70 R17 |
| Rear Tire | 130/70 R17 |
| Seat Height | 790 mm (31.1 in) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 liters |
| Dry Weight | 174–180 kg |
| Top Speed | ~180 km/h (110 mph) |
| Fuel Efficiency | ~4–5 L/100 km (~47–60 mpg) |
The GS500 is a highly modifiable machine. Popular customizations include:
If you're restoring or enhancing your GS500, the premium parts collection for Suzuki GS500/GS500F (2001–2011) is your one-stop-shop for high-quality upgrades.
The Suzuki GS500 and GS500F are more than just starter bikes—they’re enduring machines with real-world usability, minimal fuss, and honest riding pleasure. In a world of overly complex machines, the GS500 reminds us why simplicity and function still matter.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider looking for a reliable second bike, or a beginner taking your first steps into motorcycling, the GS500 remains an affordable, dependable, and enjoyable ride.
Take care of it with proper maintenance and top-quality parts, and it will return the favor for years to come.
Yes, the Suzuki GS500 is widely regarded as an excellent beginner bike due to its manageable power, predictable handling, and simple maintenance. Its smooth power delivery makes it ideal for new riders.
The primary difference is the fairing: the GS500F comes with a full front fairing which offers better wind protection and a sportier look, while the GS500 is the naked version with minimal bodywork.
Absolutely. There is a wide range of OEM and aftermarket parts available. For example, you can find quality components like chain protectors, brakes, caps, and more to maintain or customize your bike.
The GS500 offers good fuel economy, averaging about 4.0–5.0 liters per 100 kilometers (roughly 47–60 miles per gallon), making it a cost-effective option for daily commuting.
Yes, the GS500 is capable of highway speeds around 180 km/h (110 mph). While it's not a high-performance sportbike, it can comfortably handle highway cruising with steady throttle control.
