Easy/inexpensive upgrades

[rtcpenguin]

I just bought a '00 GS500E and was wondering if you guys can recommend any easy/cheap upgrades. I was thinking of getting a K&N air filter. How do I know which one fits the GS? (I don't have the owners manual)

[Roadstergal]

How do I know which one fits the GS?

By using:
http://www.gstwins.com/forum/search.php

[roguegeek]

We should do a search and see how many times Roadstregal has recommended people to search. That would be an interesting number to see.

[davipu]

40 threads.

[Roadstergal]

That's all?  Man, I'm slipping.

[rtcpenguin]

So what size filter fits the GS500e?

[davipu]

look on KandN.com they have a application finder.

[dgyver]

http://www.gstwins.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=18849&highlight=air+filter

[rtcpenguin]

A helpful answer! Holy shaZam!!

Thanks, dgyver

[Phaedrus]

K&N part # SU-5589

For more information, see Kerry's page about the K&N replacement air filter:

http://www.bbburma.net/K&N_AirFilter.htm

That is to replace your stock air filter with a K&N one, nothing fancy. :mrgreen:

[Trwhouse]

Hi there,
You asked about recommendations for cheap and easy GS500 upgrades?
Here's my list of recommendations:
*Russell stainless steel braided brake lines -- much improved brake feel, $40 or so per brake, plus new Castrol DOT3/4 fluid and you'll be amazed at how much better the bike stops!
*Progressive Suspension replacement front fork springs -- $70 or so, plus new 15 wt. Belray fork fluid -- a drastic handling improvement for the bike.
*Need tires? I recommend Michelin Macadam tires, they work GREAT on my GS with nimble handling, braking, cornering, I am thrilled with them. And they make them in the stock sizes, making them easy to install and fit.
*New EBC brake pads front and rear, $35 or so per caliper and they improve braking over stock pads.
*Fiamm dual electric horns, about $45, for SUPER LOUD horns on my street bike, a MUST HAVE! Must use them with a RELAY, it is included, if you need wiring directions for the relay, just ask and I can post them!
To me, these items make the bike whole.
Also, there's the lean warm-up issue which can be fixed with a few washers under the carb needles. See the many posts about this fix. Easy and cheap and much improved running when cold.
Oh yes, and I used a Uni-Filter, rather than a K&N, to replace my stock filter. The Uni-Filter sells for about $25 and is foam and washable, just like the K&N. Fit and works great. The filter fits inside the stock airbox.
Good luck and ask if you have any more questions.
Yours,
Todd