Will a GS500 work for me?

[throwback]

I am looking to get a GS500.  I have been riding for many years, but just sold my last litre v-twin.  I like the idea of air cooled simplicity, and do my own maintenance, just want an around town bike.  I am approximately 6'2" and weigh 225lbs.  Will this bike be too small for my frame?

I have had bikes with mucho power, and am now looking at a more laid back riding style, and just something light and workable in town.(I rarely got to use much of the power in town anyway, and the last time I tried I got a nice fine)  Can't do a scooter quite yet.  I really don't want a full fairing bike either, so probably pre 2004.

Also, I have a wrecked GSXR1100, any parts off of it suitable for upgrading a GS500?  Specifically the front and rear suspension components?

Finally, I know the Ninja 500R is faster, but give me some opinions as to what the GS has going for it as compared to this other relatively small bike.

Thanks for all the help,

[calamari]

... I know the Ninja 500R is faster

heresy!  :x

[Phaedrus]

The GS is a great bike, and a lot of guys your size have a GS. There was a discussion on it on this board at one point, but I don't remember when/where. And as for how it compares to the Ninja 500, I can't really say since I've never ridden the Ninja.

I can't explain what is so great about the GS in words. It just has a certain feel to it that is difficult to describe. There are bikes that are faster, more comfortable, sexier, etc. But I have never heard a rider say anything bad about a GS. Everyone that has had one and moved on (and many still hang out here!) wish they still had it, they miss it, say what a great all around bike it is, etc. Because it is. And it isn't such a great bike because of any dyno ratings or speed records or anything like that. It is like your best friend; your not sure WHY EXACTLY he is your best friend, but you feel that bond and know something is bonded between you to. Or your first love; you can't make a list and say "this is why she is the greatest girl in the world". Words can't begin to encompass all that makes the GS such a wonderful bike for anyone. It isn't something you can be told, it is something you will have to feel  

Take one for a ride - or for several rides - and you will see!

TO add to that, it is EXTREMELY managable around town and is still faster than most cars. Insurance is cheap, it is easy and fun to work on, it is versatile and won't let you down.  

[Frost]

i used to ride a EX500 but now i have the GS500... i call it an upgrade...

ride both bikes and you'll see the difference...the EX500 feels...um...weird...haha

[Larry]

I am 6'1"  230 lbs and have no problems.  Great around town / back roads bike!!  Less desireable on the highway due to its light weight.  Get one, you won't regret it.

[Badger]

I am 6'1"  230 lbs and have no problems.  Great around town / back roads bike!!  Less desireable on the highway due to its light weight.  Get one, you won't regret it.

Curious:  what would more weight give you on the highway?  More stability?  Just wondering as I don't find the GS undesirable on the highway, but I don't have any experience with heavier bikes.