What do I need to know about My GS?

[z315]

Hey guys, I currently have a 04F and i'm due to have my very first tuneup. or rather just an oil change (which i intend to do myself thanks to the faq) Everything I have on the bike is stocked and i'm curiouse What should i need to know about the bike in general, or other things i need to check up upon. PS. the bike has roughly high 300 low 400 miles? What filture and oil should i use? or any need to know info would be much appericated.

[hmmmnz]

hey, i d just stick to the standard 15w50 oil, do the filter as well,
also if you are still in the low kms/miles don't worry about the tiny bits of metal from the wear in, thats faily normal,
i also always do a engine flush to get rid of all the gunky deposits,
check the spark plugs while your at it
good luck
not that you'll need it,

[groff22]

My shopping list for an Oil Change:

FRAM Oil Filter Part number: CH6000
(4x) CastrolGTX Oil

You can find both of these products at just about any automotive store. When you get the oil filter, open the box and make sure it contains the correct part. I've read on this board that FRAM are somewhat infamous for sticking incorrect filters into their little orange boxes. The filter also comes with a brand new O-Ring seal.

You should have received a manual with your bike. The manual contains everything you need to keep your bike operational and you've got the people on this board to help you out if you get stuck.

Cheers and welcome to GSTWIN.com 

[manofthefield]

hey, i d just stick to the standard 15w50 oil, ...

Is that what oil is specified for the newer bikes??  It's always been 10w40 for all the GS500Es.  Check your owners manual

Your best bet for oil is to get a motorcycle specific oil from Suzuki, Amsoil, etc. in the correct weight, but it is a little pricey as far as oil goes.  I personally use Mobil Delvac 15w40 because it has no friction modifiers (these make some car oils bad for the GS's clutch) and it is cheaper than motorcycle oil.  I should use a 10w40 as specified for my bike, but I figure I'm close enough and just warm my bike up thouroughly.  This is a decent resource for choosing oil if you don't want to buy motorcycle specific oil.

[NiceGuysFinishLast]

From the gstwin.com "How To" link:

http://www.gstwin.com/oil_change.htm

Also from gstwin.com, under Maintenaince, and Initial Maintenaince:

http://www.gstwin.com/initial_service.htm

I think you'll find that second link VERY useful. Any other questions, don't hesitate to ask!

[Phaedrus]

Also, don't forget abuot the GS500 FAQ:

http://gstwin.variders.com

It has answers to a lot of the questions that get asked a lot, and basic information that every GS rider should know. 

[calamari]

And don't forget Sgt. Joe
http://www.uponone.com/viewhowtos12.php