500 too small for beginner?

[Jeff P]

I'm 6'3", 185 lbs.  34" inseam.  The GS500 fits great, as others have said.  The "standard style" is well suited for taller people. 

I'm going into my 4th riding season with the bike.  Part of me would like to upgrade, most likely to an SV650, but my practical side knows that for my purposes, the GS500 is just about perfect.   

jeff

[Dr. Love]

Damn you 6'+ tall people... I'm only 6', 35"  inseam, 33" waist  ... legs just fit under the tanks cutout. The 89's more forward cant pushes your toe down a bit more than the later model, so the shifter can be run a bit lower and stil be comfy (i find...).  Go '89!

[Wrecent_Wryder]

[f

[zolsen]

Thanks to everyone for all the help and advice. I feel pretty confident that the 500 is probably the best choice for me given my inexperience and desire to have a simple, manageable, dependable, and fun bike.  im anxious to get out there and get started.  i think that having a bike like the 500 will allow me to learn also about the maintenence and inner workings without being overcomplicated and costly.
what do you guys think about an 01 with 16k miles on it for $2800? seems a bit much but i feel like if i could get it for 2300 it would be worth it?
let me know what you thiink, and bear in mind that i live in SF so things may be more costly than other parts.
thanks again
zach

[Jake D]

Jake D is bigger than most men.  Everyday at the mine, you see him arrive.  He stands six foot six, weighs two thirty five.  Broad at the shoulder, narrow 'a hip.  Everybody knows you don't give no lip to. . .

Big Jaaaaaaaaake.  Big Jaaaa-ake.  Big bad Jake.

Hey, I'd get an SV if I were you.  I think it is a good starter bike.  Just as good as the GS.  
I love the look of the SV.  That is really the only reason I say that.  I don't get caught up in the "how many CC's do you have game."  My opinion is based pretty much only on looks.  And I have a GS.   Which is a beautiful bike.  But I like the tail section of the SV better.  

Edit: that sounds like a pretty great deal if you can get it for $2300. 

[zolsen]

one more question- is it probably a good idea to have a bike mechanic look at this 01 should the deal progress before buying.  seems like a no brainer, but i wasnt sure if people do that like they do before buying a car. dont want to get stuck with a lemon, but maybe there are things to look for that i could do myself instead of taking it to a shop?
zach

[Jake D]

I think having mechanic look at it is a great idea. 

[scratch]

Look at the chain, look at the sprockets, look at the frame and look at the swingarm for rust (expecially just forward of the rear tire).  And, look in the tank for rust, too.  Look at the rear sprocket to see if the teeth are hooked (bad).  Look where the rear axle is on the swingarm, you'll see some graduated marks on teh swingarm, the farther back, the more stretched the chain is.  See if the tires have tread left, or cracking.  See how much brake pad is left.  Ask, what brand and weight fork oil he used and when was the last time he changed it.  Ask the same about the engine oil.  When was the last valve adjustment done (supposed to be done every 4000 miles, or multiple thereof)?  How old is the battery?  What color is the brake fluid (check the rear resivior under the seat)?  If it's dark brown, it's going to need to be changed.  What tire pressures is he running?  Any, "I don't know's" is a tipoff he didn't take care of it.

[Admiral Crunch]

I'm 6'2", 32" inseam, and...um...over 300 lbs.     The GS fits me great.  My knees fit the tank perfectly, I don't feel hunched over when I ride, and it has plenty of power for riding round town, down country roads, and state highways.  I haven't tried the interstate yet, but I imagine it'd handle it just fine, and that's while lugging my ample gut around.

[Jake D]

Here is a photo of Admiral Crunch checking out his GS before a ride.   

[DMac]

I was in the same shoes as you regarding which bike to choose..
I decided to go w/ the the GS over the SV but regret it. My buddy who got into riding for the 1st time choose the SV and so I've had good experience on both and they're great choices to learn on, however, the VTwin I find extremely fun and less likely to outgrow as soon. Size wise, as people have mentioned, both bikes will kick you above higway speeds so I don't see that being too much of an issue.
You'll get comfortable on either with some riding time in and I would suggest the SV.

Depending on your finances, get an older GS if that's what you're thinking and learn to ride it, but I don't really think it's necessary.