Need an opinion on this bike

[cajunajun]

Hey guys, first post on this board.

I've been reading up on the GS500 for a few months now and have decided that it will be my first bike, and I'll probably keep it even when I graduate to a sport bike since I love the way it looks and having read so many good things from other owners. I've come to the conclusion that picking up a 600cc sportbike as a first bike would not be the wisest decision and a few months back a buddy said I should check out the GS500. Plus I do love naked bikes, and the GS500 has grown on me quite a bit in the past few months of research. I'm planning to pick up one in December, and I've looked at a few for sale on this site, just not ready until December until after I take the MSF course this month and pick up all my gear, etc...

Which brings me to my question... I saw this bike on CL today and am debating on calling the guy and talking to him about it, (not sure if he's on this forum). http://raleigh.craigslist.org/mcy/1419847954.html
What do you guys think? Is it worth the trouble?

Of course I'd rather have a working bike so that I can just hop on and ride, but I'm a bit of a gear head and good with engines/cars. Albeit, I haven't worked on a bike before, but the idea of learning to doesn't scare me away. Also taking in to consideration I'll be buying a bike during off season and probably won't be riding it too much until it warms up, so getting some time under the hood of it wouldn't bother me. Dunno, just brain storming. I've seen that some of you have done quite a bit of work on this bike, so just wanted to get an opinion or two from the experts.  

Thanks in advance,

Anthony

[GoateeChicken]

Well, its good that your researching before you buy man,
But personally I would hold off for a better deal than that.
With overflow issues AND an older bike, you get could get into some serious dolla' just to ride it for a bit before it breaks down again.
Your best off finding a 2000+ bike (for resale value) for a little bit more money, with less km's but some scratched up fairings...they run around $1500+
If you look on Kijiji, you can find some amazing deals. Last year, I got a 2004 GS500F with only 7k on it for $3000.

[DoD#i]

Hard to say without seeing it in person. The seller clearly doesn't actually know what's wrong with it. Float height, for one, at a guess, if "overflow issues" means it spews gas. At this point, bad gas in the system for sure, as it's been sitting too long.

Could be seriously fscked, could just need the carbs cleaned and set properly.

Go have a look. If there are no major issues with leaking fork seals, dry rotted tires, rusted out gas tank and a general air of malaise, the worst you'd do would be to break even or so parting it out. If it has any/all of that crap, it has far more that will show up later, and simply trying to fix that crap will blow the budget sky-high. If all that looks good, you might put $20-50 into carb work and get a nicely running bike. It does appear to have worse-than-average rust/crud where the drain tubes drip by the right footpeg; but that need not be a deal killer. Be willing to offer less than asking price, and be willing to walk away. There are certainly plenty to be found without issues.

I am assuming no doges about missing title in the above assessment.

[cajunajun]

I appreciate the input guys. Definitely helps. I'll keep you guys posted and get some pics up when I pick up one. Looking forward to being a part of the community. Oh, and if anyone does have GS for sale close to the December time frame I'll be glad to talk to you!

[JB848]

Another abused bike that needs a good home. For 500 bones it's worth it but.....it will take 500 bones + to get it running properly probably unless you qualify for Buddha's make a wish foundation.

[cajunajun]

How do I get on that list lol?