New to bikes - new 97' GS500

[vinbar]

Hi,
I am new to the forums and new to bikes (been a car nut for many years - currently drive an 04 STi daily, 69 Mustang Fastback on weekends & 94 BMW 540 in 24Hr LeMons track days) but I felt that I should at least know how to ride a bike and even have a motorcycle endorsement on my license.

Anyway - I purchased a used 97 GS500 with 5500 miles on the odo from a friend from work (who had dropped the bike his first time riding on the open roads and decided bikes weren't for him - he was totally fine, just shaken up). 

The bike has been sitting for 2 years so it needs a few things - fuel tank drained and refilled, oil change, new battery, brake fluid changed, some inspections- I have the clymer book and am going through the yearly checklist.  I've even got new brake lines on the way. 

I plan on getting it running and learning to ride- definitely planning on going to a motorcycle safety school and getting a license before venturing out on the street. 

Here is the bike - sorry for the horrible photos


Looking forward to learning to ride!

Lastly - what is the proper orientation of the fuel valve on the left side of the tank?  I understand this valve is related to the reserve tank - but I'm not sure how it should be oriented in normal operation and then how it should be used.

Any tips for things I should check?  -The bike is stock except it has progressive springs.

Thanks,
Vince

[randomway]

It wouldn't hurt to clean the carbs if it was sitting with petrol in it. Check the wheel bearings, fork seals and to be honest I would get a new set of tyres and braided brake line and new hh pads for the front... they make a big difference.

It's a simple machine, very easy to ride.

Keep it between the ditches!

[mister]

Welcome Vince... and thanks for paying your due before we needed to ask (your pic).

Now, about Reserve. Know this... there is No Reserve Tank. What there is are two different pick ups in the tank (see pic below). One higher than the other. The high one is Main/On. When fuel drops to this and the engine cannot get any more, flicking the petcock makes the Lower pickup the one where fuel comes from. This reserve is like your car's low fuel warning light. It means, find a gas station and tank up. Reset your trip meter to Zero and ride again until you hit reserve. Take note of the distance. This is your guide. Commit it to memory. Next time, as you near this distance, go fill up Before you hit reserve.



As for how it is on your bike. On mine - 09 - down is On, half way is Prime and Up is Res. Have a close look, it should be written on it.

That rear brake rotor looks rusted. How's the chain and sprockets looking?

Michael

[vinbar]

Thanks for the advice guys -- Any advice on where to pickup a cheap battery (90278)?  Autozone wanted $80 for a battery and it would take a few days to arrive...

[tt_four]

I think I picked mine up at sears, some people get them at walmart or autozone. The original battery is hard to find, but there's an alternate number that works just as well, the only difference is that the drain hose comes off the opposite side. You'll probably have an easier time finding that one. Anyone remember what number that battery was? If no one can I'll go pull my seat off and see what it is. I've had it for a year now and never had the slightest problem starting my bike. Even after it's sat for a month unused.

Bike looks great! Enjoy it!

[redhawkdancing]

Sealed batteries are low maintenance. No concerns about the drain hose or refilling. Check this out!   $54 shipped  

http://www.batterystuff.com/batterySearch.php?theType=Motorcycle&theMake=Suzuki&theModel=500cc+GS500E%2C+F+&theYear=2006&m=1#result