New guy.....

[Hairsonfire]

Hey guys! I am new round here, though I have been reading allot for the past few days. I dont have a GS yet, have to get a couple bills straight first, so it will be a couple months. I have a 2003 TLR that goes real fast, but I need a commuter bike. I ride/drive 80 miles a day to and from work. I like the way the older GS's look naked, I thought I would never see a bike without fairing that appealed to me. By the way, I know it will sound strange, but I had never even heard of a GS500 until a buddy of mine who knows the commute I make suggested I look into it. Did Suzuki even market this bike? Anyway, nice to be here with you guys. Oh, one more thing. Is there a Craigslist follies thread somewhere? If so this one deserves mention. I dont know what this guy is smoking, but I want a bowl:

http://columbia.craigslist.org/mcy/3862846272.html

[adidasguy]

GS500 1989-2009 in the USA. Canada through 2010 and some places in the world reported to have them new through 2011.

1989-2000 called the GS500E. always naked.
2001-2002 just called a GS500. No letter. They changed the carbs, tank, tail. Tank became a gallon larger.
2003 - not in the USA
2004+ the fairing was added and called the GS500F. Fairing can be removed and the older stock headlight put on. They added an oil cooler (why is always a point of discussion). In Europe and elsewhere they sold a naked version and called it a GS500E, and did not put on the oil cooler. So rest of world had E and F models 2004+

In 2010 I know they were selling new for $3999 (because I bought my first one on sale).

There is a CL thread in the for sale section. $4200 is craze. One might think the seller is in Washington or Colorado where recreational pot is legal. Maybe he's on BC Bud or Maui-Wowie.

[Hairsonfire]

Every thing I have read about this bike appeals to me. I ride Suzuki's, always have, hell I even raced AMA District 29 motocross on an RM. Hell, I even won a few. I just cant understand why I have never heard of this bike before just a few days ago. I feel like I have been under a rock.  If I knew before I would have had one by now. I dont need to go 160mph, I think my fat TL is the most pampered bike out there. I have a CDL and drive for a living, so any faster than 5 over is a liability. So 40 or so HP is plenty. As far as the oil cooler goes, I suppose if it's made well, and the lines are made right it cant hurt? I mean you cant have it too cool. How do these bikes handle traffic in 90 degree 80% humidity? My TL's fan comes on and it feels like you are sitting on a stove.

[amkluttz]

I clicked on your Craigslist link and realized I've seen that add before.  I'm just outside of Charlotte. 

Welcome.