New Bike, New Member!

[Ned]

G'day!

Today I just joined the crew and baught an '05 GS500E with ~90,000km (56,000mi) on the clock for $800 (US$580).

It has been sitting for a year during covid. Needs a new battery, carbies need a clean out and the start or clutch switch is faulty, but was started via the start relay. The tank is rust free and the engine runs nice.

I will be trying to set this up for commuting year round. It came with heated grips so I'll be adding a decent screen, barkbusters, spotlights and luggage.

Do you guys have any tips or tricks for the mechanical issues, and any tips for the commuting equipment?

I live in Aus, I don't think the MRA windscreens ship out here. I've tinkered with electrical from time to time, but never opened up carbies before.

Cheers!

[The Buddha]

Welcome.
Cool.
Buddha.

[Roofaloof]

Welcome!

The carbs on these bikes aren't terribly difficult, but if it's your first time, I recommend going slowly.

Watch a few videos on how to service CV carbs before tearing into them.

A few things to keep in mind:
- they're very sensitive to debris. Keep your work area clean. Make sure you're not introducing any debris into them when you reassemble
- Don't mix up parts between the left and right carbs. Disassemble them separately and label the parts

If you want some low stakes practice before doing your bike's carbs, I recommend working on a lawnmower first. Disassemble, clean, and reassemble a lawnmower carb. Once you have that mower running well, go on to the bike.

They're not the same as a CV carb, but similar enough that it's great practice. Where I'm at in the USA, it's easy to get an old mower cheap/free.

[Ned]

Thanks Roofaloof.
That does remind me that the carbies for one of the chainsaws has been on the to-do list.

[ShowBizWolf]

Welcome and congrats on the bike!

Definitely check out the GSTwins wiki if you haven't already... it's full of really helpful info and some good ideas for modifications.
http://wiki.gstwins.com/

A tip that I have found helpful over the years has to do with the fork seals. I strongly recommend replacing them (when it's time, of course) with OEM Suzuki seals and make sure they are installed correctly. The Clymer Service manual has incorrect instructions... it tells you to install the new seals with the open groove/spring side up... but that groove should be facing down. The Haynes manuals do not have this error as far as I've been able to tell.

If the suspension feels soft to you, you're not alone. Common upgrades for our bikes are fork springs and rear shock swaps.

[cbrfxr67]

Welcome!  Great to see another gs getting another chance!