I have the opportunity to to buy a '91 GS500e. It has new tires, filter, forks. The owner took out the carb to clean. It was running 6mos ago. Owner purchased a new bike and decided to sale it. Chain looks good. He accepted my offer of $700.00. I'm taking a chance I know. Is this a deal? How difficult is cleaning the carburetor? Any suggestions what to check, start repairing, or maintenance to get cycle going.
Does the engine turn over when you crank it? If not, is the battery dead? Does it roll freely in neutral, and in gear with the clutch in? Do all the electrical items work? Does the frame have any cracks or obvious bends? Most importantly, is the bike titled in the previous owner's name?
I haven't done much carb work on my GS (1989) but those things I listed are all things to look for. $700 is well below blue book value assuming the carb cleaning is the only thing the bike needs, so it sounds like you got a good deal. Pick up a service manual and take a wrench to it, we'll all do the best we can to help you out.
Thanks! Glad to be part of group. Been checking this site out for some time and finally taking the plunge. Battery was dead. Electrical and frame ok. Clean title. So far its looking sweet! Any suggestions on manuals?