GStwin.com GS500 Message Forum

Main Area => For Sale / For Trade / Wanted / Hot Deals => Topic started by: adidasguy on August 17, 2011, 12:58:08 PM

Title: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on August 17, 2011, 12:58:08 PM
http://seattle.craigslist.org/sno/mcy/2551020492.html
(http://i1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb442/adidasguy/3n03k93m65V55U65R5b8g4eb68b6bf414167a.jpg)
1986 Suzuki gsx 550 es only 17,xxx mile starts and runs and rides good. It does need a valve cover gasket and few other minor things It is not a perfect bike but would be a great beginner bike $1000 obo.

Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: GSnoober on August 17, 2011, 05:51:34 PM
Those mid-80's GS550's were NOTORIOUS pieces of sh!t; Suzuki used TWO carbs to feed FOUR cylinders, which was INCREDIBLY stupid, which is why they're so cheap these days. They didn't sell well, but you might notice that many of the survivors are on listed for sale; not "keeper" material, unless you need something to keep your garage from floating away.

As with the notorious Honda Nightmare 550 of 1983, those things are better as boat anchors than motorcycles. The unknowing / unsuspecting buy them, then sell them in frustration, ad infinitum. You won't find any HIGH mileage examples of that breed, because no one can keep them running long enough to wear them out. They weren't good racers, they weren't good streetbikes, they weren't good for much of anything, which is why they died so quickly.

Suzuki ALSO missed the mark with the GR650 Tempter; it was supposed to be an UPDATED version of the British vertical twin, and Suzuki expected to make a killing with them. They were primarily destined to rot for eternity, because nobody WANTED an "updated" vertical twin unless it looked like a TRADITIONAL British vertical twin; the best one I've ever seen is the one Big Rich uses as his avatar. HE built what Suzuki SHOULD have produced...

I've been a life-long fan of Suzuki products; those critters belong in the Hall of Shame. Your money, your choice, but I wouldn't take that well-preserved pile of crap for free.
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: Big Rich on August 17, 2011, 07:15:00 PM
I dunno Adidas, that bike is tempting. I was unaware of the 2 into 4 intake, but I would be willing to bet that could be resolved with other carbs/mounts. Being a GS, plenty of parts could probably swap around. It would be a long term project, but those are collectables.......

And GSNoober is right- the GR was a flop. Mostly in the U.S. though: they sold rather well in other countries up to 1989 (here in the States til early 1984). I think it was the Tempter name that prevented sales for the most part- every other country just called it the GR650.

I catch a lot of grief from my friends for having a "Tempter" collection.......
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on August 17, 2011, 08:57:14 PM
Thanks for the info.

But I really like the look of it. I love that style. There is a white CBR I've seen on Akli beach - solo seat and all that looks really cool. You guys would probably ban me if I added a Honda to the cave.  :flipoff:

When I see something else, I'll gladly post it for opinions.

Thanks for saving me some money. Have a beer on me (in the bike cave of course)  :cheers:

PS: Then, doesn't an old V-8 car have 1 carb feeding 8 cylinders? There will be other bikes. I saw it as I was checking for someone parting out a purple GS500 - hoping to find my friend's stolen bike. Must resist temptation - I have a couple projects right now to finish.
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: cbrfxr67 on August 18, 2011, 08:04:03 AM
I'd like to see that white cbr!  :D  And maybe 400 for that GS550,...or even 350.
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: Agno on August 18, 2011, 08:44:20 AM
I vaguely remember someone on this board who was talking about swapping a 650 tempter motor into his GS500 chassis. Sound familiar?
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: GSnoober on August 18, 2011, 12:45:45 PM
The Buddha and others have done it; the GR650 has a 5-speed transmission, with no real need for a sixth cog. Someday, I'd like to make the same engine swap... don't hold your breath waiting; I'm on a fixed income...

MORE GS550E Trash & Treasure on the local CL sites:

1. GS550M (mechanically the same as the GS550E), but with Katana styling:

http://losangeles.craigslist.org/sgv/mcy/2549116912.html

2. Another over-priced "jewel":

http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/mcy/2522251692.html

3. Over-priced "project":

http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/mcy/2503098078.html

4. "Jewel" of the scrap pile:

http://orangecounty.craigslist.org/mcy/2548784889.html

These things are frequently available around here; noobs buy them because they don't know any better. They burn money trying to get them damn things to run properly, then give up and sell them to someone else. This will continue until we run out of noobs, or the (dwindling) supply of mid-80's GS550s... The same ones change hands so often I'm getting to know them by sight.
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: cbrfxr67 on August 18, 2011, 01:55:28 PM
I want to find another busted GS and stuff some FI engine in it next.
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: Twisted on August 21, 2011, 02:21:11 PM
Quote from: adidasguy link=topic=57423.msg650282#msg650282
PS: Then, doesn't an old V-8 car have 1 carb feeding 8 cylinders? There will be other bikes. I saw it as I was checking for someone parting out a purple GS500 - hoping to find my friend's stolen bike. Must resist temptation - I have a couple projects right now to finish.

In most cases yes but you will find that carby has four barrels to feed the fuel.
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: BaltimoreGS on August 22, 2011, 07:52:32 PM
Quote from: Twisted on August 21, 2011, 02:21:11 PM
Quote from: adidasguy link=topic=57423.msg650282#msg650282
PS: Then, doesn't an old V-8 car have 1 carb feeding 8 cylinders? There will be other bikes. I saw it as I was checking for someone parting out a purple GS500 - hoping to find my friend's stolen bike. Must resist temptation - I have a couple projects right now to finish.

In most cases yes but you will find that carby has four barrels to feed the fuel.

Never had any experience on the GS550 in question so it could be a real POS but Harley's always had 1 carb for 2 cylinders and my little twin cylinder Nighthawk 250 runs fine with one carb.

-Jessie
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: Garrett on August 22, 2011, 07:57:07 PM
Talk about tempting.

http://worcester.craigslist.org/mcy/2549295013.html


(http://images.craigslist.org/3m13pf3o45T25Q25R4b8m0504ef6d33191289.jpg)
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: GSnoober on August 23, 2011, 01:15:58 AM
To continue threadjacking this post, I think this 1985 VF700F in Fall River tops the one Garrett found in Worcester:

http://southcoast.craigslist.org/mcy/2533310756.html

Not taking any shots at you, Garrett; just trying to show that there are some reasonably nice motorcycles still available. Those mid-80's VF's had some problems (cam galling from low oil pressure to the top end, IIRC), but most of those engines were repaired by Honda under warranty. This example looks to be in better condition than the one in Gardner... and the gas tank paint looks original... The lowers on the Fall River VF are probably by Pichler (quality German product), though I could be wrong about that.

Gather your pennies, and pick up the phone...
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: Garrett on August 23, 2011, 08:22:18 AM
I wouldn't buy McDonalds from Fall River nevermind a motorcycle.
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: BaltimoreGS on August 25, 2011, 01:50:51 PM
Quote from: GSnoober on August 17, 2011, 05:51:34 PM

As with the notorious Honda Nightmare 550 of 1983, those things are better as boat anchors than motorcycles. The unknowing / unsuspecting buy them, then sell them in frustration, ad infinitum. You won't find any HIGH mileage examples of that breed, because no one can keep them running long enough to wear them out. They weren't good racers, they weren't good streetbikes, they weren't good for much of anything, which is why they died so quickly.


Yea, but this one is "a good american made bike"   :D   http://baltimore.craigslist.org/mcy/2565363606.html

-Jessie
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: GSnoober on August 25, 2011, 03:55:24 PM
I flagged that lyin' mofo's post; we ALL should. What a SCAMMER; we all know that ignition key sets typically run < $100. He parked it OUTSIDE, most likely without even putting a tarp over it, and he's trolling for some STUPID bottom-feeder to give him some American CASH for his NON-American sh!tpile!

Too bad The Buddha lives so far away; he could go over there and crush the little creep's skull with it to help "get new gas and fluids flowing"...

I forsee many late-night phone calls in his future... what a d0uchebag!
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on September 12, 2011, 01:26:36 AM
OK, now this I think I could have fun riding......
I LOOOOVE the look of this bike!
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/mcy/2585815327.html

(http://i1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb442/adidasguy/Assorted/mg7746.jpg)
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: NonFiction on September 12, 2011, 09:33:54 AM
http://pnwriders.com/motorcycles/159139-85-vf500-interceptor-1000-a.html
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on September 12, 2011, 11:44:03 AM
I like the white with blue & red. ts not so much the model but the color and styling I like. Saw some Honda that was white with blue & red pin striping on the tank going North on Fauntleroy Way. I couldn't turn around fast enough to follow it. Wish I knew what model it was. Reminded me of one that parked for a year new my office (never took a photo of that one - should have). Seeing that bike for a year parked on the street is one thing that made me want to get back into bikes. Too bad there isn't a GS500 with that styling - or maybe I could do it?
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: BaltimoreGS on September 12, 2011, 03:22:43 PM
Am I a loser for getting excited over this??   :laugh:  http://baltimore.craigslist.org/mcy/2593310293.html

-Jessie
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: missk8t on September 12, 2011, 04:27:32 PM
Since you guys are getting all excited over older bikes. What model/year do you reckon would be a good first project bike? I've got my F but I was wondering whether I should get an older E style as a project bike since they're fairly standard or should I go something entirely different.

By the way adidas I love the man-cave! I can't wait to have my own lair.  :thumb:
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: Big Rich on September 12, 2011, 04:46:08 PM
Quote from: BaltimoreGS on September 12, 2011, 03:22:43 PM
Am I a loser for getting excited over this??   :laugh:  http://baltimore.craigslist.org/mcy/2593310293.html

-Jessie

I hope you are on your way to get this right now.

And missk8t: the ultimate bike IMO for a teardown/ learn how it works/ rebuild to stock or fully customize/ is a Honda CB350 twin. Honda designed them from the factory with racing in mind, and there is TONS of aftermarket support for them. Just google "performance cb350" or "custom cb350" to see what I mean.
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: BaltimoreGS on September 12, 2011, 05:24:46 PM
Quote from: Big Rich on September 12, 2011, 04:46:08 PM
Quote from: BaltimoreGS on September 12, 2011, 03:22:43 PM
Am I a loser for getting excited over this??   :laugh:  http://baltimore.craigslist.org/mcy/2593310293.html

-Jessie

I hope you are on your way to get this right now.

And missk8t: the ultimate bike IMO for a teardown/ learn how it works/ rebuild to stock or fully customize/ is a Honda CB350 twin. Honda designed them from the factory with racing in mind, and there is TONS of aftermarket support for them. Just google "performance cb350" or "custom cb350" to see what I mean.

Very tempting but I already have more projects than I have time.  Anybody want an old V-twin Ascot??     :D

15 years ago I actually had trouble giving away a '73 CB350!  That was my first street bike.  I didn't appreciate "vintage" bikes at that time, it was just an old bike to me.  It became a lawn decoration (i.e. eye sore) when I got my CBR600F3   :laugh:

I would say a cheap old GS500e would be a decent tinker bike and it would be good practice if you plan on keeping your F a while.  I hated the points ignition on the CB350.

-Jessie
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: missk8t on September 12, 2011, 05:50:20 PM
Thanks guys. Now I just have to find an old cheap e for sale.
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: missk8t on September 12, 2011, 06:19:05 PM
Here's something I thought you guys might like. Colouring is a bit meh but otherwise nice bike

1981 GSX750 Katana in Aus she's $3,700 bit exe I thought but I could probably pick one of these up from out near my home town for near to nothing. I know a few cocky's (farmers) out there who have stuff like this sitting in their sheds.
http://www.justauto.com.au/justbikes/buy_and_sell/for_sale/6c73eba0-821d-4a0e-b68a-14b1fc0531fa?search=advanced&looking_for=For+Sale&parent_page=%2Fjustbikes%2Fbuy_and_sell%2Ffor_sale&search_category=&search_region=&keywords=suzuki&sort=Lowest%20price&item_position=8 (http://www.justauto.com.au/justbikes/buy_and_sell/for_sale/6c73eba0-821d-4a0e-b68a-14b1fc0531fa?search=advanced&looking_for=For+Sale&parent_page=%2Fjustbikes%2Fbuy_and_sell%2Ffor_sale&search_category=&search_region=&keywords=suzuki&sort=Lowest%20price&item_position=8)

(http://static3.justauto.com.au/just_images/176eba83-5d9d-4d40-8eae-e3dc526833b8/176eba83-5d9d-4d40-8eae-e3dc526833b8-lg.jpg)

(http://static2.justauto.com.au/just_images/e761456f-90a5-4cde-9a5f-6e77ce670e5b/e761456f-90a5-4cde-9a5f-6e77ce670e5b-lg.jpg)

K8
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: Garrett on September 12, 2011, 10:49:38 PM
I have an 86 FZ600. Neat bike.
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on January 24, 2012, 03:38:04 PM
Just saw a 2005 "F" for $1400 obo.
Found a 2005 GS500F $1400!
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/mcy/2806467613.html
Should I? Dare I do it and risk an intervention?
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on January 25, 2012, 02:41:20 AM
OK - contacting the seller to see what is wrong. $1400 OBO for a 2005 seems low. Then 26k miles is high.
We'll see. Best option looks like removing the fairing, putting on a stock round headlight and making it a naked 2005 then flipping it. If I can get it for $1100 or $1200 and problems are minor, should be able to flip it for $2000.

Any opinions? Amy I crazy? Is it time to do an intervention?
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: Big Rich on January 25, 2012, 04:32:07 AM
26xxx miles in that short amount of time and the carbs had a chance to gum up? Possible for sure, but I would be leery when looking the bike over. Maybe try and check the oil for shavings, top end for bearing issues, or a welded front sprocket? If it is just the carbs, that's a helluva deal.
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: The Buddha on January 25, 2012, 07:22:17 AM
Take a set of clean known good carbs with you, start it if it will and ride the snot out of it.
I have done stuff like that before, sellers if they are honest about the bike dont object. But then again I only buy bikes from GSTwinners and some other bike specific sites like maxim and savage, so maybe I am biased.

Cool.
Buddha.
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: BaltimoreGS on January 25, 2012, 07:43:51 PM
I hate craigslist sometimes.  WHY MUST YOU TEMPT ME!!!!

http://baltimore.craigslist.org/mcy/2808132331.html

-Jessie
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on January 26, 2012, 05:25:37 PM
No response from the guy. Emailed twice.
Maybe a scam or maybe a lot is wrong and he won't sell to me because I said I knew about GS500's and I'd easily see everything wrong. Maybe he's looking for a sucker to unload it on.

Shows if you click the link, but not if you do a search.

Oh, well....
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: Kijona on January 26, 2012, 05:31:48 PM
Quote from: BaltimoreGS on January 25, 2012, 07:43:51 PM
I hate craigslist sometimes.  WHY MUST YOU TEMPT ME!!!!

http://baltimore.craigslist.org/mcy/2808132331.html

-Jessie

Ever ridden a Kat? How does it compare to the GS500? I'm interested in getting a Kat 750 or 600, depends. I know the 750 is a bit more powerful and has a more relaxed seating position. What do you think?
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: BaltimoreGS on January 26, 2012, 05:52:37 PM
Quote from: Kijona on January 26, 2012, 05:31:48 PM
Quote from: BaltimoreGS on January 25, 2012, 07:43:51 PM
I hate craigslist sometimes.  WHY MUST YOU TEMPT ME!!!!

http://baltimore.craigslist.org/mcy/2808132331.html

-Jessie

Ever ridden a Kat? How does it compare to the GS500? I'm interested in getting a Kat 750 or 600, depends. I know the 750 is a bit more powerful and has a more relaxed seating position. What do you think?

I've owned a couple Kat 600's and loved them!  I've never owned a 750 version but talking to those that have owned both there isn't a huge power difference.  The GSX650F is the latest version of the Katana (they dropped the "Katana" designation).  There is a member of this forum that has one and loves it.  I really get annoyed when people that have never owned a Katana get on here and bash them.  Here's a cut and paste of the last time I had to defend them:

"Quote from: mindraider on September 10, 2011, 05:16:15 PM
"I was warned to stay from katanas they're garbage and look ugly"

That is one of the biggest myths in motorcycling and I hate seeing it perpetuated!!  Katanas are my favorite cheap inline 4!  I can see where people don't like the styling but I've owned a few over the years and all of them were reliable, fun bikes.  The engine is a 4 valve per cylinder air/oil cooled design derived from the original GSX-R and it is about as bullet proof as they come.  The main problem I have heard of is a bent 1/2 shift fork but I think some of that has to do with the novice riders that buy Katanas, never had that problem on any of mine.  I think a lot of the bad rep the Katana gets is from people who buy it thinking it is a super sport bike, it's not.  The Katana is a sport tourer at best, it is not a GSX-R.  If someone buys it thinking it's going to be a crotch rocket they will be disappointed.  I wouldn't call it slow (it has double the horsepower of a GS500 and will do 60 MPH in first gear if tached out) but it is a heavy steel framed bike.  That weight gives it stability at highway speeds though.  There is also a great online community at katriders.com  Pretty much a Katana it is just a bigger GS500: a fun, reliable and easy to maintain motorcycle.  Rant ended...     

-Jessie"
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: TonyKZ1 on January 27, 2012, 09:21:30 AM
Your excellent reply is one of the reasons the Katana is on my list of next bikes. I'm also a member over on the katriders.com website.
Tony
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: xunedeinx on January 30, 2012, 08:05:09 AM
Quote from: missk8t on September 12, 2011, 04:27:32 PM
Since you guys are getting all excited over older bikes. What model/year do you reckon would be a good first project bike? I've got my F but I was wondering whether I should get an older E style as a project bike since they're fairly standard or should I go something entirely different.

By the way adidas I love the man-cave! I can't wait to have my own lair.  :thumb:

Keep your F, and make it an "E"

The f's are so much sexier, all ready have a black frame, oil cooler, and everything on it is 10+ years newer.

just my 2 cents, I love all gs500's
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on January 31, 2012, 04:52:38 PM
Another one turned up. Most likely a part-out. Motor going into Phenix and the 3 extra motors I have I can fix in the summer.
Rest of this I would part out. I emailed for more information.
http://seattle.craigslist.org/skc/mcy/2818638028.html

This is a near perfect condiction 2006 Suzuki 500GS. It has never been laid down. I bought at the end of summer for $2500.

What is the catch?
I'm unable to transfer the title in my name because no body could contact the original owner. I bough this from the 2nd owner and have proof of Title still haven't transferred in my name (Even have a notarized document from WA DMZ saying I bought this). Long story and willing to explain more if interested, but it is legally bought NOT stolen or illegally Aguirre. Long story, but I am still trying to get this to transfer, WA DMZ is being stupid and told me they don't know what they could do. I'm willing to get this off my hand for $1500 because I'm so freaking tired of the DMZ paper work. I'm willing to help out anyway I can to get through the legal process including going to the DMZ with you, just be warned that they're no help.

So why $1500?
I work full-time and have no time to deal with this BS. The guy who sold it to me was trying to help with the legal, but he got tired and stop responding to my call. So It's been sitting in my garage. If you can't get the legal process, maybe you can strip down the bike for parts or use it for offroad or something. It's working great!! Again, I have the "voided title" (will explain that if interested) Bill of Sale (proof that I bought it for $2500 recently), the guy who sold it to me number and email. License tab is good until April 2012

Will only accept cash.
Email only if you're really interested.
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on February 01, 2012, 12:46:01 PM
Here's the latest on this bike.
Seems legit. The guy contacted me and is not withholding any information. The VIN shows it is not on the Auto Insurance Institute's stolen or total loss list. I'm going to see what my local licensing office says about this.

If the paperwork is too complicated and I buy for parts, what can I get for a GS500F as parts (I keep the engine, but have plenty of carb sets I can sell. I have everything else including gauges for Phenix. Running motor would make it go faster then fix my other motors later.)

Here is the sellers explanation:

Hi Patrick,

From what I've gathered through talking with Washington's DMV and California; my bike was originally purchased in California by a guy named "Noel" (or something).  He then moved to Washington and sold the bike to Matt.  Matt registered the bike with Washington, and Washington DMV issued the title to Matt.  The bank in California released the titled, but since it's California, they released it back to Noel.  When Matt sold me the Vehicle, I couldn't registered it because the DMV said it's registered in California.  Matt went with me to the DMV and got Renee (DMV Officer) to help us investigate the issue.  She gave up after a few months, because California wouldn't do anything. I requested Noel information from California, but they said they cannot disclose that information. I still have all the paper work.

I'm pasting a copy of the letter I wrote to California DMV in attempt to resolve this issue.  Included is the VIN and License plate. Let me know if you need anything else.


He included a copy of the letter mentioned, which included the VIN.

Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: steezin_and_wheezin on February 01, 2012, 07:53:32 PM
this thread title came into mind the second i stumbled onto a recent ad.

an 01 gsxr, been laid down in "grass" just surfaced a few towns over. no damage to frame, and comes with all new unpainted fairings and tank. still needs a couple parts, but its mainly there. from the photos everything seems straight, ~4k miles on clock, and title in hand. needs some work and he is trying to move it. really don't have the room, but man i would love to check it out and toss him an offer!
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on February 01, 2012, 10:36:49 PM
Sometimes there are deals.

I went to the DMV and they backed up the story about the mess with the title. Fortunately, the ladies at the licensing office in West Seattle are very helpful. Verified the VIN and what happened according to WA records. Also nbo mention of tickets or other bad marks on the bike.

Just nearly impossible to get a clean title. So could end up as a good deal for a parts bike. Too bad the current owner got caught in this mess. In April when the tags expire - there's nothing he can do.
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on February 15, 2012, 01:32:53 PM
Ugh - must resist temptation
Another parts bikes has shown up. Asking $400 for an '89 with a clean title. Suppose I should go look at it. Maybe offer $300? It is in storage.
I should get busy and move the fairings. Take apart the parts bike. Sell some stuff. Do I need another parts bike or should I not pass up on a deal?
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: ninjeff on February 15, 2012, 03:51:17 PM
CURSE YOU ADIDASGUY!

CURRSSSEESS!!!! :: shakes fist ::

I'll explain:

A month or two back i decided i was going to buy a GS500 this year. (i sold my 250ex 2 years ago and have been craving a new ride). I first looked around for newer "F" models....and happened to find this site. Now, because of your relentlessly classy Red GS500e, ive decided i want to go fairingless. So ive been ramming my head against the wall to find a good deal on a GS anywhere in the great state of Illinois. So far the only one ive found doesnt have a title, and everything else has been newer and 2+k.
You, on the other hand, have a magical touch/state/search-magic/connections and find like...4 that i would totally snap up in a heart beat.
No matter what i do i just can't find one around here to buy under 2k.

So i say, in the most good humored way possible, curse you sir!
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on February 15, 2012, 04:07:42 PM
It's the evil monkey living in the closet!  :icon_eek:

I salivated at all the parts bikes others were selling or the good deals on bikes on the eastern side of the Mississippi. I would kill for a good deal.  :mad:

Now, for some unknown reason, 3 deals have fallen my way this year. Probably no more deals for a while. They are rare here for GS500's.

If you search Craigs List, there are a few different ways to find a GS500. People do not list them the same way. Some of my successful search strings are:

GS500|gs500e|gs500f
Suzuki GS
GS 500
500GS
Suzuki 500

Usually search title only.

As for no title: I have a WA license office near me.  When I don't know what to do, I go in with the VIN and notes from the seller. They are nice enough to validate the info and say if the title is clean or what to do if the title is in limbo. Then I can decide to-buy or not-to-buy.

Maybe your local offices will tell you what to do if you go in with the VIN and explain the situation.

Thanks for the complements on Junior. He's a fun bike to ride! He's Canadian, you know. Eh?
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: xunedeinx on February 15, 2012, 05:55:20 PM
Find a late model f and strip it.

Black frame and oil cooler = sexy
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: ninjeff on February 15, 2012, 05:56:00 PM
NO problem. I saw pics of your GS today (im new here) and all i could think was.....damn, thats CLASSY. You know how some bikes make you say "wow thats nice", or "that bike is awesome!" or cool or whatever. Classy fits yours. Well thought out, nicely done without all the fancy "look at me!" stuff but still stands out. It'll still look good 10 years form now.


Needless to say......i'm aiming for something like it. ;)
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: ninjeff on February 15, 2012, 05:57:19 PM
Quote from: xunedeinx on February 15, 2012, 05:55:20 PM
Find a late model f and strip it.

Black frame and oil cooler = sexy

Thats the plan. I've found quite a few, but all are a smidge out of my range price wise.  I have a cap, and what i go UNDER that cap means the rest go to "fun" parts.
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on February 22, 2012, 03:31:23 PM
There are lots of clip-ons on Germany. Just most won't ship to the USA. Bummer  :sad:

Just saw  :icon_eek: an "E" fairing on fleabay in Germany
http://www.ebay.com/itm/140704207664?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649

:o California has engine, exhaust and carbs. Tempting..... then I don't need to fix up the 1989 engines and can start selling off 1989 engine parts
http://www.ebay.com/itm/320853724477?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: xunedeinx on February 23, 2012, 12:15:12 AM
Quote from: ninjeff on February 15, 2012, 05:56:00 PM
NO problem. I saw pics of your GS today (im new here) and all i could think was.....damn, thats CLASSY. You know how some bikes make you say "wow thats nice", or "that bike is awesome!" or cool or whatever. Classy fits yours. Well thought out, nicely done without all the fancy "look at me!" stuff but still stands out. It'll still look good 10 years form now.


Needless to say......i'm aiming for something like it. ;)

Thank you, I appreciate it.

It'll look so much better when we move into the new house, and I have everything powder coated black, I rebuild the engine, and have the engine painted. Thinking of going with rims the same colour as the stock r6 can.

maybe I'll weld up an actual exhaust system, once I get my welding skills on.

Which, brings me to a new idea in my brainstorming thread... -runs-
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on February 23, 2012, 02:31:23 AM
Well, this parts whore is going for the engine. Letting you know so we don't needlessly up the bidding. I'll probably put the 1989 engines I have up for sale or part out in a couple months. When weather warms up, I'll have to clean out the stuff and get around to selling stuff. Until then, I'll continue selling only as an as-needed basis when someone posts a WTB or PM's me. I just have too many bar ends, battery boxers, pegs, carb sets (most from running bikes), wheels, nuts, bolts, axles, front fenders, 89-00 tail plastic sets, wiring harnesses, rotors, etc, etc, etc.

Still eying that 89-00 full fairing in Germany.  :icon_eek: May go for it because they are so rare. Might be cool painted purple and gold for the U.W. Husky Dog bike (after Phenix is finished). Looking for local auto painter to do a Husky dog on the purple tank. No one is threatening an intervention, so...................... :icon_lol:
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: xunedeinx on February 23, 2012, 09:48:43 AM
Quote from: adidasguy on February 23, 2012, 02:31:23 AM
Well, this parts whore is going for the engine. Letting you know so we don't needlessly up the bidding. I'll probably put the 1989 engines I have up for sale or part out in a couple months. When weather warms up, I'll have to clean out the stuff and get around to selling stuff. Until then, I'll continue selling only as an as-needed basis when someone posts a WTB or PM's me. I just have too many bar ends, battery boxers, pegs, carb sets (most from running bikes), wheels, nuts, bolts, axles, front fenders, 89-00 tail plastic sets, wiring harnesses, rotors, etc, etc, etc.

Still eying that 89-00 full fairing in Germany.  :icon_eek: May go for it because they are so rare. Might be cool painted purple and gold for the U.W. Husky Dog bike (after Phenix is finished). Looking for local auto painter to do a Husky dog on the purple tank. No one is threatening an intervention, so...................... :icon_lol:

DO IT! DO IT!

Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: Bluesmudge on February 23, 2012, 11:22:29 AM
Oh, man. When do we cut you off?

The dog bike would sound crazy, but since I'm a University of Washington Student, I can't say no!

Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on February 25, 2012, 02:52:52 AM
Just saw this one. If it will run - could be a good one to fix upo and flip.
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/mcy/2869770059.html
Suzuki GS500 2005 - $1000 (Seattle)
Date: 2012-02-25, 12:30AM PST
Reply to: 9dfvg-2869770059@sale.craigslist.org [Errors when replying to ads?]
Hi I have a Suzuki GS500 2005 model, blue and white Motorcycle for sale. I haven't drove it since last summer and the battery is dead. I'm moving out of town and don't have the time to tune it up. So I'm trying to get rid of it asap. Asking for $1000 or give me a offer. Sold as is and have to take it out of the parking spot.

Thanks



No response - must be another fake or scam. I asked about the title. Scammers or thiefs wouldn't respond when asking about it that.
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on February 27, 2012, 11:23:59 PM
Well, the GS500's have all fallen throigh. No responses.

HOWEVER...................
I did see this little gem. All original 1973 TS-185. Asking $2600. I think this is one little beautiful vintage bike.
Should I get it? Would Suzi and Junior get upset or would they consider it their little brother? Tank has zero rust. 3428 original miles.

PS: May seem high, but I did look at a dozen pictures. This bike is like right off the showroom floor. Always garaged.

(http://i1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb442/adidasguy/Assorted/417418_298625966870025_100001678714375_767068_110946561_n.jpg)

(http://i1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb442/adidasguy/Assorted/432212_298625863536702_100001678714375_767067_219199326_n.jpg)
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: codajastal on February 27, 2012, 11:41:13 PM
Quote from: adidasguy on February 27, 2012, 11:23:59 PM
Well, the GS500's have all fallen throigh. No responses.

HOWEVER...................
I did see this little gem. All original 1973 TS-185. Asking $2600. I think this is one little beautiful vintage bike.
Should I get it? Would Suzi and Junior get upset or would they consider it their little brother? Tank has zero rust. 3428 original miles.

PS: May seem high, but I did look at a dozen pictures. This bike is like right off the showroom floor. Always garaged.

(http://i1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb442/adidasguy/Assorted/417418_298625966870025_100001678714375_767068_110946561_n.jpg)

(http://i1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb442/adidasguy/Assorted/432212_298625863536702_100001678714375_767067_219199326_n.jpg)

That is sooooo mint it really does look like it did the day it rolled off the line......even better. :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: Big Rich on February 28, 2012, 12:17:14 AM
If I had that kind of cash, I would be tempted.......that can't be made street legal out your way, can it?

Think about it: no more vacuum petcock, valves, camshaft rattle.........
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on February 28, 2012, 12:30:46 AM
It IS STREET LEGAL!  :tongue2: Has turn signals, light, reflectors and all requirements for street use.
Licensed in Washington as a collector vehicle. Anything over 25 years old can be licensed as a collector vehicle. That means never have to pay for tabs again.
It has only been ridden 250 miles in the past 19 years (according to seller). Says starts always on 2nd kick.
I'm going to see it tomorrow.
What about the $2600 price? In a way I feel the price is high. On the other side, it is in such excellent condition for a bike nearly 40 years old. I doubt I would ever see one like it again. A really rare find in this condition.
To me - this thing is do damned cute! They don't make them like this any more. In my early years I had a Kawasaki 125 (first bike) and a Yamaha DT250. Maybe I'm reliving my youth and want a little thumper for going to the gym.

(http://i1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb442/adidasguy/Assorted/466206_298853303513958_100001678714375_767402_1426917367_o.jpg)
(http://i1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb442/adidasguy/Assorted/429537_298643606868261_100001678714375_767087_1081811774_n.jpg)
(http://i1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb442/adidasguy/Assorted/421870_298625716870050_100001678714375_767066_60322762_n.jpg)
(http://i1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb442/adidasguy/Assorted/404949_298855013513787_100001678714375_767417_1823787100_n.jpg)
(http://i1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb442/adidasguy/Assorted/477463_298646546867967_100001678714375_767096_1790571710_o.jpg)
(http://i1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb442/adidasguy/Assorted/469294_298852293514059_100001678714375_767391_1948969331_o.jpg)
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: Big Rich on February 28, 2012, 12:53:47 AM
I think the price might be a little high - but then again, I don't think I've seen a bike that old and in that condition sell for much less.........

I asked about it being street legal because of the age. Little bikes that old here in PA almost NEVER have a title since people think it's just a "toy" bike.

Ya know, Airtech sells some cool little racing fairings for small thumpers.......
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on February 28, 2012, 01:01:45 AM
I love it the way it is. I agree it may be a little high on price, but then when do you see one in this condition? $2600 is asking. Things never sell for asking price unless there is a bidding war  :icon_twisted: (so I've heard).

A bike like this makes full gear seem like overkill. Kind of makes you want to ride on a sunny day in t-shirt and shorts with flip-flops (http://i1206.photobucket.com/albums/bb442/adidasguy/Videos/hi5.gif)
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: codajastal on February 28, 2012, 01:53:35 AM
I would be going 2200USD that thing is definately a buyer. In Aus in that condition $2600 would be an absolute steal. PLEASE if you buy it do not molest it,, leave it as is, its priceless here. :bowdown:
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: steezin_and_wheezin on March 26, 2012, 01:27:24 PM
love the new bike adidas! how's she ride??
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: adidasguy on March 26, 2012, 01:54:58 PM
He's not home yet. I had my local Suzuki dealer do a complete check out and fluid change. They had to order a couple things like tires and the rubber connector between airbox and carbs. Sometimes 39 yer old stuff needs replacing.

THUMPER should be home this week. I found the optional chrome rear carrier for him. A little bikes needs it to fill in the rear between the seat and tail light.

Still gotta get more of the superb-usable-highly-needed-by-gs500-owners crap/parts out of the cave so Thumper can have his own special place inside.
Title: Re: This is sooooooo tempting....
Post by: knowles on March 27, 2012, 11:31:40 PM
Quote from: adidasguy on March 26, 2012, 01:54:58 PM
He's not home yet. I had my local Suzuki dealer do a complete check out and fluid change. They had to order a couple things like tires and the rubber connector between airbox and carbs. Sometimes 39 yer old stuff needs replacing.

THUMPER should be home this week. I found the optional chrome rear carrier for him. A little bikes needs it to fill in the rear between the seat and tail light.

Still gotta get more of the superb-usable-highly-needed-by-gs500-owners crap/parts out of the cave so Thumper can have his own special place inside.

I think an addition is in order.
:icon_mrgreen: