I just saw this posted on a local bike site :
http://www.gtamotorcycle.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=38419&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0

It sounds like it could be a ton of fun (350lbs with about 60bhp).  My wife is looking at options for next year.. she's planning on selling the Virago 250 and moving to something more sporty.  We tried the GS, but even after dropping it 1.5 inches, it just didn't work for her.  The seat height is just about right (30 inches), which is very close to the Ninja 250 -- the runner up bike.

Quote from: sys49152I just saw this posted on a local bike site : The seat height is just about right (30 inches)

Seat height on your dropped GS500 is going to be 30" or less.   :dunno:  I just noticed that you had an F - did you get the sides trimmed?  The seat is utterly horrible for short people, no matter how low the bike is, until you cut off those projections on the side.

On this page, they list the height as being a whole 0.2" less than a stock GS500E's.

http://www.suzukicycles.org/GSX-R-series/GSX-R400.shtml

In general, though, a beginner sportbiker on a race-spec bike is not typically the best idea in the world.  If you want it for you, get it for you.  If she wants an EX250, this isn't going to be anything like it.

Quote from: RoadstergalSeat height on your dropped GS500 is going to be 30" or less. dunno I just noticed that you had an F - did you get the sides trimmed?

True.  For some reason I thought the stock height was 31.6, but you're right.. it's only a tick over 31.  We didn't try trimming the sides although I'll keep that in mind regardless of what she decides to get next.  The big problem was how top heavy the bike felt, especially compared to the Ninja 250 and even compared to the Ninja 500.

I thought this might be a good fit after riding a friends CB400 CB1.  I'm guessing this bike is somewhat similar.  The CB1 was very very flickable, felt light and had great street manners for a bike that red lines near 13 or 14K.

Quote from: RoadstergalIf she wants an EX250, this isn't going to be anything like it.

Um.. that's what I was really hoping for.  A bit more than a 250, but not quite as much as a 600.  I'm guessing though that the handling on the 250 is probably significantly better than this bike, given the age of its technology.

we just dont get them here in the USA, kinda sucks

Quote from: Blueknytwe just dont get them here in the USA, kinda sucks

Some people did get them in here, though.  But you're going to have a heck of a time finding parts.  You might never need them; I dunno, I never had one.

If the R meant anything back then, it's going to have a suspension and brakes that will be more responsive than the Ninja's - and less forgiving.  That's the other concern that comes to mind.

Oh, I read the ad - and y'all think I'm mean?    

It's funny how some people freak out when they see the "R" designation, like it is some kind of a monster. So it is a 60HP bike! Iif she has previous riding experience, I am pretty sure she will be able to handle it...  

Quote from: PhaedrusIt's funny how some people freak out when they see the "R" designation, like it is some kind of a monster.

The R designation just means it's set up for race, which is typically a less forgiving suspension and brakes, and a more aggressive position than a Ninja or GS.  HP isn't as much of a consideration; modern bikes put the '80s-early '90s supersports to shame.  It's not a killer on the deal, just something to consider, for her own comfort (position) and confidence (especially if she'll be riding in the rain).

And I would still consider the parts issue, for a non-US market bike.  Insurance, as well, for that matter.

Although insurance won't be a problem, parts likely will.  I'm also no wrench and this bike will need some work in the near future.  And it isn't all that cheap ($4k CDN will nearly buy you a '04 GS).

Still, it looks awesome for an '88.  I should just go over and try it out.  If I do, I'll post the experience.

R means mousepad seat, one finger stoppie brakes, and two throttle settings, fast and oh shaZam!.  if that's what she wants then go buy it.

 The GSX-R400 in the ad is totally different than the gixxer pictured here.

get a FZR400 instead if this is the category you're considering...parts are more easy to find...and prices are cheaper too...

Yea, what frost said. Parts and things are a Buddha Loves You. Even with the FZR400 though.. parts can be hard. I rode the little gix in japan that a friend owned. It is HELLA quick. You can wheelie on that thing mad easy. Much easier then the 250 IMO. The 250 will come up if you give it a little gas though The gs.. well.. it needs some clutching. If she has some experience, and is down to go fast. I say go for it. If she still has only 5k under her belt.. I would wait a while. 10k? Go for it.. .. hell.. secure it for ME.. then I will have you ship it to me for $250 USD more and shipping... I need to find someone in CA that will get me a couple bikes anyway. There are some things that are harder to get here, and much easier in the great white north that i want....