Hey all,

I'm a newbie GS500 2001 owner that just bought it used and I have a couple of issues (which may be cleared up when I get it tuned up) :

1) The seat.  I didn't realize how uncomfortable it is for my crotch.  I have seen this after market corbin seat.  Is it any good?  I think I'd like to make my seat higher so my family jewels are not so pressed against the tank.  Any ideas for an inexpensive home-crafted solution?

2) The Clutch.  Does the clutch on this GS normally require a lot of pressure to operate?  My last bike was a hydraulic clutch and it didn't take so much muscle to squeeze.  Is this normal for a cable clutch?

-Also, I notice that when I fully let the clutch out I have to REALLY gas it so it doesn't stall.  Again, is this normal or does the clutch and/or timing need to be tuned up.

3) Good Online Parts Site.  Could someone recommend a good online site to get parts.  The most inexpensive with decent service.

Regards,
DoubleJNYC
(Upper West Side, NYC)

Even though I don't really know much about motorcycles, I have had my GS for a little bit and I know that the clutch isn't that hard to operate.

About giving it alot of gas: sound like you need to let it warm up a little bit

Lets hear from the real experts, shall we

Welcome!

The clutch cable may need to be lubed. Or, the bolt for the clutch pivot may be too tight. Or, there might be a lot of dirt (or it's dry) inside the clutch perch.

For the stalling problem, my first response would be operator error, but because I can't witness it in person, I can only conjecture. Are you giving it enough gas? Are you letting the clutch out slow enough? Does the clutch only engage with the lever completely out? If so, adjust the cable looser and test. If it still does it, I'm thinking the clutch fiber plates may need to be replaced. But, before we start spending money replacing parts, I'd like to eliminate other less expensive potential problems. Is this your first bike with a cable clutch? How long have you been riding? Oh, and the timing isn't really adjustable, so it's unlikely for it to get out of timing.

You've got a 2001 model, and the '01+ bikes don't have a Corbin seat available. Only the 1989-2000 models.

+ 1 to what scratch said on the clutch.

Online parts store: depends on what you need.

www.maw.com and www.motorcycle-superstore.com are fairly good. I got Pirelli Sport Demons from Motorcycle Superstore for the cheapest I could find.

Lube the clutch cable.  If that doesn't help, just replace it.  They're about $20-25 as I recall.  (Just replaced mine)

Also check and lube the clutch release cam inside the sprocket cover.  It has a habit of collecting road grit and contributing to poor feel and stiffness.

The GS clutch isn't stiffer than any other bike I've had experience with.

for OEM parts Bikebandit.com is ok.  I've ordered several things from them.  They are a little slow shipping stuff out, but besides that just fine.

Check on the main page in the How to section.  I think there is a seat mod in there, if not use the search function, cause I know there are some posts about it.  Some people have removed the vinyl seat cover, and added more foam, then re-covered the seat.  I have small bits and pieces, so I don't have too much trouble with the seat.  You could always just try to scoot back a bit on the seat.

You might find it easier to modify your crotch!

Or, your seating position (maybe new handlebars, higher handlebars so you're not laying on 'them'; or, rotate your pelvis so you're not straightbacked).

Quote from: Jake DYou might find it easier to modify your crotch!

I do custom crotch modification.   :lol:

When you sit on the bike, pull your tackle up so you're not sitting on it.  Make sure your back is straight and that you're back a bit on the seat (i.e. not pinning the jewels against the tank).

am i the only one that thinks it's hilarious that, not only is RG is giving advice on hardware she doesnt posess, but is also completley right.

Quote from: Roadstergal

Quote from: Jake DYou might find it easier to modify your crotch!

I do custom crotch modification.   :lol:

She must have one of those Black & Decker Pecker Wreckers.

Quote from: Slowe30am i the only one that thinks it's hilarious that, not only is RG is giving advice on hardware she doesnt posess, but is also completley right.

Yeah, she has a knack for.....common sense  

Anyway, Doublejcyn, I have also had good results with Mr. Cycles:

http://www.mrcycles.com

Quote from: Slowe30am i the only one that thinks it's hilarious that, not only is RG is giving advice on hardware she doesnt posess, but is also completley right.

:lol:

Thanks for the ton o feedback all....in just a few hours no less.  This site kicks ass.  I'm definitely donating real soon.

Cheers,
Justin

Even after lubricating, still think the clutch is too stiff?

:lol:  :lol: great feed back :lol:  :lol:

Quoteam i the only one that thinks it's hilarious that, not only is RG is giving advice on hardware she doesnt posess

what makes you think she doesnt now or at one time posess said equipment?
its been said the men dont own thiers, its only on loan from the wemen they are with.

its also posible she has listen to someone discribing said process to another.    
though i do love the term Tackle.  gave me a giggle.

Quote from: Blueknyt

Quoteam i the only one that thinks it's hilarious that, not only is RG is giving advice on hardware she doesnt posess

what makes you think she doesnt now or at one time posess said equipment?

I would just assume she posseses several...

From Odds n Ends, Thu Sep 29, 2005

Quote from: RoadstergalThe place we went for my PI's promotion party was open until 2, but it moved to Capitol Hill. Which is another good place to hang out. Oh, make sure you stop by Babeland. Across from BMW Seattle. The best sex shop I've ever been to.

I'm not sure I want to know what she keeps in her tackle box.  

Wow...that sounds all wrong when you read it out loud.  

Welcome!  

Quote from: BadgerWow...that sounds all wrong when you read it out loud.  

:lol: @all...

It's just rational - if you have something sensitive hanging off there, don't sit on it or squish it.