Okay I am looking at purchasing a GS500 for a really good deal I think it is a 1989 model and the bike looks pretty good. The only thing is that it has been sitting for about a year and wont start. The battery has been replaced too.  Since I am new I thought I would post to try and get a clue as to what this starting issue could be and if it is usually minor then I was going to get the bike. Thanks in advance and this site looks like it can be very helpful if I get this bike.

Tim

it could be any number if things, for a start the fuel, you'll have to drain the tank and clean, the carbs the same,
the spark plugs, will probly need changing,
details.. is it turning over but not fireing??
is it not turning over?,
are the lights coming on?
we need a bit more info, otherwise we are just stabbing in the dark

Chances are the gas is old and the fuel lines and carbs are all gummed up with crappy gas...  But, it could be a number of other things.

1)  When the Key is ON, do the headlight and tail light come on as well?
2)  When pressing the Starter button, does the engine crank, dim the lights, make certain noises?
3)  Are the spark plugs giving a bright spark?


Yeah... What he said...   


You might just want to drain the gas, change the oil, and change the plugs... Since you'll have to do it eventually anyway.

Also, are you using the choke???  When I got my bike last year I forgot to choke it and drained the battery...

Otherwise +1 to what RVertigo and hmmmnz posted, more info please...