Hi! Im a 32 year old housewife who is thinking about getting a GS500 as my first bike.  My son just started school so I have nothing to do all day.  I have it narrowed down to a Kawasaki Ex250, an Ex500, or a GS500.  I was just wondering if you guys had any advice for me.

we're all going to be slightly skewed toward the GS500.

Quote from: savagebeauty on October 16, 2006, 07:28:57 PM
Hi! Im a 32 year old housewife who is thinking about getting a GS500 as my first bike.  My son just started school so I have nothing to do all day.  I have it narrowed down to a Kawasaki Ex250, an Ex500, or a GS500.  I was just wondering if you guys had any advice for me.

They're all good bikes, get the one that you feel most comfortable sitting on.

Of course, take the MSF.

GS500 is awesome, just keep up on the maintenance (as you would with any internal combustion vehicle) and you'll have years of fun.

BTW don't skimp on gear. you may never have to use it, but if you do you'll be glad for EVERY PENNY.

The only problem I have with the EX's is they are so farking ugly.  There is just something so magical about an unfaired bike. Thanks for the replies guys and I am scheduled to take the MSF in late October.

Cool, good times, good rides!

And remember Pride < Life.

ex250 you will get bored quickly  gs 500 a great bike to learn on ,will keep you interested for a long time .... get good equipment and take a safty course best money you will spend

Excellent! You are off to a great start on your motorcycling path.

How tall are you? If you're rather short, perhaps the Ninja 250 would be a better option as it has a lower seat height. However, if you can comfortable sit on the GS or the EX then those would be a more ideal choice, I feel.

Have you considered the cost of getting proper gear as well as the bike?

The GS500 is a great first bike.  As a matter of fact, I know of a really nice blue 05 GS500 for sale  .  Where are you located?

http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=30261.0

-Turd.

Eh, buy a GSX-R600.

-Wise Turd.

Money is not an object as the hubby is an investment banker. So good gear will be purchased and I will not be a squid or whatever you call it. I am 5'10 so I can reach on most every bike!!

Quote from: savagebeauty on October 16, 2006, 08:03:10 PM
Money is an object as the hubby is an investment banker. So good gear will be purchased and I will not be a squid or whatever you call it. I am 5'10 so I can reach on most every bike!!

Excellent! I suggest finding a naked GS500 or EX500, depending on which one you can find at a good price. If you do find an EX, be sure that it is a '94+ as that is when they gained 37mm forks, rather than the 35mm (?) ones they had previously.

Ok I will be looking for a GS then.  I really want a naked one cause i am sure i am going to drop it several times! LOL!

Where you from?  Many members here are selling thier GS's.

Maybe even me.

Quote from: AlphaFire X5 on October 16, 2006, 08:06:43 PM
Excellent! I suggest finding a naked GS500 or EX500, depending on which one you can find at a good price. If you do find an EX, be sure that it is a '94+ as that is when they gained 37mm forks, rather than the 35mm (?) ones they had previously.

Forks aren't the only thing.  In 94 they got 17" wheels (better rubber selection), bigger grakes, bigger carburetors, better ignition, slightly larger radiator, better lighting, an updated look and a couple other things.  but the first ones are the easiest to modify to poopy out of.

The debate between the GS and the EX will go on forever.  I prefer the GS for a number of reasons...mostly because they started with the bigger brakes and wheels and the styling as been pretty standard issue.  They're a better starting platform.

I prefer the EX because it's got a bigger engine, more power potential, it's a bigger bike, and there's a bit more room for accesories.

For a beginning housewife with no intention of racing or anything...I'd suggest the GS.  A pretty blue one.

I called her first, An!

Just kidding.  I guess I should give a warm welcome to you "savagebeauty".  You wont believe the things that go on around here.

-Turd.

Quote from: Turd Ferguson on October 16, 2006, 08:33:35 PM
I called her first, An!

Just kidding.  I guess I should give a warm welcome to you "savagebeauty".  You wont believe the things that go on around here.

-Turd.

I've seen plenty in just one night.......

well, if you need a GS, I've got one here in MA.

I think she wants one that's intact An.

BTW:

We're only half as crazy as we seem.

I get a strange feeling she'll fit right in...

-Wise Turd.