I wanted to get a set of tank grip pads for my GS500: http://www.techspec-usa.com/products/gs_suzuki.html

Tech-Spec does not fabricate custom pads for the GS500, but I was able to take part in a group buy at www.svrider.com where I picked up a set of SV650 tank pads for $30.

I bought the 1st generation SV650 pads in the "snakeskin" pattern (#62-0064-SS). The pads are supposed to be completely removable/reusable and should not leave any adhesive residue on the tank.







The snakeskin pattern has large raised bumps on the surface:


There is also a "high fusion" style that has smaller bumps (like sand paper).

The installation instructions are as follows:


First I wiped down my tank. Then I cleaned it thoroughly with rubbing alcohol.


Once the tank had dried, I was ready to apply the tank pads. Following the manufacturer's instructions, I heated up the gas tank area with a blow dryer (for about 30 s). Then I peeled off the corner of the backing paper and stuck the edge of the pad in the position I wanted. I slowly peeled back the paper and pressed the tank pad into position.


Done! Unfortunately, I have to give the adhesive 12 h to set before I can go for a test ride.

The finished product looks like this:

that is one clean GS

looks brand new!

and very nice tank pad!

Very nice!! Let us know the results of your test ride! 

Is that supposed to give grip to your thigh/knee area? I am not sure I understand how that helps with all the things mentioned on the package. Please explain to a newbie..

Quote from: shuluke on June 13, 2008, 11:07:17 AM
Is that supposed to give grip to your thigh/knee area? I am not sure I understand how that helps with all the things mentioned on the package. Please explain to a newbie..

The following article from Motorcycle Consumer News explains some of the benefits:
http://www.dogworldmag.com/mcn/features/June%20tank%20grips.pdf

Nice write up. 

+1 on the super clean bike. I just got back from a quick ride in the rain, my bike is covered in mud and road grime, I gotta get to cleaning.

Well, I rode about 500 km (300 miles) this weekend.  The tanks pads didn't make a huge difference, but they did offer noticeable improvement. I liked the extra grip when cornering; I'm not an experienced/aggressive rider, but I imagine the benefit would be even better for those of you who are.

For me, the biggest improvement was during braking - the pads eliminated any tendency to slide forward and therefore gave a better sense of control.

All-in-all, I think the tank pads are worth the $30!

On looks alone I give it a +1

beRto Im too lazy to go to the Co.'s site but am really interested as your bike looks killer with them on it.

Do they have different sizes of sheets of this material available? I'd like to make/order a piece that would cover the entire sculpted area of the tank.

Thanks.

Quote from: Fry on June 16, 2008, 04:48:17 PM
beRto Im too lazy to go to the Co.'s site but am really interested as your bike looks killer with them on it.

Do they have different sizes of sheets of this material available? I'd like to make/order a piece that would cover the entire sculpted area of the tank.

Thanks.

You're too lazy to do the legwork yourself, so you want me to do it for you?! 

Thanks to all for the compliments... I'm not one to worry about the look of my bike, but all the same I'm happy to hear you like it!