Hello,

I am wondering about compatibility of various GS500 parts.  I have checked on various online sources and seem to be getting a mixed opinions.

What sparked this question was I was wondering if the tail Fairings from an 89 will fit an 01 without any modifications?

The dealer told me he didn't know but thought they all were similar.  Some ebay sellers say they will fit, while others offer only for specific years, and further I know in 01 there were modifications made to the tail style of the 01.

Similarly please post other known compatibilities between the bikes.

Thanks.

I am running 06 tailwork on my 95, had to fab up a few brackets for the mounting tabs, and replace the seat.  I was already running an 04 tank, so that wasn't an issue.  as far as going he other way, you would definatly need a different seat, and weld some new brackets up with the little grommets,  the tank will work fine though

if you go this route, I have a seat from a 95 that I modded to fit the newer tank and with older bodywork.  I cut off the triangle at the tank, and recovered it.  if your interested, pm me

No, they are not identical.  The rear subframe was changed slightly in 2001. The tank shape was changed too, so seats and rear plastics changed in 2001.  They can be made to work, but it's a fussy job. I don't know exactly what is involved.

In short:

All years 1989 - 2000 are compatible

All years 2001+ are compatible.

Pre-2001 and post-2001 are not interchangable.

jeremy_nash
I would love to see how you have that set up. I have a 94 and would love to change over to 02+ plastics, seat and tank down the road. I am guessing you got a hold of an 06 seat. Tank and plastics changes aside, was the 06 seat a direct fit on your 95? Pics would be awesome.

Thanks.

Quote from: xanthras on September 25, 2009, 09:43:12 AM
jeremy_nash
I would love to see how you have that set up. I have a 94 and would love to change over to 02+ plastics, seat and tank down the road. I am guessing you got a hold of an 06 seat. Tank and plastics changes aside, was the 06 seat a direct fit on your 95? Pics would be awesome.

Thanks.

not a direct fit by any means.  I made and welded on brackets, had to add a support for the pillion seat, no more rear grab-bar.  although looking at it, you cant really tell its not factory.  I will try have to look on my camera for the pics I took

dang. I'm sorry to hear that. Wish it was easier!! Maybe i will learn to weld one of these days...