Okay I have been searching and searching and haven't found the answers I want so I will just ask everyone who reads this..

I have a 2007 GS500F and want to install clip-on handlebars. I can't stand the stock handlebars and want a more aggressive look. I need some help finding what I need to do this upgrade. I would also like to know exactly how to do this installation since I won't have a clue what to do.  I have a SV650 shock installed on my bike if that makes any difference. Thanks!!

I have a 2006 GS500F myself,

Clubman bars afford the clip-on style for cheap. I haven't seen any pictures of them and have heard since the tank isn't designed around you being leaned so far forward that the position is actually uncomfortable and awkward. The only way I can test it is to order them, and you can understand why I'm hesitant. I don't fully understand the difference between "clip-on" and "cafe-style" handlebars and the difference is important because clubmans fall closer to the "cafe-style" line than the "clip-on" line. I've heard mixed reviews on the clearance issues as well.

Alternatively there are more expensive (and better made) SM1's (Suburban Machinery Type 1) handlebars that apparently afford a better position, have better construction, and are easier to install and don't have clearance problems. The problem is they're almost 200 bucks USD. Pretty ridiculous for a set of drop in bars if you ask me. Unless they were heat treated in the blood of Suzuki's stock of sacrificial lambs I can't understand why they're so expensive. 

The 1989 clip-ons from the 89' GS500 are drop in replacements, but unless they are tweaked they have a clearance issue with the horn/starter at full lock. This problem is non-existent on the older models.

Vortex clip-ons can be installed if you raise the forks and clip them on above the triple. Otherwise you'll get fairing clearance problems bolting them on below the triple. Problem here is if you don't swap your fork springs (80 dollars + whatever time you take in labor) you'll bottom out your front suspension and possible break your fairing.



I've extensively researched this, and either Clubmans or SM1s are the real only "drop in" options for us. For almost 200, I'm kind of sad the SM1s aren't predrilled so it's a simple swap job.

  If you get clubmans youll need a set of bar risers, the sm1 eliminates the need for these because they're designed around the fork tube caps. the 89 clamp is awesome, I dont have clearance issues on my 09 at all. They're hard to come by though.

Just a thought, try a drag bar to start with. They're lower, require no mods and are about 20 bucks. See how the pressure feels on your wrists, shoulders, and lower back. Adjust accordingly, and if you still feel its too high go from there.

Quote from: pdx dino burner on September 27, 2011, 11:41:02 PM
  If you get clubmans youll need a set of bar risers, the sm1 eliminates the need for these because they're designed around the fork tube caps. the 89 clamp is awesome, I dont have clearance issues on my 09 at all. They're hard to come by though.

Just a thought, try a drag bar to start with. They're lower, require no mods and are about 20 bucks. See how the pressure feels on your wrists, shoulders, and lower back. Adjust accordingly, and if you still feel its too high go from there.

Are the drag bars easy to install too?

Here are some past topics that discussed the bars.
In one topic, that's where we discovered the difference between the USA 1989 ones and the other two types sold in Canada and Europe through 2000.

http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=53912.msg607729#msg607729
http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=56271.msg636932#msg636932
http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=55248.msg625453#msg625453
http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=55057.msg623500#msg623500
http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=54159.msg610850#msg610850

These should answer all questions you have about them.
As for where to get some? They show up on the board or ebay once in a while.

I guess I've lost my reputation as a parts whore. I'll dig into my parts bin and see how many extra sets I have. I know there are 10 sets of the clips that only fit the older tanks. Not a lot of top plates. A few each of the 89's and the other European ones that fit the new tanks. I'll have to see how many of the OEM bars are good. Some are bent or have a broken bar end screw (but that's fixable, don't know how to straighten a bar). So I guess if you can't locate any I probably can help out.


Still have some stuff to sort out. Looks like a few sets in this photo.


LSL makes a nice clip-on bar holder. I haven't used them, but they look really nice and clamp on below the triple so you don't have to fuggle with the fork position. But then for over $400 you could buy a parts bike.

Sorry Adidas, I'm on my phone and it's a nightmare to see if these were in those posts.......

Google a site called Fast from the Past, and look at their Tarozzi clip ons. Also, Omar's site (google it too) sells adjustable clubmans, but they aren't worth the cost IMO.