As i know very well when the clutch lever is pulled in and released it is supposed to spring back out. Well, mine doesn't. I pull the lever in and it stays there.. It isn't stuck it just doesnt spring back out like it should. Could it be the missing clutch safety switch? the previous owner removed it (not very smart I know) Help would be much appreciated

dont think the saferty switch 'should' affect movement.... more likely a sticky/bent cable .. or spring bit down in the clutch/engine area??

for info... what work/changes have you done on bike lately that might be near the cable/clutch area?

Broken cable,uncommon but it does happen.

It's been this way since I got the bike.. I've only done carb work and electrical work on the bike

hrm ... you didnt .. or PO didnt zip tie the cables under the tank down real tight ??... i did that to mine  ... messed with throttle and clutch response ... 

If the cable is routed correctly & has nothing to inhibit it's motion then the only thing it could be is behind the engine casing.Possible problems are the Clutch Release Arm Spring,or where the cable actually hooks in.
Your going to have to look.Do u have a Workshop Manual....i'm assuming not?
I have not had  this problem so i'll defer to more knowledgeable members.
http://www.bikebandit.com/2005-suzuki-gs500f/o/m16075#sch591339

I have a Haynes service and repair manual.. If that's what you mean..

I also have a 1997 gs500.. Just saying in case that particular part differs from yours.. Which I doubt

Quote from: newbie1993 on July 16, 2013, 10:01:40 PM
I have a Haynes service and repair manual.. If that's what you mean..

Yes that's what i mean.Refer to that & follow where the cable goes & what could possibly stop your lever from returning.
Wait for replies from ppl who have first hand knowledge.

BTW....when u disengaged(pulled your lever)  in the past how did u engage(release it) it again?

The bolt holding the clutch lever could be too tight. The bolt could be full of rust.
Remove the lever. Check the bolt and grease things up.

If things "check out" at the clutch lever, you might want to inspect the return spring (item 28) in the following diagram:



The lower end of the clutch cable is captured in the protrusion just above the spring.  This whole assembly is behind a cover on the left side of the bike.  (See your Haynes manual for the correct disassembly / inspection sequence.)

What Kerry says and your cable could be rusty. Might need a new clutch cable or try lubing it. If rusty, should be replaced as rust eats through the cable and it can snap.