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'82 GS450 vs 2002 GS500 Ease of maintenance difference?

B

Boogywstew

Forum Apprentice
Any opinions here on which bike would be more owner friendly in regards to routine servicing or common repairs. It would seem like the '02 perimeter frame might get in the way but of course maybe it's the downtube frame that's a dirty rotten scoundrel?
 
Maintenance wise, I'm sure there's not a ton of difference if they're in roughly the same condition.

I suspect, but cannot positively confirm, that the 500 is going to be easier to find parts for (new, used, and aftermarket) by virtue of being newer and absolutely ubiquitous in no small part because they were produced for 19 years. (Apparently still being made in Columbia!) Compared to only about 5 years for the 400 and 450. A few parts for the vintage GSes are getting harder to find and/or expensive because Suzuki elected to stop making them. Right now things are okayish but who knows if or when they will stop selling them altogether.

The GS500, while not a very noteworthy bike in general, is going to have the benefit of two decades of motorcycle innovation. Better frame, better engine, better suspension. But of course it lacks that special UJM appeal. Truth be told, I'd rather look for an SV650. Even more ubiquitous, just as cheap, and adapt to just about every riding style without complaint. (Or so I am told, haven't had a chance to jump on one myself.)
 
Thank you for responding! I'd like to stay with the transverse, air cooled twins. Everything you mention is, indeed, words to the wise.Specifically, what about valve adjustments?
 
Both have two valves per cylinder and use shims for valve clearance. That means if the clearance needs to be adjusted, you need to source one or more shims.
 
Shim valve adjustment is stupid easy to perform. The valves will hold their adjustment for an extremely long time as well. The only hassle is buying shims. Once you take an inventory, though, just buy a handful of shims that are thinner than the ones you have installed. For example, if you have some 265's installed, have some 260, 255, and 250's on hand before you start. They only cost about $8/each, so the cost is minimal.

Oh, and GS500 all the way. It's much newer, so that right there will reduce maintenance time.
 
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