Market Segment:
Affordable and reliable middleweight naked motorcycle, popular for commuting, beginner riders, and custom builds.
Key Competitors:
Kawasaki Ninja 500R, Honda CB500, Yamaha FZR600 (older models), entry-level 4-cylinder bikes of similar displacement.
Vehicle Attributes:
Simple, robust air-cooled parallel-twin engine, straightforward chassis, excellent fuel efficiency, low maintenance costs, and a vast aftermarket support.
Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive technical guidance essential for maintaining, repairing, and optimizing the Suzuki GS500 series, significantly reducing reliance on expensive dealership services.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Cooling and Lubrication System, Driveline/Axle, Transmission/Transaxle, Fuel System and Throttle, Electrical Systems, Suspension, Steering, Brake System, Frame, Bodywork
Procedures Included:
Troubleshooting, Periodic Maintenance, Tune-up, Repair, Inspection, Adjustment
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive; includes step-by-step instructions and detailed illustrations for a wide range of service and repair tasks, suitable for both novice and experienced technicians.
Engine Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for top-end and bottom-end engine rebuilds, piston replacement, valve seat work, and crankshaft inspection.
Carburetor Rebuild:
Step-by-step guide for disassembling, cleaning, rebuilding, and synchronizing the CV carburetors, including jetting information.
Suspension Fork Service:
Instructions for disassembling, cleaning, replacing seals and bushings, and refilling fork oil.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagrams, component testing procedures for ignition, charging systems, and lighting circuits.
Brake System Maintenance:
Procedures for brake fluid changes, caliper rebuilds, pad replacement, and rotor inspection.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive list of torque values for all critical fasteners (engine, chassis, suspension, brakes).
Clearances:
Precise specifications for valve clearances, bearing clearances, and general engine component tolerances.
Part Numbers:
While this is a service manual, it often cross-references or implies the use of specific Suzuki OEM part numbers, crucial for ordering correct components.
File Format:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable given PDF format, facilitating quick access to specific information.
Print Quality:
High resolution, allowing for clear printing of text and illustrations.
Usage Rights:
Downloadable and saveable to PC/MAC, allowing for offline access and printing.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 2-valve per cylinder, Parallel-twin
Displacement:
487 cc (396 cc for early models)
Bore X Stroke:
70.0 mm x 64.0 mm (approx.)
Compression Ratio:
9.0:1 (approx.)
Horsepower:
Approximately 48-52 hp @ 9,200 rpm (varies slightly by year and emissions controls)
Torque:
Approximately 28-30 lb-ft @ 7,400 rpm (varies slightly by year)
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni CV carbs (e.g., VM26SS or BST34)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher recommended
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher (check manual for exact spec)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 liters (including filter change)
Front Brake:
Single hydraulic disc (290mm) with 2-piston caliper; later models may have dual discs.
Rear Brake:
Single hydraulic disc (250mm) with 1-piston caliper
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specifics)
Headlight:
Halogen, typically H4 type bulb
System:
Basic analog instrumentation: speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, engine temperature warning light, neutral indicator, oil pressure light, high beam indicator.
Features:
No electronic driver assistance features (ABS, traction control, etc.) on most models, reflecting its era and design philosophy.
Lighting Type:
Standard halogen headlight, taillight, and turn signals.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 km or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise intervals).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km (check manual for specific plug type and gap).
Chain Adjustment Lubrication:
Check and adjust slack every 1,000 - 2,000 km; clean and lubricate regularly.
Valve Clearance Check:
Interval varies, often around 20,000 - 30,000 km; requires shims for adjustment (screw-and-locknut on some earlier versions).
Coolant Type:
If applicable (some GS500 variants may be air-cooled only, others have oil coolers). If liquid-cooled, use a high-quality ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Fork Oil Viscosity:
Typically SAE 10W fork oil, capacity specified in manual.
Common Problems:
Carburetor synchronization issues, worn swingarm bushings, cam chain noise (especially on high mileage), clutch wear, and potential stator failures. Rusty fuel tanks are also a common issue on older models.
Preventive Measures:
Regular maintenance, proper fuel storage, and addressing minor issues promptly can prevent most common problems.
Manufacturer:
Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan
Introduction Date:
GS500 model line introduced in the early 1980s, with the GS500E variant gaining popularity in the late 1980s.
Key Changes Over Years:
Introduction of the GS500F (faired version), minor engine updates for emissions, suspension improvements (e.g., adjustable preload on later models), carburetor upgrades, and cosmetic changes.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with some production potentially in other Suzuki facilities.