Segment:
Entry-level to mid-range sport-standard motorcycle.
Competitors:
Honda CB500, Kawasaki Ninja 500R, Yamaha FZR600R (during its production lifespan).
Durability:
Known for its robust and reliable air-cooled engine, making it a popular choice for commuting and general riding.
Simplicity:
Relatively simple mechanical design, making it approachable for DIY maintenance and repairs.
Versatility:
Adaptable for various riding styles, from city commuting to sport touring, with aftermarket customization options.
Years Covered:
1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
PDF Download (potentially zipped)
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, carburetion, ignition, lubrication, cooling systems.
Transmission:
Gearbox, clutch, drive chain maintenance and repair.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, lighting, ignition system components.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front fork, rear shock absorber, steering head bearings, frame inspection and repair.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, caliper service, master cylinder, brake fluid replacement.
Bodywork And Fairings:
Panel removal and installation, cosmetic repairs.
Fuel Tank And Petcock:
Service and repair of the fuel tank, petcock, and fuel lines.
Exhaust System:
Inspection, maintenance, and repair of the exhaust components.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake checks, chain lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault finding charts.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair and replacement.
Restoration:
Guidance for rebuilding and restoring the motorcycle to factory specifications.
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic trees and procedures for various systems.
Engine Diagnostics:
Detailed engine diagnostic procedures for troubleshooting performance issues.
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and electrical system troubleshooting).
Illustrations:
Illustrated with clear, step-by-step instructions, including zoomable illustrations and exploded views.
Part Breakdowns:
Detailed component breakdowns and part number information for all aspects.
Compatibility:
Windows, Linux, Mac (requires PDF reader; may require WinZip or WinRAR for extraction).
File Size Potential:
Up to 5 GB (indicative of comprehensive content).
Printable:
Yes, the manual is printable without restrictions.
Type:
N/A (Digital Download - not a physical book)
Type:
N/A (Digital Download - not applicable)
Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, parallel-twin
Displacement:
487 cc (approximately)
Bore X Stroke:
74.0 mm x 56.6 mm (typical)
Compression Ratio:
9.0:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
Approx. 47-50 hp @ 9000 rpm (depending on year and market)
Torque:
Approx. 40-42 Nm @ 7500 rpm (depending on year and market)
Carburetion:
Twin Mikuni CV carburetors (e.g., VM29SS or similar models).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (minimum 91 octane recommended).
Length:
Approx. 2140 mm (depending on fairing type)
Width:
Approx. 760 mm (depending on fairing type)
Height:
Approx. 1100 mm (depending on seat height and handlebars)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 173 kg
Wet Weight:
Approx. 187 kg (with all fluids)
Fuel Capacity:
17 Liters (including reserve)
Crash Test Data:
Motorcycle safety ratings are not typically standardized in the same way as automobiles. Focus is on component integrity and rider aids.
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake. ABS was not standard on most GS500 models during this period.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight and turn signals (depending on specific year/market updates).
Oil Change:
Every 6,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific oil type and viscosity).
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 12,000 km or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 km or 12 months.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 6,000 km or 6 months, replacement as needed.
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher (or as specified in the manual).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.2 Liters with filter change (refer to manual for exact capacity).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (refer to manual for specific recommendation and replacement intervals).
Coolant:
N/A (Air-cooled engine)
Carburetor Sync:
Can require periodic syncing for smooth running, especially after extensive use or modifications.
Cam Chain Tensioner:
Some early models may benefit from an aftermarket manual cam chain tensioner to prevent noise.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion on electrical connectors can lead to intermittent issues; regular inspection is advised.
Origin:
Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan.
Generations:
The GS500 platform has been relatively consistent, with minor updates to styling, suspension, and braking over its long production run.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan, with potential assembly in other regions.
Production Run:
First introduced in 1988/1989 and produced through 2009, marking a remarkably long and successful model lifecycle.