It’s logical for a new rider to think hilly terrain needs more power. I thought that too before I started riding – does a 500 have enough power to go up a steep hill?
If you’re talking about narrow, twisty, 2 lane roads, some times even 1 lane, some times very steep, the kind of road with a speed limit of 15-50 mph, interestingly enough, I find less power (such as a GS500) is just right, or better, than more power (such as a SV650). On those roads you don’t need wide open throttle. It’s all about applying just enough throttle, cornering, braking and technique, and something like a GS500, with it’s user friendly power and throttle response and quick handling, allows for a very controlled run, and has way more than enough power. I hardly ever had to use more than 3/4 throttle, and 99% of the time it’s less than 1/2 throttle.
The only thing a 500 may feel lacking is in a wide-open-throttle style acceleration on a wide open road. It’s still quick enough for any situation, but it’s just not the rocket ship ride that a larger displacement bikes can give you.