[JtownJJA]

I would say go with the GS500F. Of course I’d say that because that is what I have. A Year ago, I was in the same spot you’re in. My top two choices were the Ninja 500 and the GS500F. I eventually decided to go with the Suzuki because I liked the looks of the fairings more. I’ve been very happy with it, and had no problems from the standpoint of being a new rider and going with a 500 instead of a 250.
However, I can’t argue with the rest of the folks on here that the new Ninja 250 looks fabulous. It all depends on what your needs are, and what your preferences are, not to mention what deals come along when you’re ready to make the financial jump.

[JtownJJA]

Your deal sounds better than mine was. I got a 2004 with only 4000 miles on it, but paid over 3,000. Of course I got mine in June when prices are higher as well. I’m still very happy with it, though. The GS500F has been a great starter bike for me. I don’t intend on getting rid of it any time soon.

[JtownJJA]

It’s been a while since I’ve posted on here… just waiting out the winter, I guess. But I was really drawn in with what you described happened. I’ve always kept my bike in gear at the stop lights, and MOST of the time, I keep an eye on the rear-view mirror. But to react at just the right time and get out of the way meant you had to really be prepared to react. Thank you for the reminder! What is it again? SEE – Seek, Evaluate, Execute!

[JtownJJA]

The best advice I can give you is to take the MSF course before you buy. What if you really don’t like riding a motorcycle after all? Or what if it is more difficult for you than you thought it would be. Or, by riding the bikes provided in the class, it could shape your thoughts toward what kind of bike you would like to buy? Yes, it is a big pain to have to wait, especially if you can’t schedule the class in the near future, but it is the best route to take. If you live in a typical climate and you go ahead and buy now, it’s going to just sit in the garage anyway. I really suggest that you wait. I’m sure that most of the folks here would agree with me on this.
Of course if you decide to go ahead with a purchase, we won’t hold it against you. It’s just that the MSF course is such a valuable experience in shaping your own individual thoughts and ideas toward motorcycling.
Best of luck to you, whatever you decide.

[JtownJJA]

Hey, that’s a great lookin’ bike! I think you will really enjoy it. If only we could squeeze out a few more sunny weekends here in Ohio, but we’ve been pretty lucky to have them last this long. Now is the time to be picking up some great deals, apparently, with the season being pretty much over. I’m glad you were able to snatch one up.

[JtownJJA]

they are both too tall for me. Congrats Eternal!

[JtownJJA]

I have a 2004 GS500F and I really like it a lot. However, I’ve never riden the SV650 so I can’t speak to it or how the GS500F compares to it. Also, this the first and only bike I’ve ever owned, so really, I have nothing to compare it to.
I will say that I’ve never felt a lack of power. It goes fine on the freeway at 65-70 mph. It handles very easily. Turning is simple. Breaking is very responsive. However, I’m guessing that you would get these same comments from someone with an SV650 as well.
I would like to mention that to me, the GS500F does feel more sporty in it’s riding position than some on here have commented. I’m not real tall (about 5’5″ or so) and I’m leaning foward slightly most of the time. When the wind gets really rough, I do lean forward quite a bit in a more agressive position, which is sometimes fun. It gives you a taste of what the supersport bikes must feel like, yet you don’t have to stay in that position. I would venture to say that you probably can do this a bit with the SV650 as well if you wanted to.
I guess the best thing to do would be to try them both out if you can. At least go sit on each of them. With your experience on the S40, I can’t imagine you having problems with riding the SV650 from a power standpoint. It may come down to your preferences in how they look. Oh, and I would also guess that the gas mileage would be better on the GS500F, if that is a concern for you.

[JtownJJA]

I agree, Eternal, this string is getting long. But it sure does have a happy ending!! I’m amazed at how quickly everything came together for you, Tara. Seems like just yesterday your joined the BBM community. Great looking bike, and well-taken photos. Ride Safe!

[JtownJJA]

All I can say is consider yourself lucky, man. I get my show in Cleveland during the last week of January… There won’t be any demo rides there, for sure. I’m jealous! I’m always trying to talk my wife into moving to Texas. You just gave me another great reason.
I would have really enjoyed trying out the Ninja 650 and the Yamaha FZ6R. I may have given the TMax a try as well. It looks pretty cool… for a scooter. Especially in the Yellow, but I agree, it is pricey, and it doesn’t get as good mpg as I would like. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
Oh yes… another big question for you. Did Suzuki have any 2010’s at the show?

[JtownJJA]

I just saw where Hyosung is adding Fuel Injection to it’s 2010 250 CC Models. I think it is a good strategic move for them. The GT250R does look great.

http://www.hyosungmotorsusa.com/new_product/introduction.asp?Cat=RoadSports&model=GT250R&year=2010

However, until they build their dealer network, and gain a reputation of quality, I doubt they will make a serious run against the Ninja 250. I know that you rarely see or hear of any Hyosung bikes around central Ohio.

[JtownJJA]

Thank you for the lessons learned. Certainly is helpful to all of us. Great to hear that you came out of it injury-free.

[JtownJJA]

I agree with Elwood, Munch. Your descriptive words were picture enough. It’s interesting that you mentioned the smells from the trip. I noticed that the scents I came across were especially strong during my ride. It’s funny that two distinct smells stuck out in my mind, and the name of these two smells is what I almost used for the heading in my original post… Pigs and Propane.

[JtownJJA]

Isn’t road construction great. Hopefully the situation is temporary as they may be preparing to resurface the road. Until then, take it easy through the “groovy” road. Depending on what type of road it is (55mph vs. 35 mph) you may want to slow down a bit, and don’t make any sudden changes in speed or direction. But Munch is right. Loosen up and go with the bike, unless that is across the median of course.

[JtownJJA]

Hey Sam, nice video of the G650GS. I was just about to tell you that you need to talk with this other guy on the site that just got a black G650GS like yours. Then I went back to the other posts to get his name, and it was you! lol

[JtownJJA]

I’ve been following this thread at work all day, but have not been able to respond until now. Two thoughts occurred to me, and Elwood beat me to one of them.
1- You may want to consider looking into a scooter. If you mainly need transportation to get around your college campus, a scooter could be perfect for that. You may be able to get a 150CC or 250CC scooter cheaper than that Ninja 250. It would give you reliable transportation, and give you the chance to get experience. It would also give you the opportunity to show your father your reponsibility, in which he may later be willing to help you get that real motorcycle.
2- Also, if you haven’t already, you need to review the topic “It sucks to be a young male”. It will open your eyes to the realities of the cost of insurance. In addition to the bike and the gear, insurance is an additional expense that you need to plan for.

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