• The Suzuki GS500E was not the biggest nor the most exciting bike around, but it proved popular nevertheless through reliability, practicality and a design that has evolved, but not changed in concept over time. The bike was especially preferred among new riders, as its power was modest enough not to daunt a first timer.
  
  

Power

• A four-stroke, 492 cc in-line engine with double overhead cams was at the heart of the Suzuki GS 500E. The bore and stroke was 2 inches by 2.2 inches and the compression ratio was 8.5 to 1. The engine developed 47 horsepower at 9,250 rpm. A Mikuni BS carburetor delivered the fuel. The GS had a six-speed transmission.
  
  

Dimensions

• The wet weight of the vehicle was 441 pounds. It had an 18-inch back tire, 3.8 inches wide, and a 19-inch front tire, 3.3 inches wide. The Suzuki could hold a maximum of 4.5 gallons of fuel.
  
  

Brakes and Suspension

• The Suzuki came equipped with 10.8-inch dual disc front brakes, and a single 10.8-inch rear disc brake. The front suspension had a Telehydraulic fork, and the rear had a two-sided swing arm and adjustable shocks.