GS 500

1998 Suzuki GS 500 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Engineered by Suzuki for the naked motorcycle segment, the 1998 Suzuki GS 500 utilizes a 487 cc (29.7 cu in) air-cooled twin, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 45 HP (32.8 kW) at 9,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 40 Nm (29.5 lb-ft) at 7,400 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox. With a specific output of 92.4 HP per liter and a 1,600 rpm working window between peak torque (7,400 rpm) and peak power (9,000 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.

On the scales, the GS 500 measures 169 kg (373 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.27 HP/kg (3.76 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 790 mm (31.1 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance.

Within MotoLibrary's Suzuki archive, this model family spans 5 indexed model years from 1993 to 2016, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.