Gs500f Vs Ninja 250r 6k2uq

02-26-2010, 10:09 PM Thread Starter Yashang SBN Rookie Date: Feb 2010 Location: Detroit, MI Age: 25 Posts: 9 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) Ninja 250R or GS500F? Hey, I'm looking to buy my first bike sometime soon. I was going to go for a Ninja 650R but that seems a little bit out of reach money-wise...So I'm looking for a cheaper alternative. I found a good amount of Ninja 250R's and GS500F's for around $2500. I'm not sure the ninja would be good for me because I'll be using it in the highway for about 1 hour a day. Would the ninja be able to handle an hour on the highway each day or would i be better off getting the GS? Thanks. Yashang is offline Quote Quick Reply

post #2 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-26-2010, 10:20 PM Saml01 500 G.P. Champion

Date: Jun 2009 Location: Long Island, NY Posts: 2,341 Thanks: 2 Thanked 13 Times in 6 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) I rode a 250 and I liked it. Compared to my bike its obviously a space ship, but still I was convinced that people on this forum know what they are talking about when they recommend starting with the 250. Sure its only a 250, but its just enough to stay out of serious trouble yet enough to be serious

fun. I liked everything about it, really really cool little bike. I highly recommend it. Saml01 is offline Quote Quick Reply post #3 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-26-2010, 10:27 PM Shamrock627 After Me Lucky Charms

Date: Jun 2007 Location: Kentucky Age: 46 Posts: 5,214 Thanks: 874 Thanked 702 Times in 458 Posts Mentioned: 1 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 30 Post(s) Get the GS500F. You'll thank me later. Shamrock627 is offline Quote Quick Reply post #4 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-26-2010, 10:33 PM Thread Starter Yashang SBN Rookie Date: Feb 2010 Location: Detroit, MI Age: 25 Posts: 9 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) My main concern is being able to drive on the highway 5 days a week to and from college, the GS seems more my speed when it comes to that. Yashang is offline Quote Quick Reply post #5 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-26-2010, 11:02 PM vince_2149 500 GP Racer

Date: Oct 2008 Location: Avondale, AZ Age: 26 Posts: 763 Thanks: 11 Thanked 4 Times in 3 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) I ride my 250 on the highway all the time to school and out to the twisties. It keeps up just fine and I always have power available if I need to speed up. I just threw a double bubble on it and it works fine. It's comfortable too. 2012 Ninja 250 My riding videos: http://www.vimeo.com/1395389/videos vince_2149 is offline Quote Quick Reply post #6 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-26-2010, 11:19 PM Nightfall Lingerie Bandit

Date: Aug 2007 Location: Lake City, Florida Age: 28 Posts: 5,623 Thanks: 2 Thanked 8 Times in 5 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) Ninja 250 all the way. "From the sky, to the ground rain is falling all around, thunder, rain and wind a song of storms begins."

Nightfall is offline Quote Quick Reply post #7 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-26-2010, 11:52 PM GTStreet Back Marker Date: May 2009 Location: Charleston SC Age: 28 Posts: 38 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) I'd go with the GS. I got a Monster 620 for my first bike and it's fine. Honestly as long as you stay away from the 600+ I4 engines you should be ok. I would argue you get a naked for your first bike so if you drop it(When, really), you won't bust up hundreds of dollars worth of plastics. GTStreet is offline Quote Quick Reply post #8 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-27-2010, 12:40 AM vince_2149 500 GP Racer

Date: Oct 2008 Location: Avondale, AZ Age: 26 Posts: 763 Thanks: 11 Thanked 4 Times in 3 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) Quote:

Originally Posted by Nightfall Ninja 250 all the way. You still gotta post your pic of your 500r though. I love that thing! 2012 Ninja 250 My riding videos: http://www.vimeo.com/1395389/videos

vince_2149 is offline Quote Quick Reply post #9 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-27-2010, 01:00 AM Stick N Move World 500 GP Champion

Date: Sep 2008 Location: Sacramento, CA Age: 26 Posts: 4,470 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) 650r

Yeah baby thats right...being the simon champion is pretty sexy isnt it? Stick N Move is offline Quote Quick Reply post #10 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-27-2010, 02:06 AM Delo 500 G.P. Champion

Date: Sep 2009 Location: Brooklyn, NY Posts: 1,294 Thanks: 4 Thanked 41 Times in 29 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) Generally, the 250 not having enough power on the highway is a misconception. And for a new rider it's a great bike to learn on. Buy it cheap and sell it in 3 months if the highway doesn't work for you. What's the average speed of traffic on that stretch of road? Is it usually windy?

Delo is offline Quote Quick Reply post #11 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-27-2010, 10:03 AM Saml01 500 G.P. Champion

Date: Jun 2009 Location: Long Island, NY Posts: 2,341 Thanks: 2 Thanked 13 Times in 6 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) IMHO the biggest difference between the two bikes is the riding position. If you are commuting, I wouldnt get the 250. The way you sit on it pissed me off to no end, but again im not asport bike guy. Saml01 is offline Quote Quick Reply post #12 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-27-2010, 10:15 AM lasermax 500 G.P. Champion

Date: May 2008 Location: S E Michigan Age: 48 Posts: 1,752 Thanks: 516 Thanked 205 Times in 134 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 2 Post(s) The 250 will handle the freeway okay, but I feel the GS500 is a safer choice, mostly because it has more ing power at those speeds. On the 250 in traffic you will feel like a sitting duck, and as a new rider if you don't know what situations to look out for you might find yourself getting hopelessly boxed in by the mindless SUV drivers. lasermax is offline Quote Quick Reply post #13 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-27-2010, 10:58 AM skyjumper88

World Superbike Champion Date: Jul 2009 Location: unknown Age: 28 Posts: 631 Thanks: 0 Thanked 5 Times in 4 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) I say go with the GS500, like laser max said the 250 would handle the freeway oky but you would not have alot of power to get out of trouble if you need to. I'm riding a Ninja500 and it's my first bike and I have been doing oky on it. I have been down twice but one of them were due to me not using my high beams during the night and the other one is a more embarrassing story of me droping my bike at a intersection. I also think if you get the GS500 it would last longer as far as not out growing the bike on skill level. I have had my 500 for 8 months now and I have not come close to useing the full potional of what the bike can do. Good luck with your choice and have fun but be careful skyjumper88 is offline Quote Quick Reply post #14 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-27-2010, 11:26 AM Ghost Rider 500 GP Racer Date: Jul 2004 Location: Ontario Posts: 994 Thanks: 11 Thanked 47 Times in 32 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) Will the 250 handle the highway? Yes. Will you be better off with the 500? Yes. Get the 500. Ghost Rider is offline Quote Quick Reply post #15 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-27-2010, 11:29 AM Thread Starter Yashang SBN Rookie Date: Feb 2010 Location: Detroit, MI Age: 25 Posts: 9 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s)

Quote:

Originally Posted by Delo Generally, the 250 not having enough power on the highway is a misconception. And for a new rider it's a great bike to learn on. Buy it cheap and sell it in 3 months if the highway doesn't work for you. What's the average speed of traffic on that stretch of road? Is it usually windy? The limit is 70 MPH the entire way, it's about a 30 min drive to my college. This being Michigan, most of the drivers are pretty bad. The biggest problem is avoiding the "Detroit" drivers who drive with their seats leaned as far back as possible. "gangstas" if you will. As for the wind, we get a few gusty days but they're not too common. 02-27-2010, 11:44 AM skyjumper88 World Superbike Champion Date: Jul 2009 Location: unknown Age: 28 Posts: 631 Thanks: 0 Thanked 5 Times in 4 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) Man I hate cagers. I have lost count on how many times I have been nearly side swiped by cagers comming into my line and not seeeing me. It's times like thoughs when you will be glide that you have a little power to maneuver when you need to. skyjumper88 is offline Quote Quick Reply

post #17 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-27-2010, 11:47 AM Ghost Rider 500 GP Racer Date: Jul 2004 Location: Ontario Posts: 994 Thanks: 11 Thanked 47 Times in 32 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s)

To put it in you will understand. It's like driving on the highway at 85 mph. You can do it in Pontiac Wave G3. The G3 has more than enough power to drive it at 85 mph until it runs out of gas. However an old Chevy Impala will feel a lot better doing it. The GS500 isn't big on HP. It has just enough power to make you think it has power. The 250 might be safer as it won't lead you on. Last edited by Ghost Rider; 02-27-2010 at 11:49 AM. Ghost Rider is offline Quote Quick Reply post #18 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-27-2010, 11:50 AM sportbikeridr SBN Rookie

Date: Dec 2009 Location: coal region,Pa Age: 43 Posts: 25 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) i would reccomend you starting out on the ninja 250 ... start small then work your way on up the ladder.. i know pepole might say to you get a big bike to start out on, thats fine but you have to realize that its you riding the bike and not " tom , dick,or harry" .. i can't make your mind up as to what to by, im just giving you some advice, take it or leave it . i personal started out on a 2006 ninja 250 and for me it was just enough get up and go . since then ive owned 2 bikes, now i have a 2008 GSXR600 .. take your time and i'm sure you will make the right choice ... sportbikeridr is offline Quote Quick Reply post #19 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-27-2010, 11:54 AM Thread Starter Yashang SBN Rookie Date: Feb 2010 Location: Detroit, MI Age: 25 Posts: 9 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s)

well I'm in no hurry to buy one right now, I still have to take the MSF course. I guess I'll try them both out on the road and see how each feels. Thanks for all the advice. Yashang is offline Quote Quick Reply post #20 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-27-2010, 12:01 PM sportbikeridr SBN Rookie

Date: Dec 2009 Location: coal region,Pa Age: 43 Posts: 25 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) no problem.. just trying to help you out .. i see u mentioned the MSF course. i took the same course, they teach you everything there is to know sportbikeridr is offline Quote Quick Reply post #21 of 33 (permalink)Old 02-28-2010, 10:03 PM DINO5 Superbike Champion

Date: May 2009 Location: Glendora, CA Posts: 413 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) Quote:

Originally Posted by skyjumper88 Man I hate cagers. I have lost count on how many times I have been nearly side swiped by cagers comming into my line and not seeeing me. It's times like thoughs when you will be glide that you have a little power to maneuver when you need to.

That's because you're hanging out too long in their blind spot. The GS500 is an awesome beginner bike. Just be careful of neglected ones owned by clueless people. DINO5 is offline Quote Quick Reply post #22 of 33 (permalink)Old 03-01-2010, 07:33 AM dsmgixxer World 500 GP Champion

Date: Aug 2008 Location: Dsm IA Posts: 4,314 Thanks: 41 Thanked 118 Times in 87 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) id suggest the gs500. its a great starter bike. ive ridden both bikes and i own a gs500. ive ridden a 250 on the highway. yes it can manage but seriously sometimes to get up to speed or ing u have to wrap the throttle out. id much rather have the small amount of extra power the 500 has. plus its a fun bike! dsmgixxer is offline Quote Quick Reply post #23 of 33 (permalink)Old 03-01-2010, 07:40 AM millenix Umbrella Girl Date: Aug 2004 Location: Dallas, TX Age: 33 Posts: 42 Thanks: 0 Thanked 1 Time in 1 Post Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) A Ninja 500 or GS 500 would be adequate without being too much for you, no reason not to consider them. Plenty of ing power, but power is still linear and predictable. millenix is offline Quote Quick Reply post #24 of 33 (permalink)Old 03-03-2010, 10:14 PM

GoIllini Clueless Newbie

Date: Apr 2007 Location: Princeton NJ Age: 31 Posts: 786 Thanks: 3 Thanked 6 Times in 5 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) Quote:

Originally Posted by Yashang My main concern is being able to drive on the highway 5 days a week to and from college, the GS seems more my speed when it comes to that. I've ridden on the NJ Turnpike (arguably one of the worst designed and worst driven roads in the country) on both a 250 and a faster bike. While a 250 will do just fine, I think you'll be a lot more comfortable on a 500 in this particular case for a first bike. That said, a 250 is great for the twisties or stop and go traffic. And it's so friggin easy to maintain. Quote:

I ride my 250 on the highway all the time to school and out to the twisties. It keeps up just fine and I always have power available if I need to speed up. I just threw a doublebubble on it and it works fine. It's comfortable too. I felt that way my first two years- riding solely on a 250- too. But it starts to feel a little uncomfortable in traffic where the drivers are all incompetent and want to do 80 despite their driving handicaps, as well as when it's really windy or there's a lot of trucks out. I know, I know, you just tuck and adjust your position in the lane to take care of the wind and the trucks, but things are a heckuvalot easier over 60 mph if you've got a little more horsepower to work with when you're making the trip every single day. Quote:

The 250 will handle the freeway okay, but I feel the GS500 is a safer choice, mostly because it has more ing power at those speeds. On the 250 in traffic you will feel like a sitting duck, and as a new rider if you don't know what situations to look out for you might find yourself getting hopelessly boxed in by the mindless SUV drivers. This is how it will feel, but I don't think it's any more dangerous for me to be riding a 250 in traffic at high speeds and feeling nervous than for me to be on a bike with more horsepower and be lead into a false sense of complacency. I think both bikes are safe for highways; it's just that the GS500 will be more comfortable. The goal is to make sure this guy enjoys riding on his first bike. I believe it will be easier for him to enjoy riding on a GS500F (or better yet, maybe a cruiser) if he needs to commute every day on the highway. I DON'T think it's a good idea to use a motorcycle for commuting if you live in Michigan during the winter. Here in NYC, if it's below 40 degrees, I don't ride. Sportbikes were made to be ridden for the rush and the fun of it- and commuting every day for an hour on the highway is gonna kill that fun if you're cold or it makes you feel less comfortable than it could on the highway. Last edited by GoIllini; 03-03-2010 at 10:43 PM. GoIllini is offline Quote Quick Reply post #25 of 33 (permalink)Old 03-03-2010, 10:35 PM sportbikeridr SBN Rookie

Date: Dec 2009 Location: coal region,Pa Age: 43 Posts: 25 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) bike this is just my opion and others have there opion on this topic... for a first bike , me personaly i would go the route of the 250 ninja.. it will meet your demands of what you want... i have seen many times first time riders get a big bike and 9 times out of 10 it ends in disaster , being that i am a member with a fire-rescue company... last time i seen this happen, i know a local kid, bought himself

a gsxr600 ( hence first bike ) laid it down, skidded approx 80ft, hit a pole,shot across the other lane and stopped there... he's alive , dont know how... but all that i'm saying is just be carefull on what YOU want to get .. its YOUR choice.... i'm sure you will make the right decistion on what right... sportbikeridr is offline Quote Quick Reply post #26 of 33 (permalink)Old 03-03-2010, 10:54 PM GoIllini Clueless Newbie


Originally Posted by sportbikeridr this is just my opion and others have there opion on this topic... for a first bike , me personaly i would go the route of the 250 ninja.. it will meet your demands of what you want... i have seen many times first time riders get a big bike and 9 times out of 10 it ends in disaster , being that i am a member with a fire-rescue company... last time i seen this happen, i know a local kid, bought himself a gsxr600 ( hence first bike ) laid it down, skidded approx 80ft, hit a pole,shot across the other lane and stopped there... he's alive , dont know how... but all that i'm saying is just be carefull on what YOU want to get .. its YOUR choice.... i'm sure you will make the right decistion on what right... I totally agree on the GSXR or F4i being a stupid first bike, but a GS500 isn't really in the same league as a GSXR- or even a Ninja 650. The consensus on the forums seems to be that any motorcycle that has 250 or 500 ccs is an acceptable first bike. You'll probably learn faster with the smaller engine on the 250, but an hour every day is a long time on the highway and you'll learn more in the long run if your first bike doesn't make the experience so uncomfortable that it's also your last bike. Honestly, I'd go for a cruiser if you're going to be using the bike for commuting on a regular basis.

There's a reason sportbikes don't have radios, cupholders, and seatbacks- they're more toys than vehicles. Last edited by GoIllini; 03-03-2010 at 10:58 PM. GoIllini is offline Quote Quick Reply post #27 of 33 (permalink)Old 03-03-2010, 11:03 PM sportbikeridr SBN Rookie

Date: Dec 2009 Location: coal region,Pa Age: 43 Posts: 25 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) i agree on your reply... sportbikeridr is offline Quote Quick Reply post #28 of 33 (permalink)Old 03-04-2010, 06:59 AM dsmgixxer World 500 GP Champion

Date: Aug 2008 Location: Dsm IA Posts: 4,314 Thanks: 41 Thanked 118 Times in 87 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) have any of u even rode both bikes? the 250 is plenty capable of riding at freeway speeds but sometimes to u have to rev out all the gears. the 500 is a much more capable highway bike and rides almost exactly the same as a 250.

dsmgixxer is offline Quote Quick Reply post #29 of 33 (permalink)Old 03-04-2010, 09:09 AM sportbikeridr SBN Rookie

Date: Dec 2009 Location: coal region,Pa Age: 43 Posts: 25 Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) i started out on a 2006 ninja 250, THEN after i had got use to that i bought a 2006 Suzuki Katana 600,, AFTER that i bought the 2008 GSXR600 ... to answer your question i rode similargs500 ... i rode those two bikes that u mentioned .. ya know what.. we are butting heads at this... let this person who is trying to make his mind up what he wants to do... i don't want to see anyone make the wrong move Last edited by sportbikeridr; 03-04-2010 at 09:12 AM.

03-05-2010, 02:04 AM Wiste World Superbike Racer

Date: Mar 2009 Location: Idaho Posts: 520 Thanks: 16 Thanked 8 Times in 6 Posts Mentioned: 0 Post(s) Tagged: 0 Thread(s) Quoted: 0 Post(s) The GS500F would be superior to the 250 for that type of commute. Seriously, there's really no argument, it's a fact. Both are good beginner bikes. Around town, most people would be hard pressed to tell much of a difference in performance between them. Gas mileage is similar but the 250

obviously takes the cake. Seriously, not much of a difference other then at higher speeds, such as freeway speed. Both will work, but the GS will do it with a little bit more comfort. Sold: '05 GS500, '01 F4i | Current: FZ8 Wiste is offline Quote Quick Reply

post #32 of 33 (permalink)Old 03-05-2010, 10:37 AM GoIllini Clueless Newbie


Originally Posted by dsmgixxer have any of u even rode both bikes? the 250 is plenty capable of riding at freeway speeds but sometimes to u have to rev out all the gears. the 500 is a much more capable highway bike and rides almost exactly the same as a 250. I rode a 250 for two and a half years. Then I decided I needed something with a little more acceleration at highway speeds and went for an F4i. Still ride the 250 for track days.

05-27-2010, 05:39 PM

#8

Wayward_Traveller Idaho STAR Instructor

I have owned a 2007 GS500F and my wife has an 01 Ninja 250 and one of my co-workers just sold his 08 Ninja 250 which I have ridden.

Date: Jul 2008 Location: Idaho Posts: 188

If you are a little smaller I might suggest the 250 to learn on. I took a long break from riding and the GS was my first bike in several years and I outgrew it very quick, the 250 would have even been worse for me. GS is a little bigger but not a lot, and I really like the way the weight is managed on that bike. It doesn't feel heavy at all, gets great gas mileage as well. Only real draw back is there isn't as much customizing on a GS500 compared to a ninja 250, but I left mine stock anyways when I had it. If I had it to do over again, being my size I would choose the 500 over the 250, but if you are after looks or are smaller and won't do much highway commuting etc the 250 might be your better bet.

05-27-2010, 09:13 PM

#9

Soulless Verified Date: May 2010 Posts: 69

$3500 not including tax/registration/title. After all that, it's around $4200'ish... That beats the other dealers who still charge like $3800 for an 08-09 and in the mid $4000's for the 10's..

05-27-2010, 09:14 PM

#10


Quote:

Originally Posted by Wayward_Traveller I have owned a 2007 GS500F and my wife has an 01 Ninja 250 and one of my co-workers just sold his 08 Ninja 250 which I have ridden. If you are a little smaller I might suggest the 250 to learn on. I took a long break from riding and the GS was my first bike in several years and I outgrew it very quick, the 250 would have even been worse for me. GS is a little bigger but not a lot, and I really like the way the weight is managed on that bike. It doesn't feel heavy at all, gets great gas mileage as well. Only real draw back is there isn't as much customizing on a GS500 compared to a ninja 250, but I left mine stock anyways when I had it. If I had it to do over again, being my size I would choose the

500 over the 250, but if you are after looks or are smaller and won't do much highway commuting etc the 250 might be your better bet. seriously, sometimes i wonder if i will out grow the 250 in like 1 yr.. .. i when i first bought my beginner's hunter bow which was an 08 parker spitfire... 3 months later, went to an 08 Bowtech general... another 3 months later, i finally settled for an 09 PSE Omen, which is totally not a beginner's bow..

05-28-2010, 01:00 PM

#11

porange Rough Writer

I don't really understand the whole "outgrowing" thing. Yeah, the bike is a little lacking in the acceleration department, but it's plenty of bike to learn on and have tons of fun with. I've had mine for ~4,000 miles and it's still a blast, I'm not bored of it whatsoever. I would like some more power because I do quite a bit of highway riding, (which this handles fine, but at 55-65, there isn't a whole lot of get up n' go) but riding the city streets and hitting the turns is what this bike is built for.

Date: Jun 2009 Location: Cincinnati, OH Posts: 1,640

05-28-2010, 04:50 PM

#12

Wayward_Traveller Idaho STAR Instructor

Date: Jul 2008 Location: Idaho Posts: 188

Soulless, here is my thoughts..... When I bought my GS500F it was the first bike I had owned in a long time, and that was one of the main reasons I went with that small of a bike. I went about 100 miles away to pick it up, because it was $700 cheaper than buying it 30 miles away. By the time I got on the highway, all the old riding came back to me, by the time I got home I was already almost thinking, man I should have gotten a 600 or 750. But, it gave me a year to get back into it and get used to riding again on a very controlled, easy to ride and manage bike that still did great on the highway and got great gas mileage. I owned it almost exactly a year, and then I sold it to my best friend who was thinking of getting a bike. I gave him a good deal on it, but if I had tried I probably would have lost $500 on it. Not bad at all for taking it slow.

If you buy a 250 for say $4500 this year, what will you be out if you don't wreck it or damage it? $500, maybe? Another co-worked of mine but an 08 Ninja 250 last summer for $4000 that had 216 miles on it. He drove it for a year, dropped it once and did about $480 damage to it because he put the turn signal through the fairing when it fell over. We were able to repair the fairing, and honestly if you didn't know it had been dropped you wouldn't see it until you washed it, the crack was so very thin it lined back up good. He sold it 2 months ago for $3800. So if you lose a little money and "outgrow" a 250 oh well. You know how much more it would be if you drop a 600 or 750 and bust up the fairings or worse? If I was to drop my FJR1300 and break one of the side fairings, I think I would start crying right there on the spot lol. Heck to replace the stock luggage is like $750 retail, and if you drop the FJR it will damage one of them. The really nice thing about ninja 250's and gs500's etc is that there is always a new group of riders looking for a better deal on a starter bike. Those types of bike ALWAYS sell the fastest used it seems. This is all just my opinion, but it's based on what I have seen and what I have done in the past. Take it as you will, but I hope it helps.

05-30-2010, 11:15 PM

#13


Quote:

Originally Posted by Wayward_Traveller Soulless, here is my thoughts..... When I bought my GS500F it was the first bike I had owned in a long time, and that was one of the main reasons I went with that small of a bike. I went about 100 miles away to pick it up, because it was $700 cheaper than buying it 30 miles away. By the time I got on the highway, all the old riding came back to me, by the time I got home I was already almost thinking, man I should have gotten a 600 or 750. But, it gave me a year to get back into it and get used to riding again on a very controlled, easy to ride and manage bike that still did great on the highway and got great gas mileage. I owned it almost exactly a year, and then I sold it to my best friend who was thinking of getting a bike. I gave him a good deal on it, but if I had tried I probably

would have lost $500 on it. Not bad at all for taking it slow. If you buy a 250 for say $4500 this year, what will you be out if you don't wreck it or damage it? $500, maybe? Another co-worked of mine but an 08 Ninja 250 last summer for $4000 that had 216 miles on it. He drove it for a year, dropped it once and did about $480 damage to it because he put the turn signal through the fairing when it fell over. We were able to repair the fairing, and honestly if you didn't know it had been dropped you wouldn't see it until you washed it, the crack was so very thin it lined back up good. He sold it 2 months ago for $3800. So if you lose a little money and "outgrow" a 250 oh well. You know how much more it would be if you drop a 600 or 750 and bust up the fairings or worse? If I was to drop my FJR1300 and break one of the side fairings, I think I would start crying right there on the spot lol. Heck to replace the stock luggage is like $750 retail, and if you drop the FJR it will damage one of them. The really nice thing about ninja 250's and gs500's etc is that there is always a new group of riders looking for a better deal on a starter bike. Those types of bike ALWAYS sell the fastest used it seems. This is all just my opinion, but it's based on what I have seen and what I have done in the past. Take it as you will, but I hope it helps. very good post.. thanks. i recently purchases me a 2010 250R for $4300 out the door with everything. I have my permit and have been riding for 3 days now on smaller streets. I have several buddies who are pros so they've taught me well. I'm still thinking about taking the course when there are open slots. I guess it really depends too though. I have not fallen over.. @ least i hope i will never. yes, you are right about being able to sell these lower end bikes quickly.. The day, I bought this bike, 3 other newbies bought the same exact model from the dealership too. Funny because some of the 250R's on CL that i looked at and considered buying are no longer available..

06-01-2010, 10:00 PM

#14

tom10167 Senior Member

What does it even mean to outgrow a motorcycle that you

Date: Oct 2009 Posts: 539

don't actually race? Are you ever worried about "outgrowing" your car? lulz ok kewl cuz a 250r is faster than it.

06-02-2010, 09:31 AM

#15

cbdallas Rough Writer

Nobody outgrows a 250r's handling...just the straightline acceleration. People who don't mind the lack of power can live with these bikes indefinitely. People who value acceleration with good handling eventually upgrade. I'll have another 650R eventually, but right now I'm having fun with the 250.

Date: Jul 2008 Location: Wylie, TX Posts: 1,856

06-05-2010, 05:15 PM

#16

metrogruntual Newbie Date: Jun 2010 Posts: 3

since they changed body styles, i'd certainly go with the ex250 (ninja)

06-07-2010, 09:16 PM

#17


i ended up with the 250 since there are more stuff/after market stuff for it. Looks better too... 2010 blue brand new

havent dropped her yet after riding for like 2 weeks now. i'm actually much better than i thought.. I was bit scare about all this counter steering, but it came naturally... Been riding in normal traffic and freeway lately.. yes, i am all geared up...

Last edited by Soulless; 06-07-2010 at 09:19 PM..

06-07-2010, 09:26 PM

#18

67fire Banned Date: Aug 2008 Location: Reno, Nevada Posts: 4,400

Nice looking scooter! Hope that you both enjoy many, many miles together

04-17-2010, 10:42 AM goal12 Jr. Member Date: Mar 2010 Location: Columbus, Ohio Posts: 66 If you want to compare bikes, use the ninja 500 in the comparison to the GS500. Though I would say if you want to go with a 250, the ninja wins out in every comparison including resale. goal12 is offline Quote Quick Reply post #3 of 21 (permalink)Old 04-17-2010, 10:51 AM Thread Starter Bummbull Jr. Member Date: Apr 2010 Posts: 2 goal12, thanks for your quick post! I wanted to compare these two bikes as I find similar prices on craigslist. Most likely as you mentioned, Ninja 250 has better resale value. So if I can get these two bikes at same price, which one would be a smarter choice? Basically, two most important factors for me are reliability and beginner friendly bike. Thanks!!! Bummbull is offline Quote Quick Reply post #4 of 21 (permalink)Old 04-17-2010, 11:09 AM LarryJ That Fighter Guy

Date: Apr 2010 Location: Chesapeake, VA '06 ZZR fighter, 05 VTX-1300 Posts: 15,170

If those two are the ones you like, go with the 250R. It won't have as much power as the GS500, so it'll be better beginner friendly, and I personally think the GS500 is uglier than crap. The 250 will also get you ridiculous gas mileage (if you care about that sort of thing). Personally, I learned on my 600, so if I were you, I'd go get a cheap used 600. Even after you learn to control the 600, you won't get bored with it like you will with the 250 or GS500. I still have my first bike, had it 5 years now, and I still enjoy it. LarryJ is offline Quote Quick Reply post #5 of 21 (permalink)Old 04-17-2010, 11:26 AM goal12 Jr. Member Date: Mar 2010 Location: Columbus, Ohio Posts: 66 I learned on the second gen 250 (2007) and it was a blast. I made so many mistakes that were easily corrected on the 250. I think my 09 6r would have taken me straight to the casket. Take the MSF course and ride their 250's and see how it feels like. If you want more power move up to 500 or even 650, not the 600. Trust me, there will be 600's around when its time to move up. All the squids that were to scared will sell them like hot cakes. goal12 is offline Quote Quick Reply post #6 of 21 (permalink)Old 04-17-2010, 11:40 AM thedoc306 Member

Date: Aug 2008 Location: Houston, Texas 2009 Lime Zx6r Posts: 220 When I got into riding I got a 2008 250, my bro got a zuki gs500f. They are very comparable on the the streets as far as far as performance. Of course the 500 had some more nuts, but like other people are saying the 500 is a pretty ugly bike. Worst part is the handle bars- The old school 1 peice things. Bottom line, I still ride my 250, and my bro has been through a couple bikes looking for something he likes! Go with the 250 it won't dissapoint

Current Bike - 2009 Lime Ninja ZX-6R Old Bike - 2008 Lime Ninja 250r - 10,000 Miles thedoc306 is offline Quote Quick Reply post #7 of 21 (permalink)Old 04-17-2010, 12:35 PM ross93 Intermediate Member

Date: Sep 2009 Location: ic Posts: 2,207 the 250 will prob he easyer to learn on and id say the reliablity is about the same. id agree the 250 look a millon times better than the wanta be gixxer. but after you learned the basics the 500 would keep you intertained longer. but both is a good starting point ross93 is offline Quote Quick Reply post #8 of 21 (permalink)Old 04-17-2010, 06:00 PM racerboy88 Intermediate Member

Date: Sep 2009 Location: Vancity Home of 2010 Olympics Posts: 1,577 welcome, get the ninja 250, looks much nicer Fuelled by rice racerboy88 is offline Quote Quick Reply post #9 of 21 (permalink)Old 05-18-2010, 11:46 AM AFemaleProdigy Jr. Member

Date: May 2010 Posts: 4 My two cents... My first bike was a 250r. Initially I liked it being that it was light weight, cheap, easy to handle, and got great gas mileage. However, after driving it several times on the highway, I realized it's a terrible bike for highway use. It has no power and trying to go 65 to 70mph has you at 8,000 rpm. You feel like you're going to burn it up if you go any faster. But the scariest thing for me is trying to merge onto highways or get out of a blind driver's way. There is so little power that when you need to get up and go in a hurry and your life depends on it, you really can't. It's also funny to me that everyone here is saying the GS500f is ugly because I personally feel like the Ninja, both 250 and 500, are ugly. They look like scooters with their front wheels andhandle bars the way they are. The front wheel has a huge gap between it and the front fairing. I hate that. My hubby drives a Superhawk and my 250 looked so much like a scooter next to his bike. I am not a fanatic of one make or another so hopefully my opinion will be less biased. I am actually looking for a GS500f for sale right now and that's how I happened to find this post. Maybe the GS500f is a "wannabe" as someone else said, but I feel it comes closer to looking like a real sport bike then the Ninjas. By the way, I'm small and petite. Only 5'5". So anything bigger is out of the question for me. That was why I picked the 250 initially, but I just wasn't happy with it. Good luck with your choice. AFemaleProdigy is offline Quote Quick Reply post #10 of 21 (permalink)Old 05-18-2010, 12:14 PM BlackDynamite Lifetime

Date: Apr 2009 Location: PA Posts: 1,884 What?! Here's your change. Quote: Originally Posted by AFemaleProdigy View Post My first bike was a 250r. Initially I liked it being that it was light weight, cheap, easy to handle, and got great gas mileage. However, after driving it several times on the highway, I realized it's a terrible bike for highway use. It has no power and trying to go 65 to 70mph has you at 8,000 rpm. You feel like you're going to burn it up if you go any faster. But the scariest thing for me is trying to merge onto highways or get out of a blind driver's way. There is so little power that when you need to get up and go in a hurry and your life depends on it, you really can't. It's also funny to me that everyone here is saying the GS500f is ugly because I personally feel like the Ninja, both 250 and 500, are ugly. They look like scooters with their front wheels and handle bars the way they are. The front wheel has a huge gap between it and the front fairing. I hate that. My hubby drives a Superhawk and my 250 looked so much like a scooter next to his bike. I am not a fanatic of one make or another so hopefully my opinion will be less biased. I am actually looking for a GS500f for sale right now and that's how I happened to find this post. Maybe the GS500f is a "wannabe" as someone else said, but I feel it comes closer to looking like a real sport bike then the Ninjas. By the way, I'm small and petite. Only 5'5". So anything bigger is out of the question for me. That was why I picked the 250 initially, but I just wasn't happy with it. Good luck with your choice. My wife's first bike was an 07 GS500F. We both liked it a lot. It is what it is, just like the 250R. The 250R, having less power, requires you to develop skills and tactics above and beyond twisting the throttle. Seems to me you've already expressed your bias. You're telling me this looks more like a "real sport bike" than this? The GS500F is a sportbike that's a lot closer to a sport-tourer than a

supersport. That's not an opinion, that's a fact. Look at the higher bars and the dual saddle. What is it about the front wheel that you hate so much?

05-18-2010, 01:43 PM AFemaleProdigy Jr. Member

Date: May 2010 Posts: 4 Quote: Originally Posted by ridnwb View Post My wife's first bike was an 07 GS500F. We both liked it a lot. It is what it is, just like the 250R. The 250R, having less power, requires you to develop skills and tactics above and beyond twisting the throttle. Seems to me you've already expressed your bias. You're telling me this looks more like a "real sport bike" than this? The GS500F is a sportbike that's a lot closer to a sport-tourer than a supersport. That's not an opinion, that's a fact. Look at the higher bars and the dual saddle. What is it about the front wheel that you hate so much? Ok well this is my fault... I was thinking of the older body style Ninjas. I guess my train of thought was that most people won't buy a brand new bike for there first. The older style had the same seat style as the GS500 you showed there and looking at those Ninjas from different angles just really reminded me of an old school moped or something. You are right that if you are going to buy a new Ninja, then yes, they are pleasing to the eye. As for your comment about skills and tactics, yes... you do need those most importantly, but there are often situations when using the gas with those skills is the best thing. For instance, my experience, having merged onto a highway and doing 70mph in the right hand lane, a guy in a pickup truck pulling a long trailer was in the lane beside me talking on his phone. I was up front where he should have seen me, but he clearly was not paying attention. He started to speed up and me with intentions of coming into my lane (which I didn't know as he did not use a blinker). The best thing for me to do would be to speed up as I was closer to the front of his vehicle, but he had sped up pretty fast and started coming over into my lane. My little 250 was already at high rpm. So I practically had to slam on the brakes and ended up driving on the birm because his trailer was so long and he came over so quick. There have been a few situations where having more power would have been much better then trying to just maneuver or slow down. Don't get me wrong, I am not trying to dog the Ninja's. I mean, getting a 500 would fix the issue with

the lack of power. And the 250 makes a perfect bike for city driving and is excellent on gas mileage. That's just my opinion from personal experience having owned the slightly older body style. I didn't like it and the only way I would buy a Ninja now is if it were the 500 and the new body style. My problem is they are way more expensive then the older GS500f which still has a body style I like. So in of price plus eye candy... the older GS500f wins it for me. If I could afford a 2009 Ninja, I would probably go with that. I attached the style Ninja I was thinking of and you can see the huge gap between the fairing and wheel. My preference is... I can't stand that. Makes me think... moped. They certainly made the new Ninjas look much better. Attached Thumbnails

02-06-2012, 04:50 AM williamr Senior Member

Date: Nov 2009 Location: Cheshire, UK Posts: 5,288 Quote: Originally Posted by AFemaleProdigy View Post However, after driving it several times on the highway, I realized it's a terrible bike for highway use. It has no power and trying to go 65 to 70mph has you at 8,000 rpm. You feel like you're going to burn it up if you go any faster. But the scariest thing for me is trying to merge onto highways or get out of a blind driver's way. There is so little power that when you need to get up and go in a hurry and your life depends on it, you really can't. . This is a fairly typical newbie post. The 250 isn't the best bike for highways ittedly, but it's fine for regular short highway trips or occasional longer ones. The power is there for cruising at up to about 80mph. All you need to do is use the gear box, as it should be used. Sure it revs high. It's designed to. What makes the 250 such a good bike to learn on is that if you want to travel at decent speeds you have to learn how to ride it and extract the power. On a 500 at 65 - 70 mph you just open the throttle a bit more, and as result you don't learn anything.

Same with merging. It's plenty fast enough and powerful enough if you learn to ride it properly. Off the highway there's no real arguement. The 250 is better all round. It's sharper on thesteering and much more agile. So to answer White Angel - the GS500 has more mid range torque which makes it easier to ride on the highway, and gives more relaxed cruising. It doesn't teach you as much though. The 650 teaches you even less in some ways, and can get a newbie into real trouble unless it's ridden with restraint. The trouble there is that if you ride it with restraint you never learn to ride it properly. Rob 05-14-2007, 08:00 PM#6

ccunning Flirting With The Redline Date Apr 2007 Location Columbus, OH Posts 301

The ninja is lighter by about 75 lbs. The GS is still pretty light. The ninja has around 36 HP. The GS has around 50. Both put out much less to the wheels and are fairly mild. The ninja has all that pretty plastic that can break if you drop it. A used GS is naked, survives drops better, but can beat you up a bit more at high speeds. The newer GS' are faired and have a bit of a GX-R look to them if that's your thing. The ninja looks somewhat dated, if you don't like that sort of thing. The ninja is liquid cooled, might work slightly better sitting in hot weather. The GS is air cooled, so it has 1 less fluid to change and 1 less thing to break. They both have similar carb setups. The stock suspension on both suck, but can be easily improved by swapping fork springs and possibly a rear shock from a better bike. Both may or may not be considered sport bikes by some insurance companies. Progressive quotes me $75 a year for either of them. The ninja will get around 70 MPG with mild driving. The GS will get around 60 MPG with mild driving. The ninja has a slightly lower seat height, though both are pretty low.

The ninja is somewhat of a smaller bike. The GS isn't big, but is a bit larger than the ninja. That's all I can think of I made the decision to buy either a ninja 250, ninja 500 or GS500, whichever I found first in my price range. The GS won that, mainly because they seem to be cheaper used than any of the ninjas. I also really like the naked look. 1.

05-17-2007, 11:15 AM#11

lostlogic

Flirting With The Redline Date May 2006 Posts 950

Even the ninjette will smoke a _Mustang GT_ in the 1/4 mile. Just so you know. Reply With Quote

2.

05-17-2007, 11:18 AM#12

ccunning

Flirting With The Redline Date Apr 2007 Location Columbus, OH Posts 301

An 'average' family car runs 0-60 in somewhere around 9 seconds and the quarter mile somewhere in the 16's. A ninja 250 runs 0-60 in around 6 seconds and the quarter mile in the mid 14's. Up to freeway speeds the ninja will beat about anything except a sports car or high power sport sedan. Also I'd disagree that you'll outgrow it quickly. You may, however, think you've outgrown it. Really you haven't outgrown it until your skill is at the point where you can safely push it farther than the bike can go, which I would guess takes most new riders several years and a few track days. You may, however, decide that you want more low end torque, a more comfortable low RPM freeway bike, something that doesn't need shifted as frequently, etc. But that's all about practicality and comfort. If you think you'll outgrow the performance of a 250 or 500 within a year, you are kidding yourself. Reply With Quote

3.

05-17-2007, 01:39 PM#13

wolfen42

Hittin' The Twisties Date Feb 2007 Posts 157

Originally Posted by lostlogic

Even the ninjette will smoke a _Mustang GT_ in the 1/4 mile. Just so you know. Heh, yeah, go to this website http://www.albeedigital.com/supercou...0-60times.html And find me a family car with a less than 6 second 0-60... bit difficult eh? Oh wait... my WRX wagon will... but then again, it's a bit hard to classify... :P Last edited by wolfen42; 05-17-2007 at 01:48 PM. Reason: Ninja Edit of DOOM! Reply With Quote

4.

05-17-2007, 01:42 PM#14

hqp921

Lurking For The Next Bike10,000 Posts! Date Sep 2006 Posts 11,954

Originally Posted by wolfen42

Heh, yeah, go to this website http://www.albeedigital.com/supercou...0-60times.html And find me a family car with a less than 6 second 0-60... bit difficult eh? Oh wait... my WRX wagon will... but then again, it's a bit hard to classify... :P AH CRAP W/ YOUR NINJA EDIT. I was going to say the WRX and the STI... being a Subie owner myself.

The STI has four doors. Family Car FTW. Reply With Quote

5.

05-17-2007, 02:43 PM#15

sparx

Rollin' On Date May 2007 Location Tolland, CT Posts 29

Sorry, I should've specified; off the line, the 250's wicked low weight makes up for the smaller engine size, it's probably great on the backroads. I was referring to higher speeds. Most people cruise the highways around 65-75 mph, the bike is geared low (by low, I mean high - numerically) to get you moving. As for the EX500, we got one in on trade (an '03). I saw the original paperwork from when the guy bought it new, it was about $4,400 w/tax/title/reg. Granted that was four years ago, but prices on most things haven't changed drastically (I assumed, yeah I know, bad idea). If I'm wrong, I'm wrong, wouldn't be the first time, but I stand by it, eventually you will want more power. btw, a new Mustang GT will pull off a 13.7 1/4 with the old ladies at motor trend behind the wheel. The average family car has become a 14-second car (Maxima, Charger/300C, STS, Impala SS, WRX, etc.) Reply With Quote

6.

05-17-2007, 02:49 PM#16

hqp921


Originally Posted by VMIrat2010

I've been looking around and doing my research and wondering if the 500 is a little too much. I am 18 and know I'll probably go crazy but not sure if if the 500 is too much for a newbie. Any thoughts? I just wanted to reiterate for the OP.

You didn't specify with bike, but we all assume you want the sporty looks of the Ninja 250/500 or the GS500. I would say that either bike is okay for a beginner, but when it comes down to it, it's going to be a personal choice. Whichever bike you feel comfortable one (both physically and emotionally) will be the best choice of the two (or three...). Reply With Quote

7.

05-17-2007, 03:15 PM#17

ccunning

Flirting With The Redline Date Apr 2007 Location Columbus, OH Posts 301

Originally Posted by sparx

As for the EX500, we got one in on trade (an '03). I saw the original paperwork from when the guy bought it new, it was about $4,400 w/tax/title/reg. 4 years is a long time... http://www.kawasaki.com/Products/Detail.aspx?id=160 MSRP: $5,049 Originally Posted by sparx

btw, a new Mustang GT will pull off a 13.7 1/4 with the old ladies at motor trend behind the wheel. The average family car has become a 14-second car (Maxima, Charger/300C, STS, Impala SS, WRX, etc.) I think the average family car is more like a camry, not a sport sedan or 4 door muscle car. Reply With Quote

8.

05-17-2007, 04:03 PM#18

VanDawg38

Flirting With The Redline Date Jan 2005 Location Vancouver, WA Posts 490

Originally Posted by hqp921

AH CRAP W/ YOUR NINJA EDIT.

I was going to say the WRX and the STI... being a Subie owner myself.

The STI has four doors. Family Car FTW. LOL. I'm mulling over an STI or Evo as my next "family" car. This fat forty-five year old white man is feeling the need to feed his inner rice. Selling the wife on it ("It's got the safety of all wheel drive and an economical four cylinder engine, dear.") and two boys only a couple years away from driving are my only concerns (imagining the cost of insurance for two teen-age males, ugh). I can see the little ninja being down on roll-on performance at freeway speeds. My old GS500e certainly was. Bang down a gear or three and things improved. Not much left over the ton, but that's not a bad thing. I'd look for any good, used example of the three (EX250/500, GS500). Reply With Quote

9.

05-17-2007, 06:47 PM#19

FlyingTndrbox

Flirting With The Redline Date Mar 2006 Location Georgia Posts 828


However, all the riding positions, finger crossing, and wishful thinking in the world wont make a bike handle or stop better (closing your eyes doesn't help either). I beg to differ. I haven't done any motorcycle racing, but I have taken auto racing classes. And when I did, I had an instructor who could push my car to speeds I couldn't believe it would do and could not duplicate myself. He could get around a course that took me 45 seconds in under 40, with a car he had no time to familiarize himself with. And from what I've heard, motorcycles somehow have a way of making the winner even more a matter of the man than the machine. There's one guy in motorcycle racing stories who is practically an archetype, the old man whose hobby is going to track days with some absurdly inappropriate machine (350 cc dual sport, maxi-scooter, Electra Glide, etc) just so that he can make the squids on supersports even more embarassed when he smokes them. As long as the bike doesn't have major mechanical problems (or isn't something really absurd like a Boss Hoss), those things like riding position and technique are far more important in how quickly a bike can get around the corners than most of the factors in the bike's design.

Matt - '05 Suzuki GS500F Motorcycle 4 A Month http://madscientistmatt.blogspot.com/ Originally Posted by LoDownSinner

Respect doesn't control the motorcycle, skills do. Reply With Quote

10.

05-17-2007, 07:45 PM#20

remy_marathe

Flirting With The Redline2000 Posts! Date Jun 2005 Location CA Posts 2,052

Not sure if VMIRat was worried about his ability to burn anyone

...

The GS500 didn't pose any real issues to me as a starter bike, but again, everyone is different. I had years of driving experience (you'll be surprised how much you continue to learn in that area), and the mellowing of my ionate youth to help me along. While I disagree with the wording of anyone's skill outgrowing a 250 sooner (because that and the 500 would happen around the same time, and in both cases way later and after many more miles than most people think), there is another "outgrowing" that could be an issue. If you see yourself taking long, long trips at sustained fast-moving freeway speeds (80-85), I have to assume that the 500 is better at this than the 250. That is to say, my GS500 does it, but it's getting close to the top of its output. It could be an issue before your skill has really outgrown the bike, depending on how you intend to use it- After all, a person can undertake these trips without 50,000 miles and track experience under their belts- it's the freakin' freeway, demanding more traffic-skills than racing skills. And a bigger engine is nice when traffic is pushing you to keep up. People do it on both. Some complain that the 250 sounds really high strung at those speeds, others say it's no big deal and the Neenja likes it there. Having never owned one, I don't know. But people who talk about outgrowing a starter bike are usually talking out of their ass, and haven't yet gotten the skills that would let them ride the thing to the best of its ability. "Outgrown" just means they want to go faster and move their wrist less when they do so. Skill has nothing to do with that, it's just regular old thirst for acceleration- the novelty of a bike's quick starts and stops wears off, just like anything you adapt to, and they want to

regain that with a faster bike. And there are other, realer benefits, like fatter tires/more traction, more modern and complicated engineering, leading to better suspension, more responsive steering. Again, the ninja 250 and GS500 are about equal in their lack there. 1.

05-17-2007, 08:05 PM#21

sparx


Just out of curiousity, what does the 250 top out at? Realistically I mean, not on a dyno run. The only person I've actually met that owned one was trying to start a street racing/stunt riding club... not a good first impression, I feel sorry for that guy's bike (he almost dumped it twice leaving the parking lot and claims to have had it over a year). Originally Posted by ccunning

I think the average family car is more like a camry, not a sport sedan or 4 door muscle car. Well, they're still family cars, in principal anyway (actually I see a lot of old ladies driving STi's going 10mph under the speed limit). Reply With Quote

2.

05-17-2007, 08:58 PM#22

sparx


Originally Posted by FlyingTndrbox

I beg to differ. I haven't done any motorcycle racing, but I have taken auto racing classes. And when I did, I had an instructor who could push my car to speeds I couldn't believe it would do and could not duplicate myself. He could get around a course that took me 45 seconds in under 40, with a car he had no time to familiarize himself with. I didn't mean that it doesn't matter. What I'm saying, is that any bike has it's limits no matter who is on it. The bike itself only has the capability to brake so short, lean so far, take a turn so fast, etc. A Lightning is far more agile and stops better than a Blast. It doesn't make the Blast a bad bike, but I'd much rather have that monsterous front brake and better suspension of the Lightning. Outgrowing a bike doesn't require mastering it. Unless you get a considerable amount of track time, you'll probably never "master" any bike because in the real world, we have traffic, and potholes, and cops with radios. I have yet to see a place where you can just run a bike wide open for more than a couple miles < which I wouldn't recommend, ride safe, don't become a statistic. It's somewhat ironic, but the desire for more power is largely fueled by the lack of places to use it. So, to make up for not being able to go 150mph everywhere, we do slow in, fast out. Yes, I know it serves another purpose, namely getting through the turn easier, but in all reality it not something that you NEED to do, it's easy enough to follow a line, but not nearly as much fun. Slow in doesn't sound like much fun, but when you hit the apex and give it healthy twist on the exit, the harder it pulls, the wider the grin. Reply With Quote

3.

05-17-2007, 10:26 PM#23

MN_Smurf

Contributor10,000 Posts! Date Sep 2006 Location Oxford, MI Posts 14,623


Just out of curiousity, what does the 250 top out at? Realistically I mean, not on a dyno run. From what I've been told, a stock TwoFiddy will run up into the neighborhood of 105 indicated, so call it around 95 actual. I run my Ninjette down the interstate every day at 7075, and there's no shortage of power if I need to bump it up to 80. The only reason I'm going to upgrade next year is to gain a little bit more leg room (and get a bike that there are farkles available for )..... Silver '07 Kawi Ninja 250R (sold) '09 Kawi Versys

Originally Posted by Overcaffeinated

Oh, hell, Smurf's right. First Missouri, then Minnesota, now Michigan.....it is my goal in life to live in every state that starts with "M" before I die.....

Didn't vote??? Don't whine.... "A life is like a garden. Perfect moments can be had, but not preserved, except in memory. LLAP" - Leonard Nimoy Reply With Quote

4.

05-17-2007, 11:40 PM#24

LoDownSinner

RiderCoachWe've stopped counting... Date Jan 2005 Location Nashville, TN Posts 24,581


Just out of curiousity, what does the 250 top out at? Realistically I mean, not on a dyno run. Full tuck, end of the front straight at Nashville Superspeedway - I'm guessing just short of 110. Let me phrase it another way... It's at least fast enough to have embarrassed some folks in new leathers on nice new Ducatis when they found out what it was. Originally Posted by OBX-RIDER

put the whiffer in the dilly

Reply With Quote

5.

05-18-2007, 08:28 AM#25

hqp921


Originally Posted by VanDawg38

LOL. I'm mulling over an STI or Evo as my next "family" car. This fat forty-five year old white man is feeling the need to feed his inner rice. Selling the wife on it ("It's got the safety of all wheel drive and an economical four cylinder engine, dear.") and two boys only a couple years away from driving are my only concerns (imagining the cost of insurance for two teenage males, ugh). If you can afford it... either car is great. If you're going to mod for performance. Evo hands down is the winner. Full turbo back on that has ridiculous gains over the STI. For interior? Evo wins again. Looks? Well, this is debatable - let's face it, they're both ugly cars. I think the STI will last longer than the Evo, but when it's all said and done, both are the boyracer cars, so they get kinda beat up, so who knows how long they last? *shrug* (I'm not knocking either car, I like 'em both) I believe the new STI is said to be only a hatch, and the Evo X from what I've seen is lookin' sexy - I haven't really kept up on the motor news w/ 'em, because I'm a long way (if ever) from owning either. PS: The cost of insurance for new drivers on either car is going to suck. I suggest getting them a POS beater. /thread jack I'm with FlyingTndrbox, although I have never raced, I belong to forums where people do... and on the car forum, the #1 thing they recommend when n00bs ask about learning to go faster? Driving school. The most important component is the nut behind the wheel... or (if you're on a bike) the nut humping his gas tank.

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6.

05-18-2007, 11:07 AM#26

wolfen42

Hittin' The Twisties Date Feb 2007 Posts 157

The nut behind the wheel. No doubt. It's always an education to watch the very nice lady at one of the local SCCA groups hop into any given drivers car and rip off a time that is usually several seconds better than their best run. She drove a mustang at nationals, we are trying to seduce her to the STI side... Reply With Quote

7.

05-18-2007, 06:48 PM#27

sparx


I'd consider a track day/class, if I could use my own bike, which would require gettin it to start. I did a driving class at Lime Rock, short one-day thing, but it was cool. The only problem was that they had me in a sub-150hp Neon (early R/T w/the stripes), and I drove home in a (estimate) 250hp Mustang (Fox body w/minor bolt-ons). I think the only thing I got out of it was being a bit more observent and learning how to properly beat the crap out of a rental car. btw, I'd go for the Evo, it looks faster and sounds more obnoxious (scoob's got the deep tone as opposed to the high whine), but then, my daily driver is a Civic that redlines higher than my bike (all stock).

Posted 6/29/2008 2:55 AM (GMT -7)

Gotta agree with everyone here. The 250 is a great bike but the Ninja 500 or GS 500 will be better for frequent highway use. My brother bought an '06 Ninja 250R for my sister-in-law recently. He's having a blast riding that thing around and even used it to commute a few times, but he agrees that he would like more power in reserve on the highway. The new one is supposedly significantly improved in the suspension department, a bit more midrange, but no more outright power. It looks great, too, but, as you know, they're in very short supply and some dealers are price gouging.

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08-30-2013, 10:14 PM#25

pwoL

ed Date: Apr 2008 Location: Connecticut, United States Stats: 6'3", 205 lbs Posts: 10,049 Rep Power: 31204

Originally Posted by CellTechAbuse

must have been a good ride what gear were you cruising on the freeway and what bike you got now That last ride was a seriously sad ride, I was just gonna take it around the block to make sure everything way fine, but that turned into riding for half the day, reminiscing of all the great times I had on her. Depends on how much fun I wanted to have lol, but you can cruise in 6th all day getting dem Mpgs Sv650 I'm very glad I went the small/easy to learn on bike -> bigger bike path. People who say start on a 600cc are usually small dicked phaggots who mainly ride for others validation and ride like little bitches. Its better to ride a slow bike fast than a fast bike slow. And the slow way basically guarantees a faster progression of your skills. Ride for yourself brah, not for the opinions of random kunts.

me on the gs

Last edited by pwoL; 08-30-2013 at 10:20 PM.

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08-30-2013, 10:16 PM#26

CellTechAbuse

Banned Date: Jul 2013 Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Stats: 6'0", 205 lbs Posts: 548 Rep Power: 0

Originally Posted by pwoL

That last ride was a seriously sad ride, I was just gonna take it around the block to make sure everything way fine, but that turned into riding for half the day, reminiscing of all the great times I had on her. Depends on how much fun I wanted to have lol, but you can cruise in 6th all day getting dem Mpgs Sv650 fuk you must of enjoyed it man i got three weeks of school left before exams and im finished i dont know if i should wait it out or grab my bike this week as i got my license test next week 3.

08-30-2013, 10:16 PM#27

jlf

I will be six pack Date: Apr 2010 Stats: 6'0", 222 lbs Posts: 5,187 Rep Power: 7989

Originally Posted by pwoL

Sv650

I'd go with gs500. Even though I started on the sv650 ( still own it ) it bit back pretty hard ( torque of peace ) and it's really choppy 1st-3rd gear. Makes bout $350/week crew ( srs ) Second Job because no social life crew ( totally ok with it ) Ex Dipper, Smoker, Vaper, **** can't control me cuz ** Good vibe crew ** ** Bearded brah ** 4.

08-30-2013, 10:19 PM#28

pwoL

ed Date: Apr 2008 Location: Connecticut, United States Stats: 6'3", 205 lbs Posts: 10,049 Rep Power: 31204

Originally Posted by jlf

I'd go with gs500. Even though I started on the sv650 ( still own it ) it bit back pretty hard ( torque of peace ) and it's really choppy 1st-3rd gear. dat TPS adjustment / aTRE of peace makes it smooth as butter (as Im sure youre aware, I'm just sayin)

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03-06-2013 09:19 PM#1

Mike_M

ed

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Date May 2012 Location Vancity Bike na

2008 Suzuki GS500 or 2010 Kawasaki 250r? Hi All, I just ed my MST test and I was looking to but my first motorcycle, I'm not that beginner as I used to ride but like 2 years ago. Currently in between GS500 and Ninja 250r, which one should choose to be my first bike? I'm trying the 250r tomorrow and the GS500 this Saturday, fingers crossed by this weekened I'll be having my first bike ed for the summer season. Let me know which on you prefer and why, any advices from current or previous owners will be really appreciated for any of those bikes! Thanks in advance! Reply With Quote

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03-06-2013 09:21 PM#2

bandito

ed

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Date May 2008 Location CBR600RR YZ250 Bike CRF 230 BSA 650

I would take the new Ninja 250 over the GS500 personally.

Long Live Shervin Of The North! Reply With Quote

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03-06-2013 09:31 PM#3

Grove

TeaBagger

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Date Jun 2010 Location Ooot an Aboot Bike 2011 KLX250S

We can say all we want to try and sway you, but the best advice you can get is get the bike which you feel most confident and comfortable on. Reply With Quote

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03-06-2013 09:46 PM#4

mdnitro

ed

Array

Date Feb 2005 Location B.C. Canada Bike Yamaha

2010 Ninja 250r would be a better choice imo too. Resale would be much easier and the lower insurance rate would be a great plus if you do not have any discount. Have fun with

the 250 for awhile around the city and move up to 600 to the guys up to s2s. Good luck, Reply With Quote

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03-06-2013 09:54 PM#5

millski

ed

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Date Apr 2009 Location pomo Bike sv

why are you limiting yourself to 2 bikes? If you're inexperienced get the one with less plastic. Reply With Quote

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03-06-2013 10:07 PM#6

Mike_M

ed

Array


Originally Posted by Grove

We can say all we want to try and sway you, but the best advice you can get is get the bike which you feel most confident and comfortable on. I totally agree with you, but your inputs are important especially if you had any of those bikes regarding handling, how forgiving are they, etc.. Originally Posted by millski

why are you limiting yourself to 2 bikes? If you're inexperienced get the one with less plastic. The GS500 is actually naked, the 250r has fairings definitely! Reply With Quote

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03-06-2013 10:18 PM#7

cvrle1

ed

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Date Feb 2010 Location Vancouver Bike 04 SV650

Don't limit your self to just 2. Take a look at this link List is older, but it has a lot of info. I am in the same boat as you and this is my list of bikes I will be looking into in a month or so: Ninja 250, 300, 400, 500 CBR250 GS500 (non F model as I donnt like fairings look of it) SV650 (either naked of SF model. No S as I dont like bikini fairings) Less plastic, less crap to break when I drop it. Will get used as again, when i drop it, I will not feel quite as bad as it it was brand new (it will still suck big time though!!) Sit on all the bikes, see how they feel and decide what works for the type of riding you plan on doing. Reply With Quote

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03-06-2013 11:25 PM#8

joeRocket

ed

Array

Date Jun 2007 Location Richmond Bike 2005 Kawi Z750

I've owned (older models of) both bikes... 2006 Kawi ZZR250, 2005 GS500. The 250 is MUCH weaker than the GS500, not to say that the GS500 is super fast or the 250 is super slow, but it's a big difference. The 250 is also much lighter, so it is easy to handle... except the GS500 has a much more upright and neutral riding position, and also easy to maneuver with its wider handlebar... plus it's comfortable for riding all day or commuting all day. If you can, try out both bikes. Do note that if I were a newbie, I think the GS500 has the superior riding position for confidence and learning. The only benefits I see for the 250 are (a) fairing for some weather protection (b) less weight, better economy (c) cheap insurance. Reply With Quote

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03-07-2013 12:36 AM#9

mdnitro

ed

Array


2010 Kawasaki Ninja 250 R Specifications - Power: 29.91 HP (22 kW) @ 10500 rpm. Torque: 21.7 Nm (16.01 lb-ft) @ 10000 rpm. Final drive ...151 kg dry weight 2008 Suzuki GS 500 F Specifications - Power: 33.99 HP (25 kW) @ 8500 rpm. Torque: 34 Nm (25.08 lb-ft) @ 4600 rpm (cranksh). Final drive ...169 kg dry weight

"The 250 is MUCH weaker than the GS500, not to say that the GS500 is super fast or the 250 is super slow, but it's a big difference."

Really? Both of these bikes are only good for scooting around the city and are great for beginners to practice on. But seriously, if you factor power to weight ratio with such few ponies more would not qualified as a "big difference" in speed IMO. Last edited by mdnitro; 03-07-2013 at 12:40 AM. Reply With Quote

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03-07-2013 11:21 AM#10

joeRocket

ed

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Date Jun 2007 Location Richmond Bike 2005 Kawi Z750

have you ridden the two back to back? The 250 is peaky and low on torque. As I've said, I've owned them both (simultaneously for a time, so yes I've ridden them back-to-back) Reply With Quote

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03-07-2013 09:52 PM#11

mdnitro

ed

Array


Honestly no, I have never owned either one of those bikes (not my cup of tea) but from what I know by looking at the numbers and did a quick calculation, they're not too far off from one to the other. Yes, gs500 might be able to pull off the line a little quicker but the 250r would definitely not too far behind and would eventually catch up due to the lighter weight advantage and of course only if the 250r rider know how to ride and do not shift too early like most newbies does. Bottom line is, if I was to factor in all the pros and cons between the two bikes in term of better fuel economy, lower insurance cost and a ton of fun for beginner around town minus the added weight, I would go for the 250r. Also when it's time to upgrade, not too many bike enthusiasts would go from 250r to 500 when they know that many 600 are twice as powerful. Nevertheless, it's up to the individual needs and most importantly what he/she is willing and able to spend. Reply With Quote

13.

03-07-2013 09:53 PM#12

njoytheride

Fonz Be With You

Array

Date Apr 2012 Location Vancouver Bike 2006 Yamaha R6 / 2007 Yamaha FZ6

Ninja... "Only a Biker knows why a dog sticks his head out of a car window." Reply With Quote

14.

03-08-2013 08:40 AM#13

integra298

I'm a she-male.

Array

Date Oct 2005 Location Poo-land. Bike Scooty Puff Junior.

ninja + fairing + better powerband gs500 + easy to ride + comfortable seat But there are many other factors... condition, price, mileage, maintenance, year, resale (as you probably will in a year or two).

Then you have to think about when and where you'll ride. I dislike non-fairing bikes on highways so if you do a lot of that, it's something to consider. Also your height and weight. GS is more comfortable, and about 20mm taller if both stock. Everyone has their own preference though. Try them and then decide. Last edited by integra298; 03-08-2013 at 08:46 AM.

-tegHello? Anyone still out there? d: Reply With Quote

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03-10-2013 02:20 PM#14

UnPimpZeAuto

ed

Array

Date Aug 2009 Location New West Bike N/A

Originally Posted by mdnitro

Honestly no, I have never owned either one of those bikes (not my cup of tea) but from what I know by looking at the numbers and did a quick calculation, they're not too far off from one to the other. Yes, gs500 might be able to pull off the line a little quicker but the 250r would definitely not too far behind and would eventually catch up due to the lighter weight advantage and of course only if the 250r rider know how to ride and do not shift too early like most newbies does. Bottom line is, if I was to factor in all the pros and cons between the two bikes in term of better fuel economy, lower insurance cost and a ton of fun for beginner around town minus the added weight, I would go for the 250r. Also when it's time to upgrade, not too many bike enthusiasts would go from 250r to 500 when they know that many 600 are twice as powerful. Nevertheless, it's up to the individual needs and most importantly what he/she is willing and able to spend. That's the problem with looking at paper peak figures only. I rode most of these bikes, so I know better. To proof my point I googled the bhp figures for these bikes at different RPM ranges and threw them in excel to create the graph below. The red line shows you the peak numbers, which are all within the same ballpark, which is what you were looking at.

However, that's not where you'd keep the RPMs at all times, during every day riding. You'd more likely be in the 4-7 or 5-7k rpm range, which I've highlighted in green. In that area you will notice a significant difference. That's why everyone that has actually tried these bikes, will tell you that some of them feel a lot more powerful than they are, on paper... The Ninja 250r & 300r are tuned for top end.. the GS500 and Ninja 400r are tuned for low to mid range.

Last edited by UnPimpZeAuto; 03-10-2013 at 02:30 PM. Reply With Quote

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03-10-2013 02:40 PM#15

slingshot

:D

Array

Date Aug 2006 Location Somewhere Bike Something

As a new rider, my advice is that you focus on building a couple of seasons worth of skills and seat time. For the first bike, my advice is to go with the 250. It's a great starter bike, powerful enough to have fun on the local roads without getting into trouble, and underpowered enough so you will have to build skills shifting up and down to keep it fun. By

spending 2 seasons on the 250, you'll develop more as a rider with less chance of hurting yourself through error. While not exactly a powerhouse of a motorcycle, the 500 will make you lazy, cost more for insurance and slow your learning of handling skills. Being a naked bike, it is also not super comfortable at higher speeds and isn't as easy to resell as the 250. For now, you would do yourself the best service by refining and developing your handling skills and becoming a more proficient rider, rather than worring about which bike is cooler or more powerful (not that you are). I own a 250 and two liter bikes, and have an unbelievable amount of fun riding the 250. It's a workout in of constantly shifting and using the best riding technique I can and there are several of us on here who feel the same way. Whatever you choose, buying a bike is more subjective than objective, so get the one you like most and try your best not to crash it. Good luck Originally Posted by slingshot

As a new rider, my advice is that you focus on building a couple of seasons worth of skills and seat time. For the first bike, my advice is to go with the 250. It's a great starter bike, powerful enough to have fun on the local roads without getting into trouble, and underpowered enough so you will have to build skills shifting up and down to keep it fun. By spending 2 seasons on the 250, you'll develop more as a rider with less chance of hurting yourself through error. While not exactly a powerhouse of a motorcycle, the 500 will make you lazy, cost more for insurance and slow your learning of handling skills. Being a naked bike, it is also not super comfortable at higher speeds and isn't as easy to resell as the 250. For now, you would do yourself the best service by refining and developing your handling skills and becoming a more proficient rider, rather than worring about which bike is cooler or more powerful (not that you are). I own a 250 and two liter bikes, and have an unbelievable amount of fun riding the 250. It's a workout in of constantly shifting and using the best riding technique I can and there are several of us on here who feel the same way. Whatever you choose, buying a bike is more subjective than objective, so get the one you like most and try your best not to crash it. Good luck Good advice. I rode one of the latest generation Kawi 250's and I really liked the bike. So much so, that I have been looking at perhaps buying one. Cheap insurance, cheap to buy run - and maintain. Easy peasy to sell if you don't want it anymore... and very little depreciation in of total dollars. If you keep your corner speed up, you can be suprisingly fast on backroads. Thinking of sharing one with one of my kids actually.

That's the problem with looking at paper peak figures only. I rode most of these bikes, so I know better.

To proof my point I googled the bhp figures for these bikes at different RPM ranges and threw them in excel to create the graph below. The red line shows you the peak numbers, which are all within the same ballpark, which is what you were looking at. However, that's not where you'd keep the RPMs at all times, during every day riding. You'd more likely be in the 4-7 or 5-7k rpm range, which I've highlighted in green. In that area you will notice a significant difference. That's why everyone that has actually tried these bikes, will tell you that some of them feel a lot more powerful than they are, on paper... The Ninja 250r & 300r are tuned for top end.. the GS500 and Ninja 400r are tuned for low to mid range.

Attachment 102892 Alrighty then! sound like you just hit the nail right on the head. Yes, both bikes are not designed to be ridden in the same manner therefore, if you owned a 250r for a few months and stay under 7000rmp consistently, you would think that your friend's gs500 is a rocket when you take it around the block. IMO, a common mistake for many new riders with 250cc is that they do not understand the powerband of their bike and its full potential beyond 11000rpm. Nevertheless, I would never own either one of these bikes as I do not like to stay in the city and definitely hate to kill day light by hanging around starbucks. Btw, I do think that the new 300r is a very nice little bike and it would seriously blow the 250r out of the water. JK

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03-10-2013 04:37 PM#18

BROSKI

ed

Array

Date May 2012 Location British Columbia Bike Honda

Have been riding my friend's 2010 250r special edition for the last week. Its definitely a fun bike but if you ride it right after a 600 or 1000 you'd find it boring due to its lack of power. But ride with for a while and it'll grow on you. Its super comfortable and easy to ride around town. Very nimble bike and feels really light. If you feel like you want to tear the twisties i'd suggest upgrading to some good stickier tires. This would be my top recommendation for the first upgrade on this bike. Good tires would give you the confidence and improved ride experience that no other upgrade would IMHO. Neat bike overall and looks good BUT if you want to buy a new bike, i'd suggest look into the new Ninja 300. OMG just thought of an idea. Not sure if its possible but how about get a 600, add a power commander and feed in a really f'ed up map that'll give bike no more power than a 250. HAHAHHAHA. Daymmm, really wonder if it would work. Last edited by BROSKI; 03-10-2013 at 04:47 PM. Reply With Quote

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03-10-2013 05:51 PM#19

UnPimpZeAuto

ed

Array


Originally Posted by mdnitro

Alrighty then! sound like you just hit the nail right on the head. Yes, both bikes are not designed to be ridden in the same manner therefore, if you owned a 250r for a few months and stay under 7000rmp consistently, you would think that your friend's gs500 is a rocket when you take it around the block. IMO, a common mistake for many new riders with 250cc is that they do not understand the powerband of their bike and its full potential beyond 11000rpm. Nevertheless, I would never own either one of these bikes as I do not like to stay in the city and definitely hate to kill day light by hanging around starbucks. Btw, I do think that the new 300r is a very nice little bike and it would seriously blow the 250r out of the water. JK Exactly. If you want to learn how to ride and optimize the use of your powerband small displacement machines with no low/mid power are perfect, since they force you to constantly stay in the powerband and down shift to overtake others. That's why it's fairly dramatic when you compare the 250r & 300r to the 400r. Between 1-8k RPM you basically have twice the power on the 400, compared to the other 2

smaller bikes. However, once you rev beyond 10k rpm on the 300r you will have developed within a few HP of what the 400r can do. Then considering that the bike has less weight you are basically on par (on paper the power to weight ratio might even be higher but after considering the weight of the rider as well I think it's pretty much the same). This is how I would approach this decision: If you know you eventually want a 600 or 1000 inline 4, I would strongly recommend the 250r. Very good practice. If you want a long term cheap commuter, I would pick a bike with lots of torque and a strong low to mid range that's under 400cc (cheap insurance). So in that case I'd go for either a DRZ400 or Ninja 400r. The GS500 makes very little sense for BC, since you are 87cc over the 400cc ICBC cut off and you will effectively pay double the insurance to what you'd pay for a 400r, yet you will have less power, across the entire RPM range. Reply With Quote

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03-10-2013 06:06 PM#20

UnPimpZeAuto

ed

Array


Looks like I've posted the GS500 numbers for a model with a EU restriction kit. Based on what I just read the bike makes the exact same peak power as the 400r, unrestricted @ 9k rpm. Reply With Quote

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03-10-2013 06:11 PM#21

TMR

Original Pirate Material Date

Array

Jan 2003 Location Vancouver Bike Ural Patrol, Honda CTX700

Get a 250r, great little bikes. When you want to 'upgrade' to something else, keep the 250 and go racing with it. Reply With Quote

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03-10-2013 08:13 PM#22

Mike_M

ed

Array


Originally Posted by slingshot

As a new rider, my advice is that you focus on building a couple of seasons worth of skills and seat time. For the first bike, my advice is to go with the 250. It's a great starter bike, powerful enough to have fun on the local roads without getting into trouble, and underpowered enough so you will have to build skills shifting up and down to keep it fun. By spending 2 seasons on the 250, you'll develop more as a rider with less chance of hurting yourself through error. While not exactly a powerhouse of a motorcycle, the 500 will make you lazy, cost more for insurance and slow your learning of handling skills. Being a naked bike, it is also not super comfortable at higher speeds and isn't as easy to resell as the 250. For now, you would do yourself the best service by refining and developing your handling skills and becoming a more proficient rider, rather than worring about which bike is cooler or more powerful (not that you are). I own a 250 and two liter bikes, and have an unbelievable amount of fun riding the 250. It's a workout in of constantly shifting and using the best riding technique I can and there are several of us on here who feel the same way. Whatever you choose, buying a bike is more subjective than objective, so get the one you like most and try your best not to crash it. Good luck You summed up everything I wanted to know , 250r it is then.. I will try to pick one up before the end of this week.. Hopefully to find a good decent one and close to east Van as most of them are either in Richmond or Maple Ridge/Tri-Cities!

Kawasaki ninja 250r or suzuki gs500f? confused on what to get the suzuki gs500f is going for 5200 and the ninja dealer wants 4700 for the bike. the prices are very close considering the differents in ccs. i have drive a ninja 250 and am afraid the the

suzuki will be to heavy and powerful but the dealer is half a hour closer and a better buy plus i... show more Update: the ninja would be a 2009 new the msrp is 4000 the dealer one cape cod added 700 Follow

6 answers

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Best Answer: you are paying too much for the ninja 250 if you are going to go with that. you can get it elsewhere out the door for 3500 bucks! why spend an additional 1200? the ninja is more sporty than the suzuki and lighter so its going to be based on your preference. Where do you live anyway? i know prices vary from state to state and also cities. I live in southern california.. bought my new gsxr 750 for about 12k a month ago. went up north to visit family and went to a dealership there and they had it for 10k so i should've shopped around first. But for the ninja, thats too much in my opinion. if you are afraid of the suzuki, go with the 250. looks nicer than the gs500f anyway. Also, depends on what you are going to use it for. Are you gonna use it for commuting or just for fun? I'd go with the ninja just becasue its lighter, more sporty, and less expensive.. good luck L70 · 8 years ago 0 Thumbs up

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 I owned a 2005 Ninja 250. The original style. I liked the bike alot. I put over 10000 miles the first year i had it. Went all over with it. Commuted with it. With the built in bungee hooks I could haul alot to. It was a fun bike. I just needed something more comfortable for two people to go on long rides with. And it was hard to keep up with most of bikes out there. Ninja 250 guys will tell you that it is plenty of bike to last, and it could be, but nobody else does. so when you ride with them you are always downshifting like 2 to 3 gears and that's just so you can keep them in sight.The dealer wanting 4700 is crazy. I am hoping that is for a 08. but if you look on-line kawa's MSRP is like 3499. Go bigger. If you already have rode and have some experience going bigger isn't too bad if you just take it easy. I went from my ninja 250 and got on a Buell firebolt or something its a 1200 anyhow, and had no problems. You just have to be smart. Know your and the bikes limits. I like kawas go for a ninja 500 or 600 they look better then the suzuki, to me at least. Jace_Bror · 8 years ago 0 Thumbs up


 I would go with the suzuki gs500f. I own one of those, a 2007 and it is a good beginner bike. I can guaranty you will get bored with the 250 ninja. To be honest, you will probably looking to a bigger bike after a few months with the gs 500.

Jake M · 8 years ago 0 Thumbs up

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 They are both good learner bikes, but the 250 will not do 1 hr on the highway. The 250 can do 70 mph, but it's not designed to cruise at that speed for a long time. So the GS is a better choice. It isn't that much heavier than the 250, but it has more power. Don't worry about it having too much power. 8^) The FZ6R is also a good starter bike. Probably as good as the GS 500, but a bit bigger and heavier still. Whichever you choose, be sure you can sit on it with both feet flat on the ground. Lori · 3 months ago 0 Thumbs up


 well you suggested that you wont get bored with a 500, but would with a 250...but your also scarred of the 500 which means your a begginer. If thats true, get the 250 as you wont go far if you kill yourself. rockbase · 8 years ago 0 Thumbs up

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 Go with the Suzuki, it is not too big of a bike and the price is pretty close.

Ninja 250R VS Suzuki GS500? im looking for my first bike. and im specifically looking for Ninja 250R VS Suzuki GS500. i only hear good things about these bikes. but i do hear that i would grow out of a 250 quickly. so im leaning towards 500. but i like the looks of newer 250's i know these are both great beginner bikes. but is GS500 faster than 250? if so, by how much?? do people grow out of 500 as fast as they do on a 250? thank you in advance Update: Does any body have 0-60 specs on both these bikes? Follow

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Best Answer: The Ninjette will do 100 mph -- it is more than capable of taking you anywhere. "Grow out of" is code for "Not crazy fast enough." If a motorcycle does the tasks you ask of it any "growing out" is simply wanting more speed for the sake of picking up tickets. If you want to do 160 mph on the freeway then you will "out grow" anything less than a four cylinder race bike. If you want reliable transportation either the Ninja 205R or the GS500F will keep you happy for many years. They are close to the same size, 'cept for the engines; not to mention that the Ninja is 65 pounds lighter (more agile, more 'flickable')

*AND* -->> $1,900 <<-- cheaper MSRP. . Source(s):5 years on a LS650 in Los Angeles. (380# wet, 85mph tops) Dimo J · 7 years ago 1 Thumbs up


 What are you trying to do? And what year model of the GS500 are you looking at? If your just going to cruise around go with the GS500, if you want to have fun trying to scrape the pegs on curves go with the 250R. GS500 is going to be faster, but you will get tired of not having a screen if you ride on the highway much.(If we are talking about the older naked model) Insurance rates on the GS500 will be next to nothing, while the 250R will be somewhat high(It was cheaper for me to insure a new 650R than a 250R through Progressive- Agent could not even explain why...) I don't think you would "outgrow" either unless you are only interested in top end. Both bikes would be fun, and it takes a couple seasons before you will become a good enough rider to even max out these two in the curves. Scanned around and the basic stats show around 5.75sec 0-60 on the Ninja250R with a high 14's in the 1/4, while the GS500 is a tad quicker it shows about the same- Please keep in mind that these figures are from professional testers that burn through the clutch in a couple runs... Have you looked at the 650R Ninja? I've been riding mine for a couple years now(I live in Texas so I can ride year round) and while it cant even keep up with a modern 600c inline4 it is still a fun bike to carve with. Good luck in whatever you choose, and take the msf course... ..DETOUR.. · 7 years ago 0 Thumbs up


 Both have almost identical performance figures the 250 is slightly faster to 60 (the difference is so slight that a decent rider will out-accelerate the 250 on the 500) the top speeds are near identical although they will be easier on a faired machine. But then neither are intended to be high-speed machines but novice/commuter-friendly bikes and none the worse for it. “Growing out of a 250” is something you will regularly read – the answer is “then you are not doing it right”. Tim D · 7 years ago 0 Thumbs up


 They're both very good bikes for their intended purpose and market segment. They are both 'sporty' bikes rather than sport bikes, meaning they are more general purpose 'standard' motorcycles with sporty styling. 'Real' sport bikes, like the GSX-R, are single-purpose, compromising everything for speed, really more like racing bikes for the street. In picking a 500 for your first bike rather than a 250, you're more concerned with weight rather than power.

And the added weight for the 500 is not all that much. The only problem with the 250 is that you can't do long rides at high speed, like commuting 20 mi. on the freeway every day. The 250 will probably get up to 70 mph, but it's not meant for sustained riding at that speed, so it's not as comfortable or as safe as a bigger bike. As for speed, the 500 will probably top 100 mph. But more important, you have a little more oomph for acceleration, to a car on the freeway, for instance. And you have more 'stamina' for long rides, in case you want to do a long trip, to go camping for a weekend or something like that. It's That Guy · 7 years ago 1 Thumbs up


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Gs 500 is a really good bike nippy and trust worthy it does really good around town is is also good fun for playing i had one for a couple of years was not realy keen on the riding position but my mate swore by them this bike started first time everymorning. I abuse myt bike unwashed unserviced and ungaraged the gs never let me down even starting first time when banked up with snow and loads of spare parts availabe take one for a test ride fab bike not a vhigh top speed but gets you there quick also look at a 600 bandit theres a fun bike

Hey everyone, which bike would you guys get? I know the Ninja is very popular but the Suzuki is also a very decent bike. I use to ride a CBR and just getting back into it after 2-3 years off. #218420

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218420

Whirlpool Forums Addict reference: whrl.pl/RccLa3 posted 2010-Mar-16, 11:29 am

Hi,

Both of these bikes cost the same brand new from the dealerships. What sort of a bike are you after. The ninja is a more leaning forward sporty stance which places more weight on your wrists and hence won't be able to do long rides comfortably. The GS500 is a more natural seating position with weight spread evenly between legs, back and wrists. The ninja will rev more at the same speed compared to the gs500. I prefer the gs500n as I have a CB400 and prefer no fairings on bikes. Do you still have your license or are you reentering riding from learners again? If you have your license I wouldn't bother with LAMS bikes and go for something bigger. #315466

1684 posts

-Valhalla-

Whirlpool Enthusiast reference: whrl.pl/RccLbz posted 2010-Mar-16, 11:32 am

Get on a 600. You will be bored with both of them after a month or two. I started riding on the ninja 250, this was a beast for its size, probably the best bike i recommend to learn on. Plus it holds its value when you go to resell it. But since you already been on a CBR i recommend going up to 600. The GS500 is a piece of crap. Mate had one, and i told him to get rid of it. Its more just for commuting. He got on a 750 and was glad to. If you want to learn how to corner go the ninja. If you want to commute, gs500. #96219

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ummmz Whirlpool Enthusiast reference: whrl.pl/RccLcA posted 2010-Mar-16, 11:37 am

O.P.

ResmeN writes...

Do you still have your license or are you reentering riding from learners again? I haven't renew my license since I stopped riding, ed Vicroads and they did say I need to reenter from learners again. -Valhalla- any particular reason the GS500F is crap? There are reviews that say they're really decent bike. #315466

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-Valhalla-

Whirlpool Enthusiast reference: whrl.pl/RccLen posted 2010-Mar-16, 11:44 am

ummmz writes...

-Valhalla- any particular reason the GS500F is crap? There are reviews that say they're really decent bike. It really depends on what you want to do as a rider. Do you want to use the bike just to commute? Or battle the mountains on the weekend? The GS500 was bulky as and seriously under powered. It doesn't lean over that well compared to a sports bike. The reason I said it was crap is I am under the impression you want something with a bit of guts. Needless to say, if you want to just commute then I say go for it. Im just biased because i prefer sportsbikes :) #218420

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Whirlpool Forums Addict reference: whrl.pl/RccLe4 posted 2010-Mar-16, 11:47 am

Valhalla if you're talking about guts I'm sure the gs500 is way more powerful than the ninja 250. #315466

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-ValhallaWhirlpool Enthusiast reference: whrl.pl/RccLjT posted 2010-Mar-16, 12:09 pm

ResmeN writes...

Valhalla if you're talking about guts I'm sure the gs500 is way more powerful than the ninja 250. way more powerful? GS500F 0 – 60 MPH 5.7 sec 1/4 Mile 14.48 sec @ 90.23 MPH Top Speed 105 MPH Ninja 250r 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) 5.75 sec 1/4 Mile 14.6 sec @ 88 mph Maximum Speed 105 mph #315466

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-Valhalla-

Whirlpool Enthusiast reference: whrl.pl/RccLkz posted 2010-Mar-16, 12:12 pm

500cc vs 250cc. Even though the 250 is what, 0.5 seconds slower than the GS, its a 250!! #218420

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218420

Whirlpool Forums Addict reference: whrl.pl/RccLkF posted 2010-Mar-16, 12:12 pm

Yes that is close. But I guess it depends whether the OP wants to use his bike as a daily commuter as I am and that is why I got a naked CB400 or as a weekend fun ride. Nakeds are more upright, easier & more comofrtable to ride long distances whereas sports are more leant forward, not so comfortable for long distances but nevertheless fun in their own ways. Can you bring up the specs like you did for those 2 bikes but for the 2008 CB400 SF. #36134

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jmuz Whirlpool Forums Addict reference: whrl.pl/RccLlk posted 2010-Mar-16, 12:15 pm

-Valhalla- writes...

The GS500 is a piece of crap. Mate had one, and i told him to get rid of it. Its more just for commuting. He got on a 750 and was glad to. Of course a GSXR750 (assuming thats what 750 means) is much nicer than a GS500, its not a learner bike though and OP is restricted to learners. GS500 or Ninja250, neither are anything special at cornering. They aren't sports bikes despite the 250 dres as one. ER6 or Ninja650 nicer than both (more $ of course). Even the Hyosung 650 is nice (though those I know with them all had problems with shocks). L versions obviously. Advantage of these is that they are artificially crippled, if crippling bits happen to just fall off, well...... Dirt bikes like KLR650 have their own advantages. Handling is far better than people think, considering the state of many roads which dont agree with stiff sportbikes. Ignore what someone who has only ridden sports bikes says about them because they dont know. Not so great on freeway though. BMW F650 range is nice, hold their value. Reasonable balance of road and dirt. Dont disregard "adventure riding", theres a lot to do and you can hoon without any care of police and traffic plus see some nice places most people never go to. #315466

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-ValhallaWhirlpool Enthusiast reference: whrl.pl/RccLq4 posted 2010-Mar-16, 12:39 pm

ResmeN writes...

Nakeds are more upright, easier & more comofrtable to ride long distances whereas sports are more leant forward, not so comfortable for long distances but nevertheless fun in their own ways. I agree. Can you bring up the specs like you did for those 2 bikes but for the 2008 CB400 SF. All I could find were these specs, couldn't tell if they were for 2008 model though. Max Speed: 115 mph (185 km/h) Acceleration 0-60 mph: < 6 seconds #96219

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ummmz Whirlpool Enthusiast reference: whrl.pl/RccLq6 posted 2010-Mar-16, 12:40 pm

O.P.

Is there a learners bike out there which is a bit sporty and also a daily commute? I also have a car so depending on the weather thats what I'll take to work. Prefer it to be a little new but I'm flexible. #33615

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Suka_nih

Forum Regular reference: whrl.pl/RccMxx posted 2010-Mar-16, 4:48 pm

Hi I ride Gixxer me in www.nswriders.org if you live in NSW. #35288

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hellsfury Whirlpool Enthusiast reference: whrl.pl/Rcdvlz posted 2010-Mar-26, 4:31 pm

try a 650 burgman to do both then is a scooter for city and has enough power for the long rides with comfort to go with it (twist on an idea for the op )

ps is lams legal in victoria so a l plater and p plater can use it #178195

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Vertical C

Whirlpool Forums Addict reference: whrl.pl/RcdvDK posted 2010-Mar-26, 5:45 pm

jmuz writes...

GS500 or Ninja250, neither are anything special at cornering. They aren't sports bikes despite the 250 dres as one. The 250 is not bad at cornering if you get the right rider, its (relative) light weight helps. I would get the 500 but the naked as they seem to hold their value well. Though I had a ZZR250 when I was learning and it is still thought of fondly (maybe because it was my ticket to freedom.) #31862

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dingaling Whirlpool Enthusiast reference: whrl.pl/RchgHX posted 2010-May-17, 12:20 am

-Valhalla- writes...

way more powerful? GS500F 0 – 60 MPH 5.7 sec 1/4 Mile 14.48 sec @ 90.23 MPH Top Speed 105 MPH Ninja 250r 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) 5.75 sec 1/4 Mile 14.6 sec @ 88 mph Maximum Speed 105 mph don't go spreading your opinion as fact. The gs500 is a low stressed longer lasting engine compared to the ninja 250 which is not going to last nearly as long. Not everyone wants a sportsbike. The gs500 is not crap ( yes I'm insulted ) OP trust me you'll appreciate the 500 on the highway over the ninja 250. Both good but in different areas. #299383

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Hickory420 Forum Regular

reference: whrl.pl/Rchg4t

posted 2010-May-17, 8:24 am

ummmz writes...

the Suzuki is also a very decent bike. I agree... I own one and I am never getting rid of it :-) As far as choosing a bike. I Highly recommend the Suzuki GS500. It has a 20L tank and I've done over 400kms on one tank! You can lean forward and ride 'em like a racer, or you can sit upright with your back straight and go for a comfortable cruise. This was my first bike and still own it and I am never getting rid of it :-) The motors just keep going and going and going. they are relatively cheap to purchase/maintain and very easy to sell. I've heard nothing but good reviews about them. And, speaking from experience, I agree 100%. Check out: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suzuki_GS500 http://www.bestbeginnermotorcycles.com/suzuki-gs500-review http://www.productreview.com.au/showitem.php?item_id=16238 http://www.dooyoo.co.uk/motorcycle/suzuki-gs500e/438883/ It is a very under-rated bike :) Happy Riding!!!

ninja 250 or GS500 « on: March 01, 2009, 11:59:36 PM »

I have a friend who is looking for his first bike and is considering a 2006 ninja 250, im trying to talk him in too the GS500 but the 250 is cheaper. A guy at the bike shop here was telling my friend that there is no difference in power between the ninja and the GS, i am new to this as the GS i have is my second bike but since the ninja is only a 250 and the GS is a 500 wouldn't the GS have a little more power? Logged

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 Re: ninja 250 or GS500 « Reply #1 on: March 02, 2009, 12:05:52 AM »

theres definitely a power difference between the two, and it is felt mostly in the lower end. Honestly, though, bot bikes are great learner bikes and you can't go wrong with either, the 250 is a blast to ride, its just i hate seeing a faired bike getting dropped, which is usually what happens with learner bikes. your buddy probably wont notice the power difference too much since they are a new rider. Logged

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A Ninja 250 gets around 28HP to the ground. The GS will put down around 45-50HP. Either one makes a great first bike, I think. The Ninja is great for shorter rides and beginning track days. The GS works better for longer rides and also makes a decent first track bike. In the end, it depends on what he likes, I suppose. I wouldn't knock his decision either way. However, I would be glad he's looking in the right direction for a first bike. So many people choose totally unsuitable motorcycles for the task of learning how to ride. :thumbsup:

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Looks like 36(Edit: or 28 depending on where you look) on the Ninja vs 47 on the GS. « Last Edit: March 02, 2009, 12:10:44 AM by GI_JO_NATHAN » Logged Jonathan '04 GS500

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36HP at the crankshaft on the Ninja 250. 28HP at the wheel due to driveline losses. Logged Every zero you add to the tolerance adds a zero to the price.

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Re: ninja 250 or GS500 « Reply #5 on: March 02, 2009, 12:24:19 AM »

The GS 500 has considerably more torque than the 250 Ninja, and almost 10 more HP, giving it better street performance and the ability to carry a enger. The little Ninja needs to be revved like crazy to get it to go, but the GS pulls good throughout its rev range. The Ninja will struggle mightily with a enger aboard. The GS is also more comfortable to ride. They both handle like a dream! You can get a good GS 500 for less than a 250 Ninja. I paid $1200 U.S. for a '94 with 13000 miles that needed nothing. 250 Ninjas in that price range have many more miles and usually need work. Don't get me wrong. The 250 Ninja is a terrific little bike, but that's what it is, a little bike. The GS is more motorcycle than the little Ninja. The GS is small enough for beginners but big enough not to get sick of. That's why I love it! Anyone would get sick of a 250 before long. The 500 Ninja compares better to the GS 500. In fact, it's better than the GS in every way except simplicity. The GS 500 is simpler so it's easier to work on, parts are cheap and plentiful, and it is ultimately reliable. In that respect it's a better choice than any Ninja, or almost any other modern bike for that matter. « Last Edit: March 02, 2009, 12:36:04 AM by bill14224 » Logged V&H pipes, K&N drop-in, seat by KnoPlace.com, 17/39 sprockets, matching grips, fenderectomy, short signals, new mirrors - 10 scariest words: "I'm here from the government and I'm here to help!"

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Thanks for the help. This should give him the help he needs to pick the GS Logged

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I sold my ninja 250 last year to my brother to buy the GS. I put 8,000 miles on it in 9 months. I put 100 miles on my truck in that same time! Both are track day bikes/daily drivers. Honestly the ninja was more fun. It feels like a toy, you feel like a racer because you're revving the crap out of it everywhere. There is just as much aftermarket and cheap ebay parts as there is for the the GS500, maybe more. Don't get me wrong, the GS is the better bike for me and fits my 6'1" body much better. I do miss the ninja though and if your friend is under 160 and 5'10" he or she will probably have more fun on it too. I'm not saying it's better or more appropriate, just more fun. OK, now please don't flame me for this. And everyone else's comments were spot on too. Hope that gives you some help. « Last Edit: March 02, 2009, 01:26:45 AM by ineedanap » Logged My 90 GS500E has spread itself across the nation.

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If your going to do any highway riding, the GS500 is the better choice. The Ninjas have to rev too high to make the trip comfortable. Logged 05 GS500F - 20 65 145 Jets - Jardine Exhaust - K&N Air filter - NGK Iridium SparkPlugs 0.85kg/mm Front Springs - Fork Brace - Michelin Activ Tyres - - Front SS Brake Line & EBC HH pads LED Dash & Tail Lights - DoubleBubble Screen - Fenderectomy - Alloy Pegs -

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come on, it was only 10,000 rpm to do 75mph. Logged My 90 GS500E has spread itself across the nation.

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Ninja 250R data from Cycle World July 08 Frugal Fuelers comparo tesr: Price $3499 Dry weight 352 lb. Wheelbase 54.9 in. Seat height 31.0 in. Fuel mileage 60 mpg 0-60 mph 7.6 sec. 1/4-mile 15.54 sec. @ 82.70 mph Horsepower 27.2 hp @ 10,770 rpm Torque 14.3 ft.-lb. @ 9650 rpm Top speed 96 mph All published GS500 test data with some EX500 test data from comparos: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v443/j8832/GS500tests.jpg Last GS500F CW tested: 14.5 @ 90.2 quarter, 105 mph top, 40.5 hp @ 8600, 26.7 torque @ 6950, 49 mpg. Logged 407,400 miles in 30 years for 13,580 miles/year average. Started riding 7/21/84 and hung up helmet 8/31/14.

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As others have said, either one would be fine for him. I've got over 40k miles on mine, it runs fine and I do ride it on the highway. I have a 30 mile commute to work, mostly rural highways 55-60 mph, hilly & curvy. Works out just fine here on the local highways and on the interstate. Oh and I'm 5'11" @ 250lbs. However with all that being said - the 500 is a little bigger, a little more power, will carry a little more weight, will go a little faster, will get a little less gas mileage, will cost a little more on insurance, etc. So really it's up to what he wants to do I'd guess. I'm still thinking about buying a newer GS500 when I wear out my little Ninja 250 or it on to my kids. You do know you're on a GS500 site right? Go ask the same question on the Ninja 250 site and see your responses. « Last Edit: March 02, 2009, 02:11:57 PM by TonyKZ1 » Logged 1989 Kawasaki Ninja 250 - a scottoiler system, Works Performance rear shock, Traxxion Dynamics front forks, Oxford Heaterz heated grips, and Handlebar Muffs for when it's really cold. My Mileage Tracker Page.

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GS500... Depending on his size, GS500. I am 6' 220 and I am NOT COMFORTABLE AT ALL on the Ninja 250. It's cramped, squishy, and simply a learner bike. Sure, it looks nice, but that's all it is... It's a Honda Rebel on steroids... which still doesn't say much. It's comparing Apples to Oranges. He'd be better off debating the Kawi Ninja 500 vs, the GS500... In which case I'd STILL recommend the GS due to it's looks.

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I recommend the GS500 over the Ninja 500 any day simply based on how much I dislike the ninja 500's really crappy frame.

Plus the GS just looks wicked sweet and to me felt like it

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Re: ninja 250 or GS500 « Reply #14 on: March 02, 2009, 01:40:18 PM »

Quote from: scotilac on March 01, 2009, 11:59:36 PM I have a friend who is looking for his first bike and is considering a 2006 ninja 250, im trying to talk him in too the GS500 but the 250 is cheaper. A guy at the bike shop here was telling my friend that there is no difference in power between the ninja and the GS, i am new to this as the GS i have is my second bike but since the ninja is only a 250 and the GS is a 500 wouldn't the GS have a little more power?

between the two of ninja 250 vs gs500 - i'd recommend the gs. between the ninja 500 and the gs500, it's a toss up. please have him take a look at the ex500 (500R ninja) also. these bikes are very similar, very good to tour/commute/play on, and if maintained proper, last a nice long time. have him hop over to ex-500.com and take a look at the posts by FOG and a few of the other regulars. there is a wealth of information here, and there. between the ninja250, ninja500, and gs500, the ninja250 is the loser. sorry, it's just not going to be as usable a machine as the other two. *******

tell him to buy the gear, wear the gear, and ride like his life depends on it. we want him around next spring.

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Quote from: ohgood on March 02, 2009, 01:40:18 PM tell him to buy the gear, wear the gear, and ride like his life depends on it. we want him around next spring.

Exactly, regardless of what bike(s) he buys he needs to get the gear and wear it, ATGATT (all the gear all the time). Also if he hasn't taken the MSF safety course or something like that, then that is recommended before he buys a bike. Tony Logged 1989 Kawasaki Ninja 250 - a scottoiler system, Works Performance rear shock, Traxxion Dynamics front forks, Oxford Heaterz heated grips, and Handlebar Muffs for when it's really cold. My Mileage Tracker Page.

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 Re: ninja 250 or GS500 « Reply #16 on: March 02, 2009, 02:28:01 PM »

Is the Ninja 250 really that much worse than the GS500? Almost every review that I've read of it has been raving. I think I a review (possibly posted on this site) from a guy who rode a hayabusa or some other crazy fast bike, that said the ninja 250 was a great bike and a lot of fun.

I think any of those bikes (Ninja 250, Ninja 500 & GS 500) will be equal amounts of fun. None of them will be great on the highway (maybe the guy doesn't care about riding on the highway) and all are light and handle well in the twisties. I'd say it boils down more to how well he fits on the bike and other preferences like looks. Is the Ninja 250 smaller than the GS? I'm 6'2" and am a little bit cramped on the GS. It's comfortable enough for an hour or two, but I don't think I'd want a bike physically smaller than that. Logged

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I have to disagree. I think all of those bikes would be good on the highway. They might not be able to go 120 mph, like a lot of the 600+s can, but their MPGs more than make up for that IMO. Logged lK&N unchbox w/ rejet with 140 mains, F-18 flyscreen, truck bed liner black, superbike bars with 3rd eye bar end mirrors, license plate rear turn signals, micro front turn signals

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Quote from: tripleb on March 02, 2009, 03:15:47 PM I have to disagree. I think all of those bikes would be good on the highway.

Depends on the highway. On a road like 280 out here, where the speed of traffic is often 7080mph or more, a 250 is definitely sketchy; a 250 is screaming near the top of the rev range just to keep up with traffic. There are a number of ways to stay safe on a freeway, and when you're maxing out the power just to keep up with traffic, you're giving up the ability to proactively motor out of trouble. While not the only option, it's one I'm loth to give up. If the speed of traffic isn't going to be higher than 50mph, either will do. Logged

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i only had the 250 for about 3 months before i had to sell it, but in that time, i'd say i had a crazy amount of fun on it. The 250 is plenty capable, it just takes some getting used to when you're shifting 3-4k higher than on other bikes, its like driving a V8 all your life, and then driving

the honda S2000. I came from the bay, and riding on 280 with traffic moving about 70-80 was not that bad, i was at maybe 9500 at 80, but then again, i did have the 15T front sprocket. The thing is, the 250 loves to be revved up there, and apparently, from forum on ninja250.net, there really isn't any long term damage to be cruising about at 9k all the time. A forum member named Duke and several others i can do the iron butt rally on the 250, with no more modifications than a larger gas tank. i'm not downplaying the gs500 at all, but simply mentioning that for a first bike, its a real tossup between the two, there is no clear winner or loser here. Either bike is clearly a better choice than a crotch rocket 600 or 1000. So tell your buddy to pick whatever bike they like better

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Who comes to a GS500 website and thinks that there wont be any bias towards the GS500. Hopefully you have posted this same thread on a Kawa forum and see what they have seen. Hopefully they point to the GS, i am 6'6 and my knees would touch the front tire on a 250ninja. But i think your friend needs to look at being comfortable and the practicability over that race breed look. He has to learn to walk before he can run. he always has the option of the 500F, but fairings are risky for new riders.... as i found out.... Logged 2005 F - Yoshi TRS Slip-On, Ventura Rack, ZG Double Bubble (Ordered), LED Indicators

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Quote from: joshr08 on March 02, 2009, 04:59:07 PM fairing on a bike are no riskier then doors and fenders are for a new driver. if you hit something fairings or not your fixing something.

If you drop a naked bike, the scraped bar-end doesn't show your n00bishness to the world the way rashed fairings do. If you don't give a damn, though, it's not such a deal-breaker. A naked bike is a good thing for someone wanting to learn to wrench at home. It's so much simpler to do maintenance on my dirtbikes than on my streetbike... Logged

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Quote from: VSG on March 02, 2009, 02:28:01 PM 1) Is the Ninja 250 really that much worse than the GS500? 2) Almost every review that I've read of it has been raving. I think I a review (possibly posted on this site) from a guy who rode a hayabusa or some other crazy fast bike, that said the ninja 250 was a great bike and a lot of fun.

I think any of those bikes (Ninja 250, Ninja 500 & GS 500) will be equal amounts of fun. None of them will be great on the highway (maybe the guy doesn't care about riding on the highway) and all are light and handle well in the twisties. I'd say it boils down more to how well he fits on the bike and other preferences like looks. Is the Ninja 250 smaller than the GS? I'm 6'2" and am a little bit cramped on the GS. It's comfortable enough for an hour or two, but I don't think I'd want a bike physically smaller than that.

1) oh man, i hope you didn't get the impression that the 250 is a BAD machine. nope. not at all. it's a fantastic machine. 2) yep, the reviews are great. the reviewer you're thinking about is a hayabusa rider, that tours some of the best roads on the east coast and beyound. here is his tour website: http://pashnit.com and here is his (wow, 300,000 views !) first ride on the ninja 250 after many many miles on a busa: http://www.pashnitforum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1145 hope i didn't mislead you with the first post. the ninja 250 is a great bike. as far as bias towards a gs/whoever, sure, you'll get a little. gstwins is cool enough to know there are LOTS of bikes that rock, and you don't see much bashing of other machines here. sure, there are jokes about hayabusa's being busses, etc, but it's all in good fun. the level of maturity is usually almost boring. gotta rib someone to get em to realize there is a joke involved ride safe !

https://motoperf.com/motorcycles/Suzuki-GS500-1988-504629/and/Yamaha-R32015-675370#specs

Engine

Suzuki GS500

Kawasaki Ninja 250R

Displacement

29.00 ci

15.00 ci

Max power

47 HP (@9 500 RPM)

32 HP (@11 000 RPM)

Max torque

30 lb ft (@7 500 RPM)

16 lb ft (@9 500 RPM)

Redline

11 000 RPM

14 000 RPM

Idling speed

1 200 RPM

1 300 RPM

Management

Carburetor

Fuel Injection

Layout

Inline-2

Inline-2

Compression

8.00:1

11.60:1

Oil capacity

3.03 quart

1.61 quart

Oil type

10W40, Motul 300V 10W40, Shell Rotella 10W40

10W40, Kawasaki 10W40, Shell Rotella 10W40

Spark plug type NGK DPR8EA-9, DENSO X24EPR-U9

NGK CR8E

Cooling

Liquid

Liquid

Valves

4

8

Bore

2.91 in

2.44 in

Stroke

2.23 in

1.62 in

Weight to power 8.72 lbs/HP

11.64 lbs/HP

Power to weight 286 HP/2500lbs

214 HP/2500lbs

Battery type

12V 11Ah

YTX9-BS

Gearbox

Suzuki GS500

Kawasaki Ninja 250R

Type

Sequential

Sequential

Clutch

Wet

Wet

Drive

Chain

Chain

Gears count

6

6

Primary ratio

2.714

3.087

Final drive

2.437

3.214

1. gear

2.461 (48 mph)

2.6 (39 mph)

2. gear

1.777 (67 mph)

1.789 (57 mph)

3. gear

1.38 (86 mph)

1.409 (72 mph)

4. gear

1.125 (106 mph)

1.16 (88 mph)

5. gear

0.961 (124 mph)

1.0 (101 mph)

6. gear

0.851 (140 mph)

0.893 (114 mph)

Chasis

Suzuki GS500

Frame type

Kawasaki Ninja 250R Tubular, diamond

Front susp.

Telescopic fork

Telescopic fork, 4.72 in travel

Rear susp.

Link type

Swingarm (uni-trak), 5.12 in travel

Dimensions

Suzuki GS500

Kawasaki Ninja 250R

Height

3.39 ft

3.55 ft

Width

2.56 ft

2.29 ft

Length

6.66 ft

6.67 ft

Wheelbase

4.50 ft

4.48 ft

Ground clearance

5.91 in

5.12 in

Seat height

2.53 ft

2.48 ft

Wet weight

410 lbs

373 lbs

Dry weight

384 lbs

335 lbs

Tank capacity

4.5 gallon

4.8 gallon

Rake

25.00 °

26.00 °

Trail

3.74 in

3.23 in

Tires

Suzuki GS500

Kawasaki Ninja 250R

Front tire

110/70 Z17

100/70 17M/C 54H

Rear tire

130/70 Z17

130/70 17M/C 54H

Brakes

Suzuki GS500

Kawasaki Ninja 250R

Front brakes

Disc

Disc

Front caliper

2 pistons

2 pistons

Front brake diameter

310 mm

290 mm

Rear brakes

Disc

Disc

Rear caliper

1 piston

1 piston

Rear brake diameter

250 mm

220 mm

Engine

Suzuki GS500

Yamaha R3

Displacement

29.00 ci

19.00 ci

Max power

47 HP (@9 500 RPM)

42 HP (@10 750 RPM)

Max torque

30 lb ft (@7 500 RPM)

21 lb ft (@9 000 RPM)

Redline

11 000 RPM

12 245 RPM

Idling speed

1 200 RPM

Management

Carburetor

Fuel Injection

Layout

Inline-2

Inline-2

Compression

8.00:1

11.20:1

Oil capacity

3.03 quart

2.27 quart

Oil type



Spark plug type NGK DPR8EA-9, DENSO X24EPR-U9

NGK CR8E

Cooling

Liquid

Liquid

Valves

4

4

Bore

2.91 in

2.68 in

Stroke

2.23 in

1.74 in

Weight to power

8.72 lbs/HP

8.71 lbs/HP

Power to weight 286 HP/2500lbs

286 HP/2500lbs

Battery type

12V, 7.0 Ah, GTZ8V

12V 11Ah

Gearbox

Suzuki GS500

Yamaha R3

Type

Sequential

Sequential

Clutch

Wet

Wet

Drive

Chain

Chain

Gears count

6

6

Primary ratio

2.714

3.043

Final drive

2.437

3.071

1. gear

2.461 (48 mph)

2.5 (39 mph)

2. gear

1.777 (67 mph)

1.824 (53 mph)

3. gear

1.38 (86 mph)

1.348 (71 mph)

4. gear

1.125 (106 mph)

1.087 (89 mph)

5. gear

0.961 (124 mph)

0.92 (105 mph)

6. gear

0.851 (140 mph)

0.8 (120 mph)

Chasis

Suzuki GS500

Frame type

Yamaha R3 Diamond

Front susp.

Telescopic fork

Telescopic fork, coil spring, oil damper, 130 mm travel

Rear susp.

Link type

Swingarm, spring/shock absorber, coil spring/oil damper, 130 mm travel

Dimensions

Suzuki GS500

Yamaha R3

Height

3.39 ft

3.63 ft

Width

2.56 ft

2.30 ft

Length

6.66 ft

6.69 ft

Wheelbase

4.50 ft

4.42 ft

Ground clearance

5.91 in

6.30 in

Seat height

2.53 ft

Wet weight

410 lbs

Dry weight

384 lbs

366 lbs

Max payload weight

353 lbs

Tank capacity

4.5 gallon

3.7 gallon

Rake

25.00 °

25.00 °

Trail

3.74 in

3.74 in

Tires

Suzuki GS500

Yamaha R3

Front tire

110/70 Z17

110/70 17 M/C (54H)

Pressure Rear tire

29.01 PSI 130/70 Z17

140/70 17 M/C (66H)

Pressure

36.26 PSI

Stock tires

Michelin Pilot Street

Brakes

Suzuki GS500

Yamaha R3

Front brakes

Disc

Disc

Front caliper

2 pistons

1 piston

Front brake diameter

310 mm

298 mm

Rear brakes

Disc

Disc

Rear caliper

1 piston

1 piston

Rear brake diameter

250 mm

220 mm

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