has anyone ever ridden this bike? i've gotten mixed reviews about it fro my local buddies bu ti think it would be a great starter bike. by the way im 6'0" and about 235 lbs.

 

I rode a GS500 once. It had enough power to move my fat *** around (6' 240). My only complaint was a soft, saggy rear suspension, but that might have been attributable to the age of the bike.

 

The Suzuki GS500 and Kawasaki Ninja 500r (also called the EX500) are good starter bikes. Depending on what kind of investment you're looking into, you can find one a few years old for below $2k. Buy used if it's your first bike.

In terms of riding, there are tons of reviews for the bikes. Even side by side comparisons. Google it

 

I own a 96 GS500E. Its a great bike, easy to work on and great for learning and around town. When I bought the bike it ran shitty but a simple valve adjustment and cleaning of the carbs made it run like new. Working on the thing is even more simplified by the fact that it is also air cooled. These engines are pretty bullet proof and the longevity of this engine design is a testament to it (this motor or the 400cc lil brother has been around for a LONG *** time) I thought about upgrading this season but I think I will save some more cash and get more seat time on the GS. As far as suspension the front can be solved easily with fork spaces (cheap and easy, works ok) or just get some after market springs (pretty cheap still when you consider the cost of getting that kinda stuff for a car/newer bike). The rear can be stiffened quite a bit w/ the preload or a Katana shock swaps right in and is pretty cheap.

here is a good site to reference: http://www.gstwins.com/gsboard/

If you get one you won't be disappointed!