Ninja 500R, Suzuki GS500F

[RJS1997]

Greetings all. Noob here, taking my MSF class this weekend. I'm looking at the '04 Ninja 500R or the 04 GS500F as my first bike. Can you guys throw out some opinions on which one is the better choice? I like the looks of the GS500F, but the Ninja performs better from what I've read, even though it's a little weak in the looks department. I'm just trying to collect some solid advice on which one offers me the best chance to learn and hone my riding skills. Thanks all!

[lawson]

used ninja 250.
used ninja 500r.
used gs500 dont get the gs500f cuz if you drop it ur gonna be very sad becuase of the full fairings. thats just my opinion. and good luck on msf.

[21 natas]

I agree I would get a used gs500 since it will be your first bike, the chances of you dropping the bike (your fault or not) in the first year are probable. You will save money and you wont have to replace the plastic.

[stoinkythepig]

A used Bandit 400 is a better bike than the others in my opinion and cheap to buy too.

[RACER X]

+1 to all the above......

[Stephen072774]

Insurance may be cheaper on the GS than the EX.

[Nostradumbass]

Originally Posted by stoinkythepig

A used Bandit 400 is a better bike than the others in my opinion and cheap to buy too.

I'd love to have one of those... they're tough to find though.

[L8 Braker]

They're both great bikes to start on...

[Filip75]

Suzuki looks better, but lacks in power (12hp difference)