You might be dreaming of owning a GSX-R600, but when you wake up and check your bank balance it might be time for a reality check. And that's when you'll take another look at Suzuki's affordable GS500F.
Based on the good old GS500, the F comes with a full fairing that bears more than a passing resemblance to the GSX-R600's. But the engine is the same 487cc parallel twin that was updated for 2001.
The low-maintenance four-stroke, air-cooled DOHC motor is beginning to show its age - Suzuki added the GS500 to the range in 1989 as a cheap sportsbike.
But it is still an economical commuter, with a reputation for day-in, day-out reliability. It is also pretty light for a full-size motorcycle at 180kg (up 6kg on the naked GS500). Electronic ignition and twin Mikuni carbs keep service costs to a minimum, while the oil cooler on this air-cooled four-valve engine stops things getting too hot under the fairing.
This Suzi might be pretty basic but it still has enough stomp to beat any sales rep's Vauxhall away from the lights if you buzz the six-speed box.
The brakes are as basic as the engine, with a single two-piston caliper disc up front and the same at the rear. Compliant suspension gives a comfortable ride - the front fork is adjustable for preload, while the rear suspension features a link-type seven-way adjustable spring.
The black-painted double cradle steel frame has an easy job cradling the lightweight 51bhp motor and the chassis gives plenty of feedback.
Top speed is a shade over 110mph, and you should get over 50mpg. That's a range of 220 miles from the 4.4-gallon (20-litre) petrol tank.
Loads of training schools use the GS500 to teach riders the basics. So if the bike can stand the abuse of a new learner every day, you know it's built to last.
The GS500 hasn't got a brilliant reputation for build quality, so expect some corrosion after a hard winter. But when you check out the deals you can get on one of these commuter classics you'll see that it's still a bargain.
