Total Motorcycle Community Forums

Hey guys, first post here but I've read some of the other very useful threads on good starter bikes.

I rode smaller bikes in the 125-150cc range for a couple of years when I lived in Asia but now I'm looking to get something bigger.

I've pretty much decided on either a gs500 or a Bandit 400 but I'm looking for a bit of advice on what might be better. Here in Hungary for about the same amount of money I can get a 2001-2002 gs500 or a 1997-1999 Bandit (there aren't any newer than '99).
A few salesmen have suggested a Bandit 600/650, but after reading some of the threads here I think that might be something for me to get in a couple of years.

I live in the city center so would be doing some city riding, but mostly plan to use the bike for weekend trips and such. I don't really plan to be on the motorway too much as it's pretty fast here (130km/h+).

One thing that concerns me about the Bandits is their age, will a late 90's model Bandit require a lot more servicing and such?

Is there one model out of the two that has a smoother ride and would be more comfortable for 6+ hour riding days on country roads (with a passenger).

Any info would be much appreciated, thanks.

I would suggest the GS500 because they are still being made. They will have parts more readily available, and for cheaper. They are both good bikes, but I would take the GS500 for maintenance reasons.

The GS should handle most any type of riding you need to do. The top speed of the GS500 is around 177 km/h. So if you need to go 130 when you feel comfortable, you shouldn't have any problems.

I've found that top speed number VERY optomistic...

Maybe with some mods

Having only the exerience with the MSF bikes, I have found the GS500 to be perfect for a beginner. It gives you enough rope to climb with, but not enogh to hang yourself with. Of course, I say this with the expectation of you knowing that even mini-bikes are powerful enough to kill you...

To be brutally honest, I LOVE my bike.

Assuming both bikes fit you well, I'd choose the GS500 for the same reasons stated above. Part availability, newer bike, etc.

I'd choose the Bandito. It's better looking I.M.O. and actually the more modern design of the two.

If your not worried about the maintenance issues mentioned above I would go with a Bandit 400 for aesthetic reasons..
I also rode one last year in the city and because it is quite small and narrow it is easy to squeeze through tight spots with ease..
either way they are both great machines

I really, really, REALLY, like that bandito... mmhmm

Well, I decided to go with the Bandit. I saw this one and just fell in love with it. The place I bought it from imports and sells a lot of them so I shouldn't have to worry too much about finding parts in future when needed.

It's a '98, is in amazing condition, and has 17,000km on it. Plus it came with 6 months warranty, which is pretty awesome for a 9 year old bike.

We just took it out for the weekend, it rides great and really screams when you get up into the higher rpms (15k redline).

Looking forward to a great summer of riding.
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Nice bike! Have fun!