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I've been looking at this 86 Suzuki GS-550L. Do people think it would be a good beginner bike? Here is the description:

I am looking to sell my '86 Suzuki GS550L. I purchased this bike as a starter bike and it has served it's purpose well. There is some slight cosmetic damage, but nothing major. Less than 5,000 miles are on it! We have replaced the tires (Great Condition) and just recently had the carburetors and fuel lines re-done through J and B custom cycles of Wrightsville. It is in need of a right front reflector but I am willing to replace that if you show a serious interest in the bike.

The cosmetic damage is a dent in the tank. The mileage is 4,605 miles. The guy said it would also need a passenger footpeg. Is that hard to replace? Does that need to be welded into place? He said that there is oil leaking from the drain plug. He doesn't know why. The price is $1100!

Are these bikes reliable? Easy to work on? What do people think?

Parts missing are always expensive to replace although the reflector could be replaced at any auto parts counter, the foot peg (bolts on) from any aftermarket or motorcycle salvage yard. The leaking drain plug needs a new washer or 'O' ring.

Those GSs are perfect examples of UMJs and are very reliable. East to work on is a relitive term, if your mechanicly inclined their easy. I think I'd offer the guy $750 to start off and not go over $900.

Hi Johnj

I love my 1980. That said Yes it serves to learn on. BUT in good tune if you get wild and let the rpm over say 6-7000 the torque could scare you. It opened my eyes once.

I've found it more reliable than others I'm aware of. I do have to go over it once a week and tighten some screws and fixtures, 15 -20 minutes while I'm wiping it down..

Watch Ebay for parts. I replaced a bent front peg and the distributer cover at reasonable prices. I needed to go to Suzuki for the Battery plastic cover. That was a bit more....

It doesn't sound bad, other than the leaking drain plug. While it could be that it just needs a washer, it could also be a stripped plug. The latter can be a major pain to fix. Check it out closely.

It just seems the price is high for a bike this old. Also there is only a month or less of good riding weather. I need to check out the bike before I make to decide though.