I own one – Andy Catton
Andy bought his GPZ500S in around 2010 with approximately 5000 miles on the clock. “My 1996 GPZ EX500-D3 is possibly the best 500cc sized motorcycle ever. For me, the 1994 update and the 1996 candy wine red/silver colour scheme look awesome. The GPZ is easy to ride, a fact highlighted by my partner learning to ride on it. Some of the single disc UK model's front brake power is outdated compared to more modern machines, but is adequate, safe and progressive. With a good service and braided brake lines it is sharp enough. Mind you, I would like to try a twin disc E-model in comparison. The GPZ responds to Avon Roadrider tyres well, and I would recommend these as the best mod for stability and handling. For long distance riding, fuel consumption is strong. Cruising at 80 mph and returning 55 mpg(ish), the tank gives an extremely useful 200-mile range (falling sharply on faster blasts). Equipment is good for the era, with a grab handle, centre-stand and fold-out luggage points and two helmet locks, a comfy seat for rider and pillion, and the modern rider will like the now very retro-looking and easy-to-read analogue dials on the instrument panel, but perhaps will miss not having a clock on the dash. Worthwhile touring additions are a 12 volt plug socket, heated grips, and a top box. A Hagon shock and Corbin seat make long journeys even better comfort-wise. This example has covered 22,000 miles over the last nine years, 17,000 with myself. Every ride has been fun and the high points include the way the twin cylinder engine delivers its 59 horses – hard above 7000 rpm – along with reliability and secure handling. Low points include locking the front brake in a panic after six-months of ownership, the resultant cost of the new front fairing cowl (£750.00) and, despite my best attempts, the advance of corrosion after 22 years. My advice is to keep your GPZ covered in ACF-50, and wash and dry it properly after every ride. Then the finish should stand up to the test of time amazingly well. General maintenance is easy. Change the oil and oil filter either yearly or every 4000 miles; keep water topped up; use washing time to look for anything loose; and be prepared (if your D-still has a standard exhaust system in reasonably non-corroded condition) for the linking clamp under the swingarm to be the first part to corrode through. Stainless replacements are available. Finally, install a new chain and sprockets, keep them clean and they will last for several years. Oh, and replacing bearings on older bikes is worthwhil, with the sprocket carrier bearing the most likely to go first from washing. A new cush-drive is a good and properly-needed addition on an older machine. As for reliability, well, despite it having snowed, the GPZ still started up and sat ticking over after four weeks of hibernation with no worries. I can’t wait to take it for a blast. Every year since I bought the bike I've enjoyed riding it or looked forward to sorting out/restoring the next bit of the trusty twin. A GPZ is the real deal and one will keep you happy for many, many miles.”