I'd go for the GS500 too. They have been around for a very long time, having evolved from the GS400-GS425-GS450 first made about 1978. They have plenty of power for the trip you are planning ( in fact more than you will need, see my posting in the Suzuki section about our experiences with many travelers and bikes http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb...ML/000016.html and also the "Do it on a 250cc" topic in this section.) They are still being made (and sold here in NZ), they are air cooled to water pump seals etc are no worries, they are cheap but most importand of all, they are light. You will love them when you are pushing them into that guesthouse hallway in Kathmandu. But last of all and most important of all, make sure you are all riding the SAME TYPE OF BIKE. I can't stress this enough. Not just for the spare parts, but for diagnostics and ease of repair. We have had travelers stay with us half way thru their world trip who have sent one bike back home and bought another bike in NZ to match. It really is that important, and the more bikes you are traveling with the more important it is. Finally, be sure to drop by and visit with us when you get here!
Kind regards
Nigel in NZ
--"Have you hugged your bike today?"--
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The mouth of a perfectly contented man is filled with . -- 2200 BC Egyptian inscription
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