43,670 bikes · 495 makes Add a bikeLog inRegister
Enduro Bikes

1983Suzuki DR 500 S

Rate this bike
Click to vote

19 fields on record

The 1983 Suzuki DR 500 S is a lightweight enduro motorcycle that appeals to riders seeking versatile on and off-road capability. Powered by an air-cooled 498cc single-cylinder engine producing 27 horsepower, it's known for its manageable weight of 146kg and practical five-speed transmission, making it ideal for adventure-oriented riders tackling varied terrain.

Capacity
498.0 ccm
Engine
Single, four-stroke
Gearbox
5-speed
Wet weight
146.0 kg
Seat height
Not on record
Know it? Add it →
Power
27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 6500 RPM
Other years 1981 1982 1983

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 30Agility 78Comfort 40Off-road 82Touring 35Road manners 40
Off-road & trail82%
Cornering55%
City riding35%
Daily riding35%
Touring30%
Two-up20%
Track15%
Best for
Built primarily for trail riding and enduro use, with limited but usable capability on paved roads for getting to and from the trailhead.
Built for
A simple, rugged air-cooled single that favors mechanical honesty and off-road agility over outright speed or refinement.
Not ideal for
Not a good fit for riders wanting sustained highway comfort, high-speed touring, or a passenger-friendly setup.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Full specifications

Engine
Capacity
498.0 ccm
Power
27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 6500 RPM
Engine type
Single, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio
0.1849 HP/kg (wet)
Bore x stroke
88.0 x 82.0 mm
Compression
8.7:1
Cooling system
Air
Valves per cylinder
4
Torque
Not on record - add it
Transmission
Gearbox
5-speed
Transmission type
Manual
Final drive
Chain
Performance
Top speed
136.0 km/h (84.5 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Wet weight
146.0 kg
Fuel capacity
9.00 litres
Seat height
Not on record - add it
Dry weight
Not on record - add it
Ground clearance
Not on record - add it
Brakes & wheels
Front brakes
Expanding brake
Rear brakes
Expanding brake
Front tyre
3.00-21
Rear tyre
4.60-18

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted
Specification 198119821983
Capacity 498 cc 498 cc 498 cc
Fuel capacity 9 L 9 L 9 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

—
☆☆☆☆☆
Be the first to rate

Common questions

What is the engine size of the Suzuki DR 500 S?

The 1983 Suzuki DR 500 S has a Capacity of 498.0 ccm (30.39 cubic inches).

What engine power does the Suzuki DR 500 S have?

The 1983 Suzuki DR 500 S has a Power of 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 6500 RPM.

How many gears does the Suzuki DR 500 S have?

The 1983 Suzuki DR 500 S has a Gearbox of 5-speed.

How much does the Suzuki DR 500 S weigh?

The 1983 Suzuki DR 500 S has a Wet weight of 146.0 kg (321.9 pounds).

Shop this bike

Affiliate links

We may earn a commission from qualifying eBay or Amazon purchases made through these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Similar bikes

Same category, weighted similarity

More Suzuki Motorcycles