1981Suzuki DR 500 S
19 fields on record
The 1981 Suzuki DR 500 S is a lightweight trial motorcycle designed for off-road enthusiasts and competitive riders seeking nimble handling and excellent maneuverability. Powered by a 498cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine producing 27 horsepower, it excels in technical terrain and is best known for its responsive performance in trial competitions and challenging dirt riding.
- 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
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- 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.
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
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 | 1981 | 1982 | 1983 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Suzuki DR 500 S?
The 1981 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 1981 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 1981 Suzuki DR 500 S has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
How much does the Suzuki DR 500 S weigh?
The 1981 Suzuki DR 500 S has a Wet weight of 146.0 kg (321.9 pounds).
Shop this bike
Affiliate linksWe may earn a commission from qualifying eBay or Amazon purchases made through these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Please log in or register if you'd like to leave a comment.
Own one? Add it to My Garage and write an owner review with an Owner badge.