cast wheels for GT500

[rbond]

Does anyone know what GS series rear cast wheels will fit a GT500? I found a front that should fit, would like the same for rear. Even though I just got spoke sets for both wheels, I might still 'upgrade' the wheels with an eye to slap on a GS series disc brake/caliper too.

[Coyote]

I don't know enough about the GT500. Are both wheels the same size? I have a set of wheels off a 79 GS750. 18" rear wheel and 19" front -- just taking up space hanging in my garage.

[rbond]

The front will probably work, but the rear needs to have a drum brake. I think all the GS 750's had disc. I do not think I have the skills to fabricate new mounts to convert to a disc for the GT. I have seen pictures of several T/GT 500's fitted with GS cast wheels. Maybe a rear from a GS 425E or a 450ES might work?

[wvc]

The GS425 uses 18" wheels front and rear. The GT500 is a 18" rear, 19" front. The GS425 has a smaller diameter drum than the GT500, so you'd have to use the 425 brake too. I think the 78/79 GS750 used a 19" front with single disc brake, but the GS disc is on the left, unlike the GT500. You could probably run the wheel backwards though to work with the GT500 forks. Or use a later dual disc wheel, just unbolt the left disc. ( I have a GS425 sitting here right next to my GT500, so this is from observation of the two).

[rbond]

WVC, what condition is your 425 in? I have a '78 GS400 and the 425 was an improvement model of the 400. I liked my 400, I just screwd it up, could not afford to fix it right away and now it is in even worse condition. I am not that interested in a 4 cylinder bike, for my use a twin is perfect. I checked, the rear brakes are different from the 425 and a 500. I believe they are the same for the 500, 550, and 750.

[advant63]

the 425 rim fits okay but rear braking is not good. the 425 uses a pull rod instead of a cable so some bodging is required.

[wvc]

I really like the GS400's too. I have a really nice unrestored 77 GS400 with 3900 miles, and a couple others. The GS425 I have was really rough, more of a parts bike than anything, but I've started turning it into a bobber style bike rather than part it out. Not finished with it yet, but I think it'll be a fun ride when done.

Not sure on the GS500 as its from the 450 line, but the GS 550 and bigger GS bikes all had disc rear brakes.