"I bought it in about 98 and it was a complete basket case. I think it
had been around Australia 5 times, the electrics had caught fire and then
it was left out in the weather for a couple of years before I bought it.
The parts were either very worn, crispy black or rusty brown - often all
three. But it was a T500 and a MkIII at that so I just had to have it!
I was lucky enough to make contact with someone who was restoring a Cobra
and who had to move house. After a little haggling, I got his spares
(more or less a whole machine - thanks Andrew!) which saved the day. I'm
still chasing the tank rack, the front mudguard stays, and a few other
bits. One day I'll restore it to original but for now it's just a blast
to ride one again.
Sam Peterson
Brisbane Qld"