SR500 boomerang

Mark Wilkins from Airlie Beach, Queensland writes, “I thought you might like the story of my 1978 SR500 Yamaha, once owned by father. We contacted the gentleman my father sold the bike to some 35 years ago, which he still had sitting in his shed covered in black soot – location Mildura, Victoria (my home town). It hadn’t been ridden for over 30 years. Once it was dusted off it was in amazing condition with the original 10,000km on it. No doubt the dry climate helped its preservation – the seat is perfect for example. It was a father/son restoration. I still have the original parts taken off. The motor was pulled down and found to be in perfect condition so it still has the original piston and rings. Most parts I bought came from Kedo Australia (www.kedopartsaustralia.com) who were great to deal with and helpful. The mods I made included Supertrapp Exhaust, oil cooler, K&N filters, Metzeler Lasertec tyres, Hagon Shocks and a Mikuni carb. Pictures show my sister and father – 40 years later!