Well, with a lot of patience, a bit of luck an some elbow grease, it is possible.
Just over a year ago I was browsing the forum (having just missed out on two 500's about a mile away from me 'cos Simon bought them') when I saw an ad for an engineless MT350 for £300. I couldn't believe my luck, never was I first to view a bargain! I jumped in for first refusal then found out it was only 20mins from me too! Now that was FATE
Bought it on the old 'I'll do it up an sell it' ruse with the missus and picked it up. The engine was there, but in four seperate bags broken down into every single component.
The bike was complete if not cosmetically challenged.
The search began for an engine, then along came a 500 Electric start from an MZ500 Country which was being broken. A tip off from a forum member on here and the reason why I think we should have ebay posts.
The Engine, carb and Starter motor came to £200 delivered.
The starter gear housing and clutch cover were damaged, from the collision that had written the bike off. Fortunately the clutch cover I had from the dismantled 350 engine was a straight swap.
Engine was painted once fixed.
Engine fitted, New brake calipers for £85
New cables for clutch and throttle £20
New coil & CDI unit for £90
Two tins of Krylon £13
New Battery £45
New Headlight £15
I won't count the cost of oil and filters or MOT as they are a standard expense anyway.
Total for the bike
£768
£100 recouped from selling parts of the dismantled engine
That's £668 for an electric start 500cc (and it's a genuine 500cc) MT.
It took just over a year, I had the patience and the luck, but it is possible.
Thanks to all who offered advice.
Roy
Damaged Engine
Fixed Engine
Finished Bike
