I have a 1981 SR 500 with 12K miles in decent (probably "Fair") condition that needs work beyond my meager abilities.

It was running OK last year until last winter when I neglected it for a few months. Now it only starts occasionally but not for long, so I can't ride it anymore. Cosmetically, there's some minimal rust on the frame, a few dents on the tank. I bought it used recently and never had it looked over by a professional mechanic so I was thinking maybe I should, and while I'm at it, maybe I should bring it back to like new condition.

Anyone have any idea how much complete restoration would cost me?

With or without new paint / cosmetic stuff (dents on the tank). I know parts for this bike are hard to come by so not sure if that factors in to the restoration price... I really have no idea what a ballpark figure would be, but I'm guessing $1,500?

Not looking to keep it all original parts, but want to get it on the street again for daily use - and looking nice if I can afford it...

Also can anyone recommend a restoration shop in Northern New Jersey that would work on an old Japanese bike?

Thanks a lot in advance.

-Tom

First find a specialist, not just some prepared to work on it! Secondly if you are spending that money on it, keep it orginal, a customised machine is worth far less then an orginal one