Suzuki launched the T500 in late 1967 as its answer to the big British twins dominating the American market - a 492cc air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin producing around 47hp at 7,000rpm through a five-speed gearbox, sold as the "Titan" or "Cobra" outside continental Europe. It was Suzuki's largest and most ambitious motorcycle to date, built specifically to prove a two-stroke could match a four-stroke twin for real-world touring performance.

This example is a 1971 "Mk III" update, which brought a revised fuel tank with an integrated luggage rack and a longer wheelbase for improved stability - refinements that made the T500 a genuinely usable long-distance machine rather than just a straight-line performer. Registered for the road in 1972, this particular bike carries the "R" designation as noted by the seller and wears a striking violet-and-white livery.

Condition

The engine and frame numbers match on this example (no. 41878), confirmed by the seller as correct for the R model. It was restored by the previous owner around six years ago: the bottom end was rebuilt (gaskets and bearings renewed), the gearbox lubrication circuit was modified, and all chrome and paintwork were redone. The chain, battery and both ignition coils are new, and the bike wears a period-style Tommaselli handlebar. The odometer shows 18,275km. The engine starts and runs. Braking is by drum brakes front and rear, consistent with the T500's original specification. A French roadworthiness inspection (contrôle technique) is currently in progress.

Market Comparison

Well-sorted Suzuki T500s with genuine matching numbers and real supporting history are increasingly hard to find, particularly examples with a documented, relatively recent restoration like this one. Reliable, up-to-date pricing specifically for matching-numbers T500s in this condition is hard to pin down with confidence, so treat any figure you see elsewhere as a rough guide rather than a fixed benchmark - the combination of matching numbers, a six-year-old restoration, and this level of supporting paperwork is what should carry the most weight in your own valuation.

Known Issues / Transparency

We want to be upfront about what is and isn't confirmed:

• Roadworthiness inspection (contrôle technique) is in progress, not yet completed.

• The restoration was completed roughly six years ago by the previous owner - no information is available on use or maintenance since then beyond what's stated here.

What Is Included?

• The motorcycle as described and pictured

• Original Suzuki workshop service manual

• Original Suzuki spare-parts catalogue

• First owner's 1972 registration certificate

• Current registration certificate

• A period advertisement for the T500 model

Why This Is a Smart Opportunity

A genuinely rare combination for this model: confirmed matching numbers, a running engine, a real and relatively recent restoration with mechanical work as well as cosmetic, and an unusually complete paper trail including the original service manual and parts catalogue - documentation that most T500s on the market today simply don't have. For a collector who values authenticity and paperwork as much as looks, this is a strong starting point.

This motorcycle is sold in the condition it is in, without any warranty. Good luck with your bidding.