1973 GT550. Piston & Rings, Also, Battery

[DEAN-RED]

Really super-grateful for this resource. Spent much time perusing here.

Trying to put an dried out old 1973 GT550 back on the road.

I THINK the original piston and rings need replacing. Odometer shows 30k miles although I have no idea if that is accurate.

Is there a better resource for quality GT550 piston and rings than just doing the eBay thing?

Also, seemingly, no local auto parts places can find the correct battery for this unit. Is there an updated model, or? Some of the books hanging in the racks stop at 1981 now.

[Coyote]

If you know the number - like 12N11-3A - just type that in ebay. There are always dozens for sale. By the way, that is the number for my 76 550. Actually 12N11-3A-1. I'm not sure what the dash 1 means. Might be the physical size? If you go with a common lead -acid battery, try to find a Yuasa brand. They cost slightly more, but being properly maintained it will last a long time
Pistons, sadly yes. ebay. A good set will be around $300. There is also sets sold by Cruzinimage for $75. These are reproductions made in China and sold through Japan. Some guys have had good results with them, others no joy at all. Advice is: if the bike is a keeper, go with the good (more expensive) stuff. If you're just fixing it up to sell, use the cheapos.