A few years ago I had a tank bag stolen which had the keys to one of my ST2s in it. I ordered a replacement kit and installed all new ignition core, gas tank filler cap and the seat lock core. It all worked fine. Cheap too. Only like $50 bucks. A few weeks ago I lost the key to the same bike AGAIN! So I ordered the kit again and it arrived and - get this - I figured I'd try the new keys on the old locks just for the hell of it. THEY WORKED! I didn't have to replace the ignition core, the tank filler cap and the seat locks! WTH!! I'll be really careful going forward, but WHAT THE HELL??
Yeah ... probably a bit of shock to discover . I don't have my key to hand , but it's a very basic system on those older models . A double-bitted key with 5 or maybe 6 wafers inside the lock ( and they are only cut 1 to 3 ). At best that gives 216 possible key permutations , for the entire production run . Now throw 20 years of wear into the picture .... and a bit of a wiggle ... ?
A good few years ago I had a Saab 900i, old school beautiful car. I lost the key. I rang mate who's a mechanic. "Have you anyone has an old Opel Kadett?" I have, I said. Just get that key and wiggle it round a bit. Worked the finest.
