Highlights

A superlative early example, the likes of which are seldom seen
Restored to an exceedingly high standard mechanically and cosmetically
Reportedly riding well, with no issues to report

The Appeal

Replacing the Road Rocket as BSA’s range-topping sports bike in 1958, the 646cc A10 Super Rocket built upon the sound engineering of its predecessor, incorporating a number of upgrades that would allow for an increased compression ratio and ultimately, more power. A revised alloy cylinder head with enlarged ports allowed more air and fuel into the engine while a strengthened crankshaft ensured the parallel-twin would cope with the increased performance.

These small, yet significant enhancements, along with a raft of other fine adjustments, afforded the Super Rocket with an enviable reputation in its day and we’re delighted to present this excellent early example. Previously restored to an exceedingly high standard both mechanically and cosmetically, this BSA is amongst the best surviving examples around. You’d be hard pressed to find a Super Rocket nearly as good and the vendor shows us that it has received recognition and a great deal of attention at events they and the bike have attended.

If you’re looking for a superlative BSA from the golden era of British motorcycling, then look no further than this exemplary A10 Super Rocket.

The History and Paperwork

Frame number: FA7507
Engine number: DA10R3079
Six former keepers identified by the V5C
Patinated copy of the original instruction manual present
Collection of old MOT certificates dating back a number of years
2nd Place on the South of England Classic Bike Show at Ardingly in 2022
Small collection of recent invoices for various parts
We’re informed that there is little in the way of older paperwork, although it’s abundantly evident that the bike was previously subject to a very exacting restoration
Exempt from road tax and MOT testing

The Condition

Beautifully presented, with very few blemishes
Handsome red paint scheme with a black frame and numerous chrome embellishments
Very well restored

The condition of this BSA is immensely impressive and we find the overall finish rather hard to fault. The paintwork looks to be excellent, achieving a great shine which is complemented by the mirror-finish chrome adorning the fuel tank and highlighting various other features elsewhere. We couldn’t see any notable paint damage, the fuel and oil tanks remain straight and the same can be said for the bars and foot pegs. There’s no corrosion apparent, or indeed any perishing to the rubber components.

All the controls look to be in fine shape, including the Smiths instrumentation which presents clearly and is all apparently in good working order following refurbishment. The seat upholstery appears impeccable and there’s no significant wear to report in any of the usual places. The waterslide decals have the smallest of imperfections in places, but nothing at all untoward. The badging looks great, as do all the lights which we understand to be in perfect working order.

The Mechanics

646cc parallel twin with kick start
Four-speed gearbox
Amal TT carburettor
Lowered first gear ratio over its Road Rocket predecessor, aiding acceleration
Full-width brake hubs with cable operation

The Super Rocket was tested at over 100mph by various magazines and remains to this day, a properly quick bike. We understand that this example is mechanically in rude health, riding impeccably with no faults or untoward noises to report.

All the engine and gearbox casings (pre-unit construction), are in great condition, with no corrosion apparent and the engine number is still clearly legible. The exhaust pipes appear in excellent order with no obvious dent or any noticeable pitting. We note there’s now a cone-type air filter fitted to the Amal TT carburettor and we’re told that the engine runs really nicely.

Summary

For fans of ‘50s British bikes, and those who favour a BSA in particular, this 1958 Super Rocket is sure to be of immense interest. We’re sure that it’ll continue to be admired wherever it goes and is likely to steal the show at any classic bike event.

Notice to bidders

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