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This motorcycle is Lot 46 to be auctioned by Bonhams at the Timed-Online June Sale, please see the Bonhams website for full details. The timed online auction runs between June 6th through June 16th, with lots closing from midday June 16th 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 11th & 12th June 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, by appointment only at Bonhams Milton Keynes.
Lot 46
The Andy Chapman Collection - Part III
c. 1972 BSA 750cc
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. A70L GE01068 (see text)
Engine no. A70L/ GE01068
By then in serious financial trouble, the BSA-Triumph Group collapsed in 1972, its last catalogue having been published the preceding autumn. The 650cc Thunderbird and Lightning twins were included, but there was no mention of an addition to the line up: the Lightning 750. The latter had been produced at the behest of BSA's North American distributor, which wanted a 750cc model that could be modified for dirt-track racing. The required stretch was achieved with a longer stroke, and overall gearing raised appropriately. 200 machines had to be built to satisfy the racing regulations, and all were shipped to the USA, though some leftover engines were later built into complete machines by BSA dealers in the UK.
This machine displays a total of 7, 939 miles on the odometer (at the time of cataloguing/ photography) but nothing else is known of its history. Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require re-commissioning to a greater or lesser extent, or possibly more extensive restoration, before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed (the engine turns over with compression).
We have been advised by the BSA Owners Club Dating Officer that, while the engine number appears to be correct, the frame number is not believed to be an original BSA factory stamping. It was further noted that the frame may possibly be a period replacement stamped by a dealer, which is not uncommon for an iconic machine of this era. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's originality, authenticity and mechanical condition prior to bidding. There are no documents or keys with this Lot.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
