Description
National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West MidlandsViewing: Tues 21st July from 1pmAuction: Wed 22th July from 10amLocation: National Motorcycle Museum, Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0EJ Registration No: PNM 207Frame No: CA7 14847MOT: ExemptExcellent RGS Replica built to be riddenMany engine and electrical improvementsLarge paperwork file and a current V5CThe Birmingham Small Arms factory was established in the Small Heath area of Birmingham 1861 and as the name suggests manufactured weapons. Around the turn of the century they started making bicycles and progressed onto motorcycles a few years later. BSA went on to be one of the world’s largest producers of motorcycles up until its demise in the early 1970s. Probably the most sought after models produced by BSA are the Gold Star range of 350 and 500cc singles and the rare Rocket Gold Star 650cc twin of the late 50s early 60s. Based on the existing 650 twins, the RGS blended together a Super Rocket engine with many Gold Star chassis parts, with only about 1300 official versions being made. Many unofficial copies have been put together over the years with various degrees of authenticty. This nicely put together RGS Replica is built around a 1955 CA7 A7 frame with a c1960 Super Rocket engine. The chassis wears all the distinctive RGS features including rear set footrest, clips ons, Gold Star tank and mudguards, full width front hub, 120MPH speedo and an 8K tachometer mounted on a Taylor Dow Superleggera top yoke. The engine is fitted with a thick flanged barrel and alloy head with a Nourish billet crankshaft, a Bob Newby belt driven clutch and a cartridge oil filter system cleverly hidden in the toolbox. The Dynamo and the Magneto have been refurbished, and the Dynamo drive updated with a belt drive. The bike has been fitted with a new carburettor and Thorspark electronic ignition, but unfortunately, due to the vendors ill health, he has not been able to fine tune the settings and this still needs some attention. A full account of the build and details of the original RGS and Gold Star parts used was detailed in the August 1998 Classic Bike Guide. A large quantity of receipts will be supplied together with the 2 original log books from the bikes used to build this replica. Interestingly, it was featured in two water colour paintings by renowned artist Roy Barrett, and one signed print will be included in the sale together with a V5C. ** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply** Entry by catalogue and can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people)
