In recent times the district of Small Heath in Birmingham has become best-known as home to the Peaky Blinders, thanks to the gritty between-the-wars drama series of the same name.
One company that’s frequently referenced in the series is BSA, or ‘the Small Arms’, which was based in the canal-side warehouses around Small Heath and was at one point the UK’s biggest gun manufacturer.
Birmingham Small Arms (BSA) was the British Army’s biggest equipment supplier, specialising in firearms and sporting guns - and for many years both before and after WW2, it was also the most prolific motorcycle manufacturer in the world. Indeed, in 1926 BSA boasted that one-in-four bikes on the UK’s roads was a BSA.
The S Series was its 1920s stalwart. Cheap yet extremely durable, with robust side-valve single cylinder engines, the S-Frame models were tough and dependable.
This one is a 1926 S26, restored in the late 1980s through to the early 1990s and kept in a private collection since. The vendor acquired the BSA this year from a deceased estate along with some other bikes, but as a classic as opposed to vintage motorcycle collection the BSA is surplus to his requirements and is offered for sale.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Current UK V5C
Kept as part of private collection from 1991 until recently
Kept in dry storage as part of private collection
Matching numbers
Restored between 1988 and 1991
Totally restored from the ground-up by Robin James Engineering Services
All bills, invoices and receipts from restoration totalling over £16,000 more than 30 years ago
Minimal mileage since and kept in private collection
Eligible for the VMCC pre-1931 Banbury Run for vintage motorcycles
One small mark to the tank paintwork caused by the handlebars spinning round
One very small crack to the rear mudguard, caused by too much strain from the centre stand - stand has since been altered to a better fit and a small hole has been drilled to prevent the crack from spreading
Small patch of damaged lacquer below the tank from a historic fuel tap leak
These are all extremely minor faults that do not detract from the superb overall appearance of the bike
THE MECHANICS
500cc side-valve single
4.98hp
Starts and runs well with fair performance
Regularly run up and maintained during private collection storage
SUMMARY
This is a gorgeous example of one of the best-known and most-loved British motorcycles of all-time, presented in charming overall order and beautifully preserved since its restoration over 30 years ago. It’s a lovely Banbury Run-eligible bike that would be a wonderful addition to a vintage motorcycle collection.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
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