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 after WW2, it was also the most prolific motorcycle manufacturer in the world.
One of its most desirable models was the B33, which was the big brother to BSA's post-war B31, with almost identical framework and a nearly square 85mm x 88mm 500cc single-pot engine. The bike had a wider rear tyre, heavier flywheels and a larger inlet valve, but was otherwise much the same as the 350cc B31.
This one was bought new in 1949 and according to DVLA records had just the one owner until 2008, and one more since before the current keeper – a collector – acquired it in 2015. He has used it minimally since. It’s believed that the bike was restored by the second owner and the mileage on the odometer is what it has covered since being rebuilt. JiHKZhejPwEX4mBBLjgNFkLSRSO8tCT8kgBNhOqj.jpeg2.15 MB
Kept in storage since 2015 so will need gentle recommissioning
Mostly original parts
Very good overall condition
The BSA was restored at some point between 2008 and 2015 and is still in magnificent condition with no signs of any notable wear or damage – it’s a really smart bike and it looks extremely neat.
A lot of attention to detail was applied to its recommissioning, with the correct factory-style decals, wheels and paint finish, along with a stainless-steel exhaust pipe. Other than some paint wear to the engine, it’s in superb order.63itM84Ph01PC5dk582UPYCs8DwIo7N2hSrzP9Ia.jpeg1.96 MB
THE MECHANICS
500cc Four-stroke
22bhp
Four-speed gearbox
Was running when stored
The vendor has used the BSA a couple of times since he bought it but as part of a collection it has spent a lot of its time parked up, and now it will need some light recommissioning before the single-cylinder machine runs again.
It hasn’t been started in seven years and the battery is flat, but the vendor says it ran well when stored and shouldn’t need more than a fresh battery, some fuel and maybe an oil change in order to be back up-and-running.ThIjZNOtBpFHNlug5VwLd9pAU1LpevPRmvwaTLSy.jpeg1.18 MB
SUMMARY
This is a really smart and well-presented example of the BSA B33 in great overall condition, and ready to be used and enjoyed by its next owner, or kept as a part of a collection as the current owner has done. It’s a good one, and should need very little work to restore it to perfect running order.
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. A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
