Description
BSA A65 Spitfire Hornet of 1965 Motorcycle manufactured by BSA for the US market in order to make Flatrack races. 2 versions at the time East Coast and West coast differentiated by the exits of exhausts. This model is an East Coast (high exhaust) The BSA Spitfire Hornet ('64-'65) and Hornet ('66-'67) (and the 500cc BSA Wasp) were developed by BSA in 1964 as off-road and desert racing motorbikes in response to US market demand for a "stripped down" BSA Lightning with more power. Although suitable for use on public roads, the Hornets and Hornets BSA Spitfire were supplied without headlights or tail lights, with 'direct' exhaust pipes; high pipes (East Coast model) and TT low pipes (West Coast model) and twin carburettors. [2] The 6-volt coil "ET" (energy transfer) ignition system was designed to include an easy conversion to add lights for road use, but the exhaust pipes had to be fitted with silencers to become road legal. [3] The Spitfire Hornet 'Mandarin Red' ('64-'65) was further improved in 1965 with a more positive gear selector and a quick-change gearbox sprocket. The ignition was also improved, as was the lubrication system, but customers complained of vibrations. In 1966, the name was changed to Hornet but retained the Mandarin Red colour (which resembled orange). In 1967 the colour was changed to a darker red 'Cherokee Red' and this was the last year of Hornet production. [4] Spitfire The BSA Spitfire Hornet was a true racing motorbike, with the A65 engine upgraded with high compression pistons and a performance cam. The gear ratios were modified for sprint acceleration and the brakes (the BSA Gold Star 8-inch model) were upgraded with special cooling fins. [2] The BSA Spitfire Hornet was popular in the USA, but was not marketed in the UK (the name "Spitfire" was later used for the best-selling BSA Spitfire road bike). For 1966 and 1967, the Spitfire Hornet name was changed to Hornet Motorcycle restored in Holland, bought in France in 2018, reliable since.
- Fibre tank completely rebuilt inside, compatible with current petrols - new tyres - new petrol taps and hoses - all cables changed - electronic ignition - 12 volts - silencer - front and rear lights - French registration in my name. It's a very dynamic bike and very pleasant to ride. Very good acceleration.
