Highlights
- Comprehensive engine rebuild using original parts
- Powder-coated frame and mudguards for hard-wearing finish
- Four-gallon British fuel tank fitted while retaining American-style handlebars and wide seat for comfort
- Stainless steel wheels with Dunlop K70 tyres fitted
The Appeal
The 1960s and '70s were a period of evolution rather than revolution for Britain's motorcycle manufacturers. They'd already developed world-beating engines and frame designs back in the '50s, so why try something radically different if they didn't have to?
Well, they hadn't bargained upon the burgeoning Japanese bike industry. But before that came along and dashed their winning streak, the likes of Triumph and BSA were able to continue with some brilliant parallel twins - like the A65 Thunderbolt.
This 1971 example, was supplied new to the United States, returning to the UK from Baltimore in 2015. It has since undergone a comprehensive rebuild which includes several upgrades like a British home market spec four-gallon fuel tank, modern cartridge-type oil filter and a 22-tooth engine sprocket for improved cruising.
Presented in superb overall condition both mechanically and cosmetically, this BSA is ready to enjoy.
Well, they hadn't bargained upon the burgeoning Japanese bike industry. But before that came along and dashed their winning streak, the likes of Triumph and BSA were able to continue with some brilliant parallel twins - like the A65 Thunderbolt.
This 1971 example, was supplied new to the United States, returning to the UK from Baltimore in 2015. It has since undergone a comprehensive rebuild which includes several upgrades like a British home market spec four-gallon fuel tank, modern cartridge-type oil filter and a 22-tooth engine sprocket for improved cruising.
Presented in superb overall condition both mechanically and cosmetically, this BSA is ready to enjoy.
History and Paperwork
- US market specification
- 11,588 miles indicated
- Imported from Baltimore, USA in 2015
- Purchased as a project in early 2016 from Ian Robinson in Rochester
- Registered as a historic vehicle in July 2016
- MOT tested in May 2016 with no advisories (expired but now exempt)
- Comprehensive engine rebuild with new seals, gaskets, piston rings, and valve springs
- Regular oil changes and maintenance performed throughout current ownership
- V5C present
- BSA Owners' Club Vehicle Report
The Condition
- Presented in smart, usable condition with little in the way of wear to report
- We're not informed of any damage or corrosion to the frame
- Powder-coated frame, mudguards, and four-gallon British spec fuel tank
- The vendor has the original two-gallon fuel tank also (which was gold and cream) but this would need to be repaired before use
- Rebuilt wheels with stainless steel rims and spokes
- Dunlop K70 tyres fitted
- American-style handlebars and wide seat for comfort
- The vendor notes that the side panels are plastic, not original metal items
- Indicators fitted
- No notable wear apparent to the seat upholstery, grips and foot pegs
- Very smart chromework
- The speedometer/odometer unit presents well and reads clearly
The Mechanics
- 654cc air-cooled two-stroke parallel twin
- Four-speed gearbox
- Cartridge filter fitted between engine and oil tank for increased oil capacity and cooling
- Oil-in-frame design
- 22-tooth engine sprocket for better cruising at lower engine RPM
- New headlight, rear shocks, silencers, fork stanchions, seals, and taper steering head bearings
- The vendor completely stripped the engine and found all original parts with very little wear
- The engine was then rebuilt with new seals gaskets piston rings and valve springs
- Just 2,000 miles or so covered since the engine rebuild
- The fuel tank looks very clean inside and the vendor comments that the bike is never stored with old petrol in it
- Regular oil changes and chains adjusted as necessary
- Carburettor stripped and cleaned recently, finding no issues
- We're informed that the engine is an easy starter and runs well
- The vendor comments that these bikes were capable of 90mph, but sticking to 65mph the engine will still run happily all day
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected]
