Fantasy Junction

Description

1956 BSA Gold Star
1956 350 cc frame, s/n CB 32.4853; 1961 500cc, engine no. DBD 34 GS3018;
Gearbox RR T2
Light Silver Tank with Chrome Accents and Black Frame

The Gold Star is a truly legendary British motorcycle, a true thoroughbred bike that appeared in 1938 after Wal Handley lapped the bumpy banked circuit at Brooklands on a modified BSA Empire Star at 107.57mph, a feat that earned a Brooklands Gold Star. The enthusiastic response to the achievement convinced BSA management that there was a market for a high performance production bike and the Gold Star was introduced with aluminum alloy cylinder and head, and Amal TT carburetor. The bikes earned a reputation for speed, and were exceptionally high performance bikes, especially for being 500cc singles. Even in the 1950s, they were among the fastest bikes available, and the bikes were extremely versatile, being successful as racers, cruisers, and even as scramblers (motocross to the younger whippersnappers out there). The bikes had great handling and were relatively light, taking a less is more approach to provide a good power to weight ratio and a level of nimbleness that was not always guaranteed in other bikes that were capable of “doing the ton” i.e. hitting 100mph.

Well known Gold Star expert Len Haggis in the UK restored the bike 20 years ago with all of the period Taylor Dew mods. It is fitted with the optional full width 190mm front brake and also features an Amal GP carburetor. It has recently had its oil system flushed and a new battery installed. The bike is in superb cosmetic condition. The chrome is excellent overall. The paintwork is in similarly nice condition. The trim and badges are excellent throughout, and the beautiful Smiths chronometric instruments are equally nice. The bike has a correct Lucas headlamp and Lucas tail lamp lens, both of which are in fine shape. The engine is clean, restored, and presented in keeping with how the bikes would have appeared original. The upholstery and grips are also in excellent shape.

This is a superb opportunity to acquire a very nice example of one of the most legendary motorcycles of all time. The definitive café racer, the Gold Star represents the end of an era and they have always been in high demand. There is a strong club following for these bikes, and they also enjoy excellent parts availability, making this a great blue chip investment bike that can also be used. This particular example is beautifully and correctly presented, and is ready for its next enthusiastic keeper.

This BSA is sold, duty- paid in the USA, on a V5 (UK ownership documentation).

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608