Showing off the first model from a resurrected BSA Motorcycles, the now-Indian owned manufacturer previews the 2022 BSA Gold Star 650, before the doors open to Motorcycle Live 2021.
In a preview event held at the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham, a literal stones-throw away from the NEC where Motorcycle will be held, BSA pulled the wraps on their latest release after being bought by Mahindra in 2016.
Designed in the UK and built in India, the new Gold Star 650 will be powered by a 650cc water-cooled single, outputting around 45 bhp with 55 Nm (40.5 lb-ft) of torque.
First look at the BSA Gold Star 650!
Placed next to the original, you can hardly tell them apart. This 2022 model is classically styled, with spoked rims, a rounded headlight with DRLs, chrome used throughout and a classic teardrop styled tank. Stylistically, it stays true to the Gold Star of the mid-90s, and with a dual analogue display cluster, wide handlebars and twin-seat, it certainly seems like a classically comfy ride.
But it's been given a helping of modern-day tech, with disc brakes and dual-channel ABS featuring here. It's unlikely to have rider modes, but low-to-mid capacity machines aren't in crying need for alternative modes.
What we know of the specs so far puts this right around the Royal Enfield 650 Twins category, which will no doubt be pencilled as the direct target market. If BSA can match the sales figures of Royal Enfield’s Twins, they’ll certainly be on to a winner.
With that, the price is yet to be confirmed, but BSA was clear in its intentions to place the machine in the premium market. It’s due to be hitting dealers in early 2022 - with a dealer network being set up.
The Gold Star will be officially revealed at Motorcycle Live 2021, starting on the 4th of December (tomorrow!), where all the stats and details will be revealed. Get your tickets here to be first in line.
BSA Motorcycles is back - a ‘British’ renaissance?
With this latest reveal from BSA, it appears the classic manufacturers of days past are experiencing a bit of a revival.
We’ve already had Royal Enfield on the market for some time, a new-Norton that is TVS Motors backed, and Triumph Motorcycles - who are now the largest manufacturer in the UK, and doing a seriously good job of bringing new models to market.
What’s more, it’s been reported by the BBC that a technical centre has been set up in Coventry, where a new electric model will be developed. BSA is known to have received a £4.6 million grant from the UK government to develop these zero-emissions vehicles.
Photo credit: BSA Motorcycles Facebook
