Lot details
Registration No: Un-Reg
Frame No: T.B.A.
Engine No: T.B.A.
cc: 650
MOT Expiry Date: None

To complement the new range of A65 unit construction touring twins, in 1964 BSA group introduced a more sporting version in the form of the A65 Rocket. Thunderbolt, Cyclone, Lightning, Wasp, Firebird and Spitfire-Hornet became model variations on this theme the image of which appealed to the more sporting riders who demanded the tuned engine, competition trim, chrome and colour schemes to match the aggressive sounding names. The A65SH Spitfire-Hornet was the real off roader, there was never a Spitfire Mk 1 as such, but confusingly the A65S 1966 Spitfire Mk2 was the first version in road trim which evolved over the next couple of years, ultimately into the Mk4 with twin leading shoe front brakes and Amal Concentric carbs. As usual many of these models were fitted with the requisite raised handlebars, small capacity fuel tanks etc. and supplied to the North American market. Known as the Power Egg for obvious reasons, the unit engines were always regarded as fragile around the crankshaft area and for long duration, high speed use conversions are now available from various specialists and advisable if a rebuild is envisaged. The investment in these modifications will provide a useable performance motorcycle well up to standards required on today's roads.
The A65SA Spitfire in question here is a Mk 3 model purchased by the vendor in 1966 intending for it to be restored, but never completed. No documents or details of early history are to hand at time of writing but may be available before sale, although a VMCC dating letter is with the bike. According to this the engine no. listed as 15996 would have been manufactured around 1967, but BSA records are indistinct for the period as many machines were unsold and held in stock for 2 years or more, some being exported as late as 1970. The colour scheme would have been black frame parts with flamboyant red panels.