1972 BSA Lightning
No Reserve

Registration No: Unregistered
Frame No: A65L CGO3488
MOT: Exempt

• From the last year of Small Heath production
• Presented in unrestored standard condition
• Supplied with a Classic Services dating letter

The Birmingham Small Arms factory was established in the Small Heath area of Birmingham in 1861 and, as the name suggests, manufactured weapons. Around the turn of the century they started making bicycles and progressed onto motorcycles a few years later. BSA went on to become one of the world's largest producers of motorcycles up until its demise in the early 1970s. The 654cc unit-construction parallel twins were launched in 1962 as the A65 Star model with various improvements introduced throughout the decade. The Lightning model was designed as the all-round sports machine aimed largely for export to the US market to complement the more touring orientated Thunderbolt. A closer ratio gearbox combined with a higher lift camshaft made for lively acceleration and performance at higher RPM than the standard A65.

This 1972 Lightning, being offered at no reserve, is from the last year of production at BSAs once dominant Small Heath factory. A dating letter suggests it was built in March 1972, and by then, the BSA Group was in financial difficulties, marking the end of the once great name. The bike is not registered and has been stood for a number of years so it is being offered as a restoration project. Included are invoices from RJM Classic Motorcycles totalling over £1500 for engine work carried out in the past.

For more information, please contact:
Ian Cunningham
ian.cunningham@handh.co.uk
07415 871189