Old look, new technology: the BSA Gold Star 650 is back

Wednesday, December 8, 2021

old fashioned new technology
BSA Gold Star 650 is back

In the early 1970s, the once famous British motorcycle brand BSA had to throw in the towel. Indian conglomerate Mahindra acquired the rights to the mark back in 2016 and is now looking to rejuvenate the brand with the Austrian know-how. The first litter is BSA Gold Star 650.

Indian conglomerate Mahindra has revived British motorcycle brand BSA and introduced its first model with the Gold Star 650. In early December, the completely redesigned retro bike celebrated its premiere at Motorcycle Live in Birmingham.

Visually, the new Gold Star ties seamlessly with the tradition of the BSA models of the 50s and 60s. The load-bearing element is a double-loop tubular steel frame with an old-looking single cylinder at its centre, which Mahindra in collaboration with Graz University of Technology has equipped with contemporary technology such as double ignition, four-wheel ignition, four-wheel ignition and four-piece cylinders. Valve technology and liquid cooling. According to the BSA, the unit must meet the latest emission standards, including Euro 5. The 650er churns out 46 hp and 55 Newton meters of torque, which is sent to the rear wheel via a five-speed gearbox and chain. That should enable a bike weighing around 200kg to reach 165km/h.

Classic also with chassis

For the chassis, BSA also uses a mix of classic and modern components. The spoke wheels get Brembo ABS disc brakes at the front and rear. Traditionally, the rear wheel is guided by a two-armed tubular steel swing arm with two five-way adjustable spring struts. At the front, telescopic forks with a 4.1 cm tube have been used.

The Gold Star also reflects the balancing act between modern and classic, among other details. The round headlight shines with traditional halogen technology, while LEDs are used for the rear lights. The smaller display also integrates into the two analog round instruments. The equipment includes an immobilizer, a USB charging socket, and a 12-volt socket for connecting a heated jacket.

The series production of Gold Star is scheduled to start next year. BSA Motorcycles is planning sales in mainland Europe and thus Germany for the spring. The revived motorcycle brand is also looking to expand its portfolio. Among other things, BSA has announced the development of an electric two-wheeler.