1954 BSA Gold Star

The BSA Goldstar got its name from the Gold Star pin that was awarded to Wal Handley for lapping Brooklands at over 100 mph in 1937. Recording a fastest lap at 107.5mph on a BSA Empire Star the Gold Star marque was launched to celebrate this achievement. The following year saw the first of the production Gold Stars, the M24, complete with the trademark alloy barrel and cylinder head. The engines were built from individually selected parts and bench tested, a practice that was to remain throughout its life. Gold stars could be ordered in the following trim configurations: Clubman's, Scrambles, Tourer, Trials, and ISDT.BSA models continued to develop during the post-war era. In 1948 BSA launched the ZB32 Gold Star in at a price of £211. Both the 350 and 500 models had brake upgrades in 1950, with larger front brakes fitted. The 500 model had a new head design in 1952, the Bert Hopwood design. 1953 saw the introduction of the BB series (BB32 - 350cc / BB34 - 500cc) with a new duplex cradle frame and swinging arm rear suspension, along with engine improvements and modifications. Both the BB and CB models were discontinued after 1955.The model for sale is all original having been fully restored some ten years ago. The winner of many concours events, she has only completed 500 miles since restoration and is both mechanically and cosmetically in excellent condition. The vendor reports that she runs well and sounds fantastic.Supplied with V5 and MOT, this historic motorbike is ready to ride for next year.