1962 BSA ROCKET GOLD STAR

This BSA Rocket Gold Star is a superb example of one of the last A10 twin-cylinder bikes made by the storied British manufacturer. Powered by a 646cc parallel twin sending around 46hp through a four-speed manual transmission with chain drive, the odometer indicates just 1,041 miles, though it is believed that this is the mileage since a previous restoration in around 2008.

First registered in 1962, this classic motorcycle was previously registered overseas, but was imported to the UK in 2003 – and there are three previous keepers on its log book since then. The seller acquired the bike some 11 years ago, and during this time it has resided in his private collection and has been kept in fine fettle. It has since been fully authenticated by a recognised BSA Rocket Gold Star specialist.

The shining silver bodywork is in very good condition overall. The seller notes a cracked badge on the right hand side of the fuel tank, and some minor scuffing on the right-side headlight bracket. The rear light has just been replaced to rectify a crack. The stainless steel exhaust system is unmarked from front to back, and there is only slight weathering to some of the exposed components. The saddle is in very good condition with no rips or marks, and there are no faults with the instrumentation or switches.

The bike was given a full service and recommissioning in February 2020 by specialist PJ's Motorcycle Services, while the side stand was also just recently replaced. Previously, in 2012, a round of restorative work was also performed, including fixing a slipping clutch as well as the speedometer and lighting circuit, and replacing the prop stand brackets. Various new bolts and springs were fitted, along with a new oil pump and battery, and the dynamo was rebuilt.

It is exempt from MOT testing on the basis of age, though its last inspection was in April 2017, which resulted in a clean pass with no advisories whatsoever. The seller states that the bike is currently running very well, with a superb exhaust noise, but does note a very minor oil leak.

The tyres have been on the bike for at least the 11 years that the seller has owned it, but still have over four millimetres of tread front and rear. Receipts showing proof of maintenance work and previous MOT tests will be included in the sale.

This is a beautiful and great sounding motorcycle, good for 115mph in period and with a design inspired by contemporary TT bikes. One of just 1,584 examples ever built, the genuine Rocket Gold Star you see here is in excellent overall condition and would make a fine addition to any collection of classic bikes.

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