LOT 325

1954 BSA 500cc Gold Star Registration no. MRK 342 Frame no. CB32.583 Engine no. BB34.GS.1235

Sold for £8,625 inc. premium

Lot 325

1954 BSA 500cc Gold Star
Registration no. MRK 342 Frame no. CB32.583 Engine no. BB34.GS.1235

The Spring Stafford Sale - The International Classic MotorCycle Show|27 April 2019, 16:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1954 BSA 500cc Gold Star
Registration no. MRK 342
Frame no. CB32.583
Engine no. BB34.GS.1235

• Rare Touring model
• Owned by Bob Gardiner since 1985
• An older restoration

In 1952 the '350' Gold Star adopted the new die-cast engine top-end with separate rocker box, first seen on the '500', and the pair continued as the 'BB' series after the swinging-arm frame was introduced in '53, changing to 'CB' for '54. This change marked the introduction of the classic 'big fin' engine but the designation lasted only until the arrival of the 'DB' series in 1955. The 'DB' incorporated a much-improved lubrication system and, in the 350's case only, a stronger cylinder assembly; as such it represented the 'Junior' Goldie in its final form, there being no 350cc equivalent of the final 'DBD' 500. Today, the Gold Star remains one of the most highly sought after of post-war British motorcycles and is supported by a most enthusiastic owners' club.

Dating from the last year of the 'BB' series (both it and the new 'CB' were offered in 1954) this 500cc Goldie is an original Touring model, a relative rarity when compared with the ubiquitous Clubman version. The machine was delivered new to Godfrey's of West Croydon. In a note on file dated 15th February 1987, Bob Gardiner has this to say about 'MRK 342: 'This machine was the shared property of two brothers who ran an engineering business in, I think, Potters Bar.

'It had been stored unused for 15 years prior to its purchase by me on 23.4.85. The photographs (on file) show its rusty condition although fortunately the machine was substantially complete and original. In this state they are much easier to restore.

'The gearbox was stripped and thoroughly checked, but apart from slight wear on the constant mesh gear, the layshaft ends and bushes, was found to be in good order. The engine was considered to be in good order and stripping would not be justified. The rear suspension legs are of the original ESA pattern and are rarely seen nowadays.'

Subsequently restored, the machine is offered with old/current V5C documents, notes concerning its specification, and a copy of the factory Certificate of Engine Performance recording the specification as 'Touring'.

Footnotes

As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

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