LOT 326

c.1956 BSA 499cc Gold Star Clubman's Registration no. 321 APL Frame no. CB.32.2496 Engine no. DBD.34.GS.5333

Sold for £10,350 inc. premium

Lot 326

c.1956 BSA 499cc Gold Star Clubman's
Registration no. 321 APL Frame no. CB.32.2496 Engine no. DBD.34.GS.5333

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

c.1956 BSA 499cc Gold Star Clubman's
Registration no. 321 APL
Frame no. CB.32.2496
Engine no. DBD.34.GS.5333

Possibly the most successful production racing motorcycle ever, the post-war Gold Star formed the mainstay of Clubman's racing in the 1950s. Indeed, it was the model's domination of the Isle of Man Clubman's TT that led to the event being dropped after Gold Star rider Bernard Codd's 1956 Senior/Junior double victory.

While its trials and scrambles derivatives demonstrated the design's versatility by chalking up an equally impressive record in off-road competition, for the majority of enthusiasts the 500cc DBD34 in Clubman's trim is the epitome of the 'Goldie'. The DBD, the ultimate road going 500 Gold Star, appeared in 1956 when the famous RRT2 close-ratio gearbox and 190mm front brake became standard equipment. From then on BSA's perennially popular sporting single changed little until its much-lamented demise in 1963. 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.

Bob Gardiner purchased this Gold Star Clubman's on 27th October 1986. He realised the engine had been swapped (for a later unit) but pursued a legal claim against the seller as the Goldie did not have the correct RRT2 gearbox (see correspondence and purchase receipt on file). A correct 'box was duly purchased and installed. Additional documentation includes old/current V5C Registration Certificates, and copies of old V5s and the engine Brake Test sheet.

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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