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LOT 261

1957 BSA 650cc Road Rocket Registration no. YSU 168 Frame no. EA7 5335 Engine no. CA10R 7649 (see text)

Sold for £7,475 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 261

1957 BSA 650cc Road Rocket
Registration no. YSU 168 Frame no. EA7 5335 Engine no. CA10R 7649 (see text)

1957 BSA 650cc Road Rocket
Registration no. YSU 168
Frame no. EA7 5335
Engine no. CA10R 7649 (see text)

BSA's range for 1955 embodied several novel features. Alongside the existing plunger-framed machines were new models equipped with swinging-arm rear suspension, while the A7 Shooting Star and A10 Road Rocket sports twins came with new aluminium-alloy cylinder heads. The latter produced a highly respectable 40bhp, and as tested by Motor Cycling magazine was found capable of reaching 109mph. Available only for export at first, the Road Rocket reached the UK market in 1956, by which time it had been equipped with the stylish Ariel full-width hubs, but lasted in production for only another season before being superseded by the Super Rocket.

Finished in the model's characteristic red/black livery, this rare Road Rocket appears nicely restored. Acquired by the London Motorcycle Museum in July 2009, the machine is offered with a (part) old V5 registration document, old V5C Registration Certificate, and an undated guarantee for an engine rebuild carried out by SRM for the previous owner. It should be noted that the engine number may have been re-stamped. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to the origin and correctness (or otherwise) of this motorcycle's component parts prior to bidding.

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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  • 19 October 2019, 09:00 - 17:00 BST
  • 20 October 2019, 09:00 - 17:00 BST

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