Property of a deceased's estate, c.1954 BSA 500cc B31/B33 'Gold Star' Replica (see text)

Registration no. RXO 653 (see text) Frame no. CB31 189 Engine no. DBD34GS 1614 (re-stamped)

On Wednesday 30th June 1937, a specially prepared Empire Star 500 ridden by the great Wal Handley achieved a 100mph lap of Brooklands on its way to a debut race victory and award of the 'Gold Star' that would give BSA's new sports model its evocative name. Possibly the most successful production racing motorcycle ever, the post-war Gold Star formed the mainstay of Clubman's racing in the 1950s. 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. The Gold Star replica offered here consists of a B31/B33 frame dating from 1954 and a (believed) DBD34 engine that has been re-stamped with too low a number. Last taxed until 30th April 2005, the machine is offered for restoration and sold strictly as viewed. There is no registration document with this Lot. Prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the validity of the Vehicle Registration Number prior to bidding.