LOT 14

Property of a deceased's estate, 1957/1959 BSA 499cc DB32/DBD34 'Gold Star Special' Registration no. FSJ 175 Frame no. CB32 6433 Engine no. DBD34GS 3918 (see text)

Sold for £10,687.50 inc. premium

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Lot 14

Property of a deceased's estate, ,1957/1959 BSA 499cc DB32/DBD34 'Gold Star Special'
Registration no. FSJ 175 Frame no. CB32 6433 Engine no. DBD34GS 3918 (see text)

Bonhams July Motoring Auction|25 July 2020, 13:00 BST|Bicester, Bicester Heritage

Property of a deceased's estate,
1957/1959 BSA 499cc DB32/DBD34 'Gold Star Special'
Registration no. FSJ 175
Frame no. CB32 6433
Engine no. DBD34GS 3918 (see text)

• Part of deceased's estate
• Uprated to 499cc
• Clubman's trim

Odometer reading: 317 miles believed since restoration, not warranted
MoT expiry date: 9 August 2010

In 1954 BSA introduced the CB Gold Stars – the first of what came to be known colloquially as the 'Big-Fin' types. This was further refined and endowed with increased power output for the DB types which followed a year or so later. Whilst this was the final iteration of the 350, the 500 was further uprated in 1956 to what has become, for many, the ultimate version of the Gold Star, the DBD34. Unsurprisingly, from that point on, many wanted to own the DBD version, and for some, with the older, less powerful models, the easy way to do this was simply to slip in a replacement DBD motor as the cycle parts for the previous swinging arm types were so similar.

This appears to be what has taken place with FSJ 175. Frame CB32 6433 started life as a 1957 DB32, and, at some point, a previous owner has fitted a 500 engine with a non-factory stamped engine number. This breathes through a 38mm MkII Amal Concentric carburettor, and transmission is via a RRT2 gearbox. Equipped with an 8-inch front brake, and valanced alloy rims, FSJ represents an economy entry into 500 Gold Star ownership.

Last MoT'd in 2009, FSJ's engine turns over but it is not known when the machine last ran or its present mechanical condition. Sold strictly as viewed, the machine will require re-commissioning or possibly more extensive restoration before further use. Prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the suitability and compatibility of the component parts of this machine, together with its authenticity.

Documentation comprises a current V5C, an older-type V5C, older V5, some expired MoT certificates, a dating certificate showing incorrect date, and miscellaneous papers.

Footnotes

Vendor Score Total: 49/100
Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.

Key for sellers' motorcycle assessments:
1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
2/5 AVERAGE. Requires some attention | Light damage
3/5 GOOD. Presents well | Good history file | May or may not run
4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well

EXTERIOR TOTAL: 12/20
Frame Paint: 3
Tinware Paint: 3
Chrome/Brightwork: 3
Plastic/Panels: 3

TRIM/PARTS TOTAL: 12/20
Saddle: 3
Wheels: 3
Cycleparts: 3
Cables: 3

ENGINE TOTAL: 6/20
Turns Over: 2
Starting: 1
Running: 1
Mechanical Components: 2

RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 11/20
Gearbox/Clutch: 2
Front Forks: 3
Rear Suspension: 3
Brakes: 3

ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 8/20
Electrics: 2
Magneto/Generator: 2
Lighting: 2
Ancillary Components: 2

Motorcycle History File:
Receipts & Invoices: No
V5C Registration Document: Yes – purchase receipt
Service History: No

Saleroom notices

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