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LOT 539

1956 BSA 499cc Clipper Registration no. 418 UXA Frame no. CB34 470 Engine no. BB.34.A.598

Sold for £8,050 inc. premium
Lot 539

1956 BSA 499cc Clipper
Registration no. 418 UXA Frame no. CB34 470 Engine no. BB.34.A.598

1956 BSA 499cc Clipper
Registration no. 418 UXA
Frame no. CB34 470
Engine no. BB.34.A.598

According to BSA, the US-market Clipper was "a stripped-for-action Scrambles, Cross Country and general purpose sports mount". Although often mistaken for a Gold Star, the alloy-engined Clipper was essentially an export version of the B34 competition model. Despatched new to BSA's western states distributor Hap Alzina in October 1956, this example had been partially dismantled when it was purchased by the vendor as a restoration project from All States Motorcycles of Reading, Berkshire in May 1991 (sales receipt on file). The owner then entrusted the Clipper's restoration to a selection of recognised specialists: Phil Pearson rebuilt the engine and supplied one of his clutches; Derek Rowles overhauled the gearbox; and the rest of the project was put in the capable hands of Clive Repik. The aim was to keep as close to original specification as possible, so apart from stainless fixings, wheel rims, spokes, and mudguards, the Clipper is as it left the factory. The BSA was registered in the UK in 1994 and apart from going for an MoT in 2004 has been in storage ever since; it has covered only 7 miles since the rebuild. The Pearson and Rowles bills have been mislaid but those relating to Clive Repik's work are on file together with GSOC correspondence; an expired MoT (2005); and old/current V5C documents. A wonderful opportunity for the BSA collector to own a relatively rare model seldom seen in Europe.

Footnotes

Please click the link to view the walkaround video of Lot 539: click here
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.

Saleroom notices

Please click the link to view the walkaround video of Lot 539: click here

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