LOT 332
The last works BSA trials bike 1969 BSA D18 Bantam 175cc Registration no. U048374 Frame no. CDF56 Engine no. BD05145B175
Sold for £6,900 inc. premium
Lot 332
The last works BSA trials bike, 1969 BSA D18 Bantam 175cc
The last works BSA trials bike
1969 BSA D18 Bantam 175cc
Registration no. U048374
Frame no. CDF56
Engine no. BD05145B175
1969 BSA D18 Bantam 175cc
Registration no. U048374
Frame no. CDF56
Engine no. BD05145B175
This prototype Bantam was ridden in period by off-road star Mick 'Bonkey' Bowers, who was employed by the BSA factory for many years up to and including its closure in November 1971. Latterly he worked in the factory's research and development centre at Umberslade Hall. In the late 1960s Mick was involved with Michael Martin (Bantam development chief and brother of Brian) in the development of a trials Bantam. The machine offered here is the last of these development models (see Michael Martin's fascinating letter on file & an article from Classic Dirtbike magazine Summer 2022). It was ridden by Mick to innumerable Midland Centre wins from 1969 to 1971 and to 19th place in the 1971 Scottish Six Days Trial. He also rode it to the Midland Centre Championship title.
The machine has a factory-made alloy cylinder barrel and head, plus a factory-made wide-ratio gearbox, which provided a low second but a very high top gear for road use. Its BSA 'four bolt fix' front forks are non-standard and much shorter than production forks. It also features a one-off fully chromed frame. Mick sold the bike in 1972/1973 to a Yorkshireman, who sold it to John Radcliffe from whom Mick bought it back several years later. The Bantam subsequently passed to Alan Wright, who rode it to two wins in the Two-day Scottish Classic (1992, 1996). Mick confirms the Bantam's provenance in a letter on file. Key not required.
The machine has a factory-made alloy cylinder barrel and head, plus a factory-made wide-ratio gearbox, which provided a low second but a very high top gear for road use. Its BSA 'four bolt fix' front forks are non-standard and much shorter than production forks. It also features a one-off fully chromed frame. Mick sold the bike in 1972/1973 to a Yorkshireman, who sold it to John Radcliffe from whom Mick bought it back several years later. The Bantam subsequently passed to Alan Wright, who rode it to two wins in the Two-day Scottish Classic (1992, 1996). Mick confirms the Bantam's provenance in a letter on file. Key not required.
Footnotes
All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.
Saleroom notices
The correct vehicle registration number is 'UOH 837H', per the V5C. The engine number is: B605145B175.
Additional information
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