The Dave Degens, c.1954/1959 BSA 500cc Gold Star

• 1954 lug-less frame, 1959 engine
• Raced in period by Dave Degens
• Restored for road use

On Wednesday 30th June 1937, a specially prepared Empire Star 500 ridden by the great Wal Handley achieved a 100mph lap of the Brooklands circuit on its way to a debut race victory and award of the Gold Star that would give BSA's new super sports model its evocative name.

The Gold Star did not return to BSA's post-WW2 range until 1949. First displayed at the Earls Court Show in 1948, the B32 Goldie boasted the telescopic front fork first introduced on BSAs larger models for 1946 and came equipped with a new alloy cylinder barrel and 'head. For 1950 a 500cc version – the B34 – was added to the range and this larger Goldie was the first to switch to the new die-cast top-end, with separate rocker box, in 1951. The 350 followed suit in 1952 and the pair continued as the 'BB' Gold Stars after the new swinging arm frame was introduced in 1953, changing to 'CB' designation for 1954. This change marked the introduction of the classic 'big fin' engine top-end but the designation lasted only until the arrival of the 'DB' series in the autumn of 1955. The 'DB' incorporated a much improved lubrication system and, in the case of the 350 only, a stronger cylinder assembly; as such it represented the 'Junior' Goldie in its final form, there being no 350 equivalent of the final 'DBD' version.

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.

Consisting of a 1954 frame and 1959 engine, this restored 'Goldie' is one that Dave Degens raced in the early 1960s. The machine is now prepared for the road but retains racing modifications; particularly worthy of note is the very rare BSA Competitions Department lug-less frame, developed from the scrambles machines. Other notable features include a Lucas M01L mag-dyno; alloy wheel rims (Borrani front, Akront rear); and a Smiths 120mph Chronometric speedometer showing 1 mile on the odometer (at the time of cataloguing).

Following a period of inactivity, the machine will require re-commissioning and thus is sold strictly as viewed. It is hoped that supporting documentation will be available at time of sale. Key not required.