1963 BSA 123cc Bantam D1

This attractive late BSA Bantam D1 was first registered in June 1963 in Oxfordshire. It was partially dismantled but essentially complete when the vendor acquired it in 1990. There was no documentation, but it came with four tax discs and the original number plates, and these eventually enabled him to reclaim the original registration number from the DVLA.

He tells us that the Bantam was the subject of a prolonged and intermittent restoration which included: big end refurbishment, a rebore and new piston, new sprockets, engine and gearbox bearings, both wheels rebuilt with new rims and spokes, forks hard chrome plated and ground to size, new bushes fitted, all cycle parts repainted, and various small fittings replaced. He says that most parts are original, including the handlebars with welded on lever brackets, the seat, fuel tank, toolbox, speedometer, mudguards and stays, and chainguard.

He advises that the petrol tank has been coated internally with Flowliner ethanol resistant resin, the electrics are mainly original, and are in working order, an ammeter has been fitted to confirm charging output from the coils, and a modern solid-state rectifier and fuse are fitted in a plastic casing below the seat. He tells us that he is only the second owner, that he believes the recorded mileage of 18,636 to be genuine, that it has been taxed and on the road for the past two years but other bigger bikes being available, it has seen little use, and that it is being sold because space is required for a new project.

He advises us that it has a tendency to jump out of second gear when under load, this being a known fault with D1 Bantams, but a little web research indicates that it is a problem which can be overcome. The Bantam is accompanied by a V5C, various manuals, magazine articles, a toolkit (quite possibly the original albeit one or two items may be missing), and a few other small items. No keys are required or supplied. Prospective bidders should satisfy themselves as to the motorcycle's completeness and mechanical condition prior to bidding. Sold strictly as viewed.