· Arguably one of the most famous names in British motorcycle history

BSA Gold Star took its name from a lapel pin awarded to riders who completed a 100mph race lap at the Brooklands, England motor racing circuit.In 1937, the BSA factory persuaded retired racer Walter ‘Wal’ Handley to ride a specially prepared 497cc BSA Empire Star at Brooklands. Starting from the back in a 3-lap race, Handley went on to win, achieving a lap of over 107mph, securing a Gold Star pin. This inspired BSA to launch the production BSA Gold Star.

Produced from 1938 to 1963, the Gold Star was initially available with a 349cc motor, with a 499cc option added in 1949. The motor was hand-built with many special parts and performance modifications; a factory-supplied dynamometer test result allowed the new owner to see the horsepower produced.

The machine on display is a fully restored BB34 model, originally supplied to BSA’s west coast dealer, Hap Alzina. Manufactured in 1953, this was the first year for the full duplex frame, with twin down-tubes and swing-arm rear suspension, providing superior handling over competitors’ models. The Gold Star was continually developed over its lifetime, being offered as Trials, Scrambler, ISDT, Clubman’s (race) and Touring versions. This is a 500cc Touring model with the optional Clubman’s large-capacity fuel tank and Amal TT carburetor.

Gold Stars quickly became the club racer’s choice, winning their class at the Isle of Man TT races for seven consecutive years from 1949. In the 1956 Clubman’s Junior (350cc) race, 54 of the 55 entrants were riding Gold Stars, the exception being one Velocette Viper.

By the early 1960s, sales were slowing although the current DBD34 machine was capable of over 110mph and still winning races. In 1963 Lucas decided to end production of the magneto used by the BSA’s B-series ignition system, which included the Gold Star. BSA decided to end production rather than invest in switching to coil ignition.

Specifications:

Engine: 499cc OHV single cylinder, air-cooled

Gearbox: 4-speed manual

Top Speed: 110 mph

Efficiency: 60 mpg

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