Beschreibung:

The Birmingham Small Arms Company was set up, as its name implies, to manufacture arms for British Forces, a process that called for the most carefully honed engineering skills and practices. From 1906 the company was to focus these skills towards motorcycle manufacture, early models using proprietary engines, however by 1910 the company was fitting its own engine units. The 498cc 3 ½hp model featured the distinctive green and cream livery with the familiar BSA trademark logo. In 1914 this was joined by the 557cc 4 ¼hp model with the longer stroke (98mm) engine. This model did sterling service in World War I. By 1921 chain-drive had superseded belt-drive and, with the three-speed hand-change gearbox the model offered lively performance and served especially well on sidecar duty. This machine has been built up using a frame from a 770cc V-twin BSA, possibly dating from 1922, the engine being a 557cc side-valve unit from 1921. It has been assembled as a machine to ride and enjoy rather than focusing entirely on originality. Later brakes have been fitted to this end. Sadly the vendor's physical condition now prevents the riding of this machine. Much restoration work has been completed but further work is required and the machine is sold strictly as viewed. It comes with spares including a carrier, stand, spare engine, gearbox and clutch. The fitted engine and gearbox are believed to be good but have not been run during the present ownership. There are no registration documents with this machine.