BSA Motorcycles Gold Star Trials 1953
The origins of the BSA Gold Star models derive from the fact that a gold star lapel badge was awarded to riders who completed a lap of the Brooklands circuit at over 100mph (161kph).
That was achieved by Walter Handley on a BSA Empire Star 500cc single running on alcohol in 1937 and the 1938 model was promptly given the ‘Gold Star’ model name. Following the Second World War, the model name was revived in 1948 on a tuned version of the 350cc B31 and then on its 500cc counterpart, the B34GS. The plunger rear suspension was upgraded to a swinging arm in 1952.
Post-war Gold Stars in both 348cc B32 and 499cc B34 forms, featured new engines with alloy cylinder barrel and head, making it 20lbs (9kg) lighter than the earlier cast iron B-series singles. They were available with different compression ratios, camshaft profiles, carburettors and exhaust systems, and two different cylinder heads, one for the Trials version and the other for all other models. They were then run on a dynamometer and the test results with power output were shipped with the bike. Besides the different engine specifications available, Gold Stars could be ordered in Touring, Trials, ISDT, Scrambles, Racing or Clubman trim.
This 500cc Trials model was restored in 2007 by Steve Doxey, a UK restorer. The engine rebuild included new bearings, piston rings, valves and guides, and a TR1‘T’ gearbox was sourced from Gold Star Owners Club (GSOC) stalwart, the late John Gardner, and rebuilt with new internals. The frame and cycle parts were stove enamelled and a new exhaust system, tyres and seat fitted. Modifications and upgrades to the standard specification include stainless-steel mudguards, an Amal Concentric carburettor, Converta alloy engine mounting plates, a Triumph clutch conversion, an alloy chain guard and stainless-steel fastenings. It has a UK Registration Certificate that records its first registration in April, 1953, and a GSOC dating certificate issued in March, 2008. It was acquired for the NZ Classic Motorcycles collection in April, 2008, via a Bonhams auction in Staffordshire, UK.