BSA Gold Star 650 Alright, let’s talk about the BSA Gold Star 650—because honestly, who saw this coming? BSA, that old British legend, is back with a bike that looks like it time-traveled straight from the 1950s but somehow got a sneaky 21st-century upgrade. And you know what? It kinda works.
A BSA Gold Star 650 Quick History Lesson (Because Nostalgia Sells)
Back in the day—like, way back—the BSA Gold Star was the bike to beat. Born in the ‘30s, it earned its stripes (or should I say, gold star?) when some mad lad named Wal Handley ripped around Brooklands fast enough to bag himself a shiny gold-starred lap. Fast forward to the ‘50s, and the Gold Star was the bike for racers and riders who liked their machines fast, loud, and just a little bit unruly.
Then, like most British bikes, it sort of… faded away. Until now. BSA’s back, under new ownership (thanks, Mahindra), and they’ve slapped the Gold Star name on a brand-new 650cc single. And yeah, it’s got people talking.
Looks? Oh, It’s Got
Let’s be real—this bike is pretty. It’s got that classic teardrop tank, a glorious chrome exhaust, and a seat that looks like it belongs on a vintage café racer. But don’t be fooled—there’s some modern trickery here too.
- LED lights (because candles are so last century)
- Digital speedo tucked into a retro-style dial (cheeky)
- USD forks up front (no soggy suspension here)
- Spoked wheels (or alloys if you’re feeling fancy)
It’s the kind of bike that’ll make old blokes at the pub nod approvingly while younger riders wonder if it’s actually new. Mission accomplished, BSA.
How’s It Ride? (Spoiler: It’s Not a Race Bike)
Under that vintage shell sits a 652cc single-cylinder engine, good for 45 bhp and enough torque to make city riding a breeze. It’s not gonna set your hair on fire, but that’s not the point. This thing is all about smooth, easy power—no surprises, just a nice, predictable thump.
- Fuel injection (so no fiddling with carbs in the rain)
- 5-speed gearbox (shifts like butter)
- Decent exhaust note (not obnoxious, just… polite)
It’s the kind of bike that’ll happily chug through traffic all week and then look good doing a lazy Sunday ride. No drama, just good vibes.
Handling? Yeah, It’s Got That Too
You’d think a retro bike might handle like a wheelbarrow full of bricks, but nah—BSA’s given it USD forks, twin shocks, and ABS, so it actually goes around corners without trying to kill you. The riding position? Nice and upright, like a proper classic. No backaches here.
Who’s Gonna Buy This Thing?
Good question. If you’re after a Royal Enfield 650 but want something a bit more… British, this could be your jam. Or maybe you just dig the look and don’t care about specs (fair enough). It’s for:
- Retro bike lovers who want modern reliability
- Commuter riders who want style and function
- Anyone sick of boring plastic-covered bikes
Final Thoughts: Should You Care?
Look, the BSA Gold Star 650 isn’t gonna rewrite the motorcycle rulebook. But it is a solid, good-looking bike with enough charm to make it interesting. In a world full of samey nakeds and hyper-aggressive sports bikes, that’s something.
Would I buy one? Maybe. Would I definitely stop and stare if one rode past? Absolutely.
What do you think—love it or leave it? Drop a comment below!