Judging from motorcycle auctions I have gone to a lot of 1950s thru mid 1960s British kickstart bikes aren't attracting a lot of attention. So if someone who wanted a Gold Star back in the day would be about 75 now would probably prefer the new one with an electric starter.
@@andyc750 Nope not laughing at all. I would much prefer the classic Goldie. Talking at auctions with owners of all British classics over past couple of years they all said when asked "why are you letting it go" they all mentioned physical conditions that limited their ability to start their bikes as a main reason. All kick start only bikes up for sale with the exception of Brough Superiors and Vincent models are losing the value they had ten years ago to the older generation. The mid 40 to 50 age group are buying mostly Japanese and Italian at the big motorcycle auctions stateside.
My 1960 A10 Super Rocket is easy to start when you get the knack of it. But it is possible to fit an unobtrusive, reliable electric start if you prefer.
@@flatcapcaferacer over your side of the pond maybe but much of the rest of the world says otherwise, still sought after here and still getting high prices that are still increasing
The amount of negativity in the comments is incredible lol. I for one am just happy to see another entry in the retro market. Don't get why anybody whines about power figures on bikes like this, as they are obviously not about speed, they're about getting back to the simple joys of motorcycles. I love my Enfield Interceptor because it makes me smile, and the world needs more bikes designed to produce smiles.
You’re right, they certainly aren’t about speed. But what are they about? I was lent a twin cylinder retro (it doesn’t matter what it was), but it was physically bigger and more powerful that this. Along with less power, it gave me less braking, less space, less comfort, no luggage carrying ability, just a single headlamp, more of a struggle to keep up with the traffic and no weather protection! And style dictated that it didn’t even get a rev counter. So what “simple pleasures” are you thinking of?
@@Jon-zj2nj people are happy with re classic 350s and this bsa is much more powerful then that. So while you are complaining about lack of power, many will be happy with it. RE twins are popular and are great bikes as well, so this bsa should do fine with more torque.
@@londo0 Are you able to answer my question about what the “simple pleasures” are in owning a bike that falls short in pretty much every objective way?
I’m a diehard Italian bike guy, but have to admit how excited I am for all the retro Brit bikes out on the market now. I’d love to see a comparison of a Bonneville T100, Guzzi V7, Royal Enfield Interceptor and now BSA Gold star.
I had a Honda CB1100ex air cooled it was like a Swiss watch, now I have a Moto Guzzi 850 Roamer, it is like a cement mixer. Bags of character, love it, but takes some getting used to as it really is a bit primitive. I regretfully sold the Honda (heavy & I am 82)) and kept the Guzzi, improves with use.
@@fredforsythe8310 how clinically perfect Honda’s are has always been what’s turned me off to them. I’m actually test riding a V7 special this weekend, with the aim on adding one in the spring. I’ve ridden Ducati’s for the past 10 years, but it sounds like a Guzzi is an ideal way to break up that monotony. I also have to say, you being 82 and still riding is mighty impressive! Keep rolling on the miles!
Sorry guys. I feel you have missed the trick here. It sounds nothing like a Goldstar. Apart from the clocks, badges and tank, it doesn't resemble a Goldstar only in name. Swept back gp exhaust. Enclosed rear suspension. The radiator sticks out like a sore thumb. This required a great deal of thought before building something called Goldstar was built. The original Goldie was built without compromise. This one is one I feel is very much a compromise rather than a comparison. It will be purchased on price, rather than sentiment. Ask some of the original Ton up Boys, Rockers what they think, baring in mind that they made some beautiful home made creations back in the day. The most famous being the Triton, but also the Tribsa, Norbstar, Norvin, etc, etc, etc. Most were engineering masterpieces with limited tools and even more limited budget.
@@deltabluesdavidraye It's modern enough alright. But trying to offer it as a 21st century offering of a Goldstar with so many compromises is the mistake here. I personally think that they would have been better offering a reentery motorcycle with a BSA badge and given time and thought, then release a tribute bike to the Goldie. I feel this opportunity has now been missed. A lot of people feel very deflated about this, after feeling excited initially.
It's hard to build a bike exactly like the Gold Star in the modern age, manufacturers have far more hoops to jump through now. And you can still buy an original Gold Star should you want/be able to afford to one.
I applaud the initiative to revive classic British motorcycles; Matchless, Norton, BSA and Triump. I do not really care who or where they are built now but one thing I will not consider is liquid cooled. Succinctly put: there are no "classic" liquid cooled bikes, all they have is the look and then they even sport electric start. Give me a real classic, kick starting and air cooled
Good to see this. I've been waiting since last year for someone to ride this bike & report on it. Hopefully it will be available in the USA eventually.
Pretty? Really? They do sa beauty is in the eye of the beholder. On reflection, I think BSA have started with the wrong bike. To build a tribute bike to the Goldie with a Rotax motor that sounds like a lawnmower, wearing a block of flats eyesore radiator that appears to have been, "thrown at it"? Emotionally, everyone wants BSA to succeed. But this type of bike trying to be something it can never be, (The Goldstar) in anyway, shape or form is a big mistake. Also BSA told everyone that it was going to be built here? My gut feeling at the time was, thinking. I would doubt that very much. Some of my friends have already christened it, "The Constar" or the "Fools Goldie". I find it very sad, and was so looking forward to BSAs return.
@@martinhambleton5076 We have the same pains in the USA sadly. To make any single country of origin product appears to be a fools errand these days : /
Had a close look at this bike at Brooklands Museum a few weeks ago. It's a nice BSA looking bike, but it's a shame it has to have that massive cooler(radiator) on the front. The front exhaust pipe setup looks a bit naff too with that weird sheild around it, but i suppose lots of owners would put a different pipe on eventually anyway. I noticed the regulator rectifier is mounted very low and just under the suspension in front of the back wheel, it's very low and looks like it will suffer from road grime, water ingress or damage. That regulator rectifier position looks like a potential warranty problem for BSA. My Bro has owned an Interceptor 650 Enfield for 3 years now and done 30,000 miles in all weather on it with a few very minor issues which were mostly sorted out on warranty by RE. Good luck to Mahindra with the BSA, it's got great potential, but if it is going to compete with the RE 650 and be around £500-1000 more, then it needs to be really good....we'll see what the production models are like. Hopefully some owners will ride them hard just for the hell of it! BSA can lend me one to if they like👍. An old school, stripped down, high pipe scrambler style would look really cool on one of these.
People might think this a strange idea but I'd like to see it compared to the lowly Mash 650 classic which is priced at £4999 +OTR. Everybody seems to disregard the Mash just because it hasn't got the iconic name.
I have ridden the Mash 650 as well as the 400 and Royal Enfield 650. I like the 400 Mash better than the 650 Mash but I would still go for the Royal Enfield. Royal Enfield just looks and feels cleaner. Unfortunately, I am very disappointed with the BSA. Royal Enfield remains the only brand that builds authentic classic motorcycles under 7500 euros.
@@visordown Yes. The machine handles very well, better than the Royal Enfield but I expected more. On closer inspection, it doesn't look as good as the RE. Unfortunately, it doesn't fit my body size. All in all it's a very good machine but I expected more. Maybe something else will come in the future.
Looked at one yesterday "its Bland" in comparison to an Enfield. Needs more chrome, how about a twin exhaust port head & a silencer either side, seat styling and trim for starters..
There is more to the legacy silver sheen version than a slightly different paint scheme, the mudguards are chromium plated instead of painted, there are chrome panels on the sides of the fuel tank, the mirrors are chromed too. Chromium plating is a lot more labour intensive skilled and longer to perform process, therefore it's more expensive than painting. The engines side covers are highly polished and the seat is made in the UK from real leather instead of the standard Indian made vinyl seat. Quality costs money.
Il be testing one can’t wait You don’t have to be in you’re 70s to appreciate the old bikes either all the info is on the net if you get stuck Or clubs plenty of them You only have to go to the classic bike shows to see that the interest is still there The market will fluctuate anyway But eh good luck to BSA This looks to be a winner there’s no doubting that and there’s room for both old and new 😊😎😎
Great real world review Toad. Much appreciated. I wonder do you think the new BSA team have gone with water cooling over air and oil because they are expecting privateers to tune the engine up for racing. Ive recently read that 90bhp is possible with this Rotax based 652cc engine.
They have already done that. They have got a 90 horsepower version at their India factory. See "the classic motorcycle channel" video on the goldstar launch(the one in which that old gentleman reviews the bike). It's a short stroke motor, formerly used in bmw single cylinder bikes, and the BSA guys are following some really tight tolerances on these ones(the crank is dipped in liquid nitrogen to set it in).
90 bhp maybe for 30 minutes on the test bench ignoreing fuel usage, wear and emissions? I guess that is some kind of clever marketing story, if they had an open version they would offer it but its not here yet. Also i am sure they want to offer a 72 BSA replica twin with 70hp-80hp next and they wont bite into their own market.
It took me around 2 to 3 reviews for this bike to grow into me. I own an interceptor and maybe in future I would like them both. I can see the different character of this bike when compared to Interceptor.
He did well to get a burn out going with only 45bhp. I’m 58 and these are still from my dad’s generation (and he’s been gone for 3 years). What’s the attraction in buying these for anyone who’s still young enough to ride?
The torque helps, it's very manageable low down, and the attraction is there for people who want a classy looking bike with modern reliability and riding dynamics - this has both.
@@visordown Fortunately, there are several retro bikes with “modern reliability and riding dynamics” to choose from, but the overall proportions and stance of the bike are more “contemporary utility single”, than “‘60’s cafe racer”. The detailing may look like a Goldstar, but the overall bike doesn’t. Sure, there are older riders that will be buying these now and cafe racer riding positions are (largely) out, but why does this have ponderous proportions that aren’t shared by the Bonneville / Enflield / z900RS et al?
OK so not going to mention the god awful sandwiche box on the bars, if you thought the switch gear is out of place then that thing is pretty hard to ignore
I am getting the feeling that, "We are going to build it weather or not". "We will tell you it's good, and you will like it"! Just like the British bike industry did back in the day. I think that they have massively compromised both the bike and themselves.
Going to buy one and period cafe racer it. Get some weight out of it clip ons etc . Would love a four leading shoe front brake and suspension upgrades .
What's with the tarnishing of the chrome right away on the exhaust? Same thing RE Himalayan's do and it really takes away from the looks after break in.
@@cerealtiller Its a modern bike, should be no reason not to tour on it if you want to. Just annoys me when people review bikes and tell you what you will or won’t use them for. Not everyone needs or wants a bespoke tourer to go any distance.
Exactly you can tour on any bike. I tour with my husband, I am on a Kawasaki z400 he is on a Interceptor 650. We tend to avoid motorways because they are boring.
wonder if the big single victor is planned. Owned one in the day,,in the morning choke it up give it a few short primer kicks un choke and hope. after 5 or 6 kicks if you weren't wishing for a sport cup and no start wait 20, boom first kick. miss my old suicide 90cc ossa. The victor looked taller .
Radiator has to go. Air cooled big fin with small oil cooler. Rear light unit needs to be mounted on the mudguard as it is far too low and will be blasted with road grit. The fully enclosed Chain case has to go as well. Forks would have been upgraded by BSA by now. Standard telescopic or perhaps USD forks. I'd prefer standard telescopic. A front mudguard mounted numberplate would have been a nice retro nod to the original Goldy. They have fold down soft plastic ones which are road legal and don't slice pedestrians down the middle when they jaywalk in front of someone doing the tonne.
@@kasperkjrsgaard1447 Totally. Though I feel its addition made it way too “modern”. But again, one could contend that the liquid cooling was more likely to future-proof the motorcycle against draconian EU regulations. I would argue that the Interceptor deserves the title more than this new avatar of the BSA. Interestingly, BSA did consider making it just air-cooled as one of their executives revealed in an interview.
It sounds like a 125cc bike going past at 4000 rpm, and a very short stroke engine also. Is it even near square? It doesn't sound like it, more is the pity.
Mahindra tried to resurrect JAWA and failed miserably. A friend of mine returned his JAWA within a week. It didn't do justice to the brand. I sincerely hope this is not the case with BSA. I hope the bike lives upto BSA heritage
Got love these click bait titles. How could an outsourced bike to Riccardo with a Rotax engine that has zero connection to BSA possibly be the most authentic British motorcycle 😂
BSA will not stand still with one model for long, I bet a twin is at the tooling stage, maybe something to take on Triumph's T120? or better Thruxton & Norton?
It’s a BSA it’s not going to leak oil or break your leg trying to start it, and it’ll probably never break down, so what if it’s owned by mahindra it’s a BSA and it’s back. I’m seriously thinking of packing in superbikes, I’m 60 now and fed up traveling at 150mph, superbikes have no place on British roads anymore. 70-80mph on the roads is enough now, to many cameras, to many miserable shits with dash cams reporting bikers, I’m sorry 80s to 2000 was the best time for biking, now it’s just too dangerous.
Mahindra are a very large motor concern, the have also brought back the SWM and Jawa marques back to life with great success. The new Jawa's are selling like hot cakes in India.
Couldn't agree more, super bikes are dead now except a few £20k 200bhp hyperbikes. 600cc was the most fun for me but you can't do it any more in the UK, roads too busy and poor condition...
@@davidmacgregor5193 umm no it isnt selling like hot cakes the sales of jawa and yesdi combined is somewhat equal to 3500 units per month while Re is doing 70000 per month from last two months
The display of abusing a motorcycle at Goodwood was frankly pathetic ... Does anyone think that type of childish crap would appeal to anyone with an interest in this bike ?
It's really the only way to get any airtime at Goodwood - and it worked. BSA also signed off the activity at the highest level. If you didn't enjoy it, close your eyes and put your fingers in your ears for the first 10-seconds of the video...
The ground clearance is so low that it won't clear India's speed-breakers and potholes. That explains why they don't intend selling the bike in India (at least not yet).
It is launching in India and Asia, just beginning with a UK launch as this is the bike's spiritual home. Much of the testing was done in Asia, so I guess it is okay for the roads out there - it's also not massively different on the ground clearance front to the bikes from Royal Enfield, Yedzi and Jawa.
@@visordown Thanks for that bit of info but that is not what we are hearing in India. But then there has been no clear communication from the company from Day1. From the videos available they need to do something about that ugly tractor radiator and the plumbing work around it. Cant wait to see it in the flesh. And do a test ride. Nostalgia alone wont be enough to sell this bike.
I've ordered one .. I've got 3 other bikes to go fast on anytime I want . It's a big single I'm after I've nowt against the Enfield BUT it's not for me . If yer don't like the bsa just scroll on or as they used to say .. jog on buddy .
I imagine a pair of Hagons on the back would improve things a lot and YSS will almost certainly make a kit to fix the front. As for the front brake, well, for us normal road users (ie old duffers), it might be good enough.
No offense, but Mahindra is wayyyy above most of the Brit vehicle manufacturers! They are awesome! They build everlasting engines and i am happy that BSA ended up in the safe and robust hands of Mahindra!
This that bsa have 1 cyl vs interceptor 2 cyl say sh.t about how peppy both are 👌🏻😁 if you calculate power to weight ratio with 90 kg driver thers 3-5% diffrenc in peak hp for race for ic however in daily riding more torq down low bsa if somebody will not exceed 4-5 k rpm be more peppyy 👍🏻not be much anyway 👌🏻
Why put the Union Jack 🇬🇧 on a bike that’s made in India and from what I can see from it thats the only thing that’s even remotely connected to the old Goldie ,but what concerns me is that it was going to be built in Britain but it’s only after pressure they have said that it’s now going to be built in India ( and the reasons they give are rubbish,the engine was going to based on a Goldie but ill leave that for you to decide and after wandering what else they haven’t told us about instead of very seriously considering buying one of these I think I’ll either go for a true classic or a w800
The reason for building abroad is COVID. The tooling and machinery was stuck in Asia, and getting it to the UK was a logistical nightmare. BSA are looking for a UK base, where bikes for the UK market will be built.
The original Gold star was pretty, very elegant and purposeful. This new bike is none of these and nor is it a Goldstar or actually a BSA when it comes down to it but it does seem a competent and interesting looking bike nonetheless. I'd probably veer toward the enfield 650. two cylinders, much more elegant and cheaper. That's my honest opinion for what it's worth.
@@jeffreywilson7307 Quiet correct but I was discussing the BSA. The new (not) enfield is a very pretty and popular bike but as I said; the BSA really isn't.
Referring to the bike as BSA have done this or BSA have done that doesn't sit well when it is really Mahindra who have just bought a name to put on a bike they have made. Yes they have done a decent job of making a modern version of a classic bike which is not an easy task with today's rules and legislation!
There is another single and even though it’s a slightly different proposition cause it’s a scrambler, it’s still a modern classic, retro bike with a single cylinder and around 40 HP. Price is more less there and it’s a slightly better components, slightly better finish also more purposeful, it only weighs 150kg. So more fun. That’s my choice for a second, lower powered bike.
Bastards don't understand, Enfield is built in india and built like a tank. Can't say the same for the muched shamed jaguar and landrover built in Englund. FYI Jlr is owned by india.
Mate, maybe because these particular motorcycles are pre-production units. So they could improve upon it or maybe they won't. Alas, we don't know yet! And if they want to 'triumph' over RE, they should hit it hard, real hard! I am a 650 int owner and this certainly has caught my eye!
@Jip Jackson wait it out for a couple of years. I would do the same too. Initial batches are always test batches. No matter the quality of RND, it could never simulate real world usage with different kind of riders!
Keith. I own a RE Interceptor Chrome for three years now. 7000 Miles and nö Problems. But RE made mistakes to: plastic indicators, big exhausts. That's it. I think the BSA looks better. The instruments, the seat, indicators.... If they only made a air/oil cooling. Or even better, something like the M.A.S.H 650 engine sett up. Air.
Yep 213 kilograms wet weight. That must be the heaviest single cylindred bike made ever! And only 12 liters fuel tank too… I mean the bike looks very cool by all means - but then there’s these specs…😑
The new Gold Star is not a Gold Star at all.. The old Bike was a Clubman Race Bike..if you have one over the years it's value will increase..It's one of the most famous bikes ever made! The new one will sell in limited numbers .. nothing like the Intersepter.When people say it's good looking with that Rad.. it looks like it should be on a Car. One thing they got right Retro is selling .. Sports Bikes or not.
What could be more ridiculous than a burn-out, as in the opening scene of this video? - Destroying a good rear tire, creating toxic smoke for everyone in vicinity to breathe. Is that supposed to be cool? Anyway - the bike - overall a good-looking retro w/ some virtues, but that radiator is awfully ugly & probably a deal-breaker for many. BSA designers could take some cues from Triumph re: how to design an unobtrusive radiator that blends.
Yeah, too bad for a fact that they are indeed awesome! So much so that they're consistently one of the top selling motorbike manufacturers in UK for a couple of years now! They must be pushing their products down the throat of people, those bastards..!
@@y2j132 What an odious response from "Rohith K"! You took my comment as a negative view? Perhaps it was your automatic defensive response of your years where you are. I wouldn't expect anything less from a dullard. Now 'Scram' you 'Himalayan' type!
@@teamtempest844 I mean; you don’t have much choice. There really isn’t much bike manufacturing in England, you got to live with Enfields and BSA’s made in India and Triumphs made in Thailand.
Judging from motorcycle auctions I have gone to a lot of 1950s thru mid 1960s British kickstart bikes aren't attracting a lot of attention. So if someone who wanted a Gold Star back in the day would be about 75 now would probably prefer the new one with an electric starter.
you are having a laugh I presume, a classic Goldi is a sought after and expensive machine across most of the world
@@andyc750 Nope not laughing at all. I would much prefer the classic Goldie. Talking at auctions with owners of all British classics over past couple of years they all said when asked "why are you letting it go" they all mentioned physical conditions that limited their ability to start their bikes as a main reason.
All kick start only bikes up for sale with the exception of Brough Superiors and Vincent models are losing the value they had ten years ago to the older generation. The mid 40 to 50 age group are buying mostly Japanese and Italian at the big motorcycle auctions stateside.
My 1960 A10 Super Rocket is easy to start when you get the knack of it. But it is possible to fit an unobtrusive, reliable electric start if you prefer.
@@flatcapcaferacer over your side of the pond maybe but much of the rest of the world says otherwise, still sought after here and still getting high prices that are still increasing
@@andyc750 Glad to hear they are highly sought after. Are they used mostly for class racing or general riding?
The amount of negativity in the comments is incredible lol. I for one am just happy to see another entry in the retro market. Don't get why anybody whines about power figures on bikes like this, as they are obviously not about speed, they're about getting back to the simple joys of motorcycles. I love my Enfield Interceptor because it makes me smile, and the world needs more bikes designed to produce smiles.
You’re right, they certainly aren’t about speed. But what are they about?
I was lent a twin cylinder retro (it doesn’t matter what it was), but it was physically bigger and more powerful that this.
Along with less power, it gave me less braking, less space, less comfort, no luggage carrying ability, just a single headlamp, more of a struggle to keep up with the traffic and no weather protection! And style dictated that it didn’t even get a rev counter.
So what “simple pleasures” are you thinking of?
@@Jon-zj2nj people are happy with re classic 350s and this bsa is much more powerful then that. So while you are complaining about lack of power, many will be happy with it.
RE twins are popular and are great bikes as well, so this bsa should do fine with more torque.
@Jip Jackson
So, in terms of my original question about what the “simple pleasures” of riding these bikes is, do you have an answer?
@@londo0
Are you able to answer my question about what the “simple pleasures” are in owning a bike that falls short in pretty much every objective way?
@@Jon-zj2nj your main concern seems to be speed, hence 'simple pleasures' are not for you.
I’m a diehard Italian bike guy, but have to admit how excited I am for all the retro Brit bikes out on the market now. I’d love to see a comparison of a Bonneville T100, Guzzi V7, Royal Enfield Interceptor and now BSA Gold star.
I had a Honda CB1100ex air cooled it was like a Swiss watch, now I have a Moto Guzzi 850 Roamer, it is like a cement mixer. Bags of character, love it, but takes some getting used to as it really is a bit primitive. I regretfully sold the Honda (heavy & I am 82)) and kept the Guzzi, improves with use.
@@fredforsythe8310 how clinically perfect Honda’s are has always been what’s turned me off to them. I’m actually test riding a V7 special this weekend, with the aim on adding one in the spring. I’ve ridden Ducati’s for the past 10 years, but it sounds like a Guzzi is an ideal way to break up that monotony. I also have to say, you being 82 and still riding is mighty impressive! Keep rolling on the miles!
Ti consiglio il canale di Freddie Dobbs
BSA gold star and RE interceptor are not British. They have only British dna.
@@lifegambler2000 SPOT ON, but hey time move on, at least its a start, regards.
Great honest review. Nice bike, worth me getting a test ride. Cheers.
How many potential buyers of the new Gold Star are interested in doing burn outs? 🤔
Good honest review Tony, thank you
Sorry guys. I feel you have missed the trick here. It sounds nothing like a Goldstar.
Apart from the clocks, badges and tank, it doesn't resemble a Goldstar only in name.
Swept back gp exhaust.
Enclosed rear suspension.
The radiator sticks out like a sore thumb.
This required a great deal of thought before building something called Goldstar was built.
The original Goldie was built without compromise. This one is one I feel is very much a compromise rather than a comparison. It will be purchased on price, rather than sentiment.
Ask some of the original Ton up Boys, Rockers what they think, baring in mind that they made some beautiful home made creations back in the day. The most famous being the Triton, but also the Tribsa, Norbstar, Norvin, etc, etc, etc. Most were engineering masterpieces with limited tools and even more limited budget.
If it's not modern enough it will be a dud.
@@deltabluesdavidraye It's modern enough alright. But trying to offer it as a 21st century offering of a Goldstar with so many compromises is the mistake here.
I personally think that they would have been better offering a reentery motorcycle with a BSA badge and given time and thought, then release a tribute bike to the Goldie. I feel this opportunity has now been missed. A lot of people feel very deflated about this, after feeling excited initially.
It's hard to build a bike exactly like the Gold Star in the modern age, manufacturers have far more hoops to jump through now. And you can still buy an original Gold Star should you want/be able to afford to one.
I applaud the initiative to revive classic British motorcycles; Matchless, Norton, BSA and Triump. I do not really care who or where they are built now but one thing I will not consider is liquid cooled. Succinctly put: there are no "classic" liquid cooled bikes, all they have is the look and then they even sport electric start. Give me a real classic, kick starting and air cooled
Good to see this. I've been waiting since last year for someone to ride this bike & report on it. Hopefully it will be available in the USA eventually.
Great review ...tells it how its ...well done
Je l'attendais depuis longtemps!
It got the look,the feel, but what about the reliability?
The Rotax engine is known to be reliable.
Looks the part, time and testing will will determine its true worth, ( obviously ).
Simply beautiful. It's a art created.
It's very pretty in the flesh.
Love this bike!
Shes pretty thats for sure! I hope it sells, and we maybe see a future model that spares no expense on parts.
Pretty? Really? They do sa beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
On reflection, I think BSA have started with the wrong bike.
To build a tribute bike to the Goldie with a Rotax motor that sounds like a lawnmower, wearing a block of flats eyesore radiator that appears to have been, "thrown at it"?
Emotionally, everyone wants BSA to succeed. But this type of bike trying to be something it can never be, (The Goldstar) in anyway, shape or form is a big mistake.
Also BSA told everyone that it was going to be built here? My gut feeling at the time was, thinking. I would doubt that very much.
Some of my friends have already christened it, "The Constar" or the "Fools Goldie".
I find it very sad, and was so looking forward to BSAs return.
@@martinhambleton5076 We have the same pains in the USA sadly. To make any single country of origin product appears to be a fools errand these days : /
Had a close look at this bike at Brooklands Museum a few weeks ago. It's a nice BSA looking bike, but it's a shame it has to have that massive cooler(radiator) on the front. The front exhaust pipe setup looks a bit naff too with that weird sheild around it, but i suppose lots of owners would put a different pipe on eventually anyway.
I noticed the regulator rectifier is mounted very low and just under the suspension in front of the back wheel, it's very low and looks like it will suffer from road grime, water ingress or damage. That regulator rectifier position looks like a potential warranty problem for BSA.
My Bro has owned an Interceptor 650 Enfield for 3 years now and done 30,000 miles in all weather on it with a few very minor issues which were mostly sorted out on warranty by RE. Good luck to Mahindra with the BSA, it's got great potential, but if it is going to compete with the RE 650 and be around £500-1000 more, then it needs to be really good....we'll see what the production models are like. Hopefully some owners will ride them hard just for the hell of it! BSA can lend me one to if they like👍. An old school, stripped down, high pipe scrambler style would look really cool on one of these.
Looks good, but indicators are too small. Should be a lot bigger for better visability and in keeping with bikes looks.
In keeping with the looks? The original didn't have any indicators so to be "in keeping" the indicators would have to be almost invisible
People might think this a strange idea but I'd like to see it compared to the lowly Mash 650 classic which is priced at £4999 +OTR. Everybody seems to disregard the Mash just because it hasn't got the iconic name.
I have ridden the Mash 650 as well as the 400 and Royal Enfield 650. I like the 400 Mash better than the 650 Mash but I would still go for the Royal Enfield. Royal Enfield just looks and feels cleaner. Unfortunately, I am very disappointed with the BSA. Royal Enfield remains the only brand that builds authentic classic motorcycles under 7500 euros.
@@philippa.8309 I was thinking more of comparing the Mash to the BSA as they are both retro singles.
What is disappointing, have you ridden the BSA yet?
@@visordown
Yes. The machine handles very well, better than the Royal Enfield but I expected more. On closer inspection, it doesn't look as good as the RE. Unfortunately, it doesn't fit my body size. All in all it's a very good machine but I expected more. Maybe something else will come in the future.
Looked at one yesterday "its Bland" in comparison to an Enfield.
Needs more chrome, how about a twin exhaust port head & a silencer either side, seat styling and trim for starters..
And exactly why do you think most people will go for a £7000 slightly different paint scheme exactly 🤔
I'd have the green one , not because it's the cheapest , I like green 😉
There is more to the legacy silver sheen version than a slightly different paint scheme, the mudguards are chromium plated instead of painted, there are chrome panels on the sides of the fuel tank, the mirrors are chromed too. Chromium plating is a lot more labour intensive skilled and longer to perform process, therefore it's more expensive than painting. The engines side covers are highly polished and the seat is made in the UK from real leather instead of the standard Indian made vinyl seat. Quality costs money.
Er cause they may prefer the colour. Looks nice in the silver, chrome and red pinstripe.
Il be testing one can’t wait
You don’t have to be in you’re 70s to appreciate the old bikes either all the info is on the net if you get stuck
Or clubs plenty of them
You only have to go to the classic bike shows to see that the interest is still there
The market will fluctuate anyway
But eh good luck to BSA
This looks to be a winner there’s no doubting that and there’s room for both old and new
😊😎😎
There is a seat for every backside! And yes, it is the kind of thing that'll appeal to old and young/new riders
Great real world review Toad. Much appreciated. I wonder do you think the new BSA team have gone with water cooling over air and oil because they are expecting privateers to tune the engine up for racing. Ive recently read that 90bhp is possible with this Rotax based 652cc engine.
Bullshite. 90HP from a 652CC single. Dream on.
Emissions
They have already done that. They have got a 90 horsepower version at their India factory. See "the classic motorcycle channel" video on the goldstar launch(the one in which that old gentleman reviews the bike). It's a short stroke motor, formerly used in bmw single cylinder bikes, and the BSA guys are following some really tight tolerances on these ones(the crank is dipped in liquid nitrogen to set it in).
90 bhp maybe for 30 minutes on the test bench ignoreing fuel usage, wear and emissions? I guess that is some kind of clever marketing story, if they had an open version they would offer it but its not here yet. Also i am sure they want to offer a 72 BSA replica twin with 70hp-80hp next and they wont bite into their own market.
It took me around 2 to 3 reviews for this bike to grow into me. I own an interceptor and maybe in future I would like them both. I can see the different character of this bike when compared to Interceptor.
He did well to get a burn out going with only 45bhp.
I’m 58 and these are still from my dad’s generation (and he’s been gone for 3 years).
What’s the attraction in buying these for anyone who’s still young enough to ride?
The torque helps, it's very manageable low down, and the attraction is there for people who want a classy looking bike with modern reliability and riding dynamics - this has both.
@@visordown
Fortunately, there are several retro bikes with “modern reliability and riding dynamics” to choose from, but the overall proportions and stance of the bike are more “contemporary utility single”, than “‘60’s cafe racer”.
The detailing may look like a Goldstar, but the overall bike doesn’t.
Sure, there are older riders that will be buying these now and cafe racer riding positions are (largely) out, but why does this have ponderous proportions that aren’t shared by the Bonneville / Enflield / z900RS et al?
If you need more power you need more training
@@dayvidmathews1182
?
When will the Goldstar be available in America?
OK so not going to mention the god awful sandwiche box on the bars, if you thought the switch gear is out of place then that thing is pretty hard to ignore
Oh dear, where do I start? Nah ... I had one of their engines in a microlight.
Certainly more intriguing than the Interceptor. Probably down to the single cylinder but more than that too.
The posh crowd didn't seem too impressed with Toad's burnout 😆
I am getting the feeling that, "We are going to build it weather or not". "We will tell you it's good, and you will like it"!
Just like the British bike industry did back in the day.
I think that they have massively compromised both the bike and themselves.
Going to buy one and period cafe racer it. Get some weight out of it clip ons etc . Would love a four leading shoe front brake and suspension upgrades .
I think BSA are already planning a café racer version and possibly a scrambler too...
I've done Euro tours on minimal gsxr1100 chops. That looks like the lap of luxury TBF
The ride quality is very good.
Coming to the USA?
Looks great 👍
What's with the tarnishing of the chrome right away on the exhaust? Same thing RE Himalayan's do and it really takes away from the looks after break in.
The exhaust isn't chromed, it's brushed stainless steel which does tarnish yellow and brown with the exhausts heat.
That radiator!!! I would go RE at the same money...
Bring back the 2 cylinder like the Harley and l might be interested.
Thumbs down to the fool burning up the rear tire.
Got me on the TV though, didn't it! :-)
Why are you guaranteeing that no one will tour or ride far on one?
It is a Clone of an Antique bike..not up to date for serious Touring.?
@@cerealtiller Its a modern bike, should be no reason not to tour on it if you want to. Just annoys me when people review bikes and tell you what you will or won’t use them for. Not everyone needs or wants a bespoke tourer to go any distance.
Agree its a stupid comment , many people go touring with bikes like these .
Exactly you can tour on any bike. I tour with my husband, I am on a Kawasaki z400 he is on a Interceptor 650. We tend to avoid motorways because they are boring.
@@ozzyprogdomino8815 I know a cracking motorway service station near me.
BRG with gold pinstripes, please.
Would like a more Cafe racer styled bike,with a smaller radiator.The exhaust pipe looks too big( diameter)and muffler could look better.
Quality of switchgear and stickers silly cost cutting
The switchgear is a shame, I wish they had spent some more time/money on that.
wonder if the big single victor is planned. Owned one in the day,,in the morning choke it up give it a few short primer kicks un choke and hope. after 5 or 6 kicks if you weren't wishing for a sport cup and no start wait 20, boom first kick.
miss my old suicide 90cc ossa. The victor looked taller .
Who is Norton,hope she's also coming.
Radiator has to go. Air cooled big fin with small oil cooler. Rear light unit needs to be mounted on the mudguard as it is far too low and will be blasted with road grit. The fully enclosed Chain case has to go as well. Forks would have been upgraded by BSA by now. Standard telescopic or perhaps USD forks. I'd prefer standard telescopic. A front mudguard mounted numberplate would have been a nice retro nod to the original Goldy. They have fold down soft plastic ones which are road legal and don't slice pedestrians down the middle when they jaywalk in front of someone doing the tonne.
there is a rival, and it is cheaper ,the Mash 650 classic complete with 3 year warranty
Spinning your back tire and making a smoke cloud is for little teeny weeny tiny children. Not for adults.
I bet you're fun a parties...
I’m not sure if I would call it “the most authentic British modern classic”; it’s liquid cooled.
Can you see that little word “modern”?
That explains why it has the liquid cooling.
@@kasperkjrsgaard1447 Totally. Though I feel its addition made it way too “modern”. But again, one could contend that the liquid cooling was more likely to future-proof the motorcycle against draconian EU regulations. I would argue that the Interceptor deserves the title more than this new avatar of the BSA. Interestingly, BSA did consider making it just air-cooled as one of their executives revealed in an interview.
BSA motorcycle🔥
It sounds like a 125cc bike going past at 4000 rpm, and a very short stroke engine also. Is it even near square? It doesn't sound like it, more is the pity.
Authentic is such a debased word these days. If they made this same bike without a BSA label would it attract the same attention?
Mahindra tried to resurrect JAWA and failed miserably. A friend of mine returned his JAWA within a week. It didn't do justice to the brand. I sincerely hope this is not the case with BSA. I hope the bike lives upto BSA heritage
I still have my jawa since 2 years no problems at all
What's a foot peg ?
Pigs toe
The thing you put your foot on when riding?
Pourquoi cramé du pneu ?
A 650 thumper for those solitary winding back roads.
Indian Mahindra group is now daddy of this bike.✌️👍
Got love these click bait titles. How could an outsourced bike to Riccardo with a Rotax engine that has zero connection to BSA possibly be the most authentic British motorcycle 😂
BSA will not stand still with one model for long, I bet a twin is at the tooling stage, maybe something to take on Triumph's T120? or better Thruxton & Norton?
It’s a BSA it’s not going to leak oil or break your leg trying to start it, and it’ll probably never break down, so what if it’s owned by mahindra it’s a BSA and it’s back. I’m seriously thinking of packing in superbikes, I’m 60 now and fed up traveling at 150mph, superbikes have no place on British roads anymore. 70-80mph on the roads is enough now, to many cameras, to many miserable shits with dash cams reporting bikers, I’m sorry 80s to 2000 was the best time for biking, now it’s just too dangerous.
🤔🤣
Mahindra are a very large motor concern, the have also brought back the SWM and Jawa marques back to life with great success. The new Jawa's are selling like hot cakes in India.
Yeah...Good times ...long gone..
Couldn't agree more, super bikes are dead now except a few £20k 200bhp hyperbikes. 600cc was the most fun for me but you can't do it any more in the UK, roads too busy and poor condition...
@@davidmacgregor5193 umm no it isnt selling like hot cakes the sales of jawa and yesdi combined is somewhat equal to 3500 units per month while Re is doing 70000 per month from last two months
The display of abusing a motorcycle at Goodwood was frankly pathetic ... Does anyone think
that type of childish crap would appeal to anyone with an interest in this bike ?
It's really the only way to get any airtime at Goodwood - and it worked. BSA also signed off the activity at the highest level. If you didn't enjoy it, close your eyes and put your fingers in your ears for the first 10-seconds of the video...
AWESOME VIDEO AMAZING FANTASTIC ! ! ! ! ! !!
check out the royal enfield from cooperb motorcycles
45hp and it needs a radiator?
A single definitely does, 45 hp is pretty good for a 650 single
Yep, BSA confirmed to have looked at air/oil cooling, but the power output would have suffered.
@@visordown if only it was BSA
@@RipsawEV_2 the exact same engine was 50hp 30 years ago when it was in a bmw
The ground clearance is so low that it won't clear India's speed-breakers and potholes. That explains why they don't intend selling the bike in India (at least not yet).
It is launching in India and Asia, just beginning with a UK launch as this is the bike's spiritual home.
Much of the testing was done in Asia, so I guess it is okay for the roads out there - it's also not massively different on the ground clearance front to the bikes from Royal Enfield, Yedzi and Jawa.
@@visordown Thanks for that bit of info but that is not what we are hearing in India. But then there has been no clear communication from the company from Day1.
From the videos available they need to do something about that ugly tractor radiator and the plumbing work around it.
Cant wait to see it in the flesh. And do a test ride. Nostalgia alone wont be enough to sell this bike.
I've ordered one .. I've got 3 other bikes to go fast on anytime I want . It's a big single I'm after I've nowt against the Enfield BUT it's not for me . If yer don't like the bsa just scroll on or as they used to say .. jog on buddy .
Burnouts ...really? Anathema to what a "retro bike" is all about.
Good luck to Mahindra with this venture. They're going to need it. Too expensive. Royal Enfield much better.
Wait and see.
@@visordown have you seen the meteor 650 what a looker it is
I imagine a pair of Hagons on the back would improve things a lot and YSS will almost certainly make a kit to fix the front. As for the front brake, well, for us normal road users (ie old duffers), it might be good enough.
Its a Mahindra, let it stand by that. Calling it a BSA Gold Star is just poncing off a well respected brand.
Amen. If it's a really good bike, most riders won't care what badge is on the tank.
Jaguar is a Tata and landrover is a tata. elizabeth windsor is a driving a tata, boris is a driving a tata. Call it for what it is. Brexit innit!!
No offense, but Mahindra is wayyyy above most of the Brit vehicle manufacturers! They are awesome! They build everlasting engines and i am happy that BSA ended up in the safe and robust hands of Mahindra!
@@y2j132 In which case it would not be detrimental to call it a Mahindra.
@@gerry343 then call London as London as londonistan innit. You are finished innit
This that bsa have 1 cyl vs interceptor 2 cyl say sh.t about how peppy both are 👌🏻😁 if you calculate power to weight ratio with 90 kg driver thers 3-5% diffrenc in peak hp for race for ic however in daily riding more torq down low bsa if somebody will not exceed 4-5 k rpm be more peppyy 👍🏻not be much anyway 👌🏻
?
The w 800 certainly looks better
I believe true compititer👌 to royal enfield is arrived.
Really 🤔
@@kevindarkstar brexit spam bot Appleton is everywhere. Are you a triumph bot?
Why put the Union Jack 🇬🇧 on a bike that’s made in India and from what I can see from it thats the only thing that’s even remotely connected to the old Goldie ,but what concerns me is that it was going to be built in Britain but it’s only after pressure they have said that it’s now going to be built in India ( and the reasons they give are rubbish,the engine was going to based on a Goldie but ill leave that for you to decide and after wandering what else they haven’t told us about instead of very seriously considering buying one of these I think I’ll either go for a true classic or a w800
The reason for building abroad is COVID. The tooling and machinery was stuck in Asia, and getting it to the UK was a logistical nightmare. BSA are looking for a UK base, where bikes for the UK market will be built.
Triumph makes as good as all their bikes in Thailand…🤷♂️
Good looking bike, and I'm not a posh bloke !
The original Gold star was pretty, very elegant and purposeful. This new bike is none of these and nor is it a Goldstar or actually a BSA when it comes down to it but it does seem a competent and interesting looking bike nonetheless. I'd probably veer toward the enfield 650. two cylinders, much more elegant and cheaper. That's my honest opinion for what it's worth.
Even the royal enfield isnt the old one.. The company is owned by eicher motors. So what poitn are you making?!🤷🏻♂️🤷🏻♂️
@@jeffreywilson7307 Quiet correct but I was discussing the BSA. The new (not) enfield is a very pretty and popular bike but as I said; the BSA really isn't.
Referring to the bike as BSA have done this or BSA have done that doesn't sit well when it is really Mahindra who have just bought a name to put on a bike they have made. Yes they have done a decent job of making a modern version of a classic bike which is not an easy task with today's rules and legislation!
There is another single and even though it’s a slightly different proposition cause it’s a scrambler, it’s still a modern classic, retro bike with a single cylinder and around 40 HP. Price is more less there and it’s a slightly better components, slightly better finish also more purposeful, it only weighs 150kg. So more fun. That’s my choice for a second, lower powered bike.
The single most anemic exhaust for a single on the market and removing the baffle does nothing for it. Sad
Oh, boy, oh boy, oh boy!! I'm going to rush right out and buy the first year of a 650 single made in India.
Exactly. Maybe a few years in the future, if the reviews are good.
Bastards don't understand, Enfield is built in india and built like a tank. Can't say the same for the muched shamed jaguar and landrover built in Englund. FYI Jlr is owned by india.
@@sidmallya7421 yes the Enfield twin is super reliable . Work friend has done huge ks on his and I service it .. couldn’t be easier.
@@sidmallya7421 🤣🤣🤣🤣 Bhai tu sab jaga hai.
Unlike Chinese bikes or cars, India made vehicles are super reliable.
It used to be we're men we ride motorbikes. Now it's I had to go outside the wind was blowing, I cried and had to phone my mum. Times have changed.
Interceptor makes more sense than this one !
Sounds like a rattle trap I guess that is why you did not start it up...
ИЖ Планета 5 😆
Royal Enfield ruler!
Other just following the path
British bike but manufacturered in india
It just looks so unfinished ahead of the engine. At least for now I’ll be sticking with the interceptor. A proven bike from a proven company.
Mate, maybe because these particular motorcycles are pre-production units. So they could improve upon it or maybe they won't. Alas, we don't know yet! And if they want to 'triumph' over RE, they should hit it hard, real hard! I am a 650 int owner and this certainly has caught my eye!
Stupid water cooling! One, only one, but BIG MISTAKE!
@@koosmotormuis they could have tried to hide it like how they did it in triumphs!
@Jip Jackson wait it out for a couple of years. I would do the same too. Initial batches are always test batches. No matter the quality of RND, it could never simulate real world usage with different kind of riders!
Keith.
I own a RE Interceptor Chrome for three years now. 7000 Miles and nö Problems. But RE made mistakes to: plastic indicators, big exhausts. That's it. I think the BSA looks better. The instruments, the seat, indicators.... If they only made a air/oil cooling. Or even better, something like the M.A.S.H 650 engine sett up. Air.
Well, in my neighborhood near two national parks, that's not the way to sell a motorcycle.
How do you 'sell a motorcycle' out there? I'm confused?
Motor sounds like a vacuum cleaner with a dirty t-shirt lodged in it
Sound's like a lawn mower lol
I liked as number 666...because I'm a little devil!!!
Good on you!
Half a century later, you get 3 more bhp and 7mph slower, not much progress.
470 pounds? Gold Star? No, Gold Wing.
Yep 213 kilograms wet weight. That must be the heaviest single cylindred bike made ever! And only 12 liters fuel tank too…
I mean the bike looks very cool by all means - but then there’s these specs…😑
The new Gold Star is not a Gold Star at all.. The old Bike was a Clubman Race Bike..if you have one over the years it's value will increase..It's one of the most famous bikes ever made! The new one will sell in limited numbers .. nothing like the Intersepter.When people say it's good looking with that Rad.. it looks like it should be on a Car. One thing they got right Retro is selling .. Sports Bikes or not.
I don't think air-cooled clubman race bikes are selling very well at the minute!
It's obvious they cut a lot of Corners in order to get it to a low price. This is, overall, a pretty disappointing motorcycle.
Wait, wait, wait...What!?
Single cylinder means, 'HORSE '
What could be more ridiculous than a burn-out, as in the opening scene of this video? - Destroying a good rear tire, creating toxic smoke for everyone in vicinity to breathe. Is that supposed to be cool? Anyway - the bike - overall a good-looking retro w/ some virtues, but that radiator is awfully ugly & probably a deal-breaker for many. BSA designers could take some cues from Triumph re: how to design an unobtrusive radiator that blends.
These Indian bikes are really being pushed in the UK market.
Yeah, too bad for a fact that they are indeed awesome! So much so that they're consistently one of the top selling motorbike manufacturers in UK for a couple of years now! They must be pushing their products down the throat of people, those bastards..!
@@y2j132 What an odious response from "Rohith K"! You took my comment as a negative view? Perhaps it was your automatic defensive response of your years where you are. I wouldn't expect anything less from a dullard. Now 'Scram' you 'Himalayan' type!
Yeahh, instead of riding the bike that’s made in England, such as ...........
@@kasperkjrsgaard1447 Made in England? No - India manufacturing, then assembled in each market.
@@teamtempest844
I mean; you don’t have much choice. There really isn’t much bike manufacturing in England, you got to live with Enfields and BSA’s made in India and Triumphs made in Thailand.
This thing 🙄
😮😮😮🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡
Very ugly bike don’t think they will sell very well don’t sound any thing like a Goldstar
It's difficult to make a brand new motorcycle sound 50-years-old. We have things called regulations now...