Hi Richard, it's not just BSA doing this. I bought a Guzzi V100 Mandello and Piaggio have been doing exactly the same. I paid £13500 list for my bike in August 23. They are now being discounted to £11k. Consequently destroying residuals.
Some shops are still selling 2023 models, with 2024 bikes in the showroom as 2025 versions are starting to emerge. There's no way they can put the same price tag on a two year old brand new motorcycle, as the initial selling price. There's a glut of bikes and it's a buyers market.
All manufacturers are doing this price slashing to move units. There's some great new bike deals to be had currently and a lot of cheap second hand bikes too. Buy now while prices are low. Suzuki are doing new bike on 0% finance deals. This is a great time to buy.
The Goldstar was clearly overpriced when it was introduced ( and that's not hindsight, like many others I said it at the time and made a video saying the same shortly after) Personally I think both the BSA's look better than the RE equivalent , the B65 Scram is especially good looking , but the likely high depreciation , lack of dealer support and potential issues would make me very hesitant.
New Interceptor's are even less at £4,699 on Autotrader today, and I saw a brand new one a few weeks ago for £3,995! So why pick on BSA for doing exactly the same as other manufacturers? RE has launched the Bear at between £6.5k to £7k so exactly the same situation as BSA with the Gold Star and B65, so again why single out BSA? Both the Bear and B65 look great and both feel very different to the bikes they're based on. It looks like there are currently 39 BSA dealers across the UK, so while some dealers have left, more have joined. Early adopters always pay a premium and if you want any new bike in summer you'll pay full price. Wait until summer ends and you can generally find discounts and bargains.
wow, 4k for a new one Jerry, that's incredible. It's not a major surprise but it's incredible. It's not about singling BSA out, more sharing my thoughts of the impact of the price reduction of the past and present based on the new B65 upcoming for 2025 and how the market might react. I think the Bear and the B65 look great bikes - and it's prices like these that will keep bikes on the road for 2025 I think.👍
It's a bit different with the Interceptor, it's been out since 2017 and is end of line with an update for 2025 (digital dash/twin discs and likely 750 engine upgrade) so they're ripe for discounting, not a new one year old model like the BSA
Well said Richard, only time will tell of course but realistically it’s likely that it will sit in showrooms either real or not unsold until the price is acceptable to the many not the few
You’re not the voice of doom. You’re the voice of reason. I bought a 2024 Triumph Speed 900 in June. The T100 was at least $1000 Canadian dollars more than the Speed. Yesterday Dec 7 my best friend bought a new 2024 T100 for $1200 LESS than what I paid. So it’s not just BSA trying to sell left over inventory. I’m glad my mate got an amazing deal.
Looks like all of them are at it 😬. Not sure what it's like over in Canada, but I get the impression the attempt of manufacturers to get new riders is nil. As the years pass, fewer new sales will happen, and price drops will continue across the board. Focus on those who have the money (generalising here) and that is 40 years old and older. Don't focus on the young as they have too many distractions. Age brings wisdom and hopefully, by the age of 40, they will start to see the light 😆
@ Sounds like the entry level bikes made in India are mass produced so flooding the markets. 60,000 Triumph Speed 400 were sold? My mate paid $6900 CDN for his Speed 400 this year. Trading up for the T100 was offered $4000. When there is an over production of anything you can bet the depreciation will be big. Furthermore and leftover new bikes will be reduced to make room for the next years inventory and competition between those and the used market is brutal. Not to mention higher insurance costs and government regulations for new riders. It’s a wonder we still have a motorcycle culture at all left. Speaking as a 65 year old rider who has been riding since I was 16.
Spot on Richard, i bought the GoldStar in March 23 in midnight black. It actually cost £6800 + 300 otr. Like you state its now well under 5 grand. The dealer stopped selling them in January for the reasons you state. As the scrambler version is so very similar its obviously a 5 grand bike but BSA just repeat their mistake by trying to get £6500 for it. Wait 12 months and a new one will be 5 grand. Will BSA ever learn how to market their bikes, it seems not.
Hi Ian, I thought this might wake you up 😬. I see comments that I am being negative, and that's a fair opinion. I am neither an optimist nor a pessimist on this particular matter - but more a realist (sat right in the middle). And I think I am being fair. Furthermore, I was one of the very lucky ones - I sold the BSA GS a month before the prices were dropped. That was sheer luck. I got a fair deal, I guess - but I know the management change of the GS to drop the price left a very sour taste in many mouths. And not only was that a short time ago, but the new reduced prices continue. Such a great bike (remember mine was a channel bike) and such poor management from BSA 😥
The price drop was UK only and the dealership issues were UK only. teething issues from a new brand, but the pricing and support network in NZ is first rate, competitive, parts are available. I hope you brits one day recover from brexit, covid, multiple crap governments, but don't blame it on BSA... Give me a BSA any day over any enfield
That sounds reassuring from NZ 👍. The UK will never recover from Brexit while I am alive. The recovery will take 40 years if we rejoin - and it looks like we will not rejoin. Don't let the peasants vote on something so important 😆 - and I am a peasant just to confirm that 😆.
Judging by the fact that the second hand value of the BSA has dropped off a cliff, i think most will buy the RE bear 🐻. If you really want a BSA B65 wait a year, they will be offered at a massive discount when they can't shift them.
I am sorry to say this Ray, but I think you are right. If I was BSA, I would try to recover confidence at a start price of £5700 for the B65. Maybe they will. Although I doubt it - but I would like to be wrong. The RE Bear looks great 👍
Royal Enfield do exactly the same thing and that is new bike prices going down, you also lose about 60% of the value of your bike in depreciation, a year old BSA 3000 miles now selling at £2200 on Ebay, Royal Enfield Meteor 350 last year,£4000, this year £2800 new, Victory motorcycles and Norton went the same way. I had a similar experience with Triumph , paid £14000 for a new Triumph Rocket 3, 6 months later the same dealership offered me £7000 for it, so best to buy private second hand bikes I personally think.
Think you're overthinking, i got most of the way through but stopped at repitition of voice of doom. The BSA Scrambler is on my list as are the other 'budget' end scramblers. But look wider, the used market is severelly depressed, new sales and dealers struggling. Next years models are due, you can currently get about £1500 of a new Transalp...thats what happens, if you buy early you risk, not always, buying at top £...then sales offers come. That's life, try them, pay your money and take your choice. Ride it and enjoy, sort any issues and ignore all this post analysis stuff...just go and use your bike as intended.
The original pricing for the BSA was higher than you suggest. I paid £6500 plus £300 on the road. For the base highland green. My bike has 7k miles now and has had all the updates/health check. The depreciation is a bit salty, as BSA had to compete with the RE Interceptor, I think. But, I do love the way it rides and will not be selling it. However, the price reduction has me wary of any new models from BSA. My dealer is one that dropped BSA, but both sides are to blame and, really, the loser is the customer, as always. Luckily, the bike itself is easy to service plus I know a good local mechanic if needed.
Hector is right, you have a great bike - and I would say - don't sell it 👍. All good points in the comment 👍 and as long as you have a local mechanic, you should have no issues 👍
Markets fluctuate. Depreciation is real. We aren't happy or appreciative for long. Look for the fault within one's self, rather than bleming an other. If in any doubt, leave that doubt on the shelf where you retrieved your helmet from and go for a ride. The ride will put you into the present moment; the only reality that truly exists or matters.
😆, that's exactly what they used to say from the airport towers 😆but I never damaged the suspension or the tyres 😆. I also used to say to the passengers that I crash better than anyone I know 😆Got to get the crazy 12 mins in to satisfy the YT algorithm. Interesting subject regarding BSA and the upcoming model B65. I really hope it does well, but the salty taste can last a while in current owners' mouths 😬. Thanks for the comment Ian 👍
Its nothing new, goes on all the time. I paid £1699 for a GSX750 in 1980 then Suzuki reduced it to £1399. BMW knocked thousands off the popular GSA1250 because the 1300 was coming out. Triumph also made big reductions on the Rocket 3 and Royal Enfield made a reduction of £1000 on the Interceptor. KTM are another who do this.... Ideally I'd give it at least a year before buying the BSA Scrambler but who wants to wait that long, roll on spring.😊
I saw the 65 at the NEC and it was an impressive bike, well detailed and the rear mudguard setup was super clean and didn't look like an afterthought. Loved the little headlight and engine details too, not a lash up at all. Only odd thing was the seat foam which was so soft it just collapsed and you could feel you were sitting directly on the seat pan, bit odd (and I'm not plus size!). Agree they're on very shaky ground and very vulnerable. I am tempted but like you say.......what happens next year?? Having said that, in the flesh it feels and looks more 'valuable' than the Goldstar and I can't see it dipping low
When I first saw the Gold Star at launch, from memory the RSP was over £6k, my thoughts were that it was worth less than £5k comparing build quality to Royal Enfield. I liked the general look of the bike but the radiator is too dominant. I think they have had to discount to sell UK over stocking. I understand they still have quite a large unsold stock of Gold Stars these will have to be pre-registered before the end of 2024 to be able to be sold. I expect some deep discounting on this pre-registered stock which will impact the B65 sales. The B65 does look good to my eye but I think BSA and their distributors have soured the market.
The most authentic retro on the road, it's DOHC, water cooled, 4 valve. It's a modern bike trying to be retro. The Guzzi V7 and Norton are true retro bikes, air cooled and pushrods.
I tend to agree with you . I always had a soft spot for singles , & always thought this modern pastiche version of a Beeza gold star wasn’t a bad effort. The only reservations was the availability of dealer & sustained parts availability back up , & I reckoned it was priced at least a grand too high for a bike , that was new to the market . I can see the this new B65 going the same way as the Gold Star , if the mob using the BSA name , don’t seriously up their game pronto to give confidence in the brand . As things stand at this time I wouldn’t even chance a punt of 2grand on either a gold star or this B 65 lash up version .
Well, let's see how BSA will fare. Here in Germany ther are just a few dealers (5-6) and the company did not gain much foothold yet. On the technical note - I am not sure how many updates the B65 got compared to the Goldstar. People will be comparing it head to head with RE Bear - both for price and performance. I am curios to see that comparison. From what I have seen online BSA does decent bikes, I just keep asking myself - did they really had to use a cooler that looks like it could handle a medium sized nuclear reactor ...
They were £7300 initially at my local dealer (depending on colour scheme) and 5 mins walk away was an RE dealer with Interceptors for £6k! I looked and thought that it was a Bitsa worth £5k tops....and that's what they are now. I can see this going 2 ways, one, nobody wants them regardless other than a few wackos, and two they'll become sought after, stranger things have happened, l recall W650's being slow sellers but you'll have to pay £4k now for a good one and it'll be 20 years old!
Mahindra has failed to break into Royal Enfield's market share and their future does not look good. You are correct in implyying we can easily modify a standard Gold Star to look like a scrambler for very little money in our own garage and have a unique bike. My money's on the RE Guerilla that can actually go off road.
The BSA was new to the market and the original price was too high (I wonder if it would have been £7000 if it had been called the Mahindra 650 classic) the price cut was a kick in the teeth for those who had paid the full price especially if they had financed the purchase. BSA need to regain trust and establish themselves as a reputable brand as to me they are a risky purchase like a Fantic ,Benelli or moto morini they need to get the price right and stick to it for the new bike get it wrong and I can see them disappearing from the market .
These bikes don't make any sense to me. If you want a bike that looks like an old British bike, get an old British bike. An old British bike will look better, be absolutely authentic, and will probably make more power than the new B65 (which makes 45hp). Plus, no engine warning codes!
The problem is a genuine BSA gold star is silly money and a bitch to ride and start (though no more powerful) .This bike is a more affordable bike with modern brakes ,lights and electric start that would appeal to Sunday riders.
@@johnludmon510 Good points, although the old BSAs will come down in price (by a lot) in the near future. I'm seeing a lot of Brit bike interest on TH-cam. I'm a big fan of Japanese bikes myself, although I watch British bike occidented channels a lot on TH-cam, as every historic bike is a part of the history of engineering, and some of them (particularly 50s and 60s British bikes) are particularly important. While they are defunct tech, and they have weaknesses, the riding experience a genuine vintage British bike will give you will be completely different and possibly more immersive than this modern lookalike. COMPLETELY different. It may also be partly dependent on the rider. I've been riding for a long time, and I started on Japanese bikes. Anyone buying a new, superbly engineered Japanese bike today will get an impression of the bike not based on the bike itself but on their own bike riding history. What I mean is, if they had started on (very) small bikes for leisure and commuting, they will ride these bikes a completely different way from a born-again or midlife guy. Japanese bikes are usually oversquare and made to be revved out in every gear. Likewise, with old British bikes there's a method and technique to them. Reversed rear brake and gear shift pedal, and early shifts. Periodic top-end rebuilds, etc. But still, all part of the fun. In the mid-20th century people squeezed a LOT of power out of midsized Triumphs, and it's stil possible to get more power fairly easily out of old British bikes. I still think an old British bike is a better choice for a Brit bike afficionado and they should save up or hold out until prices come down.
The most authentic retro was the Royal Enfield Bullet, cast iron version if we're being pedantic. The most authentic looking retros are the 350 Classic and the Kawasaki twins. Most so-called retro bikes have gone down the same steroid enhanced route as the Mini, cartoon version of the thing they are supposed to represent.
@@borderlands6606 I'm not sure the Bullet counts, as its more an old bike that somehow continued to be made, rather than a modern retro. The W650/800s are good bikes, and look the part, better than the Triumph Bonnie anyway. But their engines with the Bevel drive to the head are very different from the originals. New cars and bikes have to pass strict emission, noise and safety regulations, so a car like the original mini wouldn't be possible now.. plus folks are a lot bigger/fatter than they used to be.
@@bankruptpensioner The speedometer on the B65 is digital, not old school analogue like the ones on the Gold Star 650, I own a 2022 legacy edition which I bought from Eddy's Moto in Tadcaster. My nearest dealer was Cob & Jagger in Shipley, they are one of the dealerships who have cut their ties with the BSA brand.
So many adventures so little time. My plan is to tour Spain and Portugal again in 2025, and back to Italy for the Dolomites but most of all to discover Norway which i'm falling in love with despites the presence of annoying little mozzies. I never thought i'd find a real troll but here you are ... not elephant, not prophet ... a genuine troll right here. You crave new subscribers whilst content to shed some existing subscribers, your mission simply to spread your message of doom and angst. Have you done a bike tour to Norway, Richard? What's your perspective on that?
😆brilliant 😆. Your tour sounds bloody horrible 😆. If you go to Spain - then have a break in Salamanca. Maybe two nights and get a hotel near the Plaza Major. Wonderful place. If able, visit Oviedo in Spain. No one speaks English but the local cider is terrific 👍. I used to live in Estonia and that was cold in February. I suspect Norway to be the same. Recently, I have a strange pull to go to Svalbard. One of my Russian counterparts loved the place and I have seen some really good stuff on the place. Only for a couple of nights maybe. Tromso, I have a pull for that place too. Want to experience the winter nights (and days) there. The problem with Norway, Finland etc is the prices of everything. No wonder the Finish came over on the ferries to Tallinn to stack up on beer, wine, and cigarettes 😆. The cars were full of drink, and the suspension was non-existent 😆. Everything, relatively, was very cheap in Estonia. Beautiful place that said 👍.
I've no knowledge on BSA pricing but I'd thought they will learn from the GS & may price the 65 a tad less than you quote maybe c£6k? Not everyone is swayed by online bais they listen to actual owners. As you mentioned, the GS isn't a bad effort, they tried to get more than what the market would bare. Just my opinion, but I do hope the 65 succeeds. Regards.
Yes, I thought the first go was a great effort. If it were a maths exam, I would have given an 80% score - and had my kids (no longer kids) got 80% in their maths exam, I would have been over the moon 😆And to be fair, the kids did well in their maths exam 😆. Better than my O-level maths result - and I ended up in aviation 🛫😆. Or is it that GCSE is easier than O-level 🤥
Hi Richard- I thought the same thing as I was watching the video. What? A B65 for $6700 vs. a Goldstar for $4800? Damn; I'd take the Goldstar & do something else with the $1900. This doesn't even sound real my friend. I forgot to tell you in the last video that I have 2500 miles on my 1999 Moto Guzzi California & 30,000 miles on my M.G. California with no problems & I fully expect to get 150,000 miles out of each, or expire myself before this time. Have a great day! Cheers!!! Illinois, USA
Hi Larry, Strange times with BSA over in the UK. This £1000 off bonus has now been going for a good few months, and basically, this is setting the price as a new baseline across the brand and the UK. If one has mechanical sympathy with any bike, they will run forever (hopefully). Current bikes with all the tech - that's my worry when the tech fails and brings the bike to a halt. It could get expensive to replace the tech I guess. I give myself..........11 years 😆 or a 150k miles 😆. Have a great day 👍
Overall, I guess you need to be very careful when buying bikes or cars as you can very quickly make a wrong decisson and lose alot of money. Sometimes you can get some good pre purchase advice from people in the know but on the other hand, it's very easy to easy to spend other peoples money. Caveat Emptor!
Morning Richard I can’t understand why people would buy a bsa ive a RE I’d go RE everyday before bsa they are a proven bike with what they do in all styles of bikes there’s one out there for every body I wouldn’t buy bsa myself but as you say that’s my OPINION that’s all if somebody else buys bsa i would just wait to say told you so if they get trouble with it but that bsa does look very nice in pics but I’ve never seen one take care mate
Hi Nicholas, good points here 👍. I was in Potteries Motorcycles yesterday - licking my lips over the Interceptor and the Continental. At something like £4800 + OTR. And then the Shotgun at £6800 + OTR. That's a 2k difference. The Continental is what I would really like - but my wrists are telling me the Interceptor is the right bike from an ergonomics perspective. My wallet tells me the 2k difference is a bit too far for the shotgun, based on what you get - or not maybe. Mmmmm....the Interceptor looks very inviting 😆💰
@ yes I agree I’d take a look at the 650 scrambler myself but I can’t remember right now what model it is plus as I’ve said before one of my fav is the guerilla take care of
@@nicholasjarrold8649 the Guerilla was next to the Interceptor - looks wonderful. but it's too close to my 400x. That said, the Interceptor is very close to the T120 I have. Mmmmmmmmm 😕
i disagree, if they price the bike right and get it right (especially suspension) it will sell well - it wont be 6500 or above, max it will be is 6k at release but i'd expect slightly less than 6k. The goldstar is 5k forever and it's not going back up as its NOW priced right.... As for you claiming folk were stung, this is a childish view and it happens all the time in all markets - shi7 happens and especially when buying new, this wasn't them being twats for the sake of it - they had to do it to survive and look what it did, they increased the viewership and ownership stats. If you believe something is worth what you paid then it is worth what you paid - if you then decide to sell shortly after well, that's the way it is
man ! I could have summarised that in less than a minute , Dealers took it up the sheriffs badge, knocked a grand off a new one , could the same happen to the B65 affecting trade-in and second hand values.....! That's why people who ride these bikes need oxygen over 30mph......
A single thats dearer than a twin cylinder Royal Enfield.If they were cheaper theyd actually sell a few...Their relaunch has been a mess from day one and the lessons have not been learned.Shame as theyre nice looking bikes.
Chinese bikes will continue to push prices down. For example there’s no way I’m going to pay nearly £7000 for a new royal enfield, bsa or other basic retro. These bikes are half that price in home markets. Flight to quality or cheap and cheerful. No room for anything inbetween
Hi Tim, yesterday I was looking at the Royal Enfield range at a local dealer. They also sell Voge. This Voge 900 adventure bike at some £9000 is, compared to other Jap and Triumph options, it very reasonably priced. And the quality is good, very good. The big traditional manufacturers need to be very careful 😬
@@bankruptpensioner yes the 900 is very impressive but at £9000 I think I’d be tempted for a used bmw gs. That said it’s nearly there …. Just add a bit of sophistication to switch gear etc and you’d be hard pressed to tell the difference.
Hi Richard, hope ur well, unsubscribe; Na, well you do have a point, you and me remember the seventies, a new model every month, HP no problem pay one off buy another, problems , of course, the BSA will be good, will it have problems, most probably, but not all, and finally an item is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it, thanks for the debate, ted
Sadly, i think youre right! Although i think it looks fantastic (better than the new RM Bear)
I don't want to be right Michael - but - I can't see a way forward for the B65 at this price point 😥
Hi Richard, it's not just BSA doing this. I bought a Guzzi V100 Mandello and Piaggio have been doing exactly the same. I paid £13500 list for my bike in August 23. They are now being discounted to £11k. Consequently destroying residuals.
Some shops are still selling 2023 models, with 2024 bikes in the showroom as 2025 versions are starting to emerge. There's no way they can put the same price tag on a two year old brand new motorcycle, as the initial selling price. There's a glut of bikes and it's a buyers market.
@borderlands6606 they've been doing this for the best part of 12 months.
Moto Guzzi have been doing this for decades ! ...
All manufacturers are doing this price slashing to move units.
There's some great new bike deals to be had currently and a lot of cheap second hand bikes too.
Buy now while prices are low.
Suzuki are doing new bike on 0% finance deals.
This is a great time to buy.
You are right Simon, KTM 750 slashed to £6k, RE 650's selling at 4700. 2024 has been a very poor year globally for sales with new bikes sadly 😥
The Goldstar was clearly overpriced when it was introduced ( and that's not hindsight, like many others I said it at the time and made a video saying the same shortly after)
Personally I think both the BSA's look better than the RE equivalent , the B65 Scram is especially good looking , but the likely high depreciation , lack of dealer support and potential issues would make me very hesitant.
You might be right on the early pricing - and I agree, the BSA's do look better - the RE look great but the BSA does have a certain edge👍
New Interceptor's are even less at £4,699 on Autotrader today, and I saw a brand new one a few weeks ago for £3,995! So why pick on BSA for doing exactly the same as other manufacturers? RE has launched the Bear at between £6.5k to £7k so exactly the same situation as BSA with the Gold Star and B65, so again why single out BSA? Both the Bear and B65 look great and both feel very different to the bikes they're based on. It looks like there are currently 39 BSA dealers across the UK, so while some dealers have left, more have joined. Early adopters always pay a premium and if you want any new bike in summer you'll pay full price. Wait until summer ends and you can generally find discounts and bargains.
wow, 4k for a new one Jerry, that's incredible. It's not a major surprise but it's incredible. It's not about singling BSA out, more sharing my thoughts of the impact of the price reduction of the past and present based on the new B65 upcoming for 2025 and how the market might react. I think the Bear and the B65 look great bikes - and it's prices like these that will keep bikes on the road for 2025 I think.👍
It's a bit different with the Interceptor, it's been out since 2017 and is end of line with an update for 2025 (digital dash/twin discs and likely 750 engine upgrade) so they're ripe for discounting, not a new one year old model like the BSA
@@6914x good point 👍
What difference does that make to the person who bought one at £6000 just before they came down to £5000. Did they give him a £1000 back? 😂🤣
Well said Richard, only time will tell of course but realistically it’s likely that it will sit in showrooms either real or not unsold until the price is acceptable to the many not the few
No one wants to hear this Peter - but sometimes, someone needs to shout 😬
You’re not the voice of doom. You’re the voice of reason. I bought a 2024 Triumph Speed 900 in June. The T100 was at least $1000 Canadian dollars more than the Speed. Yesterday Dec 7 my best friend bought a new 2024 T100 for $1200 LESS than what I paid. So it’s not just BSA trying to sell left over inventory. I’m glad my mate got an amazing deal.
Looks like all of them are at it 😬. Not sure what it's like over in Canada, but I get the impression the attempt of manufacturers to get new riders is nil. As the years pass, fewer new sales will happen, and price drops will continue across the board. Focus on those who have the money (generalising here) and that is 40 years old and older. Don't focus on the young as they have too many distractions. Age brings wisdom and hopefully, by the age of 40, they will start to see the light 😆
@ Sounds like the entry level bikes made in India are mass produced so flooding the markets. 60,000 Triumph Speed 400 were sold? My mate paid $6900 CDN for his Speed 400 this year. Trading up for the T100 was offered $4000. When there is an over production of anything you can bet the depreciation will be big. Furthermore and leftover new bikes will be reduced to make room for the next years inventory and competition between those and the used market is brutal. Not to mention higher insurance costs and government regulations for new riders. It’s a wonder we still have a motorcycle culture at all left. Speaking as a 65 year old rider who has been riding since I was 16.
A bike is not going to be a success when videos like this are being posted. Nothing positive to say - shut up.
LOL that's the spirit , no opinion allowed unless it fits my particular narrative ...modern Britain in a nutshell.
Spot on Richard, i bought the GoldStar in March 23 in midnight black. It actually cost £6800 + 300 otr. Like you state its now well under 5 grand. The dealer stopped selling them in January for the reasons you state. As the scrambler version is so very similar its obviously a 5 grand bike but BSA just repeat their mistake by trying to get £6500 for it. Wait 12 months and a new one will be 5 grand. Will BSA ever learn how to market their bikes, it seems not.
Hi Ian, I thought this might wake you up 😬. I see comments that I am being negative, and that's a fair opinion. I am neither an optimist nor a pessimist on this particular matter - but more a realist (sat right in the middle). And I think I am being fair. Furthermore, I was one of the very lucky ones - I sold the BSA GS a month before the prices were dropped. That was sheer luck. I got a fair deal, I guess - but I know the management change of the GS to drop the price left a very sour taste in many mouths. And not only was that a short time ago, but the new reduced prices continue. Such a great bike (remember mine was a channel bike) and such poor management from BSA 😥
The price drop was UK only and the dealership issues were UK only. teething issues from a new brand, but the pricing and support network in NZ is first rate, competitive, parts are available. I hope you brits one day recover from brexit, covid, multiple crap governments, but don't blame it on BSA... Give me a BSA any day over any enfield
That sounds reassuring from NZ 👍. The UK will never recover from Brexit while I am alive. The recovery will take 40 years if we rejoin - and it looks like we will not rejoin. Don't let the peasants vote on something so important 😆 - and I am a peasant just to confirm that 😆.
Judging by the fact that the second hand value of the BSA has dropped off a cliff, i think most will buy the RE bear 🐻. If you really want a BSA B65 wait a year, they will be offered at a massive discount when they can't shift them.
I am sorry to say this Ray, but I think you are right. If I was BSA, I would try to recover confidence at a start price of £5700 for the B65. Maybe they will. Although I doubt it - but I would like to be wrong. The RE Bear looks great 👍
Royal Enfield do exactly the same thing and that is new bike prices going down, you also lose about 60% of the value of your bike in depreciation, a year old BSA 3000 miles now selling at £2200 on Ebay, Royal Enfield Meteor 350 last year,£4000, this year £2800 new, Victory motorcycles and Norton went the same way. I had a similar experience with Triumph , paid £14000 for a new Triumph Rocket 3, 6 months later the same dealership offered me £7000 for it, so best to buy private second hand bikes I personally think.
good points here David 👍
Think you're overthinking, i got most of the way through but stopped at repitition of voice of doom. The BSA Scrambler is on my list as are the other 'budget' end scramblers. But look wider, the used market is severelly depressed, new sales and dealers struggling. Next years models are due, you can currently get about £1500 of a new Transalp...thats what happens, if you buy early you risk, not always, buying at top £...then sales offers come.
That's life, try them, pay your money and take your choice. Ride it and enjoy, sort any issues and ignore all this post analysis stuff...just go and use your bike as intended.
Great points Matthew 👍
The original pricing for the BSA was higher than you suggest. I paid £6500 plus £300 on the road. For the base highland green. My bike has 7k miles now and has had all the updates/health check. The depreciation is a bit salty, as BSA had to compete with the RE Interceptor, I think. But, I do love the way it rides and will not be selling it. However, the price reduction has me wary of any new models from BSA.
My dealer is one that dropped BSA, but both sides are to blame and, really, the loser is the customer, as always. Luckily, the bike itself is easy to service plus I know a good local mechanic if needed.
You’ve got a great bike…you’ve lost nothing unless you sell it😃👍
Hector is right, you have a great bike - and I would say - don't sell it 👍. All good points in the comment 👍 and as long as you have a local mechanic, you should have no issues 👍
Markets fluctuate.
Depreciation is real.
We aren't happy or appreciative for long.
Look for the fault within one's self, rather than bleming an other.
If in any doubt, leave that doubt on the shelf where you retrieved your helmet from and go for a ride.
The ride will put you into the present moment; the only reality that truly exists or matters.
yup - market forces.
I totally agree with you, people need to take personal responsibility, but they don't.
Quite interesting; watche at 1.5 times speed as you take forever.
😆, that's exactly what they used to say from the airport towers 😆but I never damaged the suspension or the tyres 😆. I also used to say to the passengers that I crash better than anyone I know 😆Got to get the crazy 12 mins in to satisfy the YT algorithm. Interesting subject regarding BSA and the upcoming model B65. I really hope it does well, but the salty taste can last a while in current owners' mouths 😬. Thanks for the comment Ian 👍
@@bankruptpensioner Oh! 12 minutes, wondered why my 5 mins video gets zero views!
@@ianmcdiarmid4563 Mmmmm Ian, it took me a year to realise this. 😥
@@ianmcdiarmid4563 and don't bother including any TAGS in the upload. Waste of time and effort.
Its nothing new, goes on all the time. I paid £1699 for a GSX750 in 1980 then Suzuki reduced it to £1399. BMW knocked thousands off the popular GSA1250 because the 1300 was coming out. Triumph also made big reductions on the Rocket 3 and Royal Enfield made a reduction of £1000 on the Interceptor. KTM are another who do this....
Ideally I'd give it at least a year before buying the BSA Scrambler but who wants to wait that long, roll on spring.😊
You are right Splodge - and yes, roll on Spring 👍
I saw the 65 at the NEC and it was an impressive bike, well detailed and the rear mudguard setup was super clean and didn't look like an afterthought. Loved the little headlight and engine details too, not a lash up at all. Only odd thing was the seat foam which was so soft it just collapsed and you could feel you were sitting directly on the seat pan, bit odd (and I'm not plus size!). Agree they're on very shaky ground and very vulnerable. I am tempted but like you say.......what happens next year?? Having said that, in the flesh it feels and looks more 'valuable' than the Goldstar and I can't see it dipping low
well said 👍
When I first saw the Gold Star at launch, from memory the RSP was over £6k, my thoughts were that it was worth less than £5k comparing build quality to Royal Enfield. I liked the general look of the bike but the radiator is too dominant. I think they have had to discount to sell UK over stocking. I understand they still have quite a large unsold stock of Gold Stars these will have to be pre-registered before the end of 2024 to be able to be sold. I expect some deep discounting on this pre-registered stock which will impact the B65 sales. The B65 does look good to my eye but I think BSA and their distributors have soured the market.
The initial prices were £6500 for the green, 6800 for the midnight black, red versions and 7000 for the legacy. All with 300 otr charges.
Great points here Bob. I do stand corrected on the early prices, yes, they were more then 6k then the OTR price etc. 👍
The most authentic retro on the road, it's DOHC, water cooled, 4 valve. It's a modern bike trying to be retro.
The Guzzi V7 and Norton are true retro bikes, air cooled and pushrods.
You are right Kev, but we are all right. It is in my opinion ❤
I tend to agree with you . I always had a soft spot for singles , & always thought this modern pastiche version of a Beeza gold star wasn’t a bad effort. The only reservations was the availability of dealer & sustained parts availability back up , & I reckoned it was priced at least a grand too high for a bike , that was new to the market . I can see the this new B65 going the same way as the Gold Star , if the mob using the BSA name , don’t seriously up their game pronto to give confidence in the brand . As things stand at this time I wouldn’t even chance a punt of 2grand on either a gold star or this B 65 lash up version .
I agree with you 👍
Well, let's see how BSA will fare. Here in Germany ther are just a few dealers (5-6) and the company did not gain much foothold yet. On the technical note - I am not sure how many updates the B65 got compared to the Goldstar. People will be comparing it head to head with RE Bear - both for price and performance. I am curios to see that comparison. From what I have seen online BSA does decent bikes, I just keep asking myself - did they really had to use a cooler that looks like it could handle a medium sized nuclear reactor ...
good points here 👍
They were £7300 initially at my local dealer (depending on colour scheme) and 5 mins walk away was an RE dealer with Interceptors for £6k! I looked and thought that it was a Bitsa worth £5k tops....and that's what they are now. I can see this going 2 ways, one, nobody wants them regardless other than a few wackos, and two they'll become sought after, stranger things have happened, l recall W650's being slow sellers but you'll have to pay £4k now for a good one and it'll be 20 years old!
good points here 👍
Mahindra has failed to break into Royal Enfield's market share and their future does not look good. You are correct in implyying we can easily modify a standard Gold Star to look like a scrambler for very little money in our own garage and have a unique bike. My money's on the RE Guerilla that can actually go off road.
Good point regard the Guerilla, and I am thinking you are right. Never thought about that 👍
In The Netherlands there no BSA dealers. You can not get a BSA Gold Star in The Netherlands.
I wonder if they tested the BSA with Anti-Freeze???
The BSA was new to the market and the original price was too high (I wonder if it would have been £7000 if it had been called the Mahindra 650 classic) the price cut was a kick in the teeth for those who had paid the full price especially if they had financed the purchase. BSA need to regain trust and establish themselves as a reputable brand as to me they are a risky purchase like a Fantic ,Benelli or moto morini they need to get the price right and stick to it for the new bike get it wrong and I can see them disappearing from the market .
I fear you............might be right John 😥
These bikes don't make any sense to me. If you want a bike that looks like an old British bike, get an old British bike. An old British bike will look better, be absolutely authentic, and will probably make more power than the new B65 (which makes 45hp). Plus, no engine warning codes!
The problem is a genuine BSA gold star is silly money and a bitch to ride and start (though no more powerful) .This bike is a more affordable bike with modern brakes ,lights and electric start that would appeal to Sunday riders.
@@johnludmon510 Good points, although the old BSAs will come down in price (by a lot) in the near future. I'm seeing a lot of Brit bike interest on TH-cam. I'm a big fan of Japanese bikes myself, although I watch British bike occidented channels a lot on TH-cam, as every historic bike is a part of the history of engineering, and some of them (particularly 50s and 60s British bikes) are particularly important. While they are defunct tech, and they have weaknesses, the riding experience a genuine vintage British bike will give you will be completely different and possibly more immersive than this modern lookalike. COMPLETELY different. It may also be partly dependent on the rider. I've been riding for a long time, and I started on Japanese bikes. Anyone buying a new, superbly engineered Japanese bike today will get an impression of the bike not based on the bike itself but on their own bike riding history. What I mean is, if they had started on (very) small bikes for leisure and commuting, they will ride these bikes a completely different way from a born-again or midlife guy. Japanese bikes are usually oversquare and made to be revved out in every gear. Likewise, with old British bikes there's a method and technique to them. Reversed rear brake and gear shift pedal, and early shifts. Periodic top-end rebuilds, etc. But still, all part of the fun. In the mid-20th century people squeezed a LOT of power out of midsized Triumphs, and it's stil possible to get more power fairly easily out of old British bikes. I still think an old British bike is a better choice for a Brit bike afficionado and they should save up or hold out until prices come down.
good points here 👍
''Most authentic retro on the road'' ? Nope, that would be the Norton Commando 961. imo
The most authentic retro was the Royal Enfield Bullet, cast iron version if we're being pedantic. The most authentic looking retros are the 350 Classic and the Kawasaki twins. Most so-called retro bikes have gone down the same steroid enhanced route as the Mini, cartoon version of the thing they are supposed to represent.
@@borderlands6606
I'm not sure the Bullet counts, as its more an old bike that somehow continued to be made, rather than a modern retro. The W650/800s are good bikes, and look the part, better than the Triumph Bonnie anyway. But their engines with the Bevel drive to the head are very different from the originals. New cars and bikes have to pass strict emission, noise and safety regulations, so a car like the original mini wouldn't be possible now.. plus folks are a lot bigger/fatter than they used to be.
It's opinion, not fact 😆👍.
Oh! dear another style for the same bike with a price hike.
That's why I no longer buy new. On any bike they depreciate so much
Craig - now that's the right approach 👍
They have also made a mistake of getting rid of the double clocks, for offset single modern one,,,
Mmmm Chris, you are right. I didn't think of that. Modern times take over at every level 😆
@@bankruptpensioner The speedometer on the B65 is digital, not old school analogue like the ones on the Gold Star 650, I own a 2022 legacy edition which I bought from Eddy's Moto in Tadcaster. My nearest dealer was Cob & Jagger in Shipley, they are one of the dealerships who have cut their ties with the BSA brand.
I cant understand anyone buying any bike new, regardless of the brand.
good points here 👍
So many adventures so little time. My plan is to tour Spain and Portugal again in 2025, and back to Italy for the Dolomites but most of all to discover Norway which i'm falling in love with despites the presence of annoying little mozzies. I never thought i'd find a real troll but here you are ... not elephant, not prophet ... a genuine troll right here. You crave new subscribers whilst content to shed some existing subscribers, your mission simply to spread your message of doom and angst. Have you done a bike tour to Norway, Richard? What's your perspective on that?
😆brilliant 😆. Your tour sounds bloody horrible 😆. If you go to Spain - then have a break in Salamanca. Maybe two nights and get a hotel near the Plaza Major. Wonderful place. If able, visit Oviedo in Spain. No one speaks English but the local cider is terrific 👍. I used to live in Estonia and that was cold in February. I suspect Norway to be the same. Recently, I have a strange pull to go to Svalbard. One of my Russian counterparts loved the place and I have seen some really good stuff on the place. Only for a couple of nights maybe. Tromso, I have a pull for that place too. Want to experience the winter nights (and days) there. The problem with Norway, Finland etc is the prices of everything. No wonder the Finish came over on the ferries to Tallinn to stack up on beer, wine, and cigarettes 😆. The cars were full of drink, and the suspension was non-existent 😆. Everything, relatively, was very cheap in Estonia. Beautiful place that said 👍.
I've no knowledge on BSA pricing but I'd thought they will learn from the GS & may price the 65 a tad less than you quote maybe c£6k? Not everyone is swayed by online bais they listen to actual owners. As you mentioned, the GS isn't a bad effort, they tried to get more than what the market would bare. Just my opinion, but I do hope the 65 succeeds. Regards.
Yes, I thought the first go was a great effort. If it were a maths exam, I would have given an 80% score - and had my kids (no longer kids) got 80% in their maths exam, I would have been over the moon 😆And to be fair, the kids did well in their maths exam 😆. Better than my O-level maths result - and I ended up in aviation 🛫😆. Or is it that GCSE is easier than O-level 🤥
SAY IF BSA LOWERED THE PRICE TO DEALERS... AND IF BSA COMPENSATED THE BUYERS WHO PAID 6K....??? THANK YOU.
good point Dwayne 👍
Hi Richard- I thought the same thing as I was watching the video. What? A B65 for $6700 vs. a Goldstar for $4800? Damn; I'd take the Goldstar & do something else with the $1900. This doesn't even sound real my friend. I forgot to tell you in the last video that I have 2500 miles on my 1999 Moto Guzzi California & 30,000 miles on my M.G. California with no problems & I fully expect to get 150,000 miles out of each, or expire myself before this time. Have a great day! Cheers!!! Illinois, USA
Hi Larry, Strange times with BSA over in the UK. This £1000 off bonus has now been going for a good few months, and basically, this is setting the price as a new baseline across the brand and the UK. If one has mechanical sympathy with any bike, they will run forever (hopefully). Current bikes with all the tech - that's my worry when the tech fails and brings the bike to a halt. It could get expensive to replace the tech I guess. I give myself..........11 years 😆 or a 150k miles 😆. Have a great day 👍
Overall, I guess you need to be very careful when buying bikes or cars as you can very quickly make a wrong decisson and lose alot of money. Sometimes you can get some good pre purchase advice from people in the know but on the other hand, it's very easy to easy to spend other peoples money. Caveat Emptor!
it certainly appears the good times have come to an end - hopefully a temporary thing. Bargains galore, I guess if you are in the buyer's market
Morning Richard I can’t understand why people would buy a bsa ive a RE I’d go RE everyday before bsa they are a proven bike with what they do in all styles of bikes there’s one out there for every body I wouldn’t buy bsa myself but as you say that’s my OPINION that’s all if somebody else buys bsa i would just wait to say told you so if they get trouble with it but that bsa does look very nice in pics but I’ve never seen one take care mate
Hi Nicholas, good points here 👍. I was in Potteries Motorcycles yesterday - licking my lips over the Interceptor and the Continental. At something like £4800 + OTR. And then the Shotgun at £6800 + OTR. That's a 2k difference. The Continental is what I would really like - but my wrists are telling me the Interceptor is the right bike from an ergonomics perspective. My wallet tells me the 2k difference is a bit too far for the shotgun, based on what you get - or not maybe. Mmmmm....the Interceptor looks very inviting 😆💰
@ yes I agree I’d take a look at the 650 scrambler myself but I can’t remember right now what model it is plus as I’ve said before one of my fav is the guerilla take care of
@@nicholasjarrold8649 the Guerilla was next to the Interceptor - looks wonderful. but it's too close to my 400x. That said, the Interceptor is very close to the T120 I have. Mmmmmmmmm 😕
The BSA B65 is £6499
thanks for the confirmation Craig - much appreciated 👍
i disagree, if they price the bike right and get it right (especially suspension) it will sell well - it wont be 6500 or above, max it will be is 6k at release but i'd expect slightly less than 6k. The goldstar is 5k forever and it's not going back up as its NOW priced right.... As for you claiming folk were stung, this is a childish view and it happens all the time in all markets - shi7 happens and especially when buying new, this wasn't them being twats for the sake of it - they had to do it to survive and look what it did, they increased the viewership and ownership stats. If you believe something is worth what you paid then it is worth what you paid - if you then decide to sell shortly after well, that's the way it is
good points here 👍
man ! I could have summarised that in less than a minute , Dealers took it up the sheriffs badge, knocked a grand off a new one , could the same happen to the B65 affecting trade-in and second hand values.....! That's why people who ride these bikes need oxygen over 30mph......
👍
A single thats dearer than a twin cylinder Royal Enfield.If they were cheaper theyd actually sell a few...Their relaunch has been a mess from day one and the lessons have not been learned.Shame as theyre nice looking bikes.
good points here Paul 👍
Chinese bikes will continue to push prices down. For example there’s no way I’m going to pay nearly £7000 for a new royal enfield, bsa or other basic retro. These bikes are half that price in home markets. Flight to quality or cheap and cheerful. No room for anything inbetween
Hi Tim, yesterday I was looking at the Royal Enfield range at a local dealer. They also sell Voge. This Voge 900 adventure bike at some £9000 is, compared to other Jap and Triumph options, it very reasonably priced. And the quality is good, very good. The big traditional manufacturers need to be very careful 😬
Wait a couple of years and buy one with all the extras on it for £2000
@daviddog2722 you might be right David
@@bankruptpensioner yes the 900 is very impressive but at £9000 I think I’d be tempted for a used bmw gs. That said it’s nearly there …. Just add a bit of sophistication to switch gear etc and you’d be hard pressed to tell the difference.
Hi Richard, hope ur well, unsubscribe; Na, well you do have a point, you and me remember the seventies, a new model every month, HP no problem pay one off buy another, problems , of course, the BSA will be good, will it have problems, most probably, but not all, and finally an item is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it, thanks for the debate, ted
Thanks Ted, interesting subject I thought 😬
S l o w d e l i v e r y of commentary. Get on with it!
😆, we all need to slow down Eric ❤
@@bankruptpensioner Good comeback, take no notice of me, do your thing :-)
@@ericthomashuntersweetland7177 ❤