If you like this video you might also like this video where the Director of BSA Motorcycles tells us a little bit more detail on the new Gold Star: ruclips.net/video/Yg3jBQuwes8/видео.html
I'll withhold judgement until people start to ride it and report on how it actually accelerates, handles, and rides. If it rides as good as it looks, it's a winner.
Agreed. My Continental GT 650 is a superb, albeit slow machine. It handles and brakes well and is generally an absolute joy to ride. Would love to straddle a new BSA should it be viable.
If you buy the same motorcycle in India, it's 90 HP!!! This is 45 HP. I don´t know what they did to it, and even more, I don´t know why they did it, but they can keep their goddamn bike. As far as I´m concerned, it´s just a lot of cosmetics.
@@mwbright 90hp out of a (STREETABLE) 650 single? Doubtful...From your comment: I think you are the wrong demographic for this bike; as a U.S. back road/state highway cruiser...It's about perfect. (even at 45 hp). But I'm not street racing and happy with my 500 royal enfield single.
Really appreciate this review. I used to ride a Goldie 40 years ago and I must say I really like this new version. I too was expecting disappointment and instead I'm looking at my bank balance.
“Lucas, prince of darkness.” Gosh, it has been a while since I’ve heard that one. Classic indeed. I too really like the new Gold Star that Mahindra has produced with the reintroduction of the BSA line.
Lucas electrics always got a bad rap, but I don't think it was so terrible. I think a lot of the problems were really the fault of owners that didn't understand positive ground systems and the need for basic maintenance. I think Lucas was a cut above WIPAC IMHO.
The lights on my 1955 Norton Dominator (500 twin) are not bright enough to be safe at speed at night. Above 60mph, 36W does not give enough light to see where I am going, even with a halogen bulb. The generator is only 60W, so can not push a bigger bulb. The system is actually ok and reliable. When I first got the bike going, it took a little sorting out. There was an intermittent short in the brake lamp lead, the commutator was dirty causing no output, and the regulator had been set incorrectly by the PO. None of these issues were actually the fault of Joe Lucas - and I fixed them myself. Since then, reliable lights - and I have just fitted a full set of LED lights to it. With any luck, I should be able to see better at night.....
Hm..... Yes I agree *but* 56 BHP ain't enough for that weight unless you are going to stay one up. Mrs Baboon has a BMW CS 650 ..... which is actually pretty comparable 4 stroke (Rotax) Single, 50 BHP (And if I'm nipping into town I'll nick that instead of my elderly R1 as the CS is like a squidgy supermoto that can wriggle through tiny gaps). One up it'll spin up to over 80 quite respectably too so no worries mixing it with cagers. After that it keeps building but a lot less swiftly. Put a 55kg pillion on it and its just too much for anything sporty 'though. Clearly the 90+ BHP Goldie is the one to aspire too.
I had three road going Goldie’s an two real scramblers that I enjoyed as a clubman during the day. No doubt the original Gold Stars were amazing bikes but this new one appears set to make its own rep as a modern, amazing bike.
@@PrimoStracciatella You don't have to USE...All the 'power' it might have. Yeah, I'd Like a Goldie, and I'd REALLY like one with 99hp! I have a Fiat-Abarth 500, car, and I'm not always into it's Turbo.
I had a Goldie in the late 1960s. I replaced the original headlight with a Cibie unit. It was marginally better. As for The Prince of darkness, Lucas parts were cheap and available almost anywhere. I used to live near the DMW works. The lady in their parts department new every part, part number and every bike. Because a lot of the electrical parts were common to a lot of different machines. Rather than go to Villiers in Wolverhampton we would go to the DMW parts dept. If you asked for a part for a Villiers engine, she would say we don't have that. If you went in and asked have you got one of these? She would say yes that is part number she would reel off the number. Then disappear into the inner sanctum and return a few minutes later with the correct part.
I started riding Japanese bikes in 1973. I recently bought a new 250cc Indian made Yamaha. This BSA is a LOVELY bike that i would love to have. While I prefer a twin-cylinder motorcycle, this is what a motorcycle should look like ! Kudos to BSA ! Trinidad & Tobago.
what are your comments on 250cc FZ Yamaha?, I own one FZ25 and totally disappointed (considering it as a Japanese bike, the refinement levels are almost none except braking)
@@thestone3849 While bikes in my country traditionally are expensive, I am the person who keeps motor vehicle for many years. The majority of my few bikes were Yamahas (from the days of 2-stroke power). After selling the R1150RT (P.O.S) last year, along with the Honda Nighthawk 250 (The Lifesaver) I bought the Indian-made FZ25. This is a modern budget-bike.......no frills. 1. Manual indicators. They have one idiot light on the dash that you see only in the night. 2. The dash itself is so budget ! A 66-year old has problems seeing anything, unless you are parked. Of course it is cheaper to make that piece of junk rather than traditional displays. 3. The brakes lack. I am planning to get a pair of steel-braided lines to replace the rubber hoses that say "Brembo". 4. The silencer works well. Well enough to highlight the noisy engine, especially on acceleration. 5. The gearing should have been a little more linear.......possibly a 6th gear. 6. I do not have excess padding on my butt. The seat shows its lack of padding after about an hour-and-a-half of sitting. 7. The handlebar was too forward and low. I got a pair of rearset risers. 8. Too much plastic cladding if you have to get at anything. 9. No kickstand switch. You can accidentally ride off with it down ! 10. Too tall for a 250cc. I have a 30' inseam, 5'8" height. Learners can topple over easily. Because of this, the turning radius is plenty. 3-point turn on narrow streets. 11. Poor headlight range. 12. No ABS. I think current models have it. The bike is now doing about 3,000kms, purchased in July 2021, so it is relatively new. 1. Good fuel consumption. 2. Good cornering and handling. 3. Good clutch, throttle feel. 4. Good suspension. Handles the rough pretty good. 5. Not too much vibration for a single. 6. Pretty to look at. In retrospect, I would have preferred a twin-cylinder bike. There is a Suzuki V-Strom 250 sold here. I paid equivalent US$4,400 for the FZ. The Suzuki was $5,300 with ABS, water-cooled etc. I was even contemplating importing the Honda CB300, but the cost was prohibitive. Regards. Ramish. Trinidad & Tobago, West indies.
@@ramishrambarran3998 Thanks bro for your exhaustive reply, I am 62 yrs with height of 5-4 ,medium built, and was thinking that i would have been comfortable if i was 5-6 but since you too(5-8) feeling it tall then, OK. Regarding your cons points I fully agree with point no.2-6-7-9 and 10, I got it in almost half the price (mine is BS4- June 2020), Initially till first 3000 kms it was too much vibrating (not able to see anything in the mirrors) which got slightly better with service and running till now around 4500 kms. Wanted actually to tour on it with speeds around 80-100 comfortable-stress free but has not happened till today as it is reluctant to go from 75 to 90 without efforts and determination. Anyways thanks for your views... India
@@thestone3849 Oh ! One more thing. The old Honda Nighthawk 250 that I had for many years has a better engine feel than the FZ. It is twin cylinders. Ramish. Trinidad & Tobago, West Indies.
I was massively impressed by the way it was screwed together too. It looks stunning. Can't wait to see it running and keeping my fingers crossed that it's a good price...
Nice one Frank. My Dad also raced for BSA but in the USA...New Hampshire. He was an AMA racer right out of high school in 1957 and raced all around the North-East US and Canada in the early 1960's. BSA would send him new race bikes from the factory. Later he raced for Triumph then started building his own bikes for flat-track racing. And no...he doesn't have ANY of those bikes today, unfortunately. The only bike he still has is an Eso Jawa that he raced in 1964 and won the Canadian Nationals in his class. The money he won bought the house in N.H. where I was born and raised.
What nice and positive comments...l myself grew up on triumphs... But did appreciate BSAs I think l too would like one.. Nostalgia...it's in the blood..
@Alfred Wedmore Hi Alfred. I fear at 74 years old, i will not be around to worry, and i guess the younger generations, will be content with their electric scooters!
Great review, Frank! Can't wait to get my copy of your new book. Thanks for your insights into the new BSA. You're the perfect person to opine on the subject (although perhaps not in the "target demographic" for the bike). Let's see who lines up to buy them...
@@johnmartin7158 56 HP is getting up near T100 HP be the one to get no wonder it has whopper radiator it makes sense now & being a dug dug single be awesome you'd be the talk of the town on that & being a single be real Tourqie.
It's a very personal thing, styling, but for me this doesn't quite hit the spot. It looks heavier than a real Goldie and the radiator needs to look smaller even if the cooling area can't be reduced. In decades gone by, the Japanese tried to do traditional singles and, with the possible exception of the Honda GB500, they all came over as plodding pastiches. However, there is certainly potential here and it might not take much in the way of tweeking to get the thing looking right and going right. My last BSA was a '73 model Lightning 650.
gouri487. Honda CB250 RS, Yamaha XT500 & SR500, Suzuki SP400, Suzuki DR650, to name just a handful. These were all excellent singles and were modern when they were released. Yet you use the words plodding-pastiche to decribes previous manufacturer's efforts. There's only one pastiche in this story and it's the one in the video.
One thing for sure, I bet it starts easier than the old DBD34 with 1 1/2” GP carb and magneto ignition. They were almost impossible without a run and bump. I wonder if the new Goldie has got that famous “twitter” on the over-run. Old time bikers will know what I’m talking about.
In my small town in Indiana the bike of choice was the Harley the Triumph to BSA the Norton's real motorcycles. Before the Honda Suzuki Kawasaki invasion. Back in the 60s
It can only ever be a copy all be it a carefully detailed and designed one , but it’s available for all to enjoy not just a ship in a bottle for collectors.
All the comments about "I'm so happy BSA is back" crack me up. BSA, the motorcycle company, isn't back. The name is back, bought by an Indian company. That's not to say that it couldn't be a very good bike, but BSA as we knew it isn't back and never will be. Perhaps if Mahindra sells a ton of these they will use some of their profits to buy the Vincent name, or maybe Brough Superior?
@@racheltaylor6578 There is a motorcycle being sold under the name "Brough Superior". It has no actual connection to the old Brough company and nothing in common with the old Brough Superior. Like the new BSA, somebody bought rights to use the name and is using it on a completely new and different product. So, no, the Brough Superior is not "still in production". A machine is a physical thing, a name is just a word. That's why we now have Ford front wheel drive electric compact pickup trucks that say "Maverick" on the tailgate. The original Ford Maverick is not "back", or "still in production".
Mi fa veramente piacere vedere risorgere un marchio importantissimo nel settore Motociclette , giusto ieri , con mia moglie ne elogiavo i fasti guardando Grantchester in tv . Bella presentazione di Frank ...un Mito !
This has got 40Ft Lbs of Torque my Bonneville SE has 50, give me 50 and I'm in. I'm thinking of buying it anyway as a second bike I love the looks so much.
I've always wanted a clubmans DBD34 & when I heard about these new BSAs my initial reaction was it would be akin to buying a fake Rolex. But having seen reviews such as this one, I've changed my mind. Sure, there will be jibes about it being a Bengal Small Arms bike, but I'd be happy to own one. Hurry up & launch them in Australia!
they don't even have a web site - I would be very worried about dealer support and back up. I owned an MV Agusta once and that was difficult enough ! If I was in the market for a modern classic, then for me it would have to be Triumph.
Dear Sleaz: I think you'd maybe like the Enfield with the S&S 870cc Stroker kit. Enfield's in the major US cities, plus 870cc'll show your tail-light to many stockers. And the price of the Kit will cost, combined with purchase of the 650, like a stock-Triumph! Triumph$ are thousand$ more for No advantage other than the Name. Stu W did a Vid on Triumph tranny "issues", and Triumph just laid-off maybe a quarter of their Thai workforce! What's UP with that? I think if Triumph had two brain cells to rub-together, it'd use Prisoners to assemble them in Great Britain. Of course, I'd want the Chenai-Enfield plant to be moved back to Reddich, and have prisoners build them, there. I don't CARE who owns them. Prisoner-builds, because prisoners get very little money in wages here. I once met "Lal" {--1st CEO of Royal Enfield India}, and that A-H got angry @ me when I'd said I wanted RE to build a 650cc Single{--like the New Goldie}, as the bikers ride 80mph on the freeways of the US, and the 500 {and 535 } Bullet couldn't keep up and would Break down. Enfield later LEFT the 'States until the 650cc twin appeared! Enfeld Marketing back then, was SO STUPID, we had a dealer selling Bullets ONLY via credit-card! Of COURSE, they only lasted a year in Phoenix, Az. Mahindra is HUGE in the 'States--among the largest sellers of garden tractors. Rush Limbaugh sold them on his show before he died of Cancer. He should've gone to get treatment in Mexico, Austria, & Japan, as "traditional" Ca treatment wore him out & killed him, imho. Although Stage-4, if he'd gone non-traditional, he might be alive today. Just because you've got 3 corporate jets & can "afford" the Be$t doctors, doesn't mean the Docs are any "Good."
Looks good. But does it also drive well? Is it well processed? Is the supply of spare parts assured? Will there be enough qualified dealers? Questions about questions
If the engine's Rotax-derived, you will NOT have a problem getting spares! A New/existing "Goldie" club will be formed in Britain, and they'll have a "Spares-scheme" started, PLUS you could buy John Fitch's "One-off" and get Spares, because of the increasing proliferation of Metallic-substrate "3-D" replicated parts. Want a titanium connecting-rod? 12 firms in the US can do it now, with others in Britain, France, & Germany. What Penske does daily for his racing teams, can be done, soon, in your neighborhood, by a "parts Hobbyist."
What a charming fellow speaking. When I was eight years old a fellow sat me on his Gold Star. After 53 years of riding that memory never left me. When I was part owner of a motorcycle shop I told more than a few prospective buyers that if it was impossible to ride in snowy or icy weather if you don't take all your clothes off and rub on your bike in the garage you bought the wrong bike. Well, I for one would be all over this bike in my birthday suit if I couldn't ride it.
I presume by other modern British bikes he's having to go at DOT or CCM who's doing something completely different, and didn't need to be said. The BSA is a nice machine and a good homage, what isn't impressing me is how everyone is keeping the price a secret!!!
The pricing just has not been confirmed until their dealer network is established. All manufacturers do this. You’ll pricing in February it’s expected.
@@MotoTingle Thanks for taking the time to reply, In the vast global world of manufacture 60 days is nothing. Everything is already planned, or it should be. This isn't some cheapo, fly by night, let's build it in a shed at the bottom of the garden manufacturer. It's only 60 days to February.
@@A65Bill Of course it’s not all about price? But the royal Enfield interceptor 650 is so good for its price! Would people buy the BSA if it’s price is 2-2.5 thousand over the Enfield?? If it’s near the royal Enfield price? Then for me it depends how it rides, and if you prefer a big single or the twin! It’s being made in India same as Enfield and the build quality looks about the same! I will be test riding one ASAP
@@johnterry804 I have heard somewhere that it will be priced around ₹4,00,000 to ₹4,50,000. RE Interceptor 650 costs ₹3,00,000 to ₹3,75,000 here in India. They said BSA's price will be little higher because it will be made in UK. But still the price is not confirmed tho.
As a T120 owner these last 5 years I am very interested in this machine. One of my gripes complaint with the Triumph is the inadequacy of the mudguards among a few other things which I have done my best to rectify it is almost as I want it . But like this BSA which holds much promise , why the awful seam which point downward on the tank? It is just looks cheapo and surely is not a great cost factor to do properly. Sorry to be a moaner I am sure it will do well, oh and while they are at it remove that false pushrod tunnel as well . I will definitely get a test ride.
Two heavy and should have persevered with developing a performance air cooled engine instead of a water cooled lump therefore eliminating the obvious styling compromises. BSA in name only and that is what will be its biggest attraction.
There's another guy on here that rips this thing to bits. Mainly because it's not an exact clone. But I really like it! It catches the spirit of the original. I've had a lot of BSA's over the years. And I'd buy this in a heartbeat! I was dead set on a new Enfield 350.... till I saw this. Bring it! I'll but money down tomorrow! Seriously!
I'm glad BSA is back in the running. But I'm skeptical of a 650 single. I'll check in a few months after people braver than me have purchased them and gave them a good run.
Luved the vid Frank; very well presented. Like the part where you mention ‘big fin” cylinder head. Not to keen on the fake push rod tunnel and I hate the radiator. That said, the bike looks awesome. Particularly like the clocks and tank. It’s a shame they have played the Gold Star card on a first bike; as it is easy to make comparisons with the original B group BSA’s; thus the Gold Star name has justification and significance. I have a RE Interceptor and Himalayan in my stable. Can’t compare the Goldie to an Interceptor, so I will have to wait to see what the press says about the ride. If a dealer is not too far away and the price isn’t stupid I’ll get a test ride and judge for myself the ride quality. Defo looking to get one at the moment though.
I have Lucas lights on my Triumph and they have never let me down what you on about? And personally I would prefer to own an original Goldstar than a new one.
An older biker who doesn't know about Lucas, the inventor of darkness? The older Triumphs/BSAs had a 12 volt zener diode for a voltage regulator. One would be riding at night and the zener would fail and cause the voltage to go very high and the headlight would burn out, putting one in darkness. All electrical failures were blamed on the prince of darkness, Lucas! I had Triumphs that were great and others that had constant electrical issues.
So pony-up 25-40K Quid for the Oldie-Goldie, slip the clutch ['til it fails ] up to 30, change yer connecting rod @ under 50 racing hours, & live yer Life, Mate. I'll be putting thousands of miles on a new, "Non-fiddle" Goldie
I looked at the first bike on the right when I was down at the NEC last Wednesday. I was shocked at the poor quality power coating on the left hard side engine case next to the gear change, it had a ripple line across the top. Being an exhibition of the latest bikes you would have thought that the company would have gone over these bikes with a fine tooth comb, put me off immediately.
I have watched several reviews of the new Gold Star. Nobody is talking about the weight of this bike. That's important to me as a rider. I've had two BSA's in the past and love the brand.
Nice & whole hearted review. Awesome 650 cc single cylinder big bike. #MahindraBSA has now brought a true competitor to #RoyalEnfield 650 bikes. This gives choice to the customer & keeps the design evolving at a competitive price.
To be a BSA, this bike has to be designed, tested and built in England. The motorcycle that I see now, is a prototype made by "I don't know who" and "I don't know where" and "I don't know how good"... Just my personal opinion.
Still have not worked out if he would buy one!!!!!!!! I had a DB34 back in the late 60’s And 70’s, I loved it. Should have found a way to keep it, but times were hard in the 70’s.
I think a lot of Indians are prouder of British heritage than many Brits, especially some of the latest crop. The Goldie was rightly revered as a very special bike and I think this one is a tribute to it rather than a modern replica.
I used to own a BSA BB34 in racing trim, a predecessor of the DBD34 Gold Star. My present motorbike is a Triumph Bonneville 2010 Special Edition. I would definitely like to own the BSA in the video.
Had a friend who had an original Gold Star 500 from the early 70s. It was an interesting bike, but not 9ne on which I would want to cruise cross country. Nice and torquey, it was fine around town. I much preferred it to the Triumph Bonneville 650 he had before it. The BSA seemed more solid whereas the Bonneville seemed more like a flexible flyer.
Yes mate ,as an ex BS A multitasker (I was art Armoury Road from early 1968 until the death), started on the bantam track ,did a bit of production testing (,Johnny Kennedy buggered that up !) and returned inside to rectification ,which was my forte ,I got on really well with Bill Wetherhead (production manager and his understudy Billy Stone ,who was an old Ariel man) ,did a bit on the 'B' track (4 stroke singles), but really loved rectification on all of the models ,7 days a week if you wanted ,which was great cos I had just got married. Everywhere you went ,you were tripping over Ariel 3 engines!anyway crunch came ,and it was all over ,a tragedy. Some of the best days I can remember. All the best for the newcomer. T.M.
Frank! I have been a fan of your writing since the days of Harry Louis and the Blue 'Un. Like you I'm delighted to see BSA back in action. But...a 470 pound Gold Star? This is sad abuse of the name of the DBD 34. It was light weight and fine handling that kept Goldies and Manxes in contention in the glorious '60s. What was the weight of the heaviest DBD 34 that you rode? Well under 400 pounds, I'm sure.
Too much of a pastiche of the old bike, seems like a lifestyle trinket....... The original gold star was the best bike at the time, and this is just a retro marketing ploy
It looks great, but where is the weight coming from? Someone said ABS, radiator, ECU etc, but my Tiger 800 triple is lighter and it has all that stuff and more.
Sorry it’s a firm 👎🏻 from me, just plagiarism, Enfield Interceptor Is at least an creative interpretation of the original like the Triumph Bonneville. This is just a sloppy copy milking the bought in brand & history….
More sporty bars,more rearset footrests and a nicer shaped exhaust pipe that is closer in shape to original,and you have me sold. Great bike with potential to look even better.
I saw this at NEC bike show this week. It does absolutely nothing for me in my 40’s. It’ll be sluggish and heavy and probably still a little bit Indian in build quality. But I’ve been wrong about the Royal Enfield. Royal Enfield are selling a LOT of bikes in the UK. There is definitely a market. But, it will only appeal to the older generation. I can’t see anyone below the age of 50 being remotely interested. Fortunately for BSA, there’s plenty of older bikers still loving their biking. They might sell more than a few.
If you like this video you might also like this video where the Director of BSA Motorcycles tells us a little bit more detail on the new Gold Star:
ruclips.net/video/Yg3jBQuwes8/видео.html
I remember the old American biker joke that asked why Brits drank warm beer.
Answer was, "Their refrigerators are made by Lucas."
@@heisenberg19989 To be taken with a healthy pinch of salt.
I'll withhold judgement until people start to ride it and report on how it actually accelerates, handles, and rides. If it rides as good as it looks, it's a winner.
Agreed. My Continental GT 650 is a superb, albeit slow machine. It handles and brakes well and is generally an absolute joy to ride. Would love to straddle a new BSA should it be viable.
If you buy the same motorcycle in India, it's 90 HP!!! This is 45 HP. I don´t know what they did to it, and even more, I don´t know why they did it, but they can keep their goddamn bike. As far as I´m concerned, it´s just a lot of cosmetics.
@@mwbright 90hp out of a (STREETABLE) 650 single? Doubtful...From your comment: I think you are the wrong demographic for this bike; as a U.S. back road/state highway cruiser...It's about perfect. (even at 45 hp). But I'm not street racing and happy with my 500 royal enfield single.
Really appreciate this review. I used to ride a Goldie 40 years ago and I must say I really like this new version. I too was expecting disappointment and instead I'm looking at my bank balance.
I'm a huge fan of the modern-retro bikes. I'm a proud owner of a 2018 Triumph Bonneville T-120 and I'd love to add a new BSA to the garage.
“Lucas, prince of darkness.” Gosh, it has been a while since I’ve heard that one. Classic indeed. I too really like the new Gold Star that Mahindra has produced with the reintroduction of the BSA line.
Strangely enough my 61 AJS lights have never let me down' never replaced a bulb in the three years ive used it. So lucas lekkys weren't all bad.
Lucas electrics always got a bad rap, but I don't think it was so terrible.
I think a lot of the problems were really the fault of owners that didn't understand positive ground systems and the need for basic maintenance.
I think Lucas was a cut above WIPAC IMHO.
The lights on my 1955 Norton Dominator (500 twin) are not bright enough to be safe at speed at night. Above 60mph, 36W does not give enough light to see where I am going, even with a halogen bulb. The generator is only 60W, so can not push a bigger bulb. The system is actually ok and reliable. When I first got the bike going, it took a little sorting out. There was an intermittent short in the brake lamp lead, the commutator was dirty causing no output, and the regulator had been set incorrectly by the PO. None of these issues were actually the fault of Joe Lucas - and I fixed them myself. Since then, reliable lights - and I have just fitted a full set of LED lights to it. With any luck, I should be able to see better at night.....
@@moosey62 I remember that one too. LOL
Not many will remember the connectors on the Old Lucas voltage regulators designated by letter (1) F (2) A (3) D and (4) E. all together now... FADE
I totally agree with Frank to me it’s the best bike in the show
That was excellent Frank, informative with intelligent and happy sense of humor thrown in for good measure, thank you.
Hm..... Yes I agree *but* 56 BHP ain't enough for that weight unless you are going to stay one up.
Mrs Baboon has a BMW CS 650 ..... which is actually pretty comparable 4 stroke (Rotax) Single, 50 BHP
(And if I'm nipping into town I'll nick that instead of my elderly R1 as the CS is like a squidgy supermoto that can wriggle through tiny gaps).
One up it'll spin up to over 80 quite respectably too so no worries mixing it with cagers. After that it keeps building but a lot less swiftly. Put a 55kg pillion on it and its just too much for anything sporty 'though.
Clearly the 90+ BHP Goldie is the one to aspire too.
It’s a real beauty, and I’d buy one in a heartbeat. Can’t beat that classic British look. 👍👍🏍🇨🇦
@@G58 called “British”but all the work is done elsewhere.
What could possibly be more “British”than that?
I had three road going Goldie’s an two real scramblers that I enjoyed as a clubman during the day. No doubt the original Gold Stars were amazing bikes but this new one appears set to make its own rep as a modern, amazing bike.
Everyone talking about more HP, if thats what you want buy a sports bike. This bike looks great and the more i see it the more i want one.
Exactly. Nobody rode it yet but many know it doesn't have enough power. If you need 100+ hp, this is not your bike. Look elsewhere.
@@PrimoStracciatella You don't have to USE...All the 'power' it might have. Yeah, I'd Like a Goldie, and I'd REALLY like one with 99hp! I have a Fiat-Abarth 500, car, and I'm not always into it's Turbo.
I had a Goldie in the late 1960s. I replaced the original headlight with a Cibie unit. It was marginally better.
As for The Prince of darkness, Lucas parts were cheap and available almost anywhere. I used to live near the DMW works. The lady in their parts department new every part, part number and every bike.
Because a lot of the electrical parts were common to a lot of different machines. Rather than go to Villiers in Wolverhampton we would go to the DMW parts dept.
If you asked for a part for a Villiers engine, she would say we don't have that. If you went in and asked have you got one of these? She would say yes that is part number she would reel off the number. Then disappear into the inner sanctum and return a few minutes later with the correct part.
I started riding Japanese bikes in 1973. I recently bought a new 250cc Indian made Yamaha. This BSA is a LOVELY bike that i would love to have. While I prefer a twin-cylinder motorcycle, this is what a motorcycle should look like ! Kudos to BSA ! Trinidad & Tobago.
what are your comments on 250cc FZ Yamaha?, I own one FZ25 and totally disappointed (considering it as a Japanese bike, the refinement levels are almost none except braking)
@@thestone3849 While bikes in my country traditionally are expensive, I am the person who keeps motor vehicle for many years. The majority of my few bikes were Yamahas (from the days of 2-stroke power).
After selling the R1150RT (P.O.S) last year, along with the Honda Nighthawk 250 (The Lifesaver) I bought the Indian-made FZ25.
This is a modern budget-bike.......no frills.
1. Manual indicators. They have one idiot light on the dash that you see only in the night.
2. The dash itself is so budget ! A 66-year old has problems seeing anything, unless you are parked. Of course it is cheaper to make that piece of junk rather than traditional displays.
3. The brakes lack. I am planning to get a pair of steel-braided lines to replace the rubber hoses that say "Brembo".
4. The silencer works well. Well enough to highlight the noisy engine, especially on acceleration.
5. The gearing should have been a little more linear.......possibly a 6th gear.
6. I do not have excess padding on my butt. The seat shows its lack of padding after about an hour-and-a-half of sitting.
7. The handlebar was too forward and low. I got a pair of rearset risers.
8. Too much plastic cladding if you have to get at anything.
9. No kickstand switch. You can accidentally ride off with it down !
10. Too tall for a 250cc. I have a 30' inseam, 5'8" height. Learners can topple over easily. Because of this, the turning radius is plenty. 3-point turn on narrow streets.
11. Poor headlight range.
12. No ABS. I think current models have it.
The bike is now doing about 3,000kms, purchased in July 2021, so it is relatively new.
1. Good fuel consumption.
2. Good cornering and handling.
3. Good clutch, throttle feel.
4. Good suspension. Handles the rough pretty good.
5. Not too much vibration for a single.
6. Pretty to look at.
In retrospect, I would have preferred a twin-cylinder bike. There is a Suzuki V-Strom 250 sold here. I paid equivalent US$4,400 for the FZ. The Suzuki was $5,300 with ABS, water-cooled etc. I was even contemplating importing the Honda CB300, but the cost was prohibitive.
Regards.
Ramish.
Trinidad & Tobago, West indies.
@@ramishrambarran3998 Thanks bro for your exhaustive reply, I am 62 yrs with height of 5-4 ,medium built, and was thinking that i would have been comfortable if i was 5-6 but since you too(5-8) feeling it tall then, OK. Regarding your cons points I fully agree with point no.2-6-7-9 and 10, I got it in almost half the price (mine is BS4- June 2020), Initially till first 3000 kms it was too much vibrating (not able to see anything in the mirrors) which got slightly better with service and running till now around 4500 kms. Wanted actually to tour on it with speeds around 80-100 comfortable-stress free but has not happened till today as it is reluctant to go from 75 to 90 without efforts and determination. Anyways thanks for your views... India
@@thestone3849 Oh ! One more thing. The old Honda Nighthawk 250 that I had for many years has a better engine feel than the FZ. It is twin cylinders.
Ramish. Trinidad & Tobago, West Indies.
I was massively impressed by the way it was screwed together too. It looks stunning. Can't wait to see it running and keeping my fingers crossed that it's a good price...
Nice one Frank. My Dad also raced for BSA but in the USA...New Hampshire. He was an AMA racer right out of high school in 1957 and raced all around the North-East US and Canada in the early 1960's. BSA would send him new race bikes from the factory. Later he raced for Triumph then started building his own bikes for flat-track racing. And no...he doesn't have ANY of those bikes today, unfortunately. The only bike he still has is an Eso Jawa that he raced in 1964 and won the Canadian Nationals in his class. The money he won bought the house in N.H. where I was born and raised.
😢😮 I hate the new BSA it's not abusive BSA joke 🤣 joke 🤣 junk is in my
Looks great! Fabulous to see BSA back, I hope it's a huge success, and that we see lots more models in the near future.
America loved BSA back in the day. Please sell the Goldie in America!
What nice and positive comments...l myself grew up on triumphs...
But did appreciate BSAs
I think l too would like one..
Nostalgia...it's in the blood..
I like very much on BSA bikes made in England. I used to ride BSA. My dream bike. It's beats like rythm
Well said Frank, it's plain to see your passion for BSA motorcycles and they are back! Happy days.
I suppose we will have to equate the cost, against the number of years, that the government allow us to ride it!
We should not allow any government to dictate.
@@michaelfirth1075 They already have legislation in place, to stop people demonstrating against their dictatorship.
@Alfred Wedmore Hi Alfred. I fear at 74 years old, i will not be around to worry, and i guess the younger generations, will be content with their electric scooters!
It's because YOU let them....time to stand up and stop this marxist takeover😏
@@randersson3672 And THEY will still be getting around in their kerosene burning business jets and filthy fuel oil burning cruiser boats. 😣😆
Great review, Frank! Can't wait to get my copy of your new book. Thanks for your insights into the new BSA. You're the perfect person to opine on the subject (although perhaps not in the "target demographic" for the bike). Let's see who lines up to buy them...
That was an excellent look at the new BSA. I liked it so much at the show I've put my name down for a test ride when one becomes available.
Awesome video ! That guy has a lot of passion in his voice and that’s what I like to hear.
I found HIM! Beautiful bike the bad boy version be glorious.🏍️👍🇳🇿
@@ruahinesrider Frank gave a spirited and passionate talk about the bike. I wonder if Smiths will import them.
@@johnmartin7158 56 HP is getting up near T100 HP be the one to get no wonder it has whopper radiator it makes sense now & being a dug dug single be awesome you'd be the talk of the town on that & being a single be real Tourqie.
@@ruahinesrider The T100 is a good all rounder I have to admit.
@@johnmartin7158 looks good to pity it went water cooled in 2016.If I was to get one I would get a second hand 2012-2016 air cooled model.
Good looker. Would like to see a BSA Rocket Gold Star tho.
Thank god for Frank Melling - 'MX the big leap' got me started in that sport. Thank you sir
Eyup Frank, glad you like it, I really fancy one of these. Tried one for size and it was spot on.
I'm really hoping the best for BSA. What an absolute joy to listern to Frank. I bet he's got 101 stories, of his time with BSA.
FANTASTIC review/comments.
10/10.
I LOVED your video.
PERFECT.
Thank You.
just a very nice single to put near my TRITON .i love it hope to see it in FRANCE soon
It's a very personal thing, styling, but for me this doesn't quite hit the spot. It looks heavier than a real Goldie and the radiator needs to look smaller even if the cooling area can't be reduced. In decades gone by, the Japanese tried to do traditional singles and, with the possible exception of the Honda GB500, they all came over as plodding pastiches. However, there is certainly potential here and it might not take much in the way of tweeking to get the thing looking right and going right. My last BSA was a '73 model Lightning 650.
I agree, my last was BSA was a racing bantam.
Always loved the Yamaha XT & SR 500….just sayin. Pastiche? I don’tthink so…
Yamaha xt 500, what a bike 👌👌
gouri487. Honda CB250 RS, Yamaha XT500 & SR500, Suzuki SP400, Suzuki DR650, to name just a handful. These were all excellent singles and were modern when they were released. Yet you use the words plodding-pastiche to decribes previous manufacturer's efforts. There's only one pastiche in this story and it's the one in the video.
Yes the radiator spoils it for me.
One thing for sure, I bet it starts easier than the old DBD34 with 1 1/2” GP carb and magneto ignition. They were almost impossible without a run and bump. I wonder if the new Goldie has got that famous “twitter” on the over-run. Old time bikers will know what I’m talking about.
It looks beautiful, fantastic job. These guys have got there fingers on the pulse. Keep them coming.
In my small town in Indiana the bike of choice was the Harley the Triumph to BSA the Norton's real motorcycles. Before the Honda Suzuki Kawasaki invasion. Back in the 60s
Frank Melling is a terrific gentleman. The BSA Gold Star looks the part...nice job.
It can only ever be a copy all be it a carefully detailed and designed one , but it’s available for all to enjoy not just a ship in a bottle for collectors.
"Joe Lucas, the prince of darkness" unexpectedly made me laugh out loud
My dad had one when I was a kid and I fell in love with BSA
Never was turned on by buzzy hyper liter bikes. I'll take a Gold Star!! Elegant!
All the comments about "I'm so happy BSA is back" crack me up. BSA, the motorcycle company, isn't back. The name is back, bought by an Indian company. That's not to say that it couldn't be a very good bike, but BSA as we knew it isn't back and never will be. Perhaps if Mahindra sells a ton of these they will use some of their profits to buy the Vincent name, or maybe Brough Superior?
Brough Superior is in still in production.Shows you how much you know.
@@racheltaylor6578 There is a motorcycle being sold under the name "Brough Superior". It has no actual connection to the old Brough company and nothing in common with the old Brough Superior. Like the new BSA, somebody bought rights to use the name and is using it on a completely new and different product. So, no, the Brough Superior is not "still in production". A machine is a physical thing, a name is just a word. That's why we now have Ford front wheel drive electric compact pickup trucks that say "Maverick" on the tailgate. The original Ford Maverick is not "back", or "still in production".
I really like this and if there was a 56BHP version I would definately have a test ride with a view to buying one.
Mi fa veramente piacere vedere risorgere un marchio importantissimo nel settore Motociclette , giusto ieri , con mia moglie ne elogiavo i fasti guardando Grantchester in tv . Bella presentazione di Frank ...un Mito !
This has got 40Ft Lbs of Torque my Bonneville SE has 50, give me 50 and I'm in. I'm thinking of buying it anyway as a second bike I love the looks so much.
Frank Melling, inspired me to take up Motocross 👌🏻😎
I've always wanted a clubmans DBD34 & when I heard about these new BSAs my initial reaction was it would be akin to buying a fake Rolex. But having seen reviews such as this one, I've changed my mind. Sure, there will be jibes about it being a Bengal Small Arms bike, but I'd be happy to own one. Hurry up & launch them in Australia!
@Alfred Wedmore or need to slip the clutch under 30mph due to crazy tall first gear.
@Alfred Wedmore yes, there's a reason why the cub series has sold in the tens of millions.
Bharat Small Arms
I like it.If BSA had evolved the bike back in the day,it would not be far off this.. If its priced near Royal Enfield money it will surely sell...
they don't even have a web site - I would be very worried about dealer support and back up. I owned an MV Agusta once and that was difficult enough ! If I was in the market for a modern classic, then for me it would have to be Triumph.
Dear Sleaz: I think you'd maybe like the Enfield with the S&S 870cc Stroker kit. Enfield's in the major US cities, plus 870cc'll show your tail-light to many stockers. And the price of the Kit will cost, combined with purchase of the 650, like a stock-Triumph! Triumph$ are thousand$ more for No advantage other than the Name. Stu W did a Vid on Triumph tranny "issues", and Triumph just laid-off maybe a quarter of their Thai workforce! What's UP with that? I think if Triumph had two brain cells to rub-together, it'd use Prisoners to assemble them in Great Britain. Of course, I'd want the Chenai-Enfield plant to be moved back to Reddich, and have prisoners build them, there. I don't CARE who owns them. Prisoner-builds, because prisoners get very little money in wages here. I once met "Lal" {--1st CEO of Royal Enfield India}, and that A-H got angry @ me when I'd said I wanted RE to build a 650cc Single{--like the New Goldie}, as the bikers ride 80mph on the freeways of the US, and the 500 {and 535 } Bullet couldn't keep up and would Break down. Enfield later LEFT the 'States until the 650cc twin appeared! Enfeld Marketing back then, was SO STUPID, we had a dealer selling Bullets ONLY via credit-card! Of COURSE, they only lasted a year in Phoenix, Az. Mahindra is HUGE in the 'States--among the largest sellers of garden tractors. Rush Limbaugh sold them on his show before he died of Cancer. He should've gone to get treatment in Mexico, Austria, & Japan, as "traditional" Ca treatment wore him out & killed him, imho. Although Stage-4, if he'd gone non-traditional, he might be alive today. Just because you've got 3 corporate jets & can "afford" the Be$t doctors, doesn't mean the Docs are any "Good."
Looks good. But does it also drive well? Is it well processed? Is the supply of spare parts assured? Will there be enough qualified dealers? Questions about questions
rotax derived engine they do aircraft stuff
If the engine's Rotax-derived, you will NOT have a problem getting spares! A New/existing "Goldie" club will be formed in Britain, and they'll have a "Spares-scheme" started, PLUS you could buy John Fitch's "One-off" and get Spares, because of the increasing proliferation of Metallic-substrate "3-D" replicated parts. Want a titanium connecting-rod? 12 firms in the US can do it now, with others in Britain, France, & Germany. What Penske does daily for his racing teams, can be done, soon, in your neighborhood, by a "parts Hobbyist."
What a charming fellow speaking.
When I was eight years old a fellow sat me on his Gold Star. After 53 years of riding that memory never left me. When I was part owner of a motorcycle shop I told more than a few prospective buyers that if it was impossible to ride in snowy or icy weather if you don't take all your clothes off and rub on your bike in the garage you bought the wrong bike. Well, I for one would be all over this bike in my birthday suit if I couldn't ride it.
I thought hello he's going to moan like hell but he gave a lovely honest review. You can't be fairer than that.
I presume by other modern British bikes he's having to go at DOT or CCM who's doing something completely different, and didn't need to be said. The BSA is a nice machine and a good homage, what isn't impressing me is how everyone is keeping the price a secret!!!
The pricing just has not been confirmed until their dealer network is established. All manufacturers do this. You’ll pricing in February it’s expected.
@@MotoTingle Thanks for taking the time to reply, In the vast global world of manufacture 60 days is nothing. Everything is already planned, or it should be. This isn't some cheapo, fly by night, let's build it in a shed at the bottom of the garden manufacturer. It's only 60 days to February.
@@barnsleybiker5441 Agreed
Looks great all depends on the price to rival the royal Enfield 650
Agreed. I’ve been thinking about buying one of the Enfield twins, but if the price is right, this may pull me away.
Price approximately 5 lack and above
Is it really about price? Is that the best way to choose a bike?
@@A65Bill Of course it’s not all about price? But the royal Enfield interceptor 650 is so good for its price! Would people buy the BSA if it’s price is 2-2.5 thousand over the Enfield?? If it’s near the royal Enfield price? Then for me it depends how it rides, and if you prefer a big single or the twin! It’s being made in India same as Enfield and the build quality looks about the same! I will be test riding one ASAP
@@johnterry804 I have heard somewhere that it will be priced around ₹4,00,000 to ₹4,50,000.
RE Interceptor 650 costs ₹3,00,000 to ₹3,75,000 here in India.
They said BSA's price will be little higher because it will be made in UK.
But still the price is not confirmed tho.
@01:06 Hashish is a great name for an Indian Chief Exec, bet he`s really laid-back. Hopefully his team will build an Easy Rider chopper next....
LOL!
56hp unrestricted version. Nice 👍
As a T120 owner these last 5 years I am very interested in this machine. One of my gripes complaint with the Triumph is the inadequacy of the mudguards
among a few other things which I have done my best to rectify it is almost as I want it . But like this BSA which holds much promise , why the awful seam
which point downward on the tank? It is just looks cheapo and surely is not a great cost factor to do properly.
Sorry to be a moaner I am sure it will do well, oh and while they are at it remove that false pushrod tunnel as well . I will definitely get a test ride.
Two heavy and should have persevered with developing a performance air cooled engine instead of a water cooled lump therefore eliminating the obvious styling compromises. BSA in name only and that is what will be its biggest attraction.
Euro 5 unfortunately
There's another guy on here that rips this thing to bits. Mainly because it's not an exact clone. But I really like it! It catches the spirit of the original. I've had a lot of BSA's over the years. And I'd buy this in a heartbeat! I was dead set on a new Enfield 350.... till I saw this. Bring it! I'll but money down tomorrow! Seriously!
I'm glad BSA is back in the running.
But I'm skeptical of a 650 single.
I'll check in a few months after people braver than me have purchased them and gave them a good run.
Luved the vid Frank; very well presented. Like the part where you mention ‘big fin” cylinder head.
Not to keen on the fake push rod tunnel and I hate the radiator.
That said, the bike looks awesome. Particularly like the clocks and tank. It’s a shame they have played the Gold Star card on a first bike; as it is easy to make comparisons with the original B group BSA’s; thus the Gold Star name has justification and significance.
I have a RE Interceptor and Himalayan in my stable. Can’t compare the Goldie to an Interceptor, so I will have to wait to see what the press says about the ride. If a dealer is not too far away and the price isn’t stupid I’ll get a test ride and judge for myself the ride quality. Defo looking to get one at the moment though.
I have Lucas lights on my Triumph and they have never let me down what you on about? And personally I would prefer to own an original Goldstar than a new one.
An older biker who doesn't know about Lucas, the inventor of darkness? The older Triumphs/BSAs had a 12 volt zener diode for a voltage regulator. One would be riding at night and the zener would fail and cause the voltage to go very high and the headlight would burn out, putting one in darkness. All electrical failures were blamed on the prince of darkness, Lucas! I had Triumphs that were great and others that had constant electrical issues.
So pony-up 25-40K Quid for the Oldie-Goldie, slip the clutch ['til it fails ] up to 30, change yer connecting rod @ under 50 racing hours, & live yer Life, Mate. I'll be putting thousands of miles on a new, "Non-fiddle" Goldie
@@jackdale9831 Yeah well we don't all ride like you do and the Golden Oldie will hold its price.
I looked at the first bike on the right when I was down at the NEC last Wednesday. I was shocked at the poor quality power coating on the left hard side engine case next to the gear change, it had a ripple line across the top. Being an exhibition of the latest bikes you would have thought that the company would have gone over these bikes with a fine tooth comb, put me off immediately.
I have watched several reviews of the new Gold Star. Nobody is talking about the weight of this bike. That's important to me as a rider. I've had two BSA's in the past and love the brand.
Thanks for the spec.
@@splodge5714 More than the Interceptor twin!
470lb wet that's some lump
@@kevindarkstar That's more than the old Suzuki DR800!
@@columbmurray its a freaking tub of lard!! with a high center of gravity!
Nice & whole hearted review. Awesome 650 cc single cylinder big bike. #MahindraBSA has now brought a true competitor to #RoyalEnfield 650 bikes. This gives choice to the customer & keeps the design evolving at a competitive price.
best review ever among all the other bsa reviews
"Apparently these lights work regularly" 🤣👏He's a character, this bloke😀👍
To be a BSA, this bike has to be designed, tested and built in England. The motorcycle that I see now, is a prototype made by "I don't know who" and "I don't know where" and "I don't know how good"...
Just my personal opinion.
If you guys cared so much about BSA then somebody would have done it earlier. Stop complaining so much
Nice to get a seal of approval from Frank Melling
Still have not worked out if he would buy one!!!!!!!! I had a DB34 back in the late 60’s And 70’s, I loved it. Should have found a way to keep it, but times were hard in the 70’s.
That's a fine looking BSA, thanks for showing this!
Just love this Bike, I have just got to get one.
I think a lot of Indians are prouder of British heritage than many Brits, especially some of the latest crop. The Goldie was rightly revered as a very special bike and I think this one is a tribute to it rather than a modern replica.
I used to own a BSA BB34 in racing trim, a predecessor of the DBD34 Gold Star. My present motorbike is a Triumph Bonneville 2010 Special Edition. I would definitely like to own the BSA in the video.
Had a friend who had an original Gold Star 500 from the early 70s. It was an interesting bike, but not 9ne on which I would want to cruise cross country. Nice and torquey, it was fine around town.
I much preferred it to the Triumph Bonneville 650 he had before it. The BSA seemed more solid whereas the Bonneville seemed more like a flexible flyer.
A new take on the Goldie but pure original Frank !
No mention of the fabulous B50SS? That engine was strong and a great last gap measure from the still warm corpse of the BSA company.
I really really like the look of these looks fabulous for a modern bike.
Very nice, and yes, I think I would enjoy polishing it as well!
Price ??
If it goes anything like it looks, BSA have a winner on their hands here.
It is fantastic to see you Frank
Yes mate ,as an ex BS A multitasker (I was art Armoury Road from early 1968 until the death), started on the bantam track ,did a bit of production testing (,Johnny Kennedy buggered that up !) and returned inside to rectification ,which was my forte ,I got on really well with Bill Wetherhead (production manager and his understudy Billy Stone ,who was an old Ariel man) ,did a bit on the 'B' track (4 stroke singles), but really loved rectification on all of the models ,7 days a week if you wanted ,which was great cos I had just got married. Everywhere you went ,you were tripping over Ariel 3 engines!anyway crunch came ,and it was all over ,a tragedy. Some of the best days I can remember. All the best for the newcomer. T.M.
Frank! I have been a fan of your writing since the days of Harry Louis and the Blue 'Un. Like you I'm delighted to see BSA back in action. But...a 470 pound Gold Star? This is sad abuse of the name of the DBD 34. It was light weight and fine handling that kept Goldies and Manxes in contention in the glorious '60s. What was the weight of the heaviest DBD 34 that you rode? Well under 400 pounds, I'm sure.
I just wonder if we will be able to buy it and what it will cost in Australia as I would buy one in a heartbeat and Im 74.
Excuse my ignorance but why is this bikes HP 46 in the UK but over 90 HP in India?
It doesn't have 90 hp.
What an enjoyable review, well done indeed.
Too much of a pastiche of the old bike, seems like a lifestyle trinket....... The original gold star was the best bike at the time, and this is just a retro marketing ploy
So happy to see him happy. Great looking bike.
Popular in my area of Tennessee in the 50s. Now the RE is to me a better choice, ie twin vs single. And you can raise the twin to 866 cc
I don’t know why but it looks better then an Enfield, all metal great colour and a fabulous exhaust sound.
I believe I’d like one for bumping about town or a nice weekend ride to the Texas hill country.
Nice looking machine, good concept, a new Goldie for modern times. Looking forward to road testing results. Missing my Hyde 1000cc Rocket 3 mk2 now.
OG biker.. Huge respect Mr. Frank
It looks great, but where is the weight coming from? Someone said ABS, radiator, ECU etc, but my Tiger 800 triple is lighter and it has all that stuff and more.
"DBD34's grand child"..!! love it.
Sorry it’s a firm 👎🏻 from me, just plagiarism, Enfield Interceptor Is at least an creative interpretation of the original like the Triumph Bonneville. This is just a sloppy copy milking the bought in brand & history….
I loved your review. So glad you did not pee on the clutch! LOL
Good words, Frank. I love it too !
More sporty bars,more rearset footrests and a nicer shaped exhaust pipe that is closer in shape to original,and you have me sold. Great bike with potential to look even better.
I saw this at NEC bike show this week. It does absolutely nothing for me in my 40’s. It’ll be sluggish and heavy and probably still a little bit Indian in build quality. But I’ve been wrong about the Royal Enfield. Royal Enfield are selling a LOT of bikes in the UK. There is definitely a market. But, it will only appeal to the older generation. I can’t see anyone below the age of 50 being remotely interested. Fortunately for BSA, there’s plenty of older bikers still loving their biking. They might sell more than a few.
Wow that dude is old school. You can even hear the record scratch between words when he speaks. 😅😂🤣
Smashing looking bike and you are right, another 10 hp would make all the difference (same with the Interceptor I own).
Engine is probably strangled to get through Euro 5, I’m sure it can be modified for a few more horses
The euro 5 is why its liquid cooled, the engine runs very lean and that creates heat, which for a single could be a problem, so hence the radiator
Get 865cc cylinders, lots of videos on youtube. :)