As someone who works in Procurement and Supply chain, the whole world has gone crazy since Covid, with major disruptions in supply of material ranging from raw material (steel, aluminium), paint, electrical and electronic components, so it is very short sighted and unfair for people to single out BSA for not managing things and the delays in productions bikes getting to market - every firm is still having problems (including where I work!). Great follow up TMF 👍🏻
@@Ian-xt1mbdoesn’t mean the problem isn’t the in RE - I’ve heard delays on Hunter. This is a recognised global problem in all industries - and will be especially problematic for new businesses like BSA, who will have loads of teething problems to iron out and won’t have mature supplier relationships yet set up.
The problem isn't really down to the delays, it's down to communication... if they had been more transparent and kept people informed about problems then they wouldn't have had as much negative feelings from people.....
i also think people need to be a bit more charitable india was hit very hard by covid due to the living condtions over there in many cases there arnt 6 people to a house but to 6 people to a room sometimes more. makeing isolation impossible and there health care isnt great either. Yet all be it slow are still producing quality motorcycles at a low price despite it. And then theres the import export problems that covid has made. Engines from rotax in Austria for example.
I agree with you Mick C. I’m CEO of an industrial tech company and the electronic component shortages have come close to killing us, despite the fact we are the leaders in our sector. Covid certainly has driven the manufacturing world into chaos.
Thanks Colin - yes I may well do that, should have though of it before! Only issue is I tend to make videos months in advance (so the follow up piece may not have the actual bike in question at hand)....
Those who are complaining that it doesn't sound like the original, or that it's too heavy or has plastic mudguards etc. are living in the past and might be better off getting a 1960's Goldie that they will spend more time tinkering with than actually riding.
@@stevek8829 Water cooling, exhaust emissions control and fuel tank emissions control also all add weight. Steel and alloy weighs the same as it always did so the only real weight saving would be the plastic but that's clearly outweighed by the gains.
That comment about retro bikes being manufactured to replicate the original sound is spot on. The sound is a big part of the character of a bike. Another reason to give the electric bike concept the boot.
I rode that same bike yesterday and also the Interceptor as well and I found the BSA had a better engine, better brakes, better handling and was more comfortable . Still liked the Enfield thou. I'm now ordering the BSA.
I'm lucky in that my local RE dealer has also acquired the BSA franchise and demonstrators will be available soon. So it'll be possible to ride the Gold Star and Interceptor back to back. I'm sure this will help a lot of potential buyers 👍
@@nearlypastit2385 I don't believe it will affect the current dealership network, it just means that support will be better as RE as a brand become even more mainstream
Re. the BSA clocks, they’re clearly a homage, design-wise, to the Smiths Chronometric speedometers and revcounters fitted to the original DBD34 Gold Star and many other British motorcycles in the 1940, 50s and 60s. And I thinks they’re really stylish - but then I’m a 63-year old analogue dinosaur, and would like these clocks all the more if they mimicked the jerky movement of the needles in Chronometric speedos and revcounters…like those fitted to my Norton 650SS, my first big motorcycle!!
I'm 71 and had Chronometrics on my A65 Lightning (1969 model) fitted aftermarket and I thought they'd be great, but I have to say, that I hated them with that jerky movement. So, after 4 or 5 months I removed them and happily went back to original. It's great we all like different things isn't it?
Great job, Andy - as usual! Currently in my my garage : 2021 RE Interceptor 650 - 2003 Triumph America - 2021 Triumph T100 . Hopefully, by the end of 2023 in my garage : 2023 BSA Goldstar - 2023 RE Super Meteor 650 - 2021 Triumph T100 ...the T100 is shared with my wife and she has informed me that it's not going anywhere 😬
Just because someone makes a point or observation it doesn't mean they are rubbishing the product, most things are personal choice (and that's what matters). Take my hat off to the producer and those that know more and wish to share👍
I am just glad that I am not the only one that has more equipment like helmets, jackets and gear then you need. My home looks like a motorcycle apparel shop. Nice positioning of all three bikes in the garage. I am jealous, mine sit in my backyard under covers.
Another good video, anyone would think you do this for a living! A great idea addressing comments/feedback straightaway after the first ride vid. You could do that for other reviews perhaps. The fact that few people actually remember what a Beeza was like back then is a very good point. Who cares if it isn’t like the “original”? I have to laugh at people wanging on about reliability and dealer support. I wonder how many of them actually owned an old Brit bike. Mine was a shocker and I don’t miss it one bit. And I see your review is now linked on the latest BSA email. That should get you first dibs on the Scrambler. Looking forward to seeing that.
Yes I saw that BSA mail too, will be interesting to see if that gives the original video a boost or not (though it was doing fine anyway!). Yes I'm completely with you on the old vs new thing - old British bikes were hardly known for their reliability and oil tightness!! I suspect the new BSA will be a heck of a lot easier to live with than the original!
I have a 1979 750 Bonneville. If you do regular maintenance and a few modern upgrades the old bikes are completely reliable. By the way you can get the parts today easier than you could in the 1979
A good follow up video. I rode the Goldstar yesterday (video will be out Sunday/Monday). I have had my Interceptor since 2020, and honestly don’t think the Goldstar rides as well as my Interceptor. Also the fit and finish is not quite as good as the Interceptor. Take the join in the pinstripe tape on the tank, for example, that would kick my ocd off. Ok, so I am nit picking, but there is nothing wrong with the welds on my Interceptor frame, and I also found the riding position on the Goldstar to be cramped in the leg department, and I am only 5ft 9” with 30” inside leg. The Rotax engine is fantastic, but not necessarily any better than the Interceptor, just a different feel being a single, and developing it’s power in a different way. The Goldstar is a nice bike, but I won’t be swapping my Interceptor for one anytime soon. Thanks for sharing.
Hi Andy. For what it's worth as a biker who well remembers the original Goldie, personally I am not offended by the pipes strawing, I would put a fruitier silencer on it as it is too soft for me. Last point: headlamp brackets - spot-on perfect in my opinion, the T100 style brackets would detract from the authenticity of the Goldie IMHO. I find most modern 'retros' are confused, not having the elegantly simple looks of thier predecessors. My only dislike is the Radiator. Hopefully Motone or someone will come out with something less ugly. 👍 Oh, and the number plate badly needs moving up the rear mudguard!
You've made me happy ! You've just confirmed, I did make the correct decision to get a Speed Twin as my first big bike back in 2019 ! Nothing against the Interceptor, that was just becoming available back then, but I think I made the correct decision. I would have probably been happy with the Interceptor at first, but I think I'd have out grown it by now. That's not the case with the Speed Twin. It's still way quick enough ! I've still got the Triumph blingy dials on my one. After watching the effort you took to change the dials, I think my ones will stay blingy !
I make everything look difficult - that dial change wasa a great mod IMO...as is the Speedie! As I said, in a different league to these other retros....but the price reflects that.
Options on the downpipe bronzing- regular cleaning with metal polish\ get the exhaust chromed (then you'll have blueing to deal with)\ professional high temp ceramic coat. Personally as long as the entire exhaust is bronzed I think it will look OK.
I wouldn't worry about Mahindra. Here in America their line of tractors is highly sought after and extremely well thought of. I just wish they could get their line of small, diesel-fired pick-up trucks past the EPA and to market here. I 'd drive one in a heartbeat. If Mahindra quality carries over into the BSA motorcycle line, they'll stand-up well.
A great, honest impartial assessment. I'm sure that when you can actually purchase one, there will be a mad rush from people wanting the BSA badge. But after that i don't see them flying out of showrooms or challenging Royal Enfield in a serious way long term. Personally, i would rather save up a little longer and buy the Triumph.
Outside of dealer support and reliability one thing to determine is the investment. If you ever plan to sell or upgrade. It’s going to be interesting to see the resale value on the BSA or Royal Enfield. Most do not know these brands exist yet meaning fewer people searching for them used.
A lot of negativity in the comments. I'd rather wait longer for a machine whilst supply chain and general production process was sorted, rather than rushing out bikes that had varying finish. Your review of the production bike is better than I thought it'd be, that's a good start ! If the Rotax engine is made to spec. It'll be a reliable unit, no matter where it's made. I can't pass judgement on things that haven't happened ?!
Enjoyed that Mr Flyer. The BSA is a lovely looking bike and felt right when I sat on it at Motorcycle Live. I have sports bikes, but would still have a place for the BSA. Bits stuck anywhere, as they used to say in the sixties.
As a rule you get what you pay for but everyone or most people have to live within a budget. I like the bluing on the pipes of a 70s Bonny. Also a fan of chrome metal fenders.
Interesting and informative review of the new BSA Gold Star. Thx for posting. The Gold Star seems to be just the job for someone considering buying a reasonably priced motorcycle for fun and getting to work. It is significant the you rate the single cylinder Gold Star over the twin cylinder Interceptor. Personally, I can live with the flanged tank and the radiator, but the exhaust system on the Gold Star looks out of place to me, and the rear shocks are a touch soft. Luckily, there are reasonably price improved replacements on the market which are easy to fit. The replacement exhaust not only looks good, but also saves a ton of weight and gives a performance improvement. Of course, replacement rear shocks improve handling and ride.
I tested one. Brilliant engine. The general finish less so. Lots of cheap transfers. The warning light cluster is nearly invisible in sunlight, and bafly placed. Better to have placed them in the clocks. The digital inserts for odometer are difficult to read as well. Overall it was a nice ride though
Hey Andy sorry not convinced give it 2 years and revisit whether BSA as a company is any good I have my doubts .But loving the Triumph Speed it's a toss up between that and a Harley for me hopefully next year at some point "used of course '' going from 4s to twins and I still prefer Royal Enfield just looks better in my opinion 😉👍
It has been mentioned that the pipes go brown due to heat on the Gold Star. Apparently the so called star heatsink near the head is more of an insulator than a heatsink and thus contributes to heating up the pipes. I haven't tried this, but the solution to reducing the heating seems to be to simply remove it, which also improves the appearance of the bike. Another approach may be to find an effective heatsink from another bike- just saying.
I bought a Segura (French you'll find) Leone to wear on my RE Classic 350 for the same reasons as you - naturally when I picked the bike up from the dealer it was p**ssing down but the jacket kept me nice and dry even though it's a drop liner. Good selection of pockets too, although no back protector as standard. Bargain price from Infinity at the mo - that's where I bought mine.
Hi Andy good review, I have a interceptor, which I enjoy. I took the BSA for a test ride and found it a little lacking in some areas, I took it on my usual route to test out the suspension and had it bounce me out of the seat, this did not happen with my interceptor. The engine noise bugs me, the counter balance clunks it sounds like the big end is knocking, for a water cooled bike that's not acceptable. It was also a little off and on when closing and opening the throttle, this was only when warmed up and running a little leaner. The mirrors were badly positioned you needed to move your head to see behind you. Aside from these annoying points it rode and handled well and the seat was great.
I get your comment regarding Mahinda’s spotty track record with motorcycles,but remember Royal Enfield was12 months late at least on releasing the 650 Twins. That seems to have turned out okay, was hanging out for the RE release at the time so I remember it.
Fingers X-ed they get all the dealer networks sorted out ASAP and start getting these out there for people to buy. I'm sure they will sell these in bucket loads in the next 6 months plus.
By the way Andy, A friend is taking delivery of a new Triumph Speed Twin today from the Alicante dealer ....looking forward to the ride later..on my Striple 675...You're right, Triumph is a lot more expensive but its shows by the finish and detail. Greeting from España
My 1st bike was a 1951 Indian Warrior 500cc made by Royal Enfied . You 'd have to follow it along with a wheelbarrow and a shovel to pick up all the parts that would vibrate off of it .
Thanks for this excellent follow up Andy 👍 I’m just going to wait and see what happens next with this relaunch before getting excited and backing it with my hard earned cash. Good job, nice of you to do a follow up, very helpful. ER
HI Andy what i do like to see on the BSA which the others don't have is that longer front mudguard stops all the crud on the engine ? bring back long mudguards at least the rear of the guard, ATB Wayne.........
Subliminal disclaimer was an adventure in Pause Prowess.... but loved the challenge and totally agreed with it. Really enjoy ALL your video Content...Please keep it up! ;0)
This is going to the outsider that will come up on the inside and surprise a few. What’s coming across generally which is peaking interest is how it makes you feel which is the most important part of a motorcycle rather than how blue the exhaust is lol. The scrambler version looks tasty and apparently a larger capacity version which I imagine will have twin discs upratated suspension etc but possibly only for the Asian market. Good videos and popular too I imagine !
Are there plans to bring it to the States? I've had my eye on the Enfield 350 Classic, but a 650 would do better on the faster hwys here. Stay safe, n have fun!
Be nice to see if all the people who have commented turn into sales…. It’s great to see the brand return, especially if you have an original BSA. Is it close to the original… well, that well known saying. Adopt, Adapt, Improve…. Hopefully BSA have done so.
Great review, as always. I like the look of the BSA at NEC this year, it was a nice addition to my girlfriends shortlist. I hope you can get hold of a Kawasaki Z650rs to compare these with soon. I rode the Z900 retro at ABR last year and loved it, reminded of the 1978 Z1000 I should never have sold, so expect the Z650RS to be lots of fun.
Segura is French. They are great jackets though, I have the Leone myself & love it. Very warm. Doesn't include a back protector so I popped a good aftermarket one in (there is a pocket to put one inside). One thing to watch is sizing as they tend to be a bit on the small side. I normally wear large, but had to go to an XL in this jacket. HAve you seen the BSA scrambler concept bike? Now, that really does look good.
@@TheMissendenFlyer Because segura is Spanish for secure probably ! Odd that a French brand should use a Spanish word, so your mistake was actually well founded Andy 👍
all great looking bikes. my wife and i were out to dinner with an expat british couple the other night and it was a nice enough dinner but everything changed when i asked him if he'd ever been to the isle of man. he told me he had ridden his BSA goldstar to the island and camped to see the races. you should have seen his face light up when i told him you could get a "new" version. let's hope they send a few to the USA. nice jacket by the way.
Great follow up bud 👍 I see lots of folks making comparisons to the original BSA bikes. Shock, horror, surprise, it's not an original BSA bike! I think they done well to bring the look and quite possibly the feel of the original, into the 21st century. For anyone thinking it doesn't sound like it's a 60s British bike, it's obviously not. This bike uses a modern engine design from a reliable engine manufacturer, and modern fuelling techniques, all of it with much tighter tolerances. It will never sound like the old rattly BSA, because it's not one. But it does sound pretty good, if maybe a little quiet from behind, and is perfectly in keeping with how any other modern single sounds. The launch delays are quite likely just down to small manufacturers being at the back of the queue of the electronics and precision component manufacturing industries, which is badly affecting smaller companies the world over right now, even the big guys are struggling to meet demand, rapidly switching supply lines or both. I'm betting that they have only released a few bikes in order to take the pulse of the public again, just to see if the original enthusiasm is still there for it. Especially given that they know their timetables have been slipping all down the line. They are at a crossroads with this financially I reckon, and are looking for a direction pointer. They know they had to get this into the public's hands now, or drop it and move on with other projects. I think they'll hear the love message and ramp it up. Lastly, one of the reasons everyone that owns or has owned an old 60's bike, has so much love for them, is that you were forced to become intimate with it, right down to the last bolt. Modern bikes have a disconnect because they are so damned reliable in comparison. It should be a right of passage to have to break out the spanners every weekend before heading down to the local cafe to catch up with your pals, who most like had to do the same, or using the card insert from something (smokes usually) to reset your points at 2am on a dark road. These things are what bonds you and your bike together forever...and the rose tinted memories from the old guys, that's the love of motorcycling, as it should be 👍
You should have mentioned about service intervals & the cost. Its the most important thing. For example, Interceptor needs every year valves adjustment but the Goldstar every 47.000 !! Cheaper to own it. And what about these horrendous transmission problems of the T120 ?
Hi Andy great comparative review as usual the the Speed Twin understandably at the top (you get what you pay for) I recently sold mine and managed to get a Kawawsaki 900 RS SE Orange Ball if you get a chance try one ,I think these are the top of the retro bike scene.
I have never known a bike have so much open hostility against it. After commenting on the Rotax engine being potentially robust I was lambasted with RELIGIOUS FERVOUR by a notable RE desciple. When I pointed out that I had seen a couple of REs in bits at 10k & 12k his rage erupted. I will stick to my used fleet 2009 Suzuki GSF650sa , 2016 BMW G650gs and 2 2000/2002 Yam TW125 , TOTAL combined cost for 4 bikes £5750 I Might buy a goldstar at 3 or 4 years old .
I think it's over-priced for not-being a real BSA , the 'badge' can't be worth that much ? This is the 2nd-time BSA have used another motor (SR500) , at least they pick proven engines . I'm interested in 'Failed' RE650-motors , I haven't come-across any in my 'searches' ,this is the first I have heard this , was it a particular year etc ? only asking because I'd seriously considered buying one and selling my W650 . Dave NZ
I’d be interested to know how it compares to the original BSA Gold Star 500cc insofar as riding it; specifically acceleration and speed. As I understand it the original Gold Star was considered a fast bike for its time, I’ve compared spec sheets for the two and bhp seems similar, torque seems slightly higher, but weight is considerably more.
Just looked and sat on one at Fowlers and I have to say I was impressed. I've been a critic of the radiator but have to say that in the flesh it blended in well. I don't think the niggles of some critics are very valid. I'll certainly be taking a test ride.
I use ‘Purple Metal Polish’ (product by California Custom) to polish the headers on my Rocket 3R. It takes away the bronzing appearance, bringing them back very close to their original colour. Not cheap but worth it.
Interceptor owner here. Saw the BSA at motorcycle live and liked it but thought the clocks lie too flat. Had a test ride on a triumph bobber as I’ve fancied one since they came out. Very disappointed; weird front end handling, lumpy motor and clunky gearbox. Need to try a T120 though see if it handles better. Each to there own as they say!
Nice piece Andy. I remember when Yamaha was slow in bringing out the 700 Tenere that people on the net were saying they were losing out to KTM who had the 790 out etc but infac Yam were getting it right for production so the customer isn’t used for quality control. The fact you mentioned this prod bike is better made than the pre prod models at the NEC bears out that maybe BSA are making sure the bikes are spot on before releasing them? I prefer the look to the RE but actually have a new Guzzi 850 V7 special so won’t be changing anytime soon. 👍🏻
Aah...Rotax! Good! Then we all know that tinkering with some bits and pieces here and there will raise the bhp level! Good to know! Nice film mr Flyer!
I recently bought the Gold Star in the red and white and am really pleased with it. However, I was disappointed when I found a chip in the paint on the leading edge of the front mudguard and 14 miles on the clock. The dealer did say that they would replace the mudguard but I thought that was rather extreme for such a small chip and have decided to get it fixed myself. As for the mileage already on the clock, on querying this with the dealer I was told that the manufacturer sometimes do a random check on bikes and that this was probably the case. I contacted BSA to check with them, no response. Was I right in accepting the bike? I think it is a great retro bike ( I am 79 and lusted after one originally), smooth, comfortable, plenty of grunt if you want it and good value for money. I do agree that first gear does feel rather floppy but as was said, you do get used to it.
Really liked this format of following up the questions via a video, save you a lot of typing, maybe something to start doing with your other reviews moving forward. I do like the look of this bike and I have a soft spot for these retro bikes, I sat on one at the NEC and it certainly felt comfortable. I think direct comparison with RE bikes is more complicated than it seems as for a 650 you are comparing a single to a twin and the RE singles are smaller capacity. Either way this is a great market sector and it would be good for other manufacturers to start getting into.
Yes I quite like this format too, helped by the fact I put the original video up ASAP and still had the bike after having received lots of comments - normally I record a video some months in advance so by the time I receive comments the bike is long gone....not that that necessarily stops me answering points made mind you...
I pre ordered one when they first became available as a “ back lane bike”and was promised “late August” that then slipped to September, then October/ November. At that point I cancelled the order and got my deposit back. It’s now December and they are saying customer bikes will be available very soon! I’ll wait until the Spring and see what the situation is but given that I can walk into my local dealer and ride off on a RE continental GT within a few days, I think I know which way I’m leaning now.
They're a new company launching a new bike in the most difficult times. Moto Guzzi, making bikes in the same factory since 1923, are taking even longer to get their new V100 Mandello into the dealers.
The frame welds .. the frame is a Harris design on the RE so it will be far superior to the Mahindra frame set up. You also mentioned the Rotax engine out of the old GS. This was the same as the Aprilia pegaso but with a four valve head. The engine was notorious for "wet sumping", sprag clutch bearing failures and head gaskets failing. I would bank on the RE twin being bullet proof as it was a complete new design other than the Rotax re-hashed unit! Speaking from someone who has owned a few of each. Don't like the RE bashing.Time well tell ...
@@TheMissendenFlyer Hi Andy no I haven't had he pleasure yet, I am sure that it goes great. I was only making the point that the Interceptor was designed and built by ex Triumph and Harris engineering bod's. Now a few years later Mahindra have had the opportunity to use the Interceptor as a rule off thumb just like RE used Triumph.. each to there own.
Thanks for posting. A good comparison between the three bikes. The jacket looks great. Did some research. The company, Segura, is located in France and unfortunately they don't have representation in the USA.
@@TheMissendenFlyer I thought it was Spanish too. In Spanish (my first language) it translate into secure. I suspect it means the same in French. BTW, I continue to enjoy your USA trip postings.
Really interesting follow up to your review. Plenty of questions and clarifications too. I have to say though, your Bonneville looks superb and although it is the most expensive it would take my cash. Cheers.
Good honest video. Now to get a test ride and decide wether you want a 650 single or a 650 twin. Most negative BSA comments seem to come from happy RE owners. 🤔
You're not keen on the bronzed downpipes, but your Triumph has them ?! The bolts sticking off the footpegs look more dangerous than the usual rounded balls if you happen to ground it on a corner. Thanks for your answers, I guess the biggy is how reliable the brand is. Merry Christmas to you both 🎅
if it was me I would wait until it a definite date before I ordered one of these not that I would as not my thing. the track record not so good better safe than sorry for me great vid again TMF
I really like the look of the new Gold Star except for the rear lights and number plate hanging down below the mudguard and I’m surprised I’ve not heard anyone else comment on it. I really think they should be mounted higher up on the mudguard, Enfield have got it right I think.
Good deal. That is a nice jacket, be good if it was wax cotton, shed some water. Hey, the electrical system on the Gold Star, run heated grips? Battery type? Never thought of that but a necessity in my life these days. Be safe
Re. Mahindra and Jawa, I think there are grounds for concern in the way they've handled the marketing of Jawa-badged bikes. The 300cc retro-styled machine they market in India and some European countries has been a good seller (and is, by all accounts, a very good machine). Yet Mahinadra currently don't import them into the UK and don't plan to...because they don't think there's a particularly good market for smaller mid-capacity motorcycles. Hum, that doesn't sound like a company with a particularly good grasp of the UK motorcycle market.
Actually, just to make it crystal clear - the Jawas and yezdis aren't that great - underpowered, not very good build quality, rubbish gearbox etc etc. They do look good, but as an old two stroke fan, they sort of miss the mark for me. Mahindra has a TERRIBLE track record for bikes - it's Mojo is one of the worst bikes ever created, I think. The yezdis and Jawas share engine underpinnings with that wretched thing. The BSA seems to be an entirely different kettle of fish. The engine is designed by people who know what they're doing, the bike is styled by people who clearly love their product and WANT to do the brand justice despite the horrors of euro 5/bs6 and it seems to be a lovely machine... Except for the hideous radiator. Honestly would love to try one out and perhaps even own one. The only question is - will the BSA in England be the same spec everywhere else? If they downgrade it for other markets, I guarantee it will fail.
@@KiyanushKaranjia I own a Jawa Classic and let me tell you my honest experience. I have clocked 8k kms on the odo and the thing about gear box is absolutely untrue. At least, in my machine. The gear box is slick, just it gives you trouble when the bike is in neutral. And underpowered you say? 26.7 bhp if I can correct you. The torque is absolutely meaty in the mid of the rev cycle and I have cruised on it 90km/h with absolutely no vibes. Yea, there were quality control issues in my bike. Rusting, wiring fault, and few other issues. But, everything was replaced and fixed free of cost from the company.
@@tariqomar0 You must have a service center that cares, then. I have a mate who bought one in Bombay, and for some reason, his piece was a disaster. Pretty looking bike, especially in the white, but the same fuse blew thrice, the brake pads wore out in the front very quickly, the suspension developed a rattle after 2000km, neutral was impossible to find, shifting from first to second was always imprecise, a gearbox rattle developed after a bit, the speedometer stopped working and the taillight blew. The service center refused to fix things for weeks at a time, claiming labour issues and parts availability issues. Finally fixed the damn thing up and hawked it off as fast as possible. He bought a used low mile Interceptor next and is thoroughly enjoying it. I have a continental GT 650, so I suppose that speaks volumes - I am indeed utterly spoiled by it power and torque wise and I always found the jawa anaemic. Sorry to shit on the jawa dude, no hard feelings, but I've seen very different first hand. If you're enjoying yours and its giving you a good time, that's all that matters. Ride safe! Who knows, maybe we just got an especially cursed one.... Still, REALLY hoping they launch the BSA in india soon.... IN UK SPEC. If they downgrade it for here (CEATS instead of pirellis, different brakes etc.), it'll definitely fail.
@@KiyanushKaranjia No hard feelings bro. I know there have been instances where people have faced a lot of inconvenience. But then, every product has some flaws. And especially the ones launched new in the market. I remember the Himalayan when it was launched, there were a lot of complaints regarding the chassis breaking from the welding joints. But now, it is one of the best adv in India. So, I think we should judge Jawa or any other brand on their improvements over time and not on the basis of one odd product.
Bronzing and blueing not helped by modern lean running engines creating hotter exhaust, just a downside of Euro regs. Would probably help if the fake 'finned' exhaust clamps were actually big enough to dissipate some heat!
I'm sure with that big single cylinder, low rpm torque is not a problem and with that liquid cooling system, safe to say that overheating won't be an issue. The top speed will definitely suffer though & I think that's where the RE650's shine more.
Yes, the top speed of the Interceptor is around 110 -120 mph, while the Gold Star's is around 95 mph. How often do you ride at 95 mph or above? Are your tires and the road surface up to it?
@@stewartellinson8846 - "...nostalgia and nothing else" is sloppy overstatement. If top speed is an indication of passing ability at 65-70 mph (as with the 350 Royal Enfields), it is quite relevant to practical and safe highway/freeway travel. With the RE and BSA 650s, top speed is a measure of where the engine begins straining and vibrating - an indication of where the comfortable speed band is. But top speed aside, such bikes are also bought for simplicity of maintenance and the open air looks of the engine and the purity of 2-wheel travel without all the electronics - all appreciated by a significant share of both old and young riders.
@@daveinwla6360 so you're seriously trying to tell me that a fuel injected bike with abs is "without all the electronics"??? As to simplicity of maintenance, they'll all be maintained by dealers. I stand by my original comment - these will be bought by the terminally nostalgic who'll use them as an excuse to ride ten miles and moan about kids today and share memes about drinking battery acid . The day I see one on the commute to work is the day I eat my helmet.
Nice collection of retro bikes. My garage being full has 3 bikes, all of different styles to give me a bike to soothe my particular mood. Also trying to dress for the style of motorcycle. Most often I come home with a satisfying grin and that is the most important part. Life is too short to nitpick. I'm one who loves a clean bike., being content with blueish pipes. 👍👍🏍🏍🏍🙋♂️
Give it a year or two when there are a few on the sh market I would look to pick one up to turn into a little vintage style bobber - single cylinder thump and simple styling would be a lovely base (assuming you can hide all the electrics and plumbing
The BSA is undoubtedly a lovely looking bike and I know you pointed out that it carries its weight low but IMO there's not the slightest excuse in 2022 for a 650 single to weigh 217kg, especially when other middleweight steel framed bikes are all 190kg or lighter, you've the MT-07 at 184kg, the Hornet and Trident at 190 and 189kg and that's two twins and a triple so a single should be at least as light if not lighter.
Alot of those bike are light because of a special frame, engine as a stressed memeber, or other advancements that aren't included here. If you make a bike with an old style frame and liquid cooling, its gonna be heavy. You've probably got 5lb alone in coolant.
Did exactly the same thing today on my meteor350. Who needs power ...chilled and relaxed riding is surely the way to go. Sorry about your shoulder, if you need a 2nd opinion check out Mr Matthew Sala...the very best
re The Twitter- I noticed some time ago that a friend's 750 Virago, of all things, twittered on the overrun or being turned off. My point being that it is possible to engineer these things in to a modern (ish!), quiet exhaust. As for stainless pipes - polish it! Generations of BMW airhead owners with aftermarket pipes either let them go brown, or polish the life out of them. I polish mine.....
Thankfully modifying your bike's engine is not illegal yet. I have a Yamaha XV950, and an ECU flash, air filter mod and alternative silencer removed the few niggling riding issues that it had. I'm sure the same is already being developed by third parties for the Goldstar.
My first love in a bike sense has always been thumpers, and in the modern era, in terms of looks the BSA is as close to my idea of perfect as it comes. I started riding about the time the BSA brand was on it's last legs. In terms of power it has enough for me, in terms of gear ratios I'd probably want to fiddle so that maximum torque in top gear was about 70 plus mph (true speed), max torque used to equate to max fuel efficiency / power output (most efficient hp), this might be out-of-date thinking.
It won't go rusty Even if you didn't clean it. The bsa has a brushed stainless steel finish, which is why it goes brown, just like your triumph and the Himalayan you rode. The Japanese bikes you referred too were just chromed, no stainless, which after a few winter's started to rust. So you need to stop seeing this as a negative and instead be pleased it's made of a higher quality metal than normal exhausts fitted as standard 🙂
Love your vids Andy - one Q: is the chrome part real chrome or just some sort of foil (as it looks to me)? Thanks for your vids, keep them coming & stay safe Q
I don't know about the aircraft which Mr Flyer pilots but many classic aircraft instruments sweep in the same way as those on this machine. ie the needle commences its sweep at the top of the clock face (five past postion) rather than the twenty five to position. Best of all, it isn't a digital speedo.
Ha you’ve had me out checking my welds!! Andy the welds on my interceptor are just fine, on my old Bullet theres one slightly messy weld, I’ve also got an old Yamaha 350 lc YPVS and the welds are good on that too … so I guess it comes down to the individual that does the welding… also what day of the week and the time of day may also have some bearing on the out come of weld quality… 🙄
As someone who works in Procurement and Supply chain, the whole world has gone crazy since Covid, with major disruptions in supply of material ranging from raw material (steel, aluminium), paint, electrical and electronic components, so it is very short sighted and unfair for people to single out BSA for not managing things and the delays in productions bikes getting to market - every firm is still having problems (including where I work!).
Great follow up TMF 👍🏻
RE don't seem to have the problem ....
@@Ian-xt1mbdoesn’t mean the problem isn’t the in RE - I’ve heard delays on Hunter.
This is a recognised global problem in all industries - and will be especially problematic for new businesses like BSA, who will have loads of teething problems to iron out and won’t have mature supplier relationships yet set up.
The problem isn't really down to the delays, it's down to communication... if they had been more transparent and kept people informed about problems then they wouldn't have had as much negative feelings from people.....
i also think people need to be a bit more charitable india was hit very hard by covid due to the living condtions over there in many cases there arnt 6 people to a house but to 6 people to a room sometimes more. makeing isolation impossible and there health care isnt great either. Yet all be it slow are still producing quality motorcycles at a low price despite it. And then theres the import export problems that covid has made. Engines from rotax in Austria for example.
I agree with you Mick C. I’m CEO of an industrial tech company and the electronic component shortages have come close to killing us, despite the fact we are the leaders in our sector. Covid certainly has driven the manufacturing world into chaos.
This ' Your questions answered' piece is a great idea TMF and clearly transferrable to any of your future reviews. Cheers!
Thanks Colin - yes I may well do that, should have though of it before! Only issue is I tend to make videos months in advance (so the follow up piece may not have the actual bike in question at hand)....
Those who are complaining that it doesn't sound like the original, or that it's too heavy or has plastic mudguards etc. are living in the past and might be better off getting a 1960's Goldie that they will spend more time tinkering with than actually riding.
The one I don't get is the weight. I realize the starter adds some, but sixty years ought to mean something in alternate weight savings.
@@stevek8829 Water cooling, exhaust emissions control and fuel tank emissions control also all add weight. Steel and alloy weighs the same as it always did so the only real weight saving would be the plastic but that's clearly outweighed by the gains.
Couldn't agree more Mark!
@@richardsutton01 very well put!
Nothing to complain about. The new bike runs better, starts easier, vibrates less, doesnt leak oil, needs less tinkering and is more reliable.
That comment about retro bikes being manufactured to replicate the original sound is spot on.
The sound is a big part of the character of a bike.
Another reason to give the electric bike concept the boot.
I rode that same bike yesterday and also the Interceptor as well and I found the BSA had a better engine, better brakes, better handling and was more comfortable . Still liked the Enfield thou. I'm now ordering the BSA.
Ofcourse it will have a better engine cos its made by rotax
No centre stand though 🙁
I'm lucky in that my local RE dealer has also acquired the BSA franchise and demonstrators will be available soon. So it'll be possible to ride the Gold Star and Interceptor back to back. I'm sure this will help a lot of potential buyers 👍
Very cool!
that is actually what i am most intressted in!
I've read that RE are taking over their own/dealerships/ marketing, so I don't know how this will effect the existing RE dealers (or the time-scale).
@@nearlypastit2385 I don't believe it will affect the current dealership network, it just means that support will be better as RE as a brand become even more mainstream
Re. the BSA clocks, they’re clearly a homage, design-wise, to the Smiths Chronometric speedometers and revcounters fitted to the original DBD34 Gold Star and many other British motorcycles in the 1940, 50s and 60s. And I thinks they’re really stylish - but then I’m a 63-year old analogue dinosaur, and would like these clocks all the more if they mimicked the jerky movement of the needles in Chronometric speedos and revcounters…like those fitted to my Norton 650SS, my first big motorcycle!!
I totally agree, I’m 70 years old and I’m a anologue guy living in a digital world.
I'm 71 and had Chronometrics on my A65 Lightning (1969 model) fitted aftermarket and I thought they'd be great, but I have to say, that I hated them with that jerky movement. So, after 4 or 5 months I removed them and happily went back to original. It's great we all like different things isn't it?
Great job, Andy - as usual!
Currently in my my garage : 2021 RE Interceptor 650 - 2003 Triumph America - 2021 Triumph T100 .
Hopefully, by the end of 2023 in my garage : 2023 BSA Goldstar - 2023 RE Super Meteor 650 - 2021 Triumph T100
...the T100 is shared with my wife and she has informed me that it's not going anywhere 😬
Just because someone makes a point or observation it doesn't mean they are rubbishing the product, most things are personal choice (and that's what matters). Take my hat off to the producer and those that know more and wish to share👍
Here here!
Hello 😊
I am just glad that I am not the only one that has more equipment like helmets, jackets and gear then you need. My home looks like a motorcycle apparel shop. Nice positioning of all three bikes in the garage. I am jealous, mine sit in my backyard under covers.
Another good video, anyone would think you do this for a living! A great idea addressing comments/feedback straightaway after the first ride vid. You could do that for other reviews perhaps.
The fact that few people actually remember what a Beeza was like back then is a very good point. Who cares if it isn’t like the “original”? I have to laugh at people wanging on about reliability and dealer support. I wonder how many of them actually owned an old Brit bike. Mine was a shocker and I don’t miss it one bit.
And I see your review is now linked on the latest BSA email. That should get you first dibs on the Scrambler. Looking forward to seeing that.
Yes I saw that BSA mail too, will be interesting to see if that gives the original video a boost or not (though it was doing fine anyway!). Yes I'm completely with you on the old vs new thing - old British bikes were hardly known for their reliability and oil tightness!! I suspect the new BSA will be a heck of a lot easier to live with than the original!
Richard fully agree with your comments in my opinion the flyer is the best tester out there for sure
@@ianclarke4814 That's very kind of you - thank you Ian!
I have a 1979 750 Bonneville. If you do regular maintenance and a few modern upgrades the old bikes are completely reliable. By the way you can get the parts today easier than you could in the 1979
A good follow up video. I rode the Goldstar yesterday (video will be out Sunday/Monday). I have had my Interceptor since 2020, and honestly don’t think the Goldstar rides as well as my Interceptor. Also the fit and finish is not quite as good as the Interceptor. Take the join in the pinstripe tape on the tank, for example, that would kick my ocd off. Ok, so I am nit picking, but there is nothing wrong with the welds on my Interceptor frame, and I also found the riding position on the Goldstar to be cramped in the leg department, and I am only 5ft 9” with 30” inside leg. The Rotax engine is fantastic, but not necessarily any better than the Interceptor, just a different feel being a single, and developing it’s power in a different way. The Goldstar is a nice bike, but I won’t be swapping my Interceptor for one anytime soon. Thanks for sharing.
That's very interesting - I found completely the opposite!
Hi Andy. For what it's worth as a biker who well remembers the original Goldie, personally I am not offended by the pipes strawing, I would put a fruitier silencer on it as it is too soft for me. Last point: headlamp brackets - spot-on perfect in my opinion, the T100 style brackets would detract from the authenticity of the Goldie IMHO. I find most modern 'retros' are confused, not having the elegantly simple looks of thier predecessors. My only dislike is the Radiator. Hopefully Motone or someone will come out with something less ugly. 👍 Oh, and the number plate badly needs moving up the rear mudguard!
Yes a few have mentioned that too!
It reminds me of those ridiculous gangster jeans that are half way down their backsides! 🤣🤣🤣
@@andrewhayes4246 .......but is a very practical crud catcher....lol!
Hello Andrew how are you. I’m Maria from Minnesota and I’m looking for a new partner, hope i didn’t offend you 😊
You've made me happy !
You've just confirmed, I did make the correct decision to get a Speed Twin as my first big bike back in 2019 !
Nothing against the Interceptor, that was just becoming available back then, but I think I made the correct decision.
I would have probably been happy with the Interceptor at first, but I think I'd have out grown it by now. That's not the case with the Speed Twin. It's still way quick enough !
I've still got the Triumph blingy dials on my one. After watching the effort you took to change the dials, I think my ones will stay blingy !
I make everything look difficult - that dial change wasa a great mod IMO...as is the Speedie! As I said, in a different league to these other retros....but the price reflects that.
Options on the downpipe bronzing- regular cleaning with metal polish\ get the exhaust chromed (then you'll have blueing to deal with)\ professional high temp ceramic coat. Personally as long as the entire exhaust is bronzed I think it will look OK.
I agree. I could forgive the bronzing on a sub 7k bike but I think it is unforgivable on a bike at the price of speed twin.
I wouldn't worry about Mahindra. Here in America their line of tractors is highly sought after and extremely well thought of. I just wish they could get their line of small, diesel-fired pick-up trucks past the EPA and to market here. I 'd drive one in a heartbeat. If Mahindra quality carries over into the BSA motorcycle line, they'll stand-up well.
Yes definitely here in india they own classic legends subsidiary of JAWA and YEZDI motorcycles with high quality
A great, honest impartial assessment. I'm sure that when you can actually purchase one, there will be a mad rush from people wanting the BSA badge. But after that i don't see them flying out of showrooms or challenging Royal Enfield in a serious way long term. Personally, i would rather save up a little longer and buy the Triumph.
We shall see!
Seems to be working for RE!
The big as yet unknown is dealer warranty support and parts supply. Would love that Speed Twin in my garage. Thanks for the BSA vids.
Outside of dealer support and reliability one thing to determine is the investment. If you ever plan to sell or upgrade. It’s going to be interesting to see the resale value on the BSA or Royal Enfield. Most do not know these brands exist yet meaning fewer people searching for them used.
A lot of negativity in the comments. I'd rather wait longer for a machine whilst supply chain and general production process was sorted, rather than rushing out bikes that had varying finish. Your review of the production bike is better than I thought it'd be, that's a good start ! If the Rotax engine is made to spec. It'll be a reliable unit, no matter where it's made. I can't pass judgement on things that haven't happened ?!
Well said!
Enjoyed that Mr Flyer. The BSA is a lovely looking bike and felt right when I sat on it at Motorcycle Live. I have sports bikes, but would still have a place for the BSA. Bits stuck anywhere, as they used to say in the sixties.
As a rule you get what you pay for but everyone or most people have to live within a budget.
I like the bluing on the pipes of a 70s Bonny. Also a fan of chrome metal fenders.
Interesting and informative review of the new BSA Gold Star. Thx for posting. The Gold Star seems to be just the job for someone considering buying a reasonably priced motorcycle for fun and getting to work. It is significant the you rate the single cylinder Gold Star over the twin cylinder Interceptor.
Personally, I can live with the flanged tank and the radiator, but the exhaust system on the Gold Star looks out of place to me, and the rear shocks are a touch soft. Luckily, there are reasonably price improved replacements on the market which are easy to fit. The replacement exhaust not only looks good, but also saves a ton of weight and gives a performance improvement. Of course, replacement rear shocks improve handling and ride.
I tested one. Brilliant engine. The general finish less so. Lots of cheap transfers. The warning light cluster is nearly invisible in sunlight, and bafly placed. Better to have placed them in the clocks. The digital inserts for odometer are difficult to read as well. Overall it was a nice ride though
Hey Andy sorry not convinced give it 2 years and revisit whether BSA as a company is any good I have my doubts .But loving the Triumph Speed it's a toss up between that and a Harley for me hopefully next year at some point "used of course '' going from 4s to twins and I still prefer Royal Enfield just looks better in my opinion 😉👍
It has been mentioned that the pipes go brown due to heat on the Gold Star. Apparently the so called star heatsink near the head is more of an insulator than a heatsink and thus contributes to heating up the pipes. I haven't tried this, but the solution to reducing the heating seems to be to simply remove it, which also improves the appearance of the bike. Another approach may be to find an effective heatsink from another bike- just saying.
I bought a Segura (French you'll find) Leone to wear on my RE Classic 350 for the same reasons as you - naturally when I picked the bike up from the dealer it was p**ssing down but the jacket kept me nice and dry even though it's a drop liner. Good selection of pockets too, although no back protector as standard. Bargain price from Infinity at the mo - that's where I bought mine.
Also available on sportbikeshop. Good price too!
Heartwarming to see Triumph, BSA, Enfield in same garage (even if it is modern versions). Follow up vid on comments is great idea Andy.
Cheers Graham - yes it seems to have gone down well, I may do more in future…
Hi Andy good review, I have a interceptor, which I enjoy. I took the BSA for a test ride and found it a little lacking in some areas, I took it on my usual route to test out the suspension and had it bounce me out of the seat, this did not happen with my interceptor.
The engine noise bugs me, the counter balance clunks it sounds like the big end is knocking, for a water cooled bike that's not acceptable. It was also a little off and on when closing and opening the throttle, this was only when warmed up and running a little leaner. The mirrors were badly positioned you needed to move your head to see behind you. Aside from these annoying points it rode and handled well and the seat was great.
I get your comment regarding Mahinda’s spotty track record with motorcycles,but remember Royal Enfield was12 months late at least on releasing the 650 Twins. That seems to have turned out okay, was hanging out for the RE release at the time so I remember it.
Yes good point - I had forgotten about that!
Fingers X-ed they get all the dealer networks sorted out ASAP and start getting these out there for people to buy. I'm sure they will sell these in bucket loads in the next 6 months plus.
Yes I reckon they will too…
By the way Andy, A friend is taking delivery of a new Triumph Speed Twin today from the Alicante dealer ....looking forward to the ride later..on my Striple 675...You're right, Triumph is a lot more expensive but its shows by the finish and detail. Greeting from España
Greetings Brian - in life generally you get what you pay for don't you....
My 1st bike was a 1951 Indian Warrior 500cc made by Royal Enfied . You 'd have to follow it along with a wheelbarrow and a shovel to pick up all the parts that would vibrate off of it .
I love that your lawnmower looks as clean and unused as your motorcycles!
What sort of man spends so much time keeping his electric lawnmower clean? 😊
I can assure you it’s not as clean as I’d like! (And in my defence I have infact never cleaned it!!)
Thanks for this excellent follow up Andy 👍
I’m just going to wait and see what happens next with this relaunch before getting excited and backing it with my hard earned cash.
Good job, nice of you to do a follow up, very helpful.
ER
I am falling in love with this BSA after watching three reviews!
It's a cool thing!
I think they should have etched the BSA logo into the engine casing rather than use stickers but the bike looks great.
I agree
HI Andy what i do like to see on the BSA which the others don't have is that longer front mudguard stops all the crud on the engine ? bring back long mudguards at least the rear of the guard, ATB Wayne.........
absolutely.............
Subliminal disclaimer was an adventure in Pause Prowess.... but loved the challenge and totally agreed with it. Really enjoy ALL your video Content...Please keep it up! ;0)
That was the idea - to piss off the trolls I point at them!
This is going to the outsider that will come up on the inside and surprise a few. What’s coming across generally which is peaking interest is how it makes you feel which is the most important part of a motorcycle rather than how blue the exhaust is lol. The scrambler version looks tasty and apparently a larger capacity version which I imagine will have twin discs upratated suspension etc but possibly only for the Asian market. Good videos and popular too I imagine !
Whaaat!
@@richardstory2423 you a blue man 😅
Are there plans to bring it to the States? I've had my eye on the Enfield 350 Classic, but a 650 would do better on the faster hwys here.
Stay safe, n have fun!
The perfect channel. For anyone who has never ridden a bike.
Bit rude Stephen - no need for that, we don’t know each other….just go elsewhere if you don’t like it
Quite agree, It's more like a fashion show.
@@TheMissendenFlyer You really don't like criticism do you? I can just see you stamping your feet.
I can honestly say that if I had a choice of picking any of your motorcycles it would be the Interceptor. 😍 This looks so good…
Thank you - I like it!
@@TheMissendenFlyer How come you never ride it then?
Be nice to see if all the people who have commented turn into sales…. It’s great to see the brand return, especially if you have an original BSA. Is it close to the original… well, that well known saying. Adopt, Adapt, Improve…. Hopefully BSA have done so.
Great review, as always. I like the look of the BSA at NEC this year, it was a nice addition to my girlfriends shortlist. I hope you can get hold of a Kawasaki Z650rs to compare these with soon. I rode the Z900 retro at ABR last year and loved it, reminded of the 1978 Z1000 I should never have sold, so expect the Z650RS to be lots of fun.
...just a shame its not a 4 cylinder like the Z900RS which I love....and is currently my favourite of all the retros I think....
@@TheMissendenFlyer true, but its the same engine as the Versys and has a great power delivery while also saving weight and manufacturing cost.
Segura is French. They are great jackets though, I have the Leone myself & love it. Very warm. Doesn't include a back protector so I popped a good aftermarket one in (there is a pocket to put one inside). One thing to watch is sizing as they tend to be a bit on the small side. I normally wear large, but had to go to an XL in this jacket.
HAve you seen the BSA scrambler concept bike? Now, that really does look good.
Segura is a french brand. I like there jackets, comfortable versatile and, as you mentioned AA rated.
My bad! Don't know why I thought it was Spanish!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Segura doesn’t sound very french. I had to ask google to be sure 😄
@@TheMissendenFlyer Because segura is Spanish for secure probably ! Odd that a French brand should use a Spanish word, so your mistake was actually well founded Andy 👍
all great looking bikes. my wife and i were out to dinner with an expat british couple the other night and it was a nice enough dinner but everything changed when i asked him if he'd ever been to the isle of man. he told me he had ridden his BSA goldstar to the island and camped to see the races. you should have seen his face light up when i told him you could get a "new" version. let's hope they send a few to the USA. nice jacket by the way.
Cheers Don!
Great follow up bud 👍 I see lots of folks making comparisons to the original BSA bikes. Shock, horror, surprise, it's not an original BSA bike! I think they done well to bring the look and quite possibly the feel of the original, into the 21st century. For anyone thinking it doesn't sound like it's a 60s British bike, it's obviously not. This bike uses a modern engine design from a reliable engine manufacturer, and modern fuelling techniques, all of it with much tighter tolerances. It will never sound like the old rattly BSA, because it's not one. But it does sound pretty good, if maybe a little quiet from behind, and is perfectly in keeping with how any other modern single sounds. The launch delays are quite likely just down to small manufacturers being at the back of the queue of the electronics and precision component manufacturing industries, which is badly affecting smaller companies the world over right now, even the big guys are struggling to meet demand, rapidly switching supply lines or both. I'm betting that they have only released a few bikes in order to take the pulse of the public again, just to see if the original enthusiasm is still there for it. Especially given that they know their timetables have been slipping all down the line. They are at a crossroads with this financially I reckon, and are looking for a direction pointer. They know they had to get this into the public's hands now, or drop it and move on with other projects. I think they'll hear the love message and ramp it up. Lastly, one of the reasons everyone that owns or has owned an old 60's bike, has so much love for them, is that you were forced to become intimate with it, right down to the last bolt. Modern bikes have a disconnect because they are so damned reliable in comparison. It should be a right of passage to have to break out the spanners every weekend before heading down to the local cafe to catch up with your pals, who most like had to do the same, or using the card insert from something (smokes usually) to reset your points at 2am on a dark road. These things are what bonds you and your bike together forever...and the rose tinted memories from the old guys, that's the love of motorcycling, as it should be 👍
Couldn’t agree more, thanks for the long comment, enjoyed reading that.
At last a review of this pasteurised legend that is not a series of sycophantic ecstasies! Thanks.
Glad you liked it!
You should have mentioned about service intervals & the cost.
Its the most important thing.
For example, Interceptor needs every year valves adjustment but the Goldstar every 47.000 !!
Cheaper to own it.
And what about these horrendous transmission problems of the T120 ?
Hi Andy great comparative review as usual the the Speed Twin understandably at the top (you get what you pay for) I recently sold mine and managed to get a Kawawsaki 900 RS SE Orange Ball if you get a chance try one ,I think these are the top of the retro bike scene.
Yes Mark, if I were buying a retro bike today, the Kawasaki would be the one.
I have never known a bike have so much open hostility against it. After commenting on the Rotax engine being potentially robust I was lambasted with RELIGIOUS FERVOUR by a notable RE desciple. When I pointed out that I had seen a couple of REs in bits at 10k & 12k his rage erupted.
I will stick to my used fleet 2009 Suzuki GSF650sa , 2016 BMW G650gs and 2 2000/2002 Yam TW125 ,
TOTAL combined cost for 4 bikes £5750
I Might buy a goldstar at 3 or 4 years old .
GRANT WEBSTER hostility against a motor bike, it's really quite sad.
I think it's over-priced for not-being a real BSA , the 'badge' can't be worth that much ? This is the 2nd-time BSA have used another motor (SR500) , at least they pick proven engines . I'm interested in 'Failed' RE650-motors , I haven't come-across any in my 'searches' ,this is the first I have heard this , was it a particular year etc ? only asking because I'd seriously considered buying one and selling my W650 . Dave NZ
@@kdsowen2882 There is no problems with the Interceptor engine, I'd like to know where he'd seen them.
So where have you seen these engines in bits?
I’d be interested to know how it compares to the original BSA Gold Star 500cc insofar as riding it; specifically acceleration and speed. As I understand it the original Gold Star was considered a fast bike for its time, I’ve compared spec sheets for the two and bhp seems similar, torque seems slightly higher, but weight is considerably more.
Just looked and sat on one at Fowlers and I have to say I was impressed. I've been a critic of the radiator but have to say that in the flesh it blended in well. I don't think the niggles of some critics are very valid. I'll certainly be taking a test ride.
Yes it rides nice!
I use ‘Purple Metal Polish’ (product by California Custom) to polish the headers on my Rocket 3R. It takes away the bronzing appearance, bringing them back very close to their original colour. Not cheap but worth it.
Interceptor owner here. Saw the BSA at motorcycle live and liked it but thought the clocks lie too flat.
Had a test ride on a triumph bobber as I’ve fancied one since they came out.
Very disappointed; weird front end handling, lumpy motor and clunky gearbox.
Need to try a T120 though see if it handles better.
Each to there own as they say!
For most YT channels I put playback speed on x1.25-1.5. Not this channel ......Andy is a quick talker!
Nice piece Andy. I remember when Yamaha was slow in bringing out the 700 Tenere that people on the net were saying they were losing out to KTM who had the 790 out etc but infac Yam were getting it right for production so the customer isn’t used for quality control. The fact you mentioned this prod bike is better made than the pre prod models at the NEC bears out that maybe BSA are making sure the bikes are spot on before releasing them? I prefer the look to the RE but actually have a new Guzzi 850 V7 special so won’t be changing anytime soon. 👍🏻
Yes you may be right Lee - dificult times for all manufacturing companies at the moent...
Aah...Rotax! Good! Then we all know that tinkering with some bits and pieces here and there will raise the bhp level! Good to know!
Nice film mr Flyer!
I definitely want an Int650 eventually. No room in my garage or budget at the moment. Maybe in a year or two I’ll be ready for a second bike.
Yes they make a great second bike for summer back lane riding....
@@TheMissendenFlyer Says the bloke who never rides his.
I recently bought the Gold Star in the red and white and am really pleased with it. However, I was disappointed when I found a chip in the paint on the leading edge of the front mudguard and 14 miles on the clock. The dealer did say that they would replace the mudguard but I thought that was rather extreme for such a small chip and have decided to get it fixed myself. As for the mileage already on the clock, on querying this with the dealer I was told that the manufacturer sometimes do a random check on bikes and that this was probably the case. I contacted BSA to check with them, no response. Was I right in accepting the bike?
I think it is a great retro bike ( I am 79 and lusted after one originally), smooth, comfortable, plenty of grunt if you want it and good value for money. I do agree that first gear does feel rather floppy but as was said, you do get used to it.
That 14 miles sounds a bit fishy to me…..
Really liked this format of following up the questions via a video, save you a lot of typing, maybe something to start doing with your other reviews moving forward. I do like the look of this bike and I have a soft spot for these retro bikes, I sat on one at the NEC and it certainly felt comfortable. I think direct comparison with RE bikes is more complicated than it seems as for a 650 you are comparing a single to a twin and the RE singles are smaller capacity. Either way this is a great market sector and it would be good for other manufacturers to start getting into.
Yes I quite like this format too, helped by the fact I put the original video up ASAP and still had the bike after having received lots of comments - normally I record a video some months in advance so by the time I receive comments the bike is long gone....not that that necessarily stops me answering points made mind you...
I pre ordered one when they first became available as a “ back lane bike”and was promised “late August” that then slipped to September, then October/ November. At that point I cancelled the order and got my deposit back. It’s now December and they are saying customer bikes will be available very soon!
I’ll wait until the Spring and see what the situation is but given that I can walk into my local dealer and ride off on a RE continental GT within a few days, I think I know which way I’m leaning now.
Yes it's not good that is it - major clangar dropped by BSA out of the gate!
They're a new company launching a new bike in the most difficult times. Moto Guzzi, making bikes in the same factory since 1923, are taking even longer to get their new V100 Mandello into the dealers.
The frame welds .. the frame is a Harris design on the RE so it will be far superior to the Mahindra frame set up. You also mentioned the Rotax engine out of the old GS. This was the same as the Aprilia pegaso but with a four valve head. The engine was notorious for "wet sumping", sprag clutch bearing failures and head gaskets failing. I would bank on the RE twin being bullet proof as it was a complete new design other than the Rotax re-hashed unit! Speaking from someone who has owned a few of each. Don't like the RE bashing.Time well tell ...
I’m not bashing the RE - I love mine and she’s a keeper, I just think the BSA goes better. Have you ridden one out of interest?
@@TheMissendenFlyer Hi Andy no I haven't had he pleasure yet, I am sure that it goes great. I was only making the point that the Interceptor was designed and built by ex Triumph and Harris engineering bod's. Now a few years later Mahindra have had the opportunity to use the Interceptor as a rule off thumb just like RE used Triumph.. each to there own.
My biggest gripe are those stickers! Otherwise its a beauty!
My local Triumph dealer is also the Royal Enfield dealer who knows they might end up being a BSA dealer as well. If BSA comes to Canada.
Great info on the Goldstar. I rode one today and I loved it . Just subscribed 😀
Welcome along! Thanks for the sub - will you be buying a Goldie??
@@TheMissendenFlyer placed my order today 😎
Thanks for posting. A good comparison between the three bikes. The jacket looks great. Did some research. The company, Segura, is located in France and unfortunately they don't have representation in the USA.
Oops - my bad - sorry (don’t know why I though they were Spanish!)
@@TheMissendenFlyer I thought it was Spanish too. In Spanish (my first language) it translate into secure. I suspect it means the same in French. BTW, I continue to enjoy your USA trip postings.
Nice to see you're stocking up well for Christmas.🍷
Well spotted!
I must say the BSA makes the forthcoming Honda Hornet even more of a bargain.
Hehe cheeky - but good point!
Really interesting follow up to your review. Plenty of questions and clarifications too. I have to say though, your Bonneville looks superb and although it is the most expensive it would take my cash. Cheers.
Yes it is by far an away the best bike of the three....
I think you need a bigger garage - not so much for the bikes, but more for all the jackets you’ve got hanging up! Great vid
That's because he's a fashion Queen.
Good honest video. Now to get a test ride and decide wether you want a 650 single or a 650 twin. Most negative BSA comments seem to come from happy RE owners. 🤔
Indeed - I am a happy RE owner mind you!
You're not keen on the bronzed downpipes, but your Triumph has them ?! The bolts sticking off the footpegs look more dangerous than the usual rounded balls if you happen to ground it on a corner. Thanks for your answers, I guess the biggy is how reliable the brand is. Merry Christmas to you both 🎅
Yes as I pointed out my Triumph has done 8000 miles though - the BSA less than 200.....just an observation not a big deal.
Great follow up, I was just going to ask about the jacket too!
if it was me I would wait until it a definite date before I ordered one of these not that I would as not my thing. the track record not so good better safe than sorry for me great vid again TMF
Wazzack... love it, thought I was the only old duffer that still uses wazzack.
Nope - it's regular daily vernacular in the Flyer household....
I really like the look of the new Gold Star except for the rear lights and number plate hanging down below the mudguard and I’m surprised I’ve not heard anyone else comment on it. I really think they should be mounted higher up on the mudguard, Enfield have got it right I think.
A few have commented on it here…
@@TheMissendenFlyer sorry, I hadn’t read all the comments. What are you thought?
Answered all my questions, I too hope BSA do well, great vid,
Thank you!
Good deal. That is a nice jacket, be good if it was wax cotton, shed some water. Hey, the electrical system on the Gold Star, run heated grips? Battery type? Never thought of that but a necessity in my life these days. Be safe
Re. Mahindra and Jawa, I think there are grounds for concern in the way they've handled the marketing of Jawa-badged bikes. The 300cc retro-styled machine they market in India and some European countries has been a good seller (and is, by all accounts, a very good machine). Yet Mahinadra currently don't import them into the UK and don't plan to...because they don't think there's a particularly good market for smaller mid-capacity motorcycles. Hum, that doesn't sound like a company with a particularly good grasp of the UK motorcycle market.
Shame that…
Actually, just to make it crystal clear - the Jawas and yezdis aren't that great - underpowered, not very good build quality, rubbish gearbox etc etc. They do look good, but as an old two stroke fan, they sort of miss the mark for me.
Mahindra has a TERRIBLE track record for bikes - it's Mojo is one of the worst bikes ever created, I think. The yezdis and Jawas share engine underpinnings with that wretched thing.
The BSA seems to be an entirely different kettle of fish. The engine is designed by people who know what they're doing, the bike is styled by people who clearly love their product and WANT to do the brand justice despite the horrors of euro 5/bs6 and it seems to be a lovely machine... Except for the hideous radiator. Honestly would love to try one out and perhaps even own one. The only question is - will the BSA in England be the same spec everywhere else? If they downgrade it for other markets, I guarantee it will fail.
@@KiyanushKaranjia I own a Jawa Classic and let me tell you my honest experience. I have clocked 8k kms on the odo and the thing about gear box is absolutely untrue. At least, in my machine. The gear box is slick, just it gives you trouble when the bike is in neutral. And underpowered you say? 26.7 bhp if I can correct you. The torque is absolutely meaty in the mid of the rev cycle and I have cruised on it 90km/h with absolutely no vibes. Yea, there were quality control issues in my bike. Rusting, wiring fault, and few other issues. But, everything was replaced and fixed free of cost from the company.
@@tariqomar0 You must have a service center that cares, then. I have a mate who bought one in Bombay, and for some reason, his piece was a disaster. Pretty looking bike, especially in the white, but the same fuse blew thrice, the brake pads wore out in the front very quickly, the suspension developed a rattle after 2000km, neutral was impossible to find, shifting from first to second was always imprecise, a gearbox rattle developed after a bit, the speedometer stopped working and the taillight blew. The service center refused to fix things for weeks at a time, claiming labour issues and parts availability issues. Finally fixed the damn thing up and hawked it off as fast as possible. He bought a used low mile Interceptor next and is thoroughly enjoying it.
I have a continental GT 650, so I suppose that speaks volumes - I am indeed utterly spoiled by it power and torque wise and I always found the jawa anaemic. Sorry to shit on the jawa dude, no hard feelings, but I've seen very different first hand. If you're enjoying yours and its giving you a good time, that's all that matters. Ride safe!
Who knows, maybe we just got an especially cursed one....
Still, REALLY hoping they launch the BSA in india soon.... IN UK SPEC. If they downgrade it for here (CEATS instead of pirellis, different brakes etc.), it'll definitely fail.
@@KiyanushKaranjia No hard feelings bro. I know there have been instances where people have faced a lot of inconvenience. But then, every product has some flaws. And especially the ones launched new in the market. I remember the Himalayan when it was launched, there were a lot of complaints regarding the chassis breaking from the welding joints. But now, it is one of the best adv in India. So, I think we should judge Jawa or any other brand on their improvements over time and not on the basis of one odd product.
Bronzing and blueing not helped by modern lean running engines creating hotter exhaust, just a downside of Euro regs. Would probably help if the fake 'finned' exhaust clamps were actually big enough to dissipate some heat!
I'm sure with that big single cylinder, low rpm torque is not a problem and with that liquid cooling system, safe to say that overheating won't be an issue. The top speed will definitely suffer though & I think that's where the RE650's shine more.
Yes, the top speed of the Interceptor is around 110 -120 mph, while the Gold Star's is around 95 mph.
How often do you ride at 95 mph or above? Are your tires and the road surface up to it?
I doubt anyone buying any of these cares about top speed. they sell on nostalgia and nothing else.
@@stewartellinson8846 - "...nostalgia and nothing else" is sloppy overstatement. If top speed is an indication of passing ability at 65-70 mph (as with the 350 Royal Enfields), it is quite relevant to practical and safe highway/freeway travel. With the RE and BSA 650s, top speed is a measure of where the engine begins straining and vibrating - an indication of where the comfortable speed band is.
But top speed aside, such bikes are also bought for simplicity of maintenance and the open air looks of the engine and the purity of 2-wheel travel without all the electronics - all appreciated by a significant share of both old and young riders.
@@daveinwla6360 so you're seriously trying to tell me that a fuel injected bike with abs is "without all the electronics"??? As to simplicity of maintenance, they'll all be maintained by dealers. I stand by my original comment - these will be bought by the terminally nostalgic who'll use them as an excuse to ride ten miles and moan about kids today and share memes about drinking battery acid . The day I see one on the commute to work is the day I eat my helmet.
Enjoyed the update Andy 😊👍
I have to admit, i do like the BSA, might test ride once it gets to Scotland...
Great summary of a great looking bike Andy!!
Nice collection of retro bikes. My garage being full has 3 bikes, all of different styles to give me a bike to soothe my particular mood. Also trying to dress for the style of motorcycle. Most often I come home with a satisfying grin and that is the most important part. Life is too short to nitpick. I'm one who loves a clean bike., being content with blueish pipes. 👍👍🏍🏍🏍🙋♂️
I’m a three bike man also, find that any more is hard work and don’t get out on them enough. So what 3 grace your garage?
@@MichaelWilliams-jc2ui All BMW-R1250RS, R nine pure, g310gs
Give it a year or two when there are a few on the sh market I would look to pick one up to turn into a little vintage style bobber - single cylinder thump and simple styling would be a lovely base (assuming you can hide all the electrics and plumbing
The BSA is undoubtedly a lovely looking bike and I know you pointed out that it carries its weight low but IMO there's not the slightest excuse in 2022 for a 650 single to weigh 217kg, especially when other middleweight steel framed bikes are all 190kg or lighter, you've the MT-07 at 184kg, the Hornet and Trident at 190 and 189kg and that's two twins and a triple so a single should be at least as light if not lighter.
Alot of those bike are light because of a special frame, engine as a stressed memeber, or other advancements that aren't included here. If you make a bike with an old style frame and liquid cooling, its gonna be heavy. You've probably got 5lb alone in coolant.
Did exactly the same thing today on my meteor350. Who needs power ...chilled and relaxed riding is surely the way to go. Sorry about your shoulder, if you need a 2nd opinion check out Mr Matthew Sala...the very best
re The Twitter- I noticed some time ago that a friend's 750 Virago, of all things, twittered on the overrun or being turned off. My point being that it is possible to engineer these things in to a modern (ish!), quiet exhaust. As for stainless pipes - polish it! Generations of BMW airhead owners with aftermarket pipes either let them go brown, or polish the life out of them. I polish mine.....
Thankfully modifying your bike's engine is not illegal yet. I have a Yamaha XV950, and an ECU flash, air filter mod and alternative silencer removed the few niggling riding issues that it had. I'm sure the same is already being developed by third parties for the Goldstar.
My first love in a bike sense has always been thumpers, and in the modern era, in terms of looks the BSA is as close to my idea of perfect as it comes. I started riding about the time the BSA brand was on it's last legs. In terms of power it has enough for me, in terms of gear ratios I'd probably want to fiddle so that maximum torque in top gear was about 70 plus mph (true speed), max torque used to equate to max fuel efficiency / power output (most efficient hp), this might be out-of-date thinking.
Nothing quite like riding a 650cc single. It really is a thumper. It has power where an inline 4 wouldn't even move.
Can clean the discoloration off with chrome cleaner and 0000 wire wool. Then give it a coat of resin wax and it will last a little bit.
It won't go rusty Even if you didn't clean it. The bsa has a brushed stainless steel finish, which is why it goes brown, just like your triumph and the Himalayan you rode. The Japanese bikes you referred too were just chromed, no stainless, which after a few winter's started to rust. So you need to stop seeing this as a negative and instead be pleased it's made of a higher quality metal than normal exhausts fitted as standard 🙂
Love your vids Andy - one Q: is the chrome part real chrome or just some sort of foil (as it looks to me)? Thanks for your vids, keep them coming & stay safe Q
Dificult to tell - seemed like real chrome to me.....
I don't know about the aircraft which Mr Flyer pilots but many classic aircraft instruments sweep in the same way as those on this machine. ie the needle commences its sweep at the top of the clock face (five past postion) rather than the twenty five to position. Best of all, it isn't a digital speedo.
Yes good point! I have no problem with the clocks starting other than at 6 o clock
Ha you’ve had me out checking my welds!! Andy the welds on my interceptor are just fine, on my old Bullet theres one slightly messy weld, I’ve also got an old Yamaha 350 lc YPVS and the welds are good on that too … so I guess it comes down to the individual that does the welding… also what day of the week and the time of day may also have some bearing on the out come of weld quality… 🙄
Very true
The Missenden Weld Inspector 😆