MAKE & MODEL: BSA A10

REGISTRATION: 972UYJ

DATE OF REGISTRATION: 12th October 1960

COLOUR: Gold/Black

ENGINE SIZE: 650cc

FRAME NO: GA7-10678

ENGINE NO: DA10-12897

DOCUMENTS: V5C, old MOT’s, Invoices

In the late 50’s, BSA, then the largest UK motorcycle manufacturer, were falling behind in the parallel-twin race after the introduction of the 650cc Triumph Thunderbird. Although BSA had a 500cc parallel-twin, the BSA A7, they needed to develop a 650cc to remain competitive.

As a result the BSA A10 series was introduced with a range of 646 cc (39.4 cu in) air-cooled parallel twin motorcycles designed by Bert Hopwood and produced by Birmingham Small Arms Company at Small Heath, Birmingham from 1950 to 1963.

Bert Hopwood served an apprenticeship under designer Val Page at Ariel. In 1936, Hopwood moved to Triumph, where he worked under Edward Turner to develop the 1937 Triumph Speed Twin. The innovative Speed Twin became the exemplar of the parallel twin engine layout for British motorcycles in the1950s and 1960s.

Purchased from a collector in 2020, our A10 has seen relatively little use recently and has just been subjected to a thorough overhaul and recommissioning. The works included a new surflex clutch, full service including valve settings, fresh oils, fuel and a safety check (amounting to over £600 with invoice on file). The machine now starts and runs beautifully and has been ridden a couple of times by one of our directors to ensure it meets the new owners expectations.

Having had just five owners in total, this A10 is now ready to be cherished and enjoyed by a new custodian who we are sure will have lots of fun with it – surely better than money in the bank and with the warmer weather approaching, now’s a great time to acquire it.

E & O E

‍