2022 BSA Gold Star - first ride review & old vs new

In this video we have our first ride review on the 2022 BSA Gold Star 650. We also compare it to the 1956 BSA Gold Star DBD34, which is the exact model this new bike is styled on.
Location for this video is Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire, UK.
// FOR ALL CHANNEL ENQUIRIES (INCLUDING SPONSORSHIP AND ADVERTISING) please contact Alex Rollings - [e-mail]
// ABOUT THE CLASSIC MOTORCYCLE CHANNEL
The Classic Motorcycle Channel is for people who love classic, vintage and antique motorcycles. We are passionate about classic motorcycles and produce high quality motorcycle profile videos, restoration videos, restorer profile videos and also anything that takes our interest.
// CHANNEL PARTNERS
- Alex Rollings - director and producer for the channel.
Instagram: @motofilmer
- Dave Mitchell - in house mechanic, presenter and producer. Dave also owns and runs a classic motorcycle workshop called Mitchell's Classics.
Website: www.mitchellsclassics.co.uk
- John Oakes - presenter and producer. John is a classic motorcycle enthusiast, rider and restorer and works closely with us on all our video content.
Instagram: @classicbikeman
// A BIG THANK YOU TO
- BSA and the team for inviting us along to test ride the new 2022 BSA Gold Star.
- Alex Rollings for filming and editing the video.
Instagram: @motofilmer
#bsa
#bsaisback
#bsamotorcycles

[@julianwinn4502]

I work with an older gentleman who used to ride an original Gold Star in the late 1960s. After a series of more modern bikes, he managed to find and buy another. As you say, they are hard to ride and I don't think his really sees the light of day very often. However, it was a present to himself and a strong reminder of his younger days. It makes me happy when he talks about it and his antics in a bygone era of motorcycling.

[@dbssdas]

The old Goldie was built for a time, where the traffic wasn't as maddening as it now. It does sound marvellous though. The new one doesn't sound bad either. Starting is definitely a pain, its a work in itself. Had one of those Royal Enfield Lean Burn with the manual compression, and boy the kickback can be brutal. Gives you machismo feeling, but its a pain when in stop and go traffic.

[@jamesgk1015]

My first motorcycle was a brand new 1962 BSA 350 single, bought in El Cajon California, a suburb of San Diego. I have been very partial to singles ever since and hope to shop this new 650 here in the Phoenix, Az. area . Enjoyed this post very much , Thank You.

[@jamesgk1015]

@@frankmarkovcijr5459 I could not keep it as within 2 thousand miles the rod bearing was squealing. Warranty repaired.another 800 miles same thing. Grudgingly repaired at dealer. Sold it. About y

[@jamesgk1015]

@@frankmarkovcijr5459 yes hard to believe even motorcycles have catalytic converters now, and a simple straight forward bike is long gone.

[@MOFTV]

In their own contemporary literature, BSA were quite open about the Clubman Gold Star as not being suitable for road use.

[@pashakdescilly7517]

The Gold Star DBD 34 is a highly tuned production racer. It is not really a road bike. A better comparison would be a CB 34, with flat handlebars, standard footrests and a road gear cluster.

[@johnjackson3847]

@@pashakdescilly7517 Or better still for general road use, the BSA 350 cc B31 or 500cc B33

[@martinhambleton5076]

When you hear an old Goldie it's magical. 🤩

[@johnjackson3847]

The old Goldie, nice to look at and hear, but a pig to start and ride in normal road conditions. Not practical for modern day roads and traffic. The old British bikes also leaked a lot of oil and the electrics were unreliable, especially the ignition and charging systems. Brakes not that good and lot of vibration as well in the old big four strokes. Modern motorcycles are so much improved and far more reliable.

[@tryarunm]

Magic too when the traffic cop pulls you over and asks if you've nicked granddad's bike, then gives you a ticket for that raucous exhaust. And then you have to restart the damn thing.

[@patrickwalker2509]

Will remind you that the original goldie clubman was NOT recommend for road use! It's stated on the original sales brochure.I have

[@jonesvox1]

The modern interpretation is definitely a huge upgrade. Reliability, economy, and performance leave the vintage BSA’s in the dust. In my youth I had ridden a 1970 Lightning. I wasn’t that experienced but between the right hand shift, poor brakes, and sour handling, the bike was a head-turner but terrifying to ride. I love vintage bikes but motorcycles truly have become so greatly improved over time. Cheers to your channel and review!

[@tonyparker7356]

It's not a 'huge upgrade' it's just a new bike to be styled vaguely like an old bike. It has ZERO character unlike the old bike. Still they'll launch and then folk will get bored and second hand they might be worth a punt as a commuter.

[@ludo9234]

Rarther have a B31 than this bike' but then again i use my 61 AJS 350 all year' rain or snow.

[@markalton2809]

"the right hand shift, poor brakes, and sour handling,"? I don't think you ever had a 1970 BSA Lightning. Handling? On rails Brakes? TLS front brake stopped you like a brick wall. Right hand shift? So were all Brit bikes, what a pleasure to brake and change gear DIAGONALLY. A natural movement, like swinging your left arm forward with your right leg when walking.

[@streetkleaver]

It definitely looks like a motorcycle that can be a commuter or a base of something you can customise and grow with to make it look well, even more "classic". I'm interested to see what progresses with aftermarket parts, tune up kits and exhaust systems once these get out in the world. I'm sure there's a sleeping beast under all that emission gear.

[@stevecolwill9761]

A very good review, Dave. I think anyone who says this is a hard sell is being unfair. You make it perfectly clear that it won’t be for everyone and that people should reserve judgement until they have actually seen and ridden one. The price seems reasonable too.

[@bartmotorcycle]

Great video as always Dave. I'll take the old one but of course the new one's going to be much easier. I'll be curious to see how they do!

[@ananddarnal6702]

Love your videos 🙌

[@babboon5764]

Its a very nicely styled homage to a BSA Goldstar Is it *really* a Goldstar? Dave's off beam with his assertion 'everyone expects it to be vibey because its a single'. Well, not if you've ridden the sorts of Rotax singles fitted to BMWs amongst others for the past 20 odd years you don't. Anyway acid test but who else is with Bart and would take the original in preference to this pleasant newcomer? Damn sure I'd rather have the old original.

[@johnjackson3847]

@@babboon5764 The old Gold Star was great to look at but a pig to drive for everyday type motoring, it was far more suited for use on the race track, For everyday riding, the new version is far better, easier to ride and of course way cheaper to buy !

[@babboon5764]

@@johnjackson3847 Kind of yeah ... that's no doubt true of many. There's a beautifully crafted new Norton Commando just coming to market that's rated way more refined than the original. But ........ Well, I guess its down to what you're aiming for with the bike.

[@johnjackson3847]

@@babboon5764 I had many of these old British bikes in the 1960s to 70s. One of them was a mid1950s BSA 350cc B31 ( related to the gold star ) good old British single and believe it or not, they were out of fashion in the mid 60s and I paid only £15 for my one, nowadays you would pay around £6000 plus. My brother was a Triumph man and he won many production races on his own Triumph Trophy that he converted to Bonneville specifications. He later on changed to racing Hondas.

[@icedidi]

This has attracted a lot of whining, mostly people moaning that basically it's not the original... Some even suggesting that the channel has sold out to evil corporate greed 😲. There has been a lot of interest in this bike, so thanks for showing it.

[@stevematthews641]

Its not the original,its oil tight and reliable

[@icedidi]

@@BanjoLuke1 a fantastic reply 👍

[@LonesomeTwin]

@@BanjoLuke1 That's it really. They bought a brand and then instantly decided to trade on it's most famous name completely regardless of the history they're trying to invoke. The Gold Star was all, and only, about speed, this recycled BMW Funduro decidedly isn't. As a Mahindra it makes a lot more sense than a BSA and would probably get a much warmer welcome as a bloody good try. Marketing sucks.

[@tryarunm]

@@stevematthews641 Nice! Lol!

[@kevindarkstar]

So the last 30 seconds of the video pretty much says it all, 'test ride it and make up ya own mind' could have saved 13 minutes of paid sales pitch, or if not paid manufacturer pressure 😎

[@samwalton4598]

The technology in the modern bike makes it so much easier to use than a vintage bike. Electronic fuel injection, water cooling and a counter balanced motor make the new bike efficient and dependable for all riding conditions be it city or country. That’s the ticket. If these bikes can come close to Japanese dependability? It’s a winner!! Great video!!!

[@tonyparker7356]

If your measure of how great a motorcycle is is how easy it is to 'use' then I guess so, yes.

[@malcellison8831]

Great review as always, Dave. Very informative. Sounds like a lovely bike!

[@kevindarkstar]

Liquid cooled, because of emissions, because of over heating ect, so exactly how do you explain the royal enfield Intercepter, air and oil cooling no problem, even in India! 🤔

[@bikernate8902]

Properly engineered air/oil cooled engines are the only way to make a true classic bike like this. I understand the thinking and engineering of liquid cooled engines... just not what most want in this class of motorcycle. They did a great job with the look of the new Gold Star and I will ride one soon. But, I will stick with RE and pre-water cooled Bonnivelles.

[@JIMWSMITH]

Exactly he was talking absolute bollocks. Talking it up for the sake of bsa..

[@stormytempest6521]

@@JIMWSMITH Jim Lad.... with respect, its called progress, regards.

[@JIMWSMITH]

@@stormytempest6521 whats progress taking the easy option. Enfield produce great air oil cooled units bsa could of done the same but it probably would of killed the project due to cost and r&d.. yes no doubt the rotax will be a great engine but it dont look pretty does it....

[@goldilocks913]

@Retired Bore love to see one of those- but one that ordinary folk can buy , not like certain Brit brands...

[@markdanford1910]

The old one sounds sooooo good.

[@wltrlg]

Love the new BSA, hopefully it will be available in the Netherlands for a good price

[@JIMWSMITH]

Nice looking bike , but personally think the enfield engine finnsh is so much better , totally uncluttered and very clean and tidy . Bsa have took the easy option with the rotax engine. Will be reliable but the looks could possibly put some people off time will tell ...

[@bikernate8902]

Since owning an RE Interceptor I can attest to the looks of the engine... so much so that I often sit in my garage and admire the look of it. RE nailed it in regard to building their own engine specifically for their unique bikes. The new Classic 350 engine and bike is just as well done and arguably more beautiful than the Interceptor. They invested a ton of money in the air cooled 650 and 350 power-plants and it shows. The Rotax engine in the Gold Star will be a very reliable and good running engine. The engineering is sound and the design had been time tested in various machines. But... it is hard to take an engine off the shelf of another manufacturer and have a cohesive and beautiful marriage of bike and engine. In that regard, RE is on par with the worlds most established and premium brands. They just found a way to price aggressively. Perhaps BSA will take this beautiful frame and bike they designed and put a proper, air cooled, BSA designed and engineered engine in it one day.

[@mickcresswell1031]

I tend to agree, Jim. But perhaps the comparison with the interceptor engine is a bit unfair? BSA are staring out with their first bike, whereas Enfield India have 60 plus years behind them. So it is no surprise that they went with an off the shelf engine for their first bike - it is a business after all. As Biker Nate says, maybe in the future, this platform will get a BSA designed engine with improved aesthetics. I hope they succeed.

[@ruahinesrider]

R.E spent 10yrs developing the twins & can be proud to say they built their own engine.BSA did take the easier option using the Rotrax engine but it is reliable & has great tourqe.Price is fair but reckon base model should of been £250 cheaper or the same as Royal Enfield.Definitly agree that R.E 650 engine looks better & has a more old school look also being air cooled.The heat shield removed looks so much better & paint job looks great.If I bought one I would swap radiator for thinner black alloy high flow radiator & smaller rear shocks cause rear shocks look oversized.These are things I would do & enjoy customizing bikes,some people prefer keeping it stock.

[@ruahinesrider]

@@bikernate8902 Only way they can go air cooled is with a twin a big single won't pass the strict regulations hence the radiator.They have a twin in the pipeline & if air cooled probably be oil cooled like R.E has done.R.E needs to increase capacity to 800cc like the original prototype 1970 800cc Interceptor Mk2a that wasn't released.R.E could easily increase capacity.Pity the KX 838 Prototype never went into production as a Vtwin would sell fast & be popular in North America. Hopefully the KX Vtwin is released in future & is redesigned to 1000cc.

[@bikernate8902]

@@ruahinesrider the technology is there to make a single cylinder that is indeed air and oil cooled. However, since BSA took direct aim at the Interceptor price was going to play a major roll...with that said the investment to develop their own engine would have been the most expensive way to go... that is why RE has the advantage. RE as an established brand with a long, continuous history was much better suited to do so. In this type of bike, in my opinion lacks originality with an off the shelf engine. I doubt very much this BSA will sell as well as the RE. I would like very much for BSA to succeed and expand their product line. But, I have serious doubt given their approach. Also, the RE 650 engine is very capable of being expanded on as the lower end and the entire structure of the engine is under-stressed. Over built and over engineered are terms that come to mind... this was clearly not done by accident. The RE's are not perfect, but... in this segment, they nailed it. The RE Interceptor and the new Classic line will be relevant and the industry standard for many, many years. If I had to boil it down to why RE hit the mark... it comes down to how every part of an RE engine is celebrated in its design... nothing fake or veiled.

[@mldiode]

Can’t wait for this bike to come to the U.S. Cosmetically, BSA needs to re-do the radiator to look like what Triumph does on the Bonneville. On the BSA the radiator looks like it came off a Ford model T. One thing I really want to know about any review of a bike, what’s the maintenance interval, regular routine, and the major ones. What the general cost of ownership, mpg, etc… Will there be a Dealer network? Warranty? What brand tires are they starting out with? Accessories?

[@shardlake]

Best thing said in this video, "get out an try one", riding is so much more than what you can see an hear in a video, I know my bike sounds completely different when your actually on the machine, looking forward to see more reviews on the new Goldstar, that small change on the shielding of the exhaust is a good start, was hoping to see a smaller more triumph like radiator, but it looks and sounded great for a first review, loved the comparison to the old version, removed much of the nostalgia bias that any modern retro has to contend with.

[@jimcrossley8203]

I love the look of the new BSA. I agree the single has more torque than the twin of the interceptor but what I disagree with is the interceptor doesn’t need man handling when cornering and certainly doesn’t feel heavy on the move. You say it isn’t a rival to the interceptor but then you compare everything against it. I hope it’s as popular as the interceptor as I'd love to see both on our roads in the UK.

[@geneahart5607]

I can't wait until they come to the states! I think it will be a winner. Remember it's a brand new bike!

[@keithstewart1979]

Love it, looks so much like the old one and keeps the modern additions very subtle. Think they could have done a better job blending in the radiator, the one fitted looks a bit like an afterthought. Sound way better without the baffle in, with it in it sounds a bit tinny and cheap.

[@dave6467]

Looks like the old one. Yep that was their aim. Wouldn't you prefer a real (original) one though? Far more lithe looking.

[@keithstewart1979]

@@dave6467 oh yeah, I'd definitely prefer an older one

[@dave6467]

@@keithstewart1979 You mean a real one. LOL

[@thomasobrien5976]

What?...#shouldhavegonetosppecsavers

[@MybeautifulandamazingPrincess]

It doesn't look like the old one at all. It looks like other Indian bikes like the jawa 42, or royal enfield. Sadly the only british thing about the new one is the name

[@markhancock7527]

I still prefer the Royal Enfield engine looks much nicer.

[@bikernate8902]

The RE 650 engine is a work of art... I go into my garage often just to look at it.

[@bruceferguson6637]

RE’s 350 and 500 singles look the retro part without radiators. I hope they re-introduce an improved (less vibration) 500 or even go head to head with BSA with a 650. Hopefully, no radiator. I could live with a discreet oil cooler as on the Interceptor.

[@blrmotorcyclesinc.]

Great review Dave👍 as usual honest spot on POV on the new BSA gold star 650.BSA has done a great job on the design and look trying it's level best to get as close as possible to the older models.Atleast their attempt to revive a dying brand should be highly appreciated then to just find faults.I guess this is the best they could possibly do keeping the budget in mind and that's sensible not to go overboard on the price.I really don't mind it as an addition in my garage apart from my RE interceptor as both have different characteristics and heritage.

[@andycochrane4131]

270 crank on a twin sounds great, but at this size a thumper is a smarter choice. Torque until Sunday, and a more powerful derestricted option also available.

[@johnkelly2279]

First thing I would do is pull off the badges, it's not a BSA, it's a Rotax engined, engineered Indian bike, I removed the badges from my Interceptor 650, now it rides much better......

[@kev.j.goodwin8612]

Took a close look at the Goldie at Colchester Kawasaki on Monday. Very nice and looks even better in the flesh. Will take one out when they launch them properly in a few weeks time apparently.

[@TheKRU251]

I have an RE Interceptor 650. Also an old Bullet 500. Got the 650 because of the new Goldie's launch date seemed so vague with no news of dealers etc. I hope the production bikes have the BSA side panel lozenge logo attached vertical to the ground rather than to the side panel that slopes back. Minor point maybe but it 'bugs my eye' that detail!!!!!

[@bruceferguson6637]

Nice to see the bike compared to the classic. I don’t care for radiators on retro-styled bikes but that’s the future. It would not be a deal breaker, just a visual adjustment.

[@stormytempest6521]

SPOT ON BRUCE.🇬🇧

[@Jonathan-L]

I love your words Bruce ... visual adjustment = turn a blind eye :)

[@MauriceTarantulas]

Several things which are for me issues. The sound is a bit tame but thats changeable. 12 litre tank would have been lovely if a 16 litre one for touring. The radiator is a tad ugly and maybe the seat height for taller chaps a bit low. And the other thing will be dealerships etc. Time will tell and will have to test ride. Am in the market for a new bike and have a soft spot for all things Brum related! But am leaning towards an Enfield as it stands. Ahh that reminds me no center stand.

[@logotrikes]

Just to be nit-picking. I would have liked to see the engine finning going all the way across like a Goldie, even if it was bolt-on. The sweep back of the header could be a little more like the Goldie, although I'm pleased to see the shielding has been reduced. Hope they make it over here in Australia, it'll be a worthy touring machine, as well as agreeably-priced. I like it....

[@shirsoghosh4238]

If it's liquid cooled it's a thoroughly modern bike with a retro design. The truely retros are the Royal Enfields, Kawasaki w800, and some of the air-cooled Harleys!

[@nortonbsa9961]

Old Beezers have soul man ✌️❤

[@blrmotorcyclesinc.]

I guess lot of riders are unhappy with the new BSA gold star 650 as it is not like to 60s model,but neither is Norton Commando 961 nor Triumph bonneville....not even the RE interceptor 650...we can't have the old character in the new ones as the norms have changed also handling the old ones and maintaining them is a pain....these are way more reliable modern machines with character and looks trying to be close as possible to the older ...so I guess we have to learn to accept the change and best part these new motorcycles are affordable and easy on new riders as beginner motorcycles.

[@bryanduncan1640]

Nice attempt at a modernised copy, but there is NO substitute for the original Goldie!

[@drLuigigg]

If I have to choose between the two , I always pick a vintage classic , the sound the smell the idea that something can go wrong is what make the ride magical comparisons cannot be made, they are two completely different bikes, the new one is made for people who understand nothing about motorcycles, This is my opinion from an Italian rider who’s love British bikes🙌

[@MrJulianneave]

This may well prove to be a great bike, and any engineer in the market for a proprietary powerplant will tell you that Rotax make great engines. It may not be important to many people (I'm not even saying it should be) but what this bike doesn't have is any heritage whatsoever. There's a huge difference between "BSA" and arguably their biggest competitor Royal Enfield in this department. People love to say "Oh RE are Indian now, wish they were still British blah blah" but they are genuinely the same company they were when they started in 1901. The RE name was never up for sale, and there's a real family tree back to their first bike. BSA is just a name purchased and put on a new bike with no company lineage back to the original gold star. It doesn't even matter much really, but I think people should consider the bike in this context.

[@47f0]

Ridden an Indian lately? How about a Schwinn? Think those Craftsman tools are the same ones your dad or grandad got at Sears? Face it, this is the age of branding, and brands are passed around from corporation to corporation. And corporations merge and sell off groups to other corporations. I never thought I'd see a Chinese Volvo, but here we are.

[@MrJulianneave]

@@47f0 Yeah I know this is the way of the world, but I think examples like Volvo are different to BSA/Indian. Volvo the company was sold, as in it has had different parent companies, but they never fully shut up shop, sacked all employees and stopped designing/building cars for decades. Whilst ownership changed, and I'm sure that had an impact on the direction of the products they made, it's still the real Volvo. BSA completely stopped existing in any practical sense, and is now just a name that someone has purchased and put on a completely unrelated product. Which I think is fine and shouldn't detract from the new gold star as a bike. I like the look of the new bike, and the semantics of ownership are normally kinda irrelevant, except I feel slightly different about it in this case since the "heritage" seems to be the main point of their marketing. Ie: Calling it the gold star, doing press launches of it alongside a classic fold star, having the BSA logo all over merchandise, and using the "BSA is back" slogan...when actually it's "back" in name only. If the heritage is going to be your main advertising point, I think it needs to be genuine. All that said, life's not about arguments on the internet. I'm excited about the bike just as you are and am keen to see or ride one!

[@SomeoneInHeaven]

Well, you know, even BSA is Indian now

[@johndonlon1611]

My question still is WHY. Why resurrect a machine that had been out of production for 10 years when the original BSA folded? If I were an investor in this venture, I would have started where BSA stopped in 1972/73. Sorry, no sale.

[@PrimoStracciatella]

"BSA is just a name purchased and put on a new bike with no company lineage back to the original..." So is Triumph.

[@ShivKamalUpadhaya]

Oh it sounds amazing, looks amazing and it must feel comfortable while riding as well 😍 love it.

[@wheelhousegarage]

I think they did a great job on the DBD inspired styling... guess I'll just have to get used to that radiator :)

[@maekong2010]

I couldn't have a Goldstar. Keeping a Victor on the road had already proven a handful. I'm glad I waited. As an old guy on a fixed income in a third-world country, all I need to do now is hit the lottery. I know where slightly less than 7000 USD is going when I do.

[@JohnAlot]

My father used to talk about his 1954 BSA & how complicated it was to start it. Said it always started & he rode it up and down the east coast of the US, in 1958-59. I ride a Bonnie & a BMW GS

[@ThorgalsWalhalla]

This thing looks so awsome! it s so great to finaly see it rolling!

[@johnbiggins4864]

Wow....that old girl LOOKS GORGEOUS..and SOUNDS GREAT... .......new models are good too .........good report...

[@naikomviriya6042]

I owned BSA 500 plunger model 1949 and confirm till now no machine to compare it in durable and tough more than a decade that I used to drive around Thailand with happiness

[@chrisweeks6973]

Looks a nice bike and I'll be interested to ride one if/when they arrive in West Australia. Pricing is going to be critical, however. Styling wise, I can live with the radiator; they are nothing new on motorcycles; Scott used them back in 1908 and retained them until the company closed in 1968, though some were built as late as 1978. Suzuki had a radiator on their 1971-77 GT750 Water Bottle. Of far more importance is how the bike feels and rides.

[@zainalabideen7657]

Right mate

[@mrofnocnon]

Just look at them, the old one was beautiful and sounds fantastic.

[@DRASification]

Apart from the radiator, exhaust note and paint on the engine everything looks nice!

[@magnuspym]

Finally! The real deal Arrives! Perfect timing I'm looking to replace my 2008 U.S spec 500 AVL Royal Enfield..I love singles.

[@phillipmitchell5879]

Not too relevant to compare the new one w/ the old Goldie. More relevant to compare it w/ R.E. Interceptor. Anyway, attractive ride for someone looking for classic style, simplicity, etc. I do understand the need for radiator, but BSA should have taken cues from the newer Triumph 900's - those radiators are less obtrusive & they're contoured better to the frame. I look forward to a good, fair assessment of the new 650 soon...

[@goldilocks913]

Thanks for this! Like the concept and most of the finished product but £6500-7000 is a lot for what you can buy elsewhere

[@martinpye549]

I do like the look of the cut down exhaust. That looked super bulky on the first photos I saw. A set of ace bars and I think the BSA will look sharp. I'm surprised their isn't a clubman trim availableto be honest. Seems odd, but it's not too hard to sort. Good video , as always.

[@johnjackson3847]

Clubman trim will most likely come later.

[@buckwheatINtheCity]

I still think that the original is more stylish, even though the new one is easier to ride.

[@LS-mw6lc]

Great review. Straight to the point. No fluff. 👍

[@ralpholeni433]

It's incredible. They no longer know what to invent for marketing. A water-cooled single-cylinder engine with a hideous fan and all disguised as an air-cooled engine? I hope that these gentlemen have not made this peseudo-bike with the audacity of wanting to compete with the Royal Enfield Interceptor!

[@grooviefan]

@@anythingoldmechanical must b why anything over 250cc is water cooled. Start up emissions are real and cannot b Avoided..

[@grooviefan]

@@anythingoldmechanical isn’t the RF oil cooled ?? Vs water cooled ??

[@kevindarkstar]

Mmm big single more torque yes a bit, but also as with all big singles runs out of puff at the top 😉 55 Nm as opposed to the Intercepter 52Nm not a lot in it.

[@gm16v149]

I wonder who the target buyer is. Younger guys would never have heard of the original BSA Gold Star, and guys that actually rode them in the 1960s would be around 80 by now. Still, there’s plenty of retro Enfields and Triumphs around I suppose. I’m 72 and it wouldn’t have enough power for me, that’s why I love my Z900RS lol.

[@tsmgguy]

All of the description devoted to the old Gold Star (which no one has) is superfluous. Leave it behind and let's hear about the new Goldie.

[@goforkranthi79]

Look at that old bsa go!! With all the vibrations and engine character must feel absolutely thrilling!

[@davidskogley3570]

Great review and really enjoyed the comparison with the original, which is just gorgeous. From what I've read, an awful lot of time, skill and energy went into creating the new bike, and I would defo like to try one out, if they ever make it to Germany.

[@chrisbolton5461]

Great review from someone who knows his stuff. Brilliant.

[@vishnumohannair8791]

It is a good thing they are pitching it abroad. BSA as a brand is more associated with a Bicycle brand in India. I used to ride one as a kid and it was called BSA SLR. I never had a motorcycle brand BSA in my horizon until Mahindra revived it. Norton on the other hand, when and if TVS comes out with a New Norton I am looking forward to

[@grahamgottard]

Fabulous that BSA is being produced again. Very welcome addition to the range of retro bikes available. Pointless to compare with the original Goldie... May just as well try to compare a new iPhone with a 1950s telephone.

[@MrThresher7]

Awesome Review 😌💖👍 I want a Gold Star Now!

[@glennfletcher9699]

Excellent video. I like the new Gold Star. Some decades ago, I owned a BB34 Gold Star. I never kick started it. Too tricky, and potentially ankle breaking. Push as fast as possible with the clutch in. Jump on side saddle. Clutch out. Then clutch in while you, how shall we say "put your leg over". Then off you went.

[@TheClassicMotorcycleChannel]

Thanks for your nice comments Glenn, bit of an art to starting them eh!

[@viramati5831]

Interesting review and well done BSA for getting rid of that horrible chunky exhaust cover. As you said it's built on a budget and looking at the switch gear and some other bits you can see that. I'll be sticking with my Kawasaki W800 which I personally think is the most genuine of the retro bikes and has a high build quality

[@murraymarshall5865]

I have a 650 Enfield which I love but would certainly consider a BSA in the future.

[@rogermew5578]

The over all gearing depends on use. As other people have said, the video is a sales pitch and not completely honest. Different uses of the Goldie required different specs and to compare a racing bike with a lets face it a tourer and not exactly very quick either is silly. In fact one also has to realise that the new bike is also 50% bigger and yet slower. I have a Yammy 535 virago it is according to the blurb more powerful, more economic, faster and has many other things going for it. I had a new RE 500 for a couple of years, and that did not cut it either. I think that rebuilding one of my Yammies would be a better value for money!

[@A65Bill]

I'm intrigued, amazed, delighted to read the expert views and opinions of so many people who have no intention of buying, yet feel entitled to suggest restrictions on what others should be able to do. Sadly, so many of the comments are also inaccurate. BSA as a company has never ceased to exist in UK and it's still there. It was last sold in 2016 to the current owners. The new bike is a Gold Star, simply because that is what it is called. (How many totally different cars did Ford call Cortina or Escort?) Sure, it's not a 1950s design, but it is a good stab at what BSA would be building in Birmingham, if Gov & management hadn't conspired to shut it down and if policy to create a service industry based economy hadn't been adopted. So it's made somewhere else, even though the design and engineering development was done here. So what? let's go somewhere else online for an informed discussion on why that might be? As for the engine, it's not the old Rotax engine previously used by various makers; it's a BSA engine derived from the Rotax with various modifications and updates. Do the detracters have any idea what it costs in $ and time to build a new engine suitable for production? As for the price, it's very keen, even in the light of the dodgy state of the £. Comparison with the Royal Enfield or Kawasaki or anything else is not valid, unless they are singles, or unless the purchaser/rider doesn't know enough to know and feel the difference. This report by Alex is sound and fair, given the limited exposure available. If you are not interested, it won't convert you, but if you might be interested, it should make sure you book a test ride. Keep Calm & Share the Joy

[@nigelfisher3756]

Excellent and well informed review of the new Gold Star, thank you. It’s an intriguing bike with positives and negatives. Can’t say I’m totally won over with the style and I think it’s slightly porky. Not fitting a centre stand and rear grab handle is not good and it sounds no better than the Hunter 350 with the baffles in place - but nice with them out. As I have previously said, the engine looks a corker, it rides, brakes and steers and has a two years warranty. Would I wish to part with my electric start Yamaha SRX 600? No, because it does everything and more I want from a 600 single.

[@tinymotogarage]

This sort of highlights why the name was not a great fit (other than for marketing - where it was). One is a lovely (really) gentle and easy commuter/tourer for everyone - and the other one is a road-capable expert-level race bike. It's kind of like re-releasing the Lightning as a chopper - it makes no sense. It's the exact opposite of what it was. I get it BSA - name recognition, and nobody will buy a new retro race bike for the track (or at least not enough for mass production), but the name, ahhhh the name ... If they used "G-Star 2" or "Gold GT" or something ... Anyway, to end on a happy note - this looks like a lovely bike and congrats to BSA.

[@stormytempest6521]

Style Wise like it ! Now wait for the reports in afew months time to come in.🇬🇧

[@bobmurphy9380]

Can't beat that sound of the old Goldstar, yes I agree with other comments that this is really on about selling the new one., but shouldn't really compare the old v new.

[@JaisiKarniWaisiBharniMynameHSD]

This BSA is a twin sister of RE bullet be the old one or the new one , if this comes to India surely it will be a great competition with RE , Jawa , Yezdi

[@frankmarkham5913]

The new bikes look nice, slightly thinner mudguard would look better. But the old Gold Star sounds so so much better!

[@naikomviriya6042]

My BSA was able to drive in the very traffic jam in Bangkok it was reliable engine and tappet noise looked so loud when it ran at high speed but it made funny to go with it's

[@RickfromLafayette]

When will the Goldstar be available in the USA?

[@naikomviriya6042]

For preventing engine overheat I used Bardahl 2 tiny can with #40 engine oil 500ml for it

[@tokairic3925]

its silly to compare the Rotax Gold Star to the original. The race equipped Gold Star from the 1960's was a race bike. Using milder cams, 389 Monobloc carb and a standard ratio gearbox makes it perfectly fine for normal road use. I've raced 1950's BSA's with the vintage racing club and they are fine on the track. I've also ridden standard 1950's BSA's on the road. They are fine - especially when you remember how old they are. The starting procedure is not a problem and is not difficult, just a characteristic of the bike. Theres a bloke, in his 70's, on our road has an original and takes it out regularly in the summer. Sounds great. Obviously if you want a modern bike with all its pampering features buy one, but you can't compare them to the original classics.

[@motorcyclementor1785]

I would have compared this to a new enfield twin as they are similarly priced and appeal to a similar market. Don't really understand the comparison with an old bike with ( coincidentally) the same name but which is utterly and completely different in every possible way barring the single cylinder. I would guess that most people considering a new BSA know next to nothing about it's old but very distantly removed namesake and so just don't really see the point of a comparison. I was never particularly a goldie fan though undoubtedly iconic bikes but I really like the look of the new BSA and would have loved to have seen a comparison between it and the enfield twin and even a Hinckley twin.

[@kretonslovechild7999]

I like the new Gold Star and imagine it will become a success sales-wise, but at some point I would love to try out an old bike like the original just to see whether I could master the starting process.

[@rodintoulouse3054]

I gladly take the new one over the old one. People see with rose tinted glasses old British bikes. Fortunately they put bread on David’s table, but the unreliability and how the planets have to align for them to run every time you want to use them is nuts. A new RE or a new BSA any day.

[@Lee-70ish]

Absolutely. Used to go to Pride and Clarkes and every secondhand bike had saw dust under it for the oil drops. British bikes were great in the 60s but compared to modern engineering they were not comparable. Although I would still love a kick starter as a back up and for setting the tappets etc

[@chrisnightingale6417]

Out of interest can I ask why you watch a Classic Motorcycle Channel if you don’t like Classic Motorcycles?

[@rodintoulouse3054]

@@chrisnightingale6417 hi Chris. Sure. I love classic bikes and i love watching David working on them and teaching about them. I am about to start my own first restauration. For me they are more art than transportation. That being said, I wouldn’t like a classic bike as my daily ride. I want to get on a bike that will start and then take me to my destination every time. I love the intricacies of a bike with 4 carbs and spoked wheels, but when my time, sanity and life are on line, I’ll take EFI and tubeless anytime.

[@chrisnightingale6417]

@@rodintoulouse3054 Hi Rod, sorry I got the wrong impression. Fair enough. Good luck with your restoration and all the best 👍

[@davecooper3238]

Calling that new bike a Gold Star is a travesty.

[@allsearpw3829]

BUT that is why people wanted them in the 50s - 60 s , when boys thought they were men and had fun , smelling the Castrol R , instead of after shave .. A very nice role on of a modern classic and lets hope is does well , with the baffles out .

[@darrylredmill4376]

Really sounds like sponsored sales pitch , alot of excuses for the BSA . overall styling i think is good apart from the car rad on the front. Price point puts it square up to the RE and alot of deals on the W800. This maybe more of a natural alternative to the Mash 650 classic ?

[@madbadger85]

My dad had a b33 and that was a pain to start. My dads friend had a Vello thruxton and that also was a pain to start and ride, they both swapped for twins. I totally agree the old gold star isn’t a bike for todays roads. All the die hards are slagging the new 650 gold star off, it’s not a bsa, it’s ugly, it doesn’t sound right etc etc, I’m sorry but it’s a much better bike, I wish they’d brought bsa and this bike out 10 years ago, just think what bsa would have been producing now? I’ve always loved the bsa name, I grew up with it and I for one are glad to see it back, I just hope they get plenty more models out before the green gang ban fossil fuels altogether.

[@ianwright3971]

Err...The B33 was made from 1947 t0 1959...So the newest one was made 63 years ago....I'd hope they could and would produce a better (different) bike in 2022....I have a B33 that I've owned for over 40 years and believe me, it's not hard to start....I also own a Goldie which is much harder to live with but has the performance boost that results from the level of tuning applied to it back then....Frankly, it's not a question of 'better or worse', that is a false analasys....It is merely the case that the 50's BSAs and the 2022 incarnation are different....As different as chalk and cheese in fact and seperated by more than half a lifetimes developement.....Both have virtues and both have vices....Direct comparisons should be regarded as a futile exercise in my opinion, each one should be assessed based on the knowledge available at the time of manufacture, the philosophy and purpose that was intended for them and in comparison to others in the same market (and century!)....Now, who's up for comparing a Sopwith Camel with a Stealth fighter ....😊

[@chitlika]

Your chances of firing either Velo or goldie in todays trafic noise is bloody slim

[@slowandcurios]

That 650 single is begging for a scrambler/trials chassis with decent suspensions...I'd buy one in that iteration

[@notwocdivad]

Not that he is influenced in any way by his payment from BSA ? However one big thing never mentioned is top speed, either alone or in comparison with the RE, he just banged on about torque, If that is the case why not compare it with a 650 single Panther? I can guess which would win the torque wars there!!

[@AlanKinninmonth]

I would buy one for sure

[@mitchellmatthews716]

I have an Interceptor 650 and I think I would change mine for one of these based on looks and quality.

[@jonallaway2002]

If you weren't paid by "BSA" to promote this bike, you missed out - they'd have been happy to give you a free one after that sales pitch! Obviously there's a market for these weird semi-replica looky-likie things but that's all they are. Modern Japanese big singles like the Yamaha SRX, the XT500s etc (OK, they're going back a bit but they still count as modern in comparison to Goldies) were good bikes with their own character. These things, and some of the Hinkley Triumphs (not so much the Enfield twins) are trying to be something they're not, and they don't pull it off.

[@tomtaylor6163]

Surely you guys could run a different carb on that Goldie to make it easier to live with? Like and Amal Concentric or a Dellorto with an individual air cleaner.

[@robertmaitland09]

Nice but that rear light needs moving up the mudguard a bit. No doubt there'll be all sorts of aftermarket goodies for it in the future.

[@suzukin-jiji2206]

Goldie, SRX6, SR500 💛

[@gustaf3]

Great and different review; thanks.

[@timothyahernRoxyCat]

For this retro rider, Classic bikes are it. However, in Northern CA where so many of our most beautiful roads are in CA, you must be able to press traffic on what we call in California "Freeways" to get to the scenic routes. In other words, your motorcycle must be able to cruise at 70MPH, and then when that oddball driver cuts in front of your, you need power to get out of there. Sorry, but that is what you need to get to the most beautiful roads are where a 65mph cruiser is ideal to enjoy the ride. In CA you need a cruiser to get to a twisty. There is no way around it. Royal Enfield is getting establish in CA now, and its 650 is minimum to be able to do this safely. BSA, good luck with this!

[@tryarunm]

Reading the comments here I realise all the experienced gentlemen would rather have the original Goldie. But had this Mahindra Goldstar appeared in the 40's or 50's - just as it is, price difference and all - I wonder which one they'd have actually jumped for.

[@elmerfudd1086]

With or without the baffle....they both sound like a lawnmower. I'm waiting for bsa to bring out the new lighting twin. That's a machine I would be interested in. I realize bsa had to start somewhere but I have never been a fan of the sound from a single. I'm not a possible customer for this model but being a brit bike fan I sure hope it sells well, so bsa might consider building a 1969 lightning replica. That was one of the prettiest machines ever made in my opinion. Anyway...here's to bsa having great succes🍷🍺🍸

[@stuartbailey5665]

Side by side the new golden looks shorter than the old - or is it an illusion of the camera angle. Great video- good the see the comparison.

[@rbattson7171]

Just pleased to see the marque re-born. It's a good modern day effort. Tho' the sound of the original in this clip was great.

[@roscoeduncan6258]

Hear it run

[@paulegerton2012]

Good review, as you said modern bikes have to be lean burn, so many suffer low speed engine stuttering and surging, what was the BSA like at walking pace?

[@michaelcallan4121]

Great review thanks.