Real world review of the BSA 650 GoldStar! Why it is the most misunderstood release of the decade!

The BSA Gold Star is possibly the most misunderstood motorcycle release of this decade. We have tested the bike over 500 miles in 2 weeks and I thin we have the answer!
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PATREON. / stuartfillingham
#bsagoldstar #bsamotorcycles #bsareview

[@stevenmiller184]

I really hope this bike does well. The world needs a large displacement single, the loss of the RE Classic 500 left a hole that the 350 doesn't quite fill. The effort to build a comfortable, capable, classically styled bike should be applauded.

[@ProfessionalNoodler]

I sat down and thought about it, and I realized that I've only owned one bike that was truly "modern". I consistently find myself drawn to a round headlight, neutral ergonomics, and a novel engine character.

[@richardbanks7932]

I'm an ex classic 350 owner, I now have a goldstar and have just over 1000 miles on it. You nailed it when you said it's basically a classic 350 but with that more useable level of power. Nit looks great, rides great, and I've had no issues with it. Nit absolutely love my goldstar, and I'm finding your series of reviews fasenating. Fair, unbiased, non of the ridiculous brand snobbery which seems reserved expressly for BSA. Truly great stuff, I look forward to the full review and maybe some maintenance/accessories (in the fullness of time).

[@Sticky-gp2yh]

And now at £4995+otr it's not far off the price of a 350 to boot!

[@MindfulMotorcyclist]

Really enjoyed this one thanks Stu. I had my hesitations but jumped on a deal for a second hand one around Sept last year, I've enjoyed so much since. Going over to ABR Festival and looking at pretty much every brand's modern classic offerings I came away happy with the bike I own. That I didn't expect!

[@jerrywines382]

There's an updated service schedule, so the first and subsequent valve clearance checks are 14,500 miles. BSA sell a specific paddock stand for around £80 for chain maintenance and wheel removal, and Classic Bike Racks do a passenger grab rail for £55. I can't praise my BSA enough. It is what it is, and that's a cracking modern classic with a stonking single at a great price.

[@suesue5694]

BSA also do a grab rail or one with a small rack included

[@jerrywines382]

@suesue5694 yes they do, but it's about three times the price if it's just a grab rail you're after.

[@jerrywines382]

Regular service intervals are 3,500 miles by the way.

[@stuartfillingham]

@@jerrywines382 says 6200 on the manual i downloaded!

[@stuartfillingham]

@@LumpyCarbs ​ @LumpyCarbs yep found the one you're referring to and compared it to the one I downloaded a couple of weeks ago. They are completely different, no 500mile valve check and they have halved the oil change interval. thats with fully synth oil too very odd! None of it makes sense, second service is 3000 miles after first and third service is 4000 miles after second service, and 6000km = about 3750 miles not 3000!

[@timsatchell6713]

Excellent detailed review. Nice that you have included your Doris in the channel, she definitely compliments it. I think BSA have pretty much hit the nail on the head.

[@mikehatswell3961]

Cracking review Stu, like you I wasn’t too keen at first, I liked the overall look but was not very impressed with things like the transfers on the engine and the big ugly usb lump on the bars, little bits that could have been done better in my view but as time has gone on it’s growing on me and I will have to get a test ride on one. Good to see a review that involved a pillion, something that is lacking on practicality every other review on KZbin and yet a very important thing for so many of us. All the best buddy 👍

[@scoobsterhd5776]

An excellent review from an independent viewpoint that is relevant to most motorcycle riders if they are honest with themselves. Motorcycling from this perspective is so much more enjoyable. I am sure there will be a lot of interest in this bike as a result of this video. Top work again Stu.

[@robertlindstrom540]

The hardest thing for BSA is to give access to people to buy one of these. Find dealers who are ready to have a demobike or two and see to it that there are new bikes to be had without waiting a year for it. The market is bad right now, even for established dealers. So they need to take their time, be prepared to operate with a loss for propably quite some time. Maybe invent new ways to sell bikes. If they can do this for the longer haul they propably will get there in the end, that bike has the looks and also quality to attract us greybeards and it is mostly us who buy bikes. There is enough muscle in the parent company, time will tell if there is patience. But a great bike, and a worthy review!

[@ianhalliwell8604]

It has always annoyed me when the GoldStar is compared to the Interceptor, there two different animals you are absolutely right it has to be compared to another single like the classic 350, as you said. Personally i couldn't give a toss what the detractors think of the GoldStar i love mine and that's all that matters. Your views on the bike are exactly mine, it is what it is.

[@kealanmcateer9690]

Sir thanking you for a masterpiece of a motorbike review, a really well thought out piece, the questions we all asked for in our heads have been answered, this was the one we had been waiting for, just at the correct time after all the release hype is over, , well done , and I mean that, thanks

[@johncranwell3783]

Thank you, Stuart. 100% agree with all we’ve said there….. A lot of modern motorcyclist are in trend in the latest gizmo the fastest technical abilities of the machine, et cetera, some of those people, cannot understand why someone might desire another motorcycle that looks old style and just brides differently to the rocket ships motorbikes or the huge adventure style motorbikes (don’t get me wrong they are all great machines), it’s good to make your choice and enjoy what you have for whatever criteria you made your decision to acquire that motorcycle and of course the happiness that it brings you. I’m definitely one of those guys that makes up his mind for himself and not what everybody else says I should do including the manufacturers … Thank you again brilliant chat and review

[@donhenderson5100]

Good day Mr Stuart, from across the pond in the States. I am really warm up to this bike. As usual, your review was splendid. My ADV bike is a Kawasaki KLR650, so big, thumpers seem normal. I am anxious for this to come to the US. It's really a charming bike

[@sergemoreillon1236]

Thank you for the subtility of your comments about the suspensions that make it clear ✌

[@markris1969]

Finally, The review I was waiting for ❤!

[@KRAM-zb2vc]

Brilliant video as always Stuart and a fantastic review of the BSA Goldstar, and I see your batting well above your average with Paula 😁👍🏻

[@daintree2455]

Great review Stu and the old bloke pretty much summed it up for you.

[@robwilkguitar4458]

Excellent review Stuart.

[@dave4759]

What a superb review, I really enjoy your videos with excellent photography and a unique, clearly understandable, measured and intelligent presenting style which sadly lacking on youtube. Your musings and discussion on the little details which other reviewers do not cover fascinate me, the steering lock issue, biased to the right or left for instance would never have crossed my mind until the niggling situation arose, very good point. Got me thinking, my 74 Z1 can lock either way like the BSA, so this feature was thought of all those years back but disappeared on other bikes I have owned! Your review has prompted me to book a test ride, if I can find one, very tempted to buy!

[@SameSh1tDifferentDrain]

I love being part of the 'it's not a real BSA Club'....then they go and chapter and verse on Triumph and RE being the real thing.....brings a smile to my face...we have a great modern goldy area on FB 😃

[@user-pm8gw3gp4x]

Outstanding review Stuart. Particularly liked the wide range of your review of the BSA. Thus far, the most thorough and practical one of this bike. At around 10 years of age(mid 1960’s) I stood in a store while my mom shopped, and stared at the BSA shop across the street. Loved the looks and specifically the tank medallion of the bikes parked out front. This bike sparks that memory.

[@cousinjack2841]

Best Goldstar review out there. Thanks Stuart.

[@raulantonioperezortiz1118]

👌great vídeo.. lovely bike👍 saludos desde México Tio Stu! ✌️

[@dennismurray4999]

Hi Stu, I'm glad to hear your unbiased commentary on your BSA experience. I also love the way you compare it to Royal Enfield and Triumph. I too remember back in the day when a bike was a bike, or as you called it a general all arounder and honestly, that's the most fun I had motorcycling. Keep up the good work and enjoy the ride.

[@michaelcomerford5509]

Great review loved the bike and town shots very profesional .

[@Disposalist]

Excellent review Stu I appreciate the effort you put in to be thorough and individual. I love my Speedmaster, but it has issues I find annoying. I tried the RE 650 Meteor/Shotgun and found it too modern feeling. I tried the Classic/Bullet 350 and found it struggled to get my largeness over 60mph. I sat on a Goldstar and thought it felt a bit of a big lump, but you've persuaded me to give it a test ride. You never know, eh? P.S. If only there were a RE Bullet 500 Reborn...

[@riderramblings]

"Park for Free!" A novel concept these days even for a motorcycle. I loved your review and I am now looking to buy one.

[@PictorialPlanet-]

Thanks, Stu. This bike sounds like a good upgrade to my Enfield! Great reviews, both parts 1, the walk round, and 2 this hand on review.

[@stephenc6503]

Nice one Stuart, I test rode one prior to your video on the Mw, A & B roads and was really impressed, it's a great MC. Comfortable, stable and with good brakes, and more than enough power. Regarding the rear suspension, the demo MC was set on the lowest setting and on all roads this was fine, so even if I buy one, and that's likely, there's still plenty of adjustment left so no need to upgrade the suspension.

[@artiecisneros4691]

Great review on a great looking bike. Thank you for sharing.

[@brikfiend]

Excellent ,honest review Stu . I'm going to test ride a Gold Star along with an Interceptor/Shotgun soon .

[@user-pi6hz5dk5b]

Nice unbiased report, pointing out the benefits of "normal bikes" as we used to know them. Everyday bikes where you feel comfortable and still go on long tours when needed. Not enough of those today, unfortunately. When are you getting one?😅 Lack of a centerstand option is certainly a big mistake as with many bikes today, in favour of ground clearance, weight, and costs.

[@gary1477]

I have a Kawasaki KLR650. It is a single cylinder water cooled 650cc motorcycle with a 5 speed gearbox. It has no centrestand. The engine is DOHC with shims under buckets for the tappets. I took it to the Kawasaki dealer to have the tappets checked and adjusted at 25,000 kms. The dealer told me that the tappets were still within spec and therefore none of the shims were replaced. I took it to the dealer, as he has a stock of secondhand shims and the mechanical knowledge to do the job. I use a bike lift for changing tyres and lubing the chain.

[@dr.chrismort8448]

Another cracking video and review Stuart. Well, I’ve seen your 2 previous reviews and I’m off shopping next week with my current wife. I’ll probably part x the v strom, but I’ve never felt comfortable on it anyway. I also miss the feel of the bikes I rode in the 1970s- comfortable, easy to ride and a smile on the face because it’s what motorcycles were about. Totally agree re press reviews. It’s a lot like mainstream press on other issues, for example covid related restrictions by Government. Anyway, I want one.

[@grahamcrighton8113]

Great review and real world comments regarding handling and rider perception of the bike. Please keep the common sense approach coming!

[@peteduch2151]

If bsa had a model air and oil cooled 800cc single 60 hp and have a variety of custom parts old and modern looking that would sell like hotcakes

[@iguanabelga8028]

Better a new vtwin😉

[@peteduch2151]

​@iguanabelga8028 a good idea but there are so many types of vtwins already big aingles are rare

[@warwickwearing5042]

Great review again!

[@richardyardley5127]

A really enjoyable review and video Stu and from a slightly more in depth and certainly a more relevant angle than I've seen previously regarding the Gold Star. Really good. I really love this bike and now totally 'get it' too, thanks to your video's. The only let down is that it isn't air cooled but that's just me but it is a big single and this is a huge plus for me. It would have been all to easy for BSA to make a 'Golden Flash' twin but they didn't and because of this brave decision they have a bike that is out on its own, especially now that a big single 'Classic' from Royal Enfield seems unlikely.

[@jamielawrence2515]

Certainly my favourite looking “Brit” retro bike - love it!

[@hobnob15]

It sounds like you’ve found the next bike for the channel Stu 😉👍🏻 carry on that man Caio for now tat ta 👍🏻

[@paulmewett528]

Great review once again. I think it will win a fan base. It's very slightly reminiscent of my old man's Matchless 650. Cheers .

[@richardjones3112]

A well-balanced review.A bike that puts a smile on your face at a reasonable price is always worth it.

[@clausentumsoton]

Outstanding no-nonsense review Stu, the best by far I've seen on this bike. I'm an Interceptor rider of four years and 45000km and I've no intention of parting with it.. the BSA would be a contender but I haven't seen one in mainland Europe and the lack of a centre stand (while out on the road) is a non starter for me anyway. Despite this the Goldstar has grown on me.

[@stevewalker2047]

Good morning Stu. Excellent review. You almost made me want one. The only thing that may put me off is the lack of a centre stand. I owned an ex racing Norton once which didn’t have a centre stand or prop stand. It was such hassle to work on or park anywhere. I don’t think you could buy paddock stands back then. Our local Enfield dealer is also a BSA dealer. People I’ve spoken to that have taken the demo bike out have loved it.

[@petermartinak2332]

Nice bike. Thank you for your profi videos. According your videos i customised my int 650.

[@jameskeefe4797]

This isn't just a motorcycle, it's an event! I saw one recently, exiting a petrol station. I just stopped in my tracks, stood and stared! The classic beautiful looks, the soulful exhaust note, just made my heart sing! It made me feel good, and I wasn't the one riding it! Stu and his lovely wife look classy and cool in amongst the classical architecture of that old market square. They look happy to be out running errands, on the Goldstar. The fact that Pauline feels part of the ride, and wants to come along is priceless. I wouldn't be at all surprised if Uncle Stu gets one partly because of that. Superb review as usual.

[@danielmcneil3004]

Thanks for another excellent review Stuart. At the early introduction, I was not that impressed but as time goes on and more honest, objective reviews are posted, the bike has become a real contender for the type of riding I do as a senior rider now, having enjoyed 2wheels since late ‘70s. My biggest stumbling block is, as you mentioned, lack of centre stand. I think it should be standard equipment. Cheers and safe riding, Dan ✌️🏍🇨🇦

[@adrianlw2750]

I enjoyed this review, and I’m not even a biker! As always, your considered analysis of detail shines through, and having the bike on test for a decent amount of time gives credence to your conclusions. Looks like a good choice for the channel, plenty of interest, and suits pillion inclusion on your days out etc.

[@robertkemp9023]

Thanks for the informative and diligent review, plus the other two, and all the work that lies behind them. I loved the look of the bike when I saw it at the Birmingham bike show in 2022. Despite the positives outweighing the negatives, I don't think I could be persuaded to swap for my Interceptor. I am however interested to look at the RE Classic 350 following your various reviews of it, and was interested in your comparisons of it with the Goldstar, aside from the obvious power difference. 🙂

[@pclaxton78]

Good review now I'm more interested than ever thank you

[@louisemarkus8486]

Tremendous review. Bikes are about how they make you feel. Doesn't matter how authentic its is as long as its enjoyable good looking and reasonable value!

[@terenceotoole8636]

As ever a detailed and balanced review. The comparison you make with an upscale Classic 350 makes me wonder where you see the BSA in comparison to the Shotgun 650. An extra star awarded for the pillion passenger. 😂

[@gregorygreg4263]

I really like this bike. I am going to get a test ride. Thanks for a very detailed review. I've always had singles and twins because that's what I grew up on and all I ever needed. I have my twin pot BM roadster set up on the soft side it soaks up the bumps and handles well enough for me. I like to sit as upright as possible and just enjoy the ride. Rushing along makes things fly by but you lose the experience of the journey in a blur.

[@clivebrooker8641]

That was an enjoyable review on the BSA and I would like to say the engine would go on for ever. My last job was working on this engine in a BMW frame and the riders were animals with no respect. I liked the bike so much I bought one and have enjoyed every ride. So to sum up Stuart keep up the good work and await your next review on any bike that you get next.

[@berryslokker8949]

Thanks for this very thorough review, the best untill now in all the episodes. Another bike on my list. So for me it would be a 650, the shotgun, super meteor, the goldstar, but... i still wait for hopefully the enfield classic 650. A lot of testriding to do, ha ha. Again, thank you so much uncle Stu. Love from Holland and regards to Paula.

[@jonoxford6447]

An interesting review, I will have to try and get a test ride.

[@jeroldkohl4094]

Awesome review thank you much. I'd love to test ride one but I don't think they're here in America yet .

[@jrnmller1551]

Thanks Stu, for a well executed video, I love that we old angry men, have the decency to admit, when we are wrong, please include Doris again, she suits the channel!!

[@-old-school-motorcyclesltd]

Top 5⭐️ review and again Stuart and recognising all the areas you have been to just like me riding mine from my view in the area Finally hearing it from your experienced point of view considering all the bikes you’ve reviewed on your channel is the best I’ve heard yet! Great work Have a great weekend Phil Green I’ll get you a pint for that and half for your Mrs 😂😂 or vice versa

[@stuartfillingham]

Thanks 👍

[@stevecoppin4278]

Good Morning Stu ,Id just like to say thank you for sharing this in depth review on the BSA , i think i would have to make a difficult choice between this & the Interceptor tbh , so take care & ride safe

[@stuartfillingham]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@stormytempest6521]

Stuart, I'm a Welder myself, frame welds could be better appearance wise ( slightly bigger build up ) but it's been MIG welded the frame tubing and it'll be fine, ok bending the frame tube it would look nicer and maybe cheeper to make, but as i say she'll be ok.

[@ajkolb2746]

The new Gold Star is a very handsome bike. Great review Stu. Too bad they’re not available here in Wisconsin. Godspeed from across The Pond

[@jgordoncooper7112]

Back when the Goldstar was first announced, I was really excited about the possibility of it becoming available. As time went on it seemed like it just wouldn't make it, so I forgot about it and purchased my INT650 which I'm very satisfied with. I hope it becomes successful --- In that perfect world where the number of motorcycles you can have is n+1, I would get one in a heartbeat.

[@robertbeighter6336]

Absolutely loving my Midnight Black, still in running in kms, have had the stalling issue, the engine light etc - but man I really love it. I smile all through the ride.

[@carriebacon4175]

Mr. Fillingham, Wonderful review of the BSA Goldstar - as the mistress of a RE 500 Trials Replica, I also enjoy the zip of a large single with lots of grunt for the twisty roads of Maine, in these Colonies. I agree that those who rush to castigate BSA as a ‘lesser brand,’ because of non-British ownership are simply being shortsighted boobs! In these here Colonies, the vast majority of our products arrive on our shores from foreign lands - and that is a good thing, regarding the economics of purchase. Lady Bacon

[@BlakesPipes]

Enjoyed this video. I do not think it has been released here in the states. But you talk about this bike , like I talk about my W800 Cafe. Just what a 60s bike feels like in 2020s. Sounds like one might come stay in the garage soon.😊

[@user-sw2lv3zp6o]

This sounds like a great bike with a top engine. I'm looking forward to the Scrambler. Both the Gold Star and the Scrambler would make perfect long-distance bikes. I went long distances on my XT500 in the '80s. By the way, my KTM 390 Duke's steering lock works both ways. First-class review, Stuart. Very enjoyable. Nick

[@rochmel1409]

Great video, thanks.

[@johnrickards1908]

Uncle Stu', you old bugger, what have you done to me? Partly due to your earlier observations/bias I don't want to want one but, now I do. Perhaps when you have a spare afternoon, you could pop round for a quick cuppa and, explain to the wife why a BSA 650 Goldstar is likely to be found in my garage in the near future. Good luck with that!😂

[@Arthur-da]

Just buy your Missus a new handbag & coat and drop into the conversation "Oh by the way love". Always worked with mine when I bought another bike

[@MpeTe01]

Nice sensible review. Makes a change!

[@michaelmcvey9282]

Nice review Stuart. Good to hear you have used it for pillion work. I checked the BSA website and there is no grab rail mentioned as an accessory. Some very good deals about which may upset the first owners. Although as I write this I have just noticed that someone has said a rail is on Classic bike racks. Just looked at my local dealer website and they have a lovely R100rs for sale... Just this morning I had a look at the dealers in Ipswich, Triumph, Suzuki, KTM, Kawasaki offerings and just looked at the seats and prices as i use my 14 year old RT1200 as my commuter and For the price, the 650 looks right. (I have an original Commando 850 and I suppose the nearest to it is a Bonnie but I road one a few years back and it was sooooo boring. T120 was nice. V7 looks a little small for me, which may put me off the BSA.

[@johndavis-tn3il]

Great series on the Goldstar. I'm quite interested in one when they arrive in the US.

[@dogfeathers5646]

Me too! I will have my face pushed against the windows and drool marks on the door knob the day they have one for sale on our shores. Mahindra better hurry though as I am already a geezer.

[@Aitch412]

So... when are you getting one then Stu... ?😛 Nice review... I love the BSA and harkening back to the old model my father in law waxed lyrical about his and then in the same breath said it needed the bottom end rebuilding in the kitchen table every year... I suppose it was the norm, but folks expect a bike to last these days and the BSA seems to fit that bill nicely. It's nice your lass enjoys the bike too, perhaps a slot in your little stable for those sunny days out for you both...? Ride Safe...😎👍

[@johnandrew1680]

Nice review, we are just waiting to launch this in India. I heard it is launching in August this year. I am very much interested in this bike.

[@burtvhulberthyhbn7583]

Stuart you've outdone yourself with this review. Absolutely thorough and thoughtful. Notwithstanding your insulting our U.S. puny gallons. Being a Queen's subject U.S./Canadian dual citizen I remember well those Imperial gallons.

[@kevinwheatley1097]

Yorkshire man, I like what I say, and I say what I bloody well like 😂 Honest views - well done 👏 Just noticed the rifles on the cylinder - nice touch BSA.

[@paulmeeson1003]

Great review, personally love big thumper's. 100% with you, you don't have to scratch around every corner when you ride. Been there done that as they say😂. I'd love it if Enfield took in board what BSA have achieved and make a 500 bullet. Live in hope. Good honest review, keep it up.

[@RedfordBaron]

excellent review as ever Stuart I'm tempted with one especially a secondhand one they seem a bit of a bargain

[@gettheflockoutofhere]

This is a perfect review. When it comes to the US I am going to retire my ‘79 Yamaha XS 650 and take the plunge. You nailed it. The Goldstar is the true modern incarnation of the original British cruiser, which the Japanese also copied well enough back in the day. It will be a nice upgrade on handling and a major leap forward in braking. My wife pillion will appreciate that. Thank you.

[@PhilipBallGarry]

Nice final review Stu - thanks. A cracking bike the Goldstar 😊. The omission of the valve clearance check at 1st service is appropriate for this type of engine. Ironically, the same omission on the RE range isn't such a good idea in my opinion and I would advise owners to insist it's still carried out and definitely worth paying for - or doing yourself for those confident to carry it out. Edit: Nice to see that the Goldstar 650 is also easily able to accommodate what we'll call "Paula's Purchases" 😊

[@vincesacca5025]

A very nice looking bike paying heritage to the past. I think they missed the boat without a grab rail on the back for the passenger. The plastic handlebar controls that move around not a plus. Maintenance wise: A radiator, water overflow reservoir, water pump, thermostat, fan and hoses. Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 get on it and go. A contender in the 650cc range. I've watched many reviews on this bike. They seem to be positive. 6/28/24.

[@deepaknagraj9827]

Stuart, your review could be BSA's one of the best marketing tool. Loved your review. I own an Int 650. Would love to check out the Goldstar. Kudos sir . .

[@stuartfillingham]

Cool, thanks

[@colinhailey830]

Great review, and honest. I wonder if BSA made a marketing error in calling Goldstar. When I heard the name and then saw it, my mind went "that's not the same as the one my dad had". If it had been called the "Goldstar 23" or "The New Goldstar" I suspect my, and others, subconcious would have been less resistant to all the "new" bits. Your right though, an exact replica of the old one would not have sold, they were hard to start, hard to stop, and the old adage of "if it's leaking oil at least you know it has some in it" held true. Can't wait 'till they arrive here in Aus to try one.

[@timparker9235]

very enjoyable and informative review Stu - thank you - at my local m/c club which generally includes retired folks, recently purchased bikes are RE Hunter, Hornet 500 (because the guy couldn't wait for months for a Triumph 400 which he really wanted) and now a Gold Star, which I'm looking forward to seeing next week - what does that tell you about the appeal of these bikes?

[@Matt-hm9uo]

Hi Stu, Thanks for the vid, and letting us know that the pillion is ok on the back. I'll try one out and see whether to keep my Meteor 350 or not 🙂

[@garywoods765]

Brilliant video

[@charlesbradley2943]

Love to see one. When will they be imported to the USA ?? Thanks for the great review Stu !!

[@MrJpb2000]

Very good video to watch this Uncle Stu. 👊😎👍 Making me wonder if switching from the Interceptor to the Goldstar would make sense (as my Mrs always comes with me now) or just wait for the RE Classic 650.

[@MrJpb2000]

Just looked at my Interceptor in the garage & I just cannot imagine ever letting it go. It’s just the best looking modern classic 650 (in my eyes). I think I’d need to either save up for the BSA Goldstar or the RE Classic 650 for whenever it arrives. Every time I jump on the Interceptor it still feels so good…

[@davidmacgregor5193]

Hello again, Stuart, I have replaced the stock Indian made Gabriel brand rear shocks on my Legacy Edition with a pair of Girling shrouded shocks. I think the Girlings give the rear suspension a more period look as befitting it's 1950's style. The Girlings are the same type of shocks that my mate has on his 1958 BSA A10 Super Rocket. The Gabriel shocks are now installed on a 1980 Benelli 900 Sei.

[@johnkenure4188]

great vid thankyou

[@haxan6663]

I started riding in the 80s and as someone who has never owned a car, my bikes have had to be practical. So they have to be comfortable, have luggage options and do pretty much everything. Many happy memories of numerous XS650s, a Z650 and a borrowed MZ251.

[@SteveInskip]

Nice one Stuart. You’re correct; you buy the bike in accordance with what you want to do with it. The BSA looks to be great for mosying round. And a Yorkshire man apologising? You’ll be buying a round next! 😉😁

[@RufusCapstick]

I've liked the Goldstar from the start. Your review has cemented my plan to get one. However, there's one big problem, they don't sell them yet in the country where I live 😢

[@stuartfillingham]

give it a little time!

[@resin8n]

Another great video. I agree with your comments regarding the BSA, I just would have preferred if they had to use a radiator, why they didn't copy Triumph's design and make it more incognito!

[@dewipeach]

You've summed it on all points, Stu. I'd noted with the RN 452 call it Press launch that videoblogs had got to do test rides, it was more down to earth the end user, yet did they have time to be really critical or just agreed to being a bloody good Bike..! after all riders are the ones manufactures should take note of, if model/marketing is correct.. than to the Mags. Odd how it's always with any bike to be pigeon holed into a set category, like said you're all designed for the road and all do it differently, horses for courses. If you think on the revs, each stroke the piston makes a momentary complete stop top/bottom, can it then rattle at speed.. Free Parking.. our Town one area is where it didn't workout big enough for another car space in a corner, another Carpark took me long enough to find the place and then walking as off a walkway, its beyond a yellow boxed area, faded MC markings, useless space elsewise, has concrete bollards each corner and middle of front edge, whom there to stop.. just 2 Bikes max. Cheers Davey

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

In the old days Triumph 's first service was free. Maybe manufacturers should bring that back.

[@neilhemingway8448]

Would you please explain what you mean by a 'socketed weld' . Not a description I have seen before relating to a welded joint??

[@Baloski46]

I love it. I loved the old one too. I also love my Bantam. I want one but if I do get one it'll be the MK11.

[@biggestgerbil]

Best review I have seen in years. Ta.

[@mikaelpettersson2389]

Just recently, a small company specialising in classic bikes started importing these to Switzerland, and on contrary to Royal Enfield, they don't impose any "Swiss factor" on the price. Means, they are much cheaper than the corresponding RE. However, I had just ordered a new Moto Guzzi at that time, which actually is very similar in character, with the addition of the V-twin and shaft drive, of course. But I think I'll still go by and make a test drive of a gold star!

[@user-yi3gb4bu9o]

Good day Stuart, as ever with bikes we have more or less the same view. I like the style very much, but it is no a Gold Star from my point of view. The real Goldie is totally different, I had the chance to ride one several times with a 600 ABSAF engine, very loud and brutal. Back to the actual item, it looks for me a little bit like a pre series bike. But....I stay with my RE Hunter 350, waiting for a 500 cc single. I trust RE more than the other manufactorers like BSA, Mash etc.