Property of a deceased's estate
1955 BSA 500cc Gold Star Production Racing Motorcycle
Registration no. 800 DHK
Frame no. CB32 2661
Engine no. DB34 GS 278

On Wednesday 30th June 1937, a specially prepared Empire Star 500 ridden by the great Wal Handley achieved a 100mph lap of the Brooklands circuit on its way to a debut race victory and award of the 'Gold Star' that would give BSA's new super sports model its evocative name. Possibly the most successful production racing motorcycle ever, the post-war Gold Star formed the mainstay of Clubman's racing in the 1950s. In fact, it was the model's domination of the Isle of Man Clubman's TT which led to the event being dropped after Gold Star rider Bernard Codd's 1956 Senior/Junior double victory. Today, Gold Stars are still being raced successfully at classic and historic level all around the world.

Factory records show that this matching-numbers Goldie was delivered new in 'standard' (touring) trim to dealers Smith & Double in Ilford, Essex. '800 DHK' was raced by the late vendor's father-in-law some 30-plus years ago and still carries stickers from Snetterton (1980) and Cadwell Park (1981). Noteworthy features include a 190mm 'Duetto' TLS front brake, Lyta fuel tank, Amal GP carburettor, Taylor Dow seat (probably), Dunlop alloy wheel rims and a Taylor Dow 'Superleggera' alloy top yoke complete with double damper rods. Offered for restoration and sold strictly as viewed, the machine comes with an instruction manual, Haynes workshop manual, V5C document and a copy of 'Goldie' by A Golland.