1971 BSA 650cc Lightning
Registration no. SDO 221J
Frame no. A65L DE06889
Engine no. A65L DE06889

For 1965 BSA's original A65 Star single-carburettor touring twin was replaced by the A65 Thunderbolt, which joined the twin-carburettor Lightning, both models continuing after the range was given a major makeover for the 1971 season. In this, its final incarnation, BSA's 650 gained a new oil-bearing frame, Ceriani-style front forks with exposed stanchions, and conical hubs. The lusty, parallel-twin performance remained unimpaired, Bike magazine recording figures of 14.09 seconds for the standing quarter-mile and a top speed of around 105mph when comparing the Lightning with an almost identically performing Yamaha XS2 back in 1972. This example of BSA's swansong 650 has not been used since it was last taxed in 2003, and will require re-commissioning and the customary safety checks before returning to the road. There are no documents with this Lot, which is sold strictly as viewed.