In the 1950s, the BSA Gold Star was one of the fastest bikes on the road and the track. Even the name Gold Star originated from speed when, in 1937, Wal Handley came out of retirement to ride the bike in a 3-lap race at Brooklands. His fastest lap of 107.5mph earned the coveted ‘Gold Star’ pin and, thus, the BSA Empire Star was renamed the Gold Star.
The 1950s was a time when the UK motorcycle industry led the world and BSA Motorcycles Ltd hand-built the Gold Star motorcycle at their factory in Birmingham. At its peak, BSA was the largest motorcycle producer in the world and the Gold Star was the jewel in their crown.
For 25 years, between 1938 and 1963, SMITHS Instruments supplied the speedometer and tachometer to measure the speed and engine performance of the classic BSA Gold Star Motorcycle.
Although the design was almost outdated as soon as it was released, it was exceptionally popular with bikers everywhere. They were produced with 350 cc and 500 cc single-cylinder four-stroke engines and had a 4-speed gearbox with wet multi-plate clutch.
Through the decades the BSA Gold Star evolved and the models included:
Even after production ceased in 1963, the Gold Star remained in huge demand with cafe racers and remains highly sought after today. Throughout the history of the BSA Gold Star, the handlebars were always fitted with gauges designed and manufactured in the UK by SMITHS Instruments. The gauges were all black-faced with white lettering and needles, and included a speedometer and tachometer.
Further information on SMITHS instrumentation for classic motorcycles is available on our website, or to discuss a specific requirement please contact us on:
Via the contact form on our website
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +44 (0) 1639 732200
Photograph 2 and 3 taken by Paul Fears Photography
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