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

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.

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.

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.

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).

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!

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.

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!

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

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 RU-vid and yet a very important thing for so many of us. All the best buddy 👍

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.

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.

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

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 😃

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

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

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.

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...

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

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.

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.

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

Excellent review Stuart.

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

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.

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.

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!

Finally, The review I was waiting for ❤!

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 🙂

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

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

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.

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 ✌️🏍🇨🇦

Best Goldstar review out there. Thanks Stuart.

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.

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!!

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!😂

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.

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.

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" 😊

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.

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

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.

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.

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. 😂

Oh bugger uncle Stu! You convinced me to buy a classic 500. You convinced me to buy a continental 650. Love both bikes, happy ✅ I don’t need a gold star but hearing a trusted reviewer, I now want one! Ahh well I can dream cos we have not got them in Australia and probably not likely too seeing as the entire market is shrinking and all manufacturers seem to be simplifying their model range. Triumph bobber is twice the price of a RE 650 and rego is 2/3 again more expensive. Have you ridden or looked sideways at a Benelli 702? Its an eye opener but as you say, it’s the old school charm that wins the heart👍

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.

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

Great review loved the bike and town shots very profesional .

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

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.

Apart from my usual gripe about the frame being too small for a 6' plus rider, my only criticism of this bike is the speedo. Having the 2 gauges is a distinct plus but I doubt I could ever come to like the way the needle moves compared to the traditional set-up.

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!

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 .

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.

Great review again!

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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. 🙂

A good looking modern retro. Here in Canada, we may not get these new BSA’s, but thankfully, my 2023 W800 may have a more authentic lineage to BSA’s past than this offering. Still, it’s nice to see another retro in the market..

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.

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

Nice sensible review. Makes a change!

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

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.

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 . .

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

Great video, thanks.

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

My only criticism of the bike is its name . The original Gold Star was a relatively hi performance sports bike in its day . Its a bit like Ducati releasing a 900SS full dress tourer.

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

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

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?

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.

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.😊

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

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.

IMHO The Rotax is a sales killer not a plus If the modern lump was not its retroish look (rad it vast) would let it compete well with other retros which without doubt is the market its aimed at specially Enfields It just is not selling like Enfields Mahindra needs to sell on their biggest market, India. A lump you cant service easily will always be a problem for Indian sales

Looks really good. Don't think I'll be replacing my 500 Bullet, though.

Brilliant video

As per pic, I ride a 'rubber cow'. I have fame braces and yes on my bike (with only 2 big bolts at the bottom holding the engine and gearbox in) they make a difference. A lot of airhead riders poo-poo it. A top mount would also help, but isn't an easy mod, apart from vintage racers who have done it. It isn't night and day. Multiple welds being an issue on the frame of a classic type low powered bike like this (which has several more engine bolts) is a non-issue. Understeer? Try a 1300 Yam cruiser, That is understeer! :-) Once you know to pull on the bars, hang off the side a bit and plan your line, no problemo (with Ohlins updates). Hot Air in traffic! RT faired 860 boxer gives hot air 🙂 Also the airhead box is a joy compared to the very positive Yam. 30MPH in second with the Yam is lugging it LOL. RPMs on the Goldstar similar to my <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="1991">33:11</a> boxer. The Yam is much lower. Tractor. A great review thank you! I must try one of these. Also the Mash X ride classic 650.

Stuart, with reference to the Steering Lock only working in one direction on full lock, my '22 Interceptor can be also locked in either direction.

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.

You are lucky to be able to purchase a BSA as here in Australia there is no mention of them being imported too here

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

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.

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

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.

Do the clocks point down ( back) or go counterclockwise?????

I had a similarly functioning steering lock on my old BMW G310R.

Best review I have seen in years. Ta.

This must surely be the biggest 'back flip' since Beth Tweddle at the 2012 London Olympics 😂. And those frame sections where you were wondering if they were forged or cast... With the surface texture looking to have a slight orange peel effect, I would say they are hot forged. That would make them significantly stronger than a casting, and far stronger than a length of bent tube. It's like that for good reason. I heard one guy pointing at the paint finish on the forged segments and declaring,"I used to be a paintwork inspector at Toyota and that paint finish is terrible. Look at the orange peel!" He somehow hadn't spotted that what he was seeing was the texture of the forged material below the paint! Nothing wrong with the paint whatsoever, but we do have to make allowances for some folks lack of knowledge (while they openly declare themselves an expert)😮

great vid thankyou

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!

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 😢