The MAM Journals - The New BSA Gold Star. A Sunday bike ? 

I was just thinking today that BSA seemed to have fallen off the map, then I found this video. For starters the bike is drop dead gorgeous and for what it is seems to do quite well, I hope the marquee makes it.

Great review, thank you. Re touring with the BSA on longer or Continental trips I see no reason why it shouldn’t accomplish this very well. I say that as someone who initially toured two up in Europe on a Honda 250 Superdream, later on much bigger bikes and recently a 10 day 5 country trip to Switzerland on a Vespa GTS300, any bike can do it and I think the Beeza would be ideal and a lot of fun. Great review, keep them coming!

My black one was delivered on the 1st of March and I love it. Being a big guy i found the rear suspension rather crashy so bought some upgraded springs from Tec @ £88 , easy to fit and have transformed the bikes handing and ride. My local brilliant Lancashire dealer had a first service offer for £100 and after that service i felt the bike improving every ride. I've had no reliability problems at all and the single engine is characterful and bullet proof.

Great review on a Stunning looking bike I grew up with the original GOLD STAR, by brother had a 1959 SUPER ROCKET he bought it in 1969 when I was 10 yes old he use to take me out on it on the back and that was me hooked, I noticed on the video also the Illegal Government Chemtral Spraying in the sky

Thank you for this wonderful review.

As soon as you post these journals i click and watch. They are great! Thank you

I like your review style! My first bike was a Suzuki GT185, it's maximum speed was about 65mph, but it got me anywhere that I needed to be, and I did hammer that little 2 stroke! My second bike was a Honda CB400 superdream, a cracking bike, that gave me some motorway experience! My last bike 16 years ago was a Honda pacific coast, that was nick named by my brothers the 'Queen Mary' It was big, heavy, and very luxurious! What's my point! One bike needs to do a lot of things to a good level! It seems BSA has done well in this regard and would fulfill the role required by me! But I would probably like to put a small screen on it! O'h! and it looks beautiful! Thank you for your informative review,

Another informative and helpful review Michael. I like your easy going presentation style. I must admit, I wasn't so sure about the "Gold Star" on launch, but it has grown on me. I especially like this Legacy model with the chrome fittings, although I have a soft spot for the red one too. 45bhp does not sound like a lot, but in context, the original late sixties iconic 650cc road burner the T120 Bonneville only developed 46. Definitely on my shopping list. Keep up the good work.

A very enjoyable 30 minutes. Thank you.

Always enjoy your motorcycle rèviews mainly more profestional then a lot of bloggers on youtube so thanks for that and the Goldstar was better then i had thought as well😊😊

An excellent review very in depth and straight talking I have a bonneville 1200 but if I didn’t I would seriously consider a bsa because it brings back what motorcycling was all about and still is but with more reliability 👍.

lovely bike and a fantastic review really enjoyed that, thank you Michael.

I'm from America (Oklahoma) and usually have bigger bikes but have had some small ones too. Personally, I really like the BSA and wish I had the room and the budget for a second bike because if I did I would most likely buy one of these. I find the looks of the bike great and, by the way, the radiator doesn't bother me much at all. I prefer water cooled bikes anyway. The exhaust pipe would look a little better if it was all chrome, I think, but it's not a deal breaker for me. I love the saddle bags and the method utilized for securing them. All in all, I really wish I had one of these motorcycles. Anyway, you did a wonderful job of presenting your impressions of the bike. Great video, and keep up the good work.

Nice review, thank you. There have been a lot of comments that this gold star is not like the original and that it's a shame, but it's nice that you review it as it is, not what it should or should not be.

This bike, within modern design/regulatory restrictions, is a welcome offering I feel. Good enjoyeable review, thanks.

Well, I have earlier said that these Journals are different - even listening to the audio is like listening a great audiobook... You have found very good aspects and go to detail in a very nice way. Please go on with these nice videos! Yes, this BSA is a very nice bike. The Rotax related engine is engouraging - and not only because Rotax manufactures engines for many uses (snowmobiles, watercraft, light aircraft, three-wheelers like Can Am Spyder and ATV:s) and it is owned by Bombardier. It is a motorcycle that goes back to where motorcycling actually was, before this hype era with wheelies and burn-outs...

A well narrated and insightful review, without actually owning the model. Good to see Kings mutual offering such good dividends again.

A lovely well balanced video Michael. I think that the 45bhp is desirable for this type of bike, it needs to have motorway capability when you are at the end of a ride out and after a long day when you decide to return home by the fastest route. I quite like the look of the BSA but still have a yearning for a more characterful Royal Enfield, possibly the new Himalayan which should enable a more ‘Adventurous’ experience. Really enjoyed the format and mixed approach of tech. and on road footage. Many thanks !

These bikes are starting to interest me and so far your review is head and shoulders better than all the rest. Thank you for taking the time to provide such great creative and factual content.

Given the modern design constraints, I think bsa have done extremely well, this silver colour scheme looks good, even the panniers are suited to the bike.

Next step should be a twin to compete with the triumph twins. A version of the parallel twin Rotax made for the old bmw f800 would be great. Even with modern Euro5+ they could still probably get 70+ hp out of it and it would have the traditional 360 degree parallel twin sound that most modern classics are missing.

Thank you for stating the relationship with Rotax and the Engine, not many people talk about that, only because the bike is Indian owned and made like the RE some maybe skeptical about the engine, as you said, Rotax have been making engines for at least 60 years a lot of Airplanes are powered by Rotax. Rotax was purchased by Bombardier, a Canadian recreation, Air plane, subway or Tube transport and other manufacturing in 1968 but remains as an Austrian Manufacture. Rotax made designed and manufactured the engine for the Buell 1125R, That, I think was a 150 HP Vtwin Torque monster, Anything Rotax is great. A lot of people are critical of the radiator but I think it looks fine and I'm a person who owns only retro bikes, Kawasaki Drifter, Royale Enfield 650, Triumph Bonneville, 73 RD350 and an 82 Katana 750. Mike, I kind of see you as a person who does favor bigger HP bikes, this was and as always, a very classy honest review thanks buddy.. PS, I AM CANADIAN and very very , did I say VERY pro Rotax Engines :-) have a great day everyone.

A fantastic video love it and a honest review

One of the best reviews i have watched, honest and fair, the New Gold Star is not a factory racer like the original!

Excellent "real world" review well done, subscribed!

Another cracking Mam video and as usual very insightful and informative, even saw myself at the cafe, ‘‘twas a lovely breakfast Michael 😊 Keep up the good work 👌

Definitely now convinced that this is the bike for me!

the fact they even decided to make this is brilliant. Wait until someone takes that lovely engine and really pull everything out of it you can. I think it will easily run out at 75-85 bhp.

A very comprehensive and honest review. The only thing spoiling the bike is the transit size rad.

Thanks for a good video. I am not a motorcyclist but I still enjoy looking at beautiful bikes such as this one.

You won't believe this! I met another old guy in America that loves your channel and likes this bike. I was on a Saturday trip for a meet up with some Texas maple nuts in Fort Worth Tx. I noticed a barbecue joint just down the road and I stopped there for lunch. So I'm in line to get mouth watering brisket, pork ribs, cheesy grits, sweat tea and banana pudding and there's another old guy standing there that looks like us! We get to talking and have a great time and the food was lip smacking good. So we're walking out and I'm headed to my truck and there's one of these also in the parking lot and he heads towards it. Yep another old guy that likes new motor cycles that look old. lol Then I tell him I like your channel and....... Your his favorite too!!! What no way lol So he describe the bike just like you did. It's fun bike to ride on Saturdays and Sundays but it also can handle traffic. Evidently you have captured the geriatric, use to haul ass but now are smarter than than that crowd in America. At least you have 2 of us! lol

A classy review! Thanks!

I do like these. Nice looking bike and let’s be honest, the way things are going in the UK (20mph speed limits etc) this has more than enough power to enjoy yourself.

I enjoyed your latest review of the BSA Gold Star. I have the BSA luggage and although pretty pricey it looks good and is practical. Unfortunately not waterproof, no serious issues. I keep bin bags just in case of rain. I agree with everything you say about the bike and especially the key word - FUN.

A great video.

yes i have the same bike and love it!!

nice video, very well done, great pace and no nonsense delivery.... as to the bike, I so want to like it a lot but think its just OK and there are far better bikes out there for the money - in it's current form, I'd take the interceptor all day long, there's no appeal for me here. a friend though wants to own a BSA (with modern reliability) so he will probably buy one because he wants a BSA to go with his (modern) Bonneville

An interesting trip and a good bike review. Nice one !

Thanks for a really good review of the Goldie.

Really enjoyed that - thank you!

Looks like a great motorcycle, I currently own a 1986 Honda gold wing interstate, best touring bike in the world.

Hi there! It has probably been said already, but Rotax is indeed an Austrian engine manufacturer known mostly for aircraft engines, but also for their Aprilia RS 1000 and BMW F800 2 cylinder engines. They have an excellent reputation. I don't know this RSA, but Rotax design is promising on the engine chapter. Safe ride!

Very nice Michael. A great bike and a great video too. The BSA name is a welcome sight on our highways and byways. I thoroughly enjoyed watching your video. A perfect viewing combination with a cuppa and a cake. Thanks again for entertaining us all. 🏍️

Best review of a nice bike. If I wanted a single this would be the one for its 650cc engine. And it would have to be this legacy edition, so much better looking. Cheers.

Thoroughly enjoyed this review. This bike is definitely on my radar. I currently have a R.E 350 Classic and my riding style is certainly not hurried 😂. I think this BSA thumper would be the perfect bike for where i ride in Northumberland and the Borders. No motor ways or crowded roads in this part of the country. I will have to give this bike a test ride and thanks again for your excellent review. Cheers. 👍

I like it a lot but there are a lot of alternatives that have proven reliability and a solid dealer network. I do hope It survives and we get al BSA II that takes into account the comments mentioned on various channels.

I think the luggage is well over priced Michael but certainly go well with the bike. Apart from the rad and overly large exhaust down pipe it's a real looker. Glad to know you have mechanical sympathy :) I always run my bikes at idle for a few minutes before riding them. For me I enjoy torquey singles and V twins so I'm sure I'd get on with a Goldie, the only problem is the money in my pocket is Silvery and Coppery. I've not seen many Goldstars on the road though so perhaps it's not been as popular as some other brands in the same league, thinking of the RE Interceptor as it's main rival perhaps. Nice video and a cracking photo up the valley:)

Possibly of interest to Northern folks. Eddy's at Tadcaster give free luggage to people ordering a new BSA at the moment .

Like it good review, a lot of critics about this bike (mostly Enfield owners) they seem to for get Enfield is Indian company too! And their early models were poor in quality and reliability. Took them years to get to 650 interceptor. So I say give bsa a chance! Bantam, a 10 look alike or lightning twin, look forward not backwards!

Now look here, Mike. Fair and balanced reviews? Come on! There's no way to get this kind of weather on average, is there 😂? Not these 2 last year's anyway. Very nice review, not least for this beautiful road through the woods. Unfortunately for us continentals, a little harder to get to when you forget to renew your passport. I did enjoy the video indeed, thanks a lot! Cheers and safe road!

I am very interested in singles at the moment. This interest keeps me viewing these reviews. Will be interesting to see if it becomes available in Thailand, as is the Enfield Interceptor. (about a grand cheaper tgan in the U K!)

The Panniers are the same design as the 2013-14 Benelli 1130 Trek - when they were Italian made . Even the way they mount on the rear . Obviously they are not retro looking but semi - hard / soft .

Great review. 👍

Good review Micheal and well worth waiting for, I must say the Goldie with luggage attached looks the part but would I change my beloved Interceptor for one.....no, but having watched your review I would like to ride one in the fullness of time.

A comprehensive review 👍 I have seen quite a few reviews on the BSA and and took the time to view them at the NEC. Needless to say the age range of those sitting on them were mostly sporting grey hair. It’s a pity they chose to call it a Gold Star as it is this which has caused the most vitriol. It seems to be in the mould of an RE classic 350 but with more power, a bike which I have ridden a few times and love. I also tried the 650 Meteor and like its relaxed nature. I wonder if I would tire of pushing it out of the garage as it’s a bit heavy.

I think Rotax are owner by BRP now. BRP own Can-Am, the F3 series having 1330cc Rotax triples. 650 quid for that luggage. I agree: the price of bike luggage is ridiculous. Nice bags, though. Decent bike, as well. I prefer it to the RE Interceptor. I always warm by bikes' engines. I'll be interested in seeing what the BSA Scrambler 650 looks like, assuming it ever materialises. First-class review. Everything you need to know in thirty minutes. Nick J

Hi! Here's one cheer for the author of this interesting review. 💋 I'm an old motorcycle journalist from "Allt Om MC", Sweden, in the 1970-80's, and appreciate your professional touch regarding the actual evaluation of the bike. I especially liked the rural scenery from "old England", such a beautiful countryside. As for the bike, naah... I think a used Honda/Yam/Suz/Kaw would be a far better choice for touring around. The Japanese brands mean less expenditure when something breaks down, and easier-to-find spare parts in foreign countries. Lovely review, though! 😁

Thanks Mate Good video

I have two BMW 650s with similar Rotax engines, and neither one particularly likes cold mornings. As you mention, though, the engine is fine once it warms up. As for the BSA, I'd have to say (judging from what I can see in this video) I'm not overly impressed by the bike's fit and finish, especially compared with an Enfield. And that radiator is really an eyesore. Looks like the designers stuck it on there as an afterthought.

Interesting review of this interesting bike. The overall impression of the bike is very good and much better than earlier bikes from India, like the Royal Enfields. As one used to the sound of 4 cyl 1000cc engines, the single cylinder sound reminded of the sound of a lawn mower, so the sound is a bit of a let down there and also not like old AJS 350 sound even. Actually a new world all together, but with a look reminding of old days. Also did not like the upside down indicating instruments, and it should be a free choice of this or traditional display. Anyway liked the bike and the evaluation!

Fantastic. Thanks

Nice bike. I'd have one.

Another fantastic review of an excellent retro style bike. Much better than any of the Royal Enfield 20bhp bunch. Great scenery too and your detailed, specific data on all aspects of the bike are brilliant - well done. However, I'm sure King George III won't thank you for pounds, gallons and schillings. He would much have preferred kilograms and litres in today's crazy world. Great video and enjoy the break from filming. 😀

This isn't a bad looking motorcycle, a bit of engraving where BSA are using decals or "stickers" would lend authenticity to machine. Knowing that the power plant is made by Rotax would put any perspective buyers mind at ease in regards to reliability.

A very good real world review, looks a nice capable machine, albeit built to a fair price

I have been following the reviews on the BSA and if they ever decide to come to the US I will consider a purchase if, and only if, a good dealer network is in place. One question for you as you ride on freeways, what is the revs at 70 or so? I have had numerous BMW twins and I do like a leisurely rev count at higher speeds.

Just take my money!! When are they available in New Zealand!

I liked the Goldstar when it was announced, went off it a bit, test rode the Interceptor and found it a bit meh. So back to liking the Goldstar, only one problem, they don't sell them in my country 😒 I could buy one in one of the neighboring countries but registration is difficult especially for a model not previously sold here.

Lets not forget that not one piece of this bike is actually BSA and in comparison tests comes out as inferior to the Royal Enfield Interceptor the Iterceptor being the fair comparison to the Gold Star not as one post tries to do and compare it to Royal Enfields smaller bikes. I would add that most dealers here in the south west are finding them very hard to sell.

I saw one in the showroom in Chester alongside several versions of the RE Meteor - to be honest, it never looked as together and "right" as the Meteor - The Radiator looked wrong, the fake pushrod tube looked naff and the foot peg and gear linkages would not have looked out of place on a tractor - On the plus side I was told it was higher performance - a Meteor with a bit more oomph would be a better buy - I ride an SRX600

Nice bike . 👌

Thank you for your review of the new Goldstar. I think personally it's a very nice looking motorcycle and captures the heritage from the past. I hope some dealerships become available here in California, USA. I would like to ride it too. The price of the bike seems very good. Are there any sounds that are annoying from the electric fuel pump or anything else you could share?

Could it be the future for motorcycles with current ethos on speed limits.

Must admit, I'd like to try one with lower bars, decent* rear-sets & a pair of Hagon shocks. *Left foot braking, gears on the right. - they suit me & make most joy-riders think twice! : )

I have a 53year old Bsa and that has 52hp.

Thanks a lot BSA or Royal Enfield Interceptor 650? Very pleased

Nice review, I think the luggage did a lot for the visual appearence of the bike since I don`t like the gap between the rear wheel an fender. Ps I think this gap also ruines the appearence of the original model as well.

As an owner now since 1 March last year it’s been ridden through all seasons and on all types of roads. My opinion and confidence in this bike is very high. I’m happy to ride it anywhere, it copes on long hot motorway runs as well as it does crawling through traffic because of “that” radiator. I noted your comment on suspension but also spotted it was set to lowest load setting, did you test on other levels?

Sloppy-looking frame welding near rear pegs. Great review - thank you.

Nice looking bike but the weight for the power output? Sorry but for this weight i can get a Suzuki g8s with an easy going nature, punchy midrange better handling and 30 more bhp.

I'm interested to see what later owners do with these machines after the new shine wears off. De-cat, re-map, clip ons and restyled more like a sixties hooligan machine could be a laugh. Pass the Brylcreem. 😂

I know its not a CC comparison, but does it feel like the classic 350? Also thoughts on classic 650 destroying this altogether?

Thanks for a great review, I've had some similar comments from non bikers regarding my Fantic Caballero 500, it's such fun to ride a retro designed/styled bike?

Personally looks better than the INT 650… apart from the radiator

How are bike so fat, the radiator & cat adding 100 lbs+? A very pretty tribute....

another 40hp and 100cc would have been better, its hard keeping up on freeways on bikes that are being pushed at 100kms/hr when you have a Kenworth Truck up your rear, 2 exhaust pipes would be nice.

Is this an “internet” bike or can it actually be purchased? If so, how many units were produced and where are they available?

You discussed the Size of the Brembo Front Disc Brake, But you ommited that it had an ABS Ring on the wheel ?? Am I wrong in pointing this Out ??

Great review. Now if BSA would get around to marketing the Gold Star in the U.S. Why the delay?

How many watts is the Alternator? Heated Grips? I'd put a Givi handlebar windshield to take the pressure of the chest and give the arms a break for all day riding. I like the bags. Is there a top case option?

I test rode one some months ago....I was bored after 5 mins.....not joking.....sounded like a little 125. £7000....were there hell do the get that price from.

3 mins in, is that a "weld" on the frame tube? Good heavens, if it is someone needs a training course. Or firing from a trebuchet.

It is a motorcycle which is made by Classic Legends which is an Indian company, the engine was designed by Rotax, an Austrian company and bears the name of a British marquee.

It's a modern bike, Mmm there is no reason to put an ebay cheap sandwich box on the handlebar in order to provide usb, by the way I've already heard that the cover can snap off, it looks like an after thought, bit like the stickers, cheap once again, just spoiling the ship for a half penny of tar

I wouldn't take anything MCN say with any great seriousness.

Good quality beautiful bike but a little overprice

the speed is 100 smiles per mile!

Floating front disc ? 🤔🤷‍♀️

At an albeit sensible price.

You paid 7 grand. I wonder why these are now £4999 + OTR of £150 now, 8 months later?