The Story of BSA Motorcycles | From Boom to Bust to the Re-Birth

Подписаться 153 тыс.

Просмотров 70 тыс.

50% 1

I headed off on a two day road trip on the new 2023 BSA Gold Star to trace back the story of BSA Motorcycles!
Starting at Global Moto Coventry, with an original 1959 BSA Gold Star, I rode over to where it all started in Small Heath, Birmingham, before riding over to Triumph's Meriden location and then onto the world's oldest motorcycle dealership.
__________________
With thanks for Global Moto for providing the opportunity to create this video.
globalmoto.co.uk/
__________________
Locations:
Starting location: Global Moto, Coventry, Sibree Rd, Coventry CV3 4FD
BSA's original location: Armoury Road, Small Heath, Birmingham
Triumph's old factory location: Meriden
The world's oldest motorcycle dealership: Lloyd Cooper's, 59-63 Queen's Rd, Watford WD17 2QN
__________________
The motorbikes:
1959 BSA Gold Star
2023 BSA Gold Star
__________________
Partners:
QUADLOCK:
bit.ly/3DLOlh8
My Usual Bonneville Quad Lock setup: Quad Lock Mount with Black Lever, Vibration Dampener, Handlebar Mount Pro, iPhone Mag Case, USB Charger, USB to Lightening Cable
XLMOTO:
bit.ly/3q34JDM
Your one stop motorcycle shop- from biking gear to tools and everything else.
HOOD JEANS
www.hoodjeans....
Jeans that significantly exceeds the highest level; Class AAA of EN 17092-2:2020 standard
__________________
My personal motorcycle: 2010 Triumph Bonneville 865cc (the base version)
__________________
Buy us a coffee:
www.buymeacoff...
__________________
Find me on:
INSTAGRAM: / dob.bs
GEAR AND MORE: www.freddiedob...
PODCAST: Freedom Machines With Freddie Dobbs
FACEBOOK: / freddiecmdobbs
__________________
Video editing: @monikameraki (Instagram)
__________________
Music:
Wicked Man - Martin Landstrom
Golden Memories - Golden Age
By the Wayside - Ritchie Everett
A Whisper In The Dark - Gavin Luke
__________________
Some affiliate links may be used. You won’t be charged a penny for clicking on them, but I may get some commission from any purchases

Опубликовано:

2 окт 2024

Ссылка:

Скачать:

Готовим ссылку...

Добавить в:

Мой плейлист

Посмотреть позже

Комментарии : 409

@keithkench9432 Год назад

Thank you for covering the BSA story. I grew up not far from the factory and remember the mayhem on the roads and hundreds of workers at bus stops at 5 o'clock when work finnished. At school we would look out the windows to watch the test riders, riding along side the canal at the back of the factory. The parts they demolished were still painted in camaflage paint to try and avoid air raids during ww2. Thanx freddie.

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

Woooooow!! What an insight, I will pin this comment to the top, thank you Keith🙂

@mikerider58 Год назад

That's fantastic Keith

@Paul-67 Год назад

I’ve only just watched your fascinating vid Freddie and I’ve got say well done.

@48billy0 8 месяцев назад

My wife was a secretary at BSA around 1969/1970. I used to pick her up from work some days and can confirm that home time in Armoury Road was mayhem. Still houses along the road as well in those days. I still ride my two motorbikes at 75, Honda 750 VFR, and recently bought a Triumph Bonneville Bobber. Only ever owned one BSA, which was a 1972 Lightning. The bike was only six years old when I purchased it, and it was awful! These new BSA models aren't to my taste though. Sorry. Seem very bland.

@johnthompson9896 Месяц назад

@@48billy0 They're not really 'NEW' BSA bikes though are they? It's just the name on the tank, whoever owns the company that makes them could have put any name on them. Panther, Douglas, James, Coventry eagle, Matchless, Velocette ETC ETC.

@jbird330 Год назад

Hi Mr Dobbs, I don’t normally comment on vids but I’ve enjoyed your channel for some time now (it’s a refreshing change to the norm) and in particular, this video has really been digested as I happen to have a BSA DBD34 in my living room lol. My dad is originally from the Enfield/Waltham cross area and was one of the ‘Ton-up’ boys, hurtling along the north circular, when it was only 2 lanes and a grass track on the opposite side lol. It was his pride and joy and with his passing last march, I decided it would look great as a talking piece (yes I do live alone lol) in my living room. It’s in clubman’s trim and was used as intended, one of my last memories of him, was of us out on the bikes (him on the BSA, me on a Ducati MHR 900) and it was very very hard to stay with him and he was aged 80 at that time 👍.

@allsearpw3829 Год назад

Great to have the memories of your Dad and pride of place in your lounge . One of the all time bikes . Take care .

@mikerider58 Год назад

Wonderful story

@banzobeans Год назад

Thanks for sharing. Sounds awesome.

@char377 Год назад

Excellent! My dad had a BSA 1940s B29 Silver Sports 350 in our living room. Only took my mum a few years of protesting to get it back in the garage.

@johnb7855 Год назад

In 1956, I was 19, I bought a BSA 350 from a dealer in Taunton. I had never ridden a motorcycle before and so, like in your story, the dealer talked me through how to kick start, decompression lever, advance retard ignition and TDC. Then how to operate the brakes, the clutch and steering..It was a lot to learn in a few minutes. I somehow weaved my way through Taunton, scattering some pedestrians on a crossing and arrived safely at my destination. I’m still riding now, at 85 11/12 years. I have the Royal Enfield Classic 350. Quite a different bike to that first BSA B31. So, you asked for stories - that was mine.

@Roberta_Esposito 7 месяцев назад

hello friend. Theres a Taunton Massachusetts , 30mi south of Boston 🍻

@dewipeach 6 месяцев назад

The time frame was likely Vincent & Jerome, East Reach.. when I was of age to Ride. Dad took me down to them, possibility BSA 175 Bantam or 250 Starfire.. wish had taken the 250.. but as with any vehicle time they pass through your hands, always something New/newer...! Funny thing I've an Oilfield Himalaya now.. suits me my age.

@kev403 Год назад

Amazing privilege to get to ride the old BSA.

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

It really felt like a once in a lifetime opportunity🙂

@albertorudi5168 Год назад

Such sad story of English Motorcycle Industries. I've collected some nice old books about, exciting to read and read again. I am 67, I remember those legendary Motorcycles, the Brand myth was 50% of their value, and they were very expensive. Unfortunately for the UK, Japanese motorcycles arrived at the end of the 70s, beautiful, well finished, reliable and accessible, spare parts available everywhere... That has been the death of all British motorcycles. My 2017 Triumph is now produced in Thailand. Hope this BSA 's reborn will be significant, but may be it will become a little segment for rich collectors. I owned also an old Royal Enfield 500, as beautiful as hard to maintain both for costs and spare parts to find. I sold it (Her) but now I have a lot of nostalgia for that uncomfortable, unreliable but wonderful amazing motorcycle...

@johnthompson9896 Месяц назад

After the second world war England was financially ruined. Germany and Japan were destroyed and therefore were given huge amounts of money to rebuild with new modern factories backed by American politicians, engineers and businessmen, poor old England didn't get the same treatment. Even though England had the best engineers and a long automotive manufacturing history the engineers just couldn't get their new ideas into production because there was no investment in the future, they just had to sell as many bikes as they could to help the country pay back the massive war debts. That's the reason they fell behind in Technology compared to the Jap bikes. Japanese bikes started arriving in the late fifties, at first only smaller models but with electric start and a much more modern design which eventually put pressure on the older style bikes. What John Bloor has done with Triumph proves the bike industry in England could have survived if done correctly. Sadly having an Indian made motorcycle made by an Indian company wearing an old English motorcycle brand name just doesn't really count.

@charlesedenfield8947 11 месяцев назад

The year was 1959, the place San Diego, California. I was in college and needed a part time job to make ends meet. My Nash Rambler died and I needed transportation. Funds limited, I looked to getting a motorcycle out of necessity, not desire. To keep this comment shorter, I not only purchased a bike but secured a job at the dealership selling the things. Ah, the memories of the Gold Stars, Bonnevilles, R600Rs fresh out of their crates on the showroom floor! Honda came to town the next year and the dealership had the vision to get the franchise for San Diego County. I was loaned a brand new 305 superhawk a bit later and admittedly found some thrill in street racing the "British Boys". It is some 52 motorcycles later now, a lifetime of enjoying the riding, racing and restoring of mostly British motorcycles. This is why videos such as yours - a cut above the many other sincere efforts- mean so much to my generation and hopefully others as they age. Yes, I have had and enjoyed the Hondas , Yamahas, et al but nothing has given me the pleasure of my BSAs, Velocette, Matchlesses, Nortons, Ariel, ...AJS...........Royal Enfield....................hmmmmm, must be nap time.😴

@winchester92stevebrook44 Год назад

First motorcycle I learnt to ride on was a BSA Bantam, later owned BSA A10, A65, and Victor, also Triumph Bonneville and Trident. Now very tempted with the new Gold Star as a second bike to my 2021 Bonneville Bobber.

@karlsquire8148 Год назад

One of the best you and Monica have ever done, Thanks.

@TheMissendenFlyer Год назад

Great work Freddie and Monika! Your best episode yet - thoroughly enjoyed it.....thanks for all the efforts....(PS Could have stayed at ours!!)

@ClassicRides Год назад

The effort you and Monika have put in since you began your YT channel is really showing, fantastic quality documentary on BSA's history. Bravo 👏🏻

@mrjoneseastend Год назад

Hi Freddie, you looked ill at ease on the original Gold Star and so you should, it's more than twice your age. Kudos for trying it, I bet your lower sphincter muscle was puckering 😚, I no stranger to right hand upside down gear shifts myself. I learned to ride a bike straight from a dealer's showroom and I'm still here, it was a Fizzy. Well done on the presentation. Another winter glove tip, when riding on motorways and A roads stop at service stations and warm your hands and the inside of your gloves with the hot air dryers!

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

Haha you must’ve been the classic type of customer for Lloyd Cooper’s in the 70s. I was told they couldn’t make Fizzys fast enough- they flew out of the showroom!

@philipchard7596 Год назад

Hi Freddie,congratulations on your history of the BSA, very well presented, and planned.Also Monica has great camera skills in shooting the different focal points. I have been riding bikes since 1965 so I had a BSA 650 1954 plunger model Golden Flash a great engine I rebuilt it and that’s how I took up motor mechanics. I paid 59 pounds Ten shillings for it from Pride and Clark stockwell road of London, although I lived in Essex. I live in Sweden now still riding have a 22 1250 gs as I’m 72 years old. I used to live in Woodbridge so I love watching your channel as I recognize all the areas you ride down. I predict this will be your biggest success this blog, very well executed, 🇸🇪🏍🥂👍

@winchester92stevebrook44 Год назад

Pride and Clark in Stockwell was where I often went for parts, or to view the latest motorbikes in the showrooms opposite (happy days 😄)

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

Thank you so much Philip, I’m delighted you enjoyed the video!🙂 It was eye opening for me how difficult it is/was to start these older bikes- it’s so much more in-depth, intense and demanding. So glad to hear you’re still riding, and in Sweden!🙂🇸🇪 I have a lot of family out there and must do a biking trip over soon

@frederickacerra7766 Год назад

That's my kind of bike. I could see your eyes when you pulled out on that 1959 . I would have the same that is a lot of pressure . Another great video

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

Thanks Frederick🙌🏻 I was very, very scared!

@mangeshdehadray7979 Год назад

Wow...that was quite an adventure and we are proud as Indians to pick up the story from here and hope to see BSA going the Royal Enfield way... thankyou for your excellent take on any of the bike videos..

@avseiz6759 Год назад

Yeah Freddie, you're crushing it. It's immediately evident that you're putting in the work. The volume of videos speaks for itself-along with the quality.

@tockingwatches2377 Год назад

My grandfather, who was a policeman in the 60’s, 70’s and early 80’s in Jacksonville, Florida, had three motorcycles. All of them were BSA’s.

@felixVanDiemen Год назад

Loved it, nice one Freddie!

@colincolquhoun3973 Год назад

Been looking to this video all day dude... Since yesterday when you announced this release...bring it on. So tempted by the new BSA, HMMMM

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

Thanks Colin, I hope you enjoy it!🙂

@philroberts5537 Год назад

Thanks for sharing this. I had a BSA cycle in 1967 as a young child. Got my first motorcycle in 1979 . Love it that younger people are getting into biking before the eco bullies kill the lifestyle off .

@thepodbaydoorshal Год назад

You've outdone yourself this time Freddie. You really are the Richard Attenborough of Motorcycles. Bravo!

@davidhall2298 Год назад

Love history, love motorbikes & love watching you guys. My perfect video 👍

@tdeloriea Год назад

I saved this for morning coffee. What a great way to wake up and such an enjoyable watch. I’m looking forward to them showing up in the USA.

@tdeloriea Год назад

My neighbor who is in his late 70s has a poster in his garage of his old BSA Goldstar. Every time I stop by on my bike he talks about his Goldie. I need to buy one just to bring it by and let him see it. Hopefully they show up in dealers here in the USA soon.

@andrewkay114 Год назад

Absolutely amazing video! Firstly, well done Minika, awesome editing. Loved it. This is what set's you guy's apart. Thank you. The nostalgia and romance ( as well as your RU-vid channel!) of riding a beautiful motorcycle is what got me into motorcycles and convinced me to take my DAS. Thank you to you both.

@leeandjancruise Год назад

Brilliant presentation Freddie, really enjoyed the BSA history . I could tell you were so nervous riding the original BSA Goldstar by your body language, what a machine, pity the new version is made in India. I too was one of the young guns that bought a brand new bike with no experience or training, a Honda SS125A twin back in 1971 at the age of 16, I managed to start it at the back of our house after reading the owner's manual, pulled the clutch in and revved it up then put it in gear, let the clutch out too quick and it threw me off the back and slid down the back road. Oh what joy I had on that bike for a couple of years, regarding maintenance, what was that?

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

You were the exact type of biker I discussed Lee- I can imagine the fear/excitement of self teaching oneself to ride a motorbike at 16!😆 Memories made (good and bad! that last a lifetime😃

@winchester92stevebrook44 Год назад

I am the same age as you, first motorcycle on the road at 16 in 1971, and though I chose to wear one no helmet law back then either 🤔

@leeandjancruise Год назад

@@winchester92stevebrook44 Same here, saved my life during an incident.

@leeandjancruise Год назад

@@FreddieDobbs Rider ignorance at that age was potentially a killer but I have many good memories but also had too many near misses.

@peterconnell3162 Год назад

Well, that was a trip down memory lane. I owned a BSA 650 Lightning in the early 70’s. A good bike, and a true 100mph motorcycle. Unfortunately it took a lot more love and attention to keep it running well than the Japanese bikes which were starting to dominate the market, but when I look back I wish I still had it in my garage. I also bought my first Honda from Lloyd Cooper in Watford in 1976. They probably still have my invoice!. The stories you told about novices jumping on 250cc bikes without knowing anything about riding are absolutely true, and I actually saw it!!. Those were the days before Health and Safety ruined the UK.

@johnbellamy6449 Год назад

at that time a 16 year old near neighbours son picked up a new 250 suzuki .three miles from the bike shop dropped it down a gear and shot straight into a lamp post ,killed instantly ,so sad ,no proper training in those days.

@davegallo8790 Год назад

BRILLIANT video as always Freddie and Monica!!! Thumbs up and SUBSCRIBED!!! Is there any chance that you could do a review video of the current Kawasaki W800, especially the 'Cafe Racer' variant? The W800 and the Royal Enfield Interceptor are rivals to the BSA Gold Star and it would be fantastic to get your thoughts on the W800. Many thanks from Melbourne, Australia. Or is the Kawasaki W800 not available in the UK? Is it US and Australia only? 😬

@ed.barker7069 Год назад

Dave, have a look at the channel called The All Year Motorcyclist. He's a UK rider who owns a W800 Cafe Racer. He's also done test rides of the new BSA and most of the Enfields.

@mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm420 Год назад

No need to worry Freddie. The mileage on the old BSA is fake news. it had done 36k miles in 2012.

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

Whaaaaat??!!!!

@swapnajitbanerjee9272 Год назад

It's not just a video, it's therapy. :)

@OmarDenarzi Год назад

Can't thank you enough for these videos Freddie, We really love and appreciate these fantastic and detailed reviews, So once again, Thank you my buddy.

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

That’s very kind of you to say so, thank you Omar🙂🙌🏻

@davidcolton7167 Год назад

What a great video my dad took my to the local BSA dealer when I was 8 yrs old in 1965, our family bike shop had just become a Honda dealer in 1964 so he joked with his mate who was the chief mechanic there that the row of BSA Gold stars (that I was in awe of!) would be obsolete by the end of the 60's sadly so true.

@Munter1 Год назад

An incredibly interesting video Freddy, l can't say l would of had the balls to take the original Goldy for test ride though. The truth is we just could'nt compete with the Japanese from the late 60's onwards. Your videos are getting better and better, including Monika's filming. lncidentally the " air outlet " is called the bellmouth shaped to increase the air speed entering the carburettor to increase engine power.

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

I was very, very scared- every single meter riding the old Gold Star! This is the first time I’ve knowingly come across a bell mouth before😳

@markrawstron3104 Год назад

My personal opinion is that this was your best video to date Freddie loved your interaction with that man you probably made his day and I bet he doesn't stop talking about it with his mates for a long time because of all the memories that would have come flooding back to him well done my friend long may it continue👍

@tombryan1 Год назад

He left out the fact that Harleys XR750s dominated flat track racing and Robert and Decoster crushed all other bikes on the moto circuits, many times lapping the second finisher riding RM Suzukis. Theres your sad story

@FunAllDayLong4353 Год назад

Freddie the true story is even more complex than the one you actually told. Norton Villiers did buy Triumph - just not the Meriden factory producing the Bonneville. The new company became known as NVT or Norton Villiers Triumph and they mostly built the Norton Commando 850 and T160V Trident - the Triumph Trident being built at Small Heath. Unfortunately without the Bonnie they only staggered on for a couple of years.

@elementalworld Год назад

Good video,hope you thawed out. I hope the bike sells and runs on its own merits not just a name. I’ve had a few friends comment that its a BSA got to have one. Its a Indian motorcycle. But if thats what it takes to get more motorcycles on the road thats a big plus in my book. Initial reviews seem great so good luck BSA don’t balls it up again!

@MaxBrauns Год назад

Thats why British bikes got dominated by the Japanese big 4 starting in the 60's, they were just too mechanically complex and eccentric compared to any bike from japan. My 70's Honda CB starts and runs like any bike today even with a carb; turn key and push start button or kick to start (something you cant do now). They really set a standard for bikes ever since that is now universal.

@JJPelszynski Год назад

Well done Freddie and Monika! Thoroughly enjoyed the trip into BSA’s wonderful history. So glad they are back and cannot wait to see these on the roads here in the US!

@RamblingRuters Год назад

Great content Freddie, as an American brands such as BSA are not relatively well known here and you have a great, calming way of getting everything out there, very relaxing and keep adding your British humor, appreciate your genuine self as it feels your not talking at me but to me. Enjoy your time abroad and I'd also recommend to do some research on local customs/traditions/culture awareness.

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

Thank you so much, really glad you enjoyed the video🙂 And I will do (re cultural differences in Dubai)

@paulegan7250 Год назад

Excellent video Freddie and Monica I think one of your very best to date, lovely interaction with the elderly man, I bet you made his day, I live close to Lloyd Cooper and had no idea. Thank You

@raygods123 Год назад

Thank you Freddie and Monika this has to be your best video so far . You could tell you’ve really taken the time to research BSA well done i fully enjoyed this .

@critterIMHO Год назад

I have to admit this bike is starting to grow on me. If it comes to the United States, I think it will all be about what kind of dealership network they can provide.

@tonywhite5033 Год назад

I grew up on Armoury Road during the 70s and 80s. All my older family members worked at the factory and were made redundant when it closed. Just as a side note. A 10 minutes in the very spot where you were standing is the exact site of the first factory. The four story building was used to make sidecars, I believe. The main "new building " was built in 1915 for the war effort. It was demolished in the 70s. This was the main assembly track. When the factory was closed, I was shown around d by the security guard one summer evening. Half built bikes were still there on the track, complete with overalls just hung up on the track as if they had just left. So many stories .

@clivethereddevil3178 Год назад

my dad worked there at the same time.

@paulshenton6527 Год назад

I was one of the security guards that worked at BSA after closure. All machines had gone. But so nostalgic to walk round. Just an amazing place.

@tonywhite5033 Год назад

@@paulshenton6527 it was a Mr Gillet if I remember correctly

@paulshenton6527 Год назад

@@tonywhite5033 Thanks for the info. I worked for Securicor at the time. It was a hell of a job, keeping the copper and metal thieves away from the back of the building. There were a few internal rooms, that were locked down that contained mortorcycles. We were told by owner of site never to open or go in these storage rooms. Amazing on how many new engine parts were left lying around. Cam shafts for Rocket 3's etc etc. One other thing was we all had the impression of how run down the place was. Warped floors, etc.. Looked like management had spent nothing in maint for years and years. Just a great sadness that those in power let a great company go to the wall. They always gave impression that they had not got a clue. Ohh well. At least BSA and Royal Enfield are back.

@jasonadams5187 Год назад

Awesome video and awesome content Thank’s Freddie and Monika

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

Thank you so much Jason!🙂

@flatcapcaferacer Год назад

I love your honesty about your lack of expertise in starting the 1959👍👍 An excellent retelling of the BSA story.

@Brwmbfoz67 Год назад

Nice programme Freddie. I live in Sudbury, (work at The Adventure Bike Shop as it happens) But im from Brum. My brother works at BSA making Air Rifles. 17 million years ago i was a motorcycle instructor and one of my routes was a journey from Small heath, Meridan,Into Selly Oak (Ariel) and onto Reddich for a stop at Royal Enfield. awesome video and i always love the soundtrack.

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

Ahhhh fascinating- so air rifles are one of the things BSA Guns makes. Thank you🙂🙌🏻

@Brwmbfoz67 Год назад

@@FreddieDobbs yes the cheaper ones are made abroad but the higher end ones are still...assembled.. in Small Heath.

@Brwmbfoz67 Год назад

They also restore/service old,proper firearms there.

@MOTOUK1 Год назад

Extremely jealous my friend you rode that bike 😲 wow factor Freddie. Love it 👌 I think it’s worth more than £20k if it’s not I’ll buy it 😂

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

I did think £20k may be under selling it! I was very scared riding it😆

@gdfggggg Год назад

I was so engrossed in your presentation I nearly forgot to pick up my daughter. The old BSA factory is a beauty. It’s so sad it’s not British anymore. We have such genius here but we always seem to screw it up. Lack of funds and bad management seem to be the issues. Well done you guys. Somebody’s gonna snap you up at some point Freddie, I’m sure of it 💵💵💵

@paulcockrill6708 Год назад

Welcome to sunny Brum

@MrDeathSmack Год назад

Just finished “Hell’s Angeles” book and asked myself a question where the hell are all of the BSA motorcycles if they were so popular back in the day. Thanks for the video

@frederickbowdler8169 Год назад

quickly established a good reputation for selling bicycle s to people who hadn't been shot by the guns they sold

@FalkoWallenborn Год назад

Very well done ,Freddie, that´s a good explanation of the story about BSA. I ´m a great follower of all your vlogs you´re giving to us. Improving my knowledge of English ,travelling around,that´s great. Big effort from both of you. I don´t forget Monica with the camera at your side.

@mantarayal Год назад

Another cool story guys. Monika is making you a star!! You are a brilliant team. Ride and travel safe and love from NZ as always. Bit of a shitstorm here at the moment so pleased to have power and internet to watch this. Anyone out there who understands what we are going through and are not in NZ, feel free to donate. Just asking. It's a nightmare.

@paulcummins1770 Год назад

Great video Fred I played on the BSA site in the 70s all a ruin then of course.we played also on the wooden hill towards the canel that's where they tested the bikes I believe it's still there.

@1teem Год назад

@FortNine finally has some competition if you keep on going like this. You're telling the story of why biking is dear to many peoples hearts.

@Americathebeautiful49 8 месяцев назад

I purchased my first BSA at the Bud Ekins Triumph dealership in North Hollywood in 1969. It was a 441 Victor. A thumper they called it. I later also took up motocross on a AJS as Malcolm Davis and Andy Robertson were amongst my idols. That eventually led me to move to England where I was introduced to the Ace and Ton Up Boys. I didn’t have a bike of my own then but I did manage to borrow the odd Norton, Triumph or BSA for a few exciting rides around London.

@rob2475 Год назад

I’ve been looking forward to this video and thoroughly enjoyed it. What an amazing privilege you had to ride that iconic original Goldie Freddie. I began riding in 1976 and have owned so many nice bikes, all Japanese. But the older I get, the more I fancy owning a genuine early British bike, they just have something about them. Great job of telling the BSA story, very interesting, also good to see the old factory site. Just a little surprised you didn’t give a little more on your further impressions of this new model. (Perhaps your silence on the matter is indicative!) Well done, looking forward to the next vid.

@SherKhan-b1kes Год назад

My 1st big bike was a 1972 BSA A65L which I bought s/h as a 19 year old in 1976 from a work colleague in Acton. Working at that time in a hospital and used to head to the coast or the Lake District with tent and sleeping bag strapped to the back. Got chased by a police Rover V8 but caught cos silly me ran out of ⛽ petrol after some 10 - 15mins of hot riding through West London (only a 2gallon tank!). After 5 years of ownership she got sold to my friend but, bought her back in 2004 and did some restoration work. Tears rolled down my eyes as she started on the 1st kick. Needs finishing as this Export Lightning’s been off the road for some 15 years. We‘re still in contact but my beeza‘s buried deep in the garage. I wanted to sell that Lightning but my wife stopped me, which is why I‘m lucky to have 2 other bikes to ride.

@Ittoqqortoormiit Год назад

Good wife.

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

This is amazing- what a story!!!!!!😃🏍️🚓

@l0ner1der Год назад

Amazing video, history lesson and adventure Freddie. I found your channel a couple of days ago and have been catching up with as much as I can. My Father had a Gold Star back in the day and loved it, unfortunately he's no longer with us but I'm sure he would have loved this. I'm new to motorcycling myself so your videos are a great insight and inspiration for me. Thank you 👍

@shazzadauncon3682 Год назад

Was waitng for this video. Such a beautiful looking bike. I wish BSA could make a simple air-cooled twin like the A10.

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

A good shout- I wonder if BSA will add a twin to the lineup

@stephensalt6787 Год назад

Who picks the soundtrack to your videos? The choice is superb,so atmospheric. Great history tour, loved it. Good work you two.👍

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

Thanks Stephen- it’s all Monika🙋🏻‍♀️

@BlackThor15 Год назад

An amazing video and a great story Freddie, well done! Back home I've got a 1972 BSA street scrambler that my father used to ride delivering telegrams and mail while working for the Italian company Marconi when they were established in Portugal...yes, quite a few years ago. The BSA still works fine, he does all the bike service himself and he still ride it at the ripe age of 78! 👍👍

@kevlids259 Год назад

Quite new to your channel Freddie, but really enjoying the vids. 👍

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

I’m delighted you found the channel, Kev!🙂

@rayborg7378 Год назад

You really can tell a story.This one on the BSA is a goldmine of information every old and not so old biker has ,got to like it.

@somersetbiker Год назад

I have a BSA bicycle in my garage. My dad bought it new in 1936 and it was his only mode of transport, ridden daily until his death in 1977. BSA. Built like a gun. Built to last.

@paulbooth1373 Год назад

Just one minor point, Freddie. You don't seem to have mentioned that BSA is the initials of Birmingham Small Arms, unless I've missed it!

@arlenemiracola3465 Год назад

Freddie, you've done it again! You always manage to add so much interesting and colorful back story that I hate to see your videos end. And Monika's filming skills are top notch to boot. I am a Yank with a life long affection for Brit cars and Bikes and loved seeing the BSA factory and Meriden location that til now I could only just imagine.... I'm sure most all that follow this know what the initials BSA stand for, which is Birmingham Small Arms and it all started right there. It would be great if both BSA and RE were revived there in England but the heritage and the history will always belong to the Brits..... keep up the fantastic work... Frank from Florida 😉

@BlakesPipes Год назад

Nice mini documentary on BSA. I see why culture and history to you in Europe is so in love with the brand. TAYM, giggled the entire time when he rode his. I didn't really understand. I live in America and don't have that connection to Indian or Harley Davidson. In today's world, most don't care about culture and progress, but I do understand the importance of the fountain pen and how to start a fire. It's the foundation that created what we have today and the trouble we have experienced. Love the video. Reminds me of all my experiences that made me who I am today. Go BSA!

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

That is beautifully well said🙂

@glenndavison4253 Год назад

Thoroughly enjoyed your coverage of the history of BSA Freddie! I was lucky enough to ride a number of vintage bikes provided by the National Motorcycle Museum at the Peterborough bike show a few years ago, and one of the five bikes I got to ride was a BSA Gold Star. Although of course for the time, they were cutting edge, but I was shocked at the difference between those classics and my modern bike in terms of handling, braking and cornering, but I still cherished the experience. Seeing some of the old British bike brands returning really does fill my heart with joy. With Triumph now doing extremely well, Royal Enfield with a new UK development location and producing new models, Norton now under new ownership and still manufacturing........it's all just great! LONG LIVE the British Motorcycle manufacturing industry.👍👍❤❤

@lynnbroadhurst4807 Год назад

Great video Freddie! It's really interesting to hear the story of BSA, and how it is now emerging back into the forefront of motorcycling.

@TheWurks Год назад

My word Freddie you were so local to me! could have grabbed that exhaust and I also have an Oil in Frame 1971 last of the line BSA here in the workshop... Good video though as always...

@stevezahn8056 Год назад

This could possibly be my all time favorite video from you guys. Truly wonderful. A great history lesson. The only thing I wish I could have seen is you Freddie doing a running bump start on that old Gold Star. I’m a till death Harley man. But I got my start on a 1971 BSA Lightning, 37 years ago in the Bronx. I never rode a bike before. Shifting on the wrong side, tickling the carbs till the gas ran down the side cases. Kicking my brains out till it started. Sometimes burning my pants when it shot fire out of the carbs. Learning about the wonders of the Lucas electrical system. Ya that’s how it started for me. It blew a piston on the interstate one day. And that was it. It was great to see where it was made. And here’s a little Harley, BSA, Triumph info for ya. Harley flathead riders love pre-unit English bikes. You pull out the 3 speed Harley tranny and put the English one in, and with a little American ingenuity you get 4 speeds which gives your WLA the ability to hit the ton. Glad to see you ride an old bike Freddie. And if you can get that Goldie for $20k. You better buy it.

@thetreadtrader7565 Год назад

I was born and grew up a couple of miles from the BSA factory in Golden Hillock road Birmingham. Some of my pals worked there, I could tell stories about that. I had a Rocket Goldstar in the sixties, sold it and bought a 750 Interceptor. Great times.

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

Fantastic- I’m sure the Rocket was Lazenby’s (James Bond) bike of choice in the ‘60s. Stunning machine!!

@SloanRanger1961 Год назад

Really interesting stuff, Freddie. As a Yank, I never knew much about BSA and don't think I have ever seen one. Great job providing the detailed ups and downs of the brand, and as always, the coffee looked delicious.

@stevesanelli90 Год назад

Ohh Freddie & Monika, you’ve completely entertained me with this history & story of one the best British motorcycle companies ever known. All credit to both of you! Your energy, hard-work & adventures are unmatched. Very much appreciated 👍. Would you buy one Freddie? I can see it in the tea leaves 👌 A super cool machine for an absolute superstar ⭐️ Forget the Defender 😉 This or the Royal Enfield 🙏

@teneretraveller8980 Год назад

Always enjoy the history you give us but by far the best yet. Excellent. Safe, happy travels 👍

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

Thanks!🙌🏻

@tushu24897 Год назад

What a lovely story! Freddie, thank you for teaching us about the history of BSA.

@mikerider58 Год назад

Fantastic video. The first motorcycle l ever rode was a B.S.A Bantam early 70s l was only 11 years old, loved that bike, gears were on the right, brake on left. My early experience of Royal Enfield began in The Army Cadets a young teenager shooting the Royal Enfield 303 rifles 😆 my shoulder is still sore. Motorcycles and Cars in the 60s and 70s had Class anyone who rode a motorcycle or played guitar was instantly COOL 😎 My dad was a motor mechanic so l was surrounded by bikers and petrol heads. It warms my heart to see the resurrection of B.S.A. l fail to see The Cool factor in modern day motorcycles, l admire the technology but the Plastic Jet Ski look of most modern bikes and cars for that matter is pathetic 🙄 When l was teenager l could name any motorcycle or car a mile away, you can't do that anymore. Anyway where were we 😆 yes, GREAT VIDEO and the Music was awesome too. We all know the music was better in those days but don't start me on that. I'm a guitarist 🎸 and biker.

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

Oh wow- back when Royal Enfield made guns!😳 A biker and guitarist- you must’ve had a very fun life with all the fun both of these bring!😃

@ed.barker7069 Год назад

A Motorcycle and a guitar. Didn't you star in a film called Roustabout? 😁

@mikerider58 Год назад

@Ed. Barker 😆 no that wasn't me, that was some little know guy called Elvis Presley.

@ed.barker7069 Год назад

@@mikerider58 Never heard of him. I bet he faded away into obscurity.😂

@adriangedamke2069 5 месяцев назад

The first bike I went on when I was only 8 was my brothers BSA Star Fire 250 & then the first bike I rode was a BSA Bantum 125 when I was 13 offroad. When I was 17 I decided to get my own motorcycle & that was a Honda CB250N Super Dream. I always have had a good memory of those first days of motorcycling & now at 62 Im riding a VFR800fi which is 26 years old. I bet anyone starting off with motorcycles & those like me would love this bike.

@6060don Год назад

My father was a motorcycle mechanic in Canada. He worked on many BSA, Norton's and Triumph's. Fortunately, the shop sold Honda and Suzuki. At the end only the Norton could be considered a relatively reliable English motorcycle. The Japanese bikes were so much better. It's nice to see the BSA making a modest come back. I will be traveling to the UK next month with my wife and we will be bringing our Japanese motorcycle with us to tour Europe. Thanks for the video I enjoyed seeing it.

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

This is really eye opening re Norton and the Japanese bikes. You’re bringing your bike from Canada to Europe- this is fantastic! I don’t think I’ve ever seen a vehicle with Canadian plates in Europe! Have an incredible trip🙂

@GlennO1961 Год назад

Great piece of motorcycle history! Well done, you two 👍✌

@guzz1jon Год назад

Not a BSA story because, back in 1972, British bikes were considered old school, slow, and expensive compared to Japanese offerings. I was eighteen and wanted something faster than my mates bikes (BSA Bantam: Triumph Tiger 90). So I bought a Suzuki T250j, in blue, from Clarke's in London Road, St.Albans. I think it cost £247, but I had to buy it on hire purchase, so it would have cost a fair bit more than that. This was just before the helmet law came into force, but old Mr Clarke wouldn't sell me the bike unless I agreed to buy a helmet. I was taken down the road on the back of my new bike by the Clarke's mechanic, Charlie Blindell. He demonstrated the controls, and I then was required to show that I could operate the bike safely. I wobbled and stuttered down the road like the novice I was. L plates on, and that was that. I rode off to show everybody I knew, my shiny, polluting, two-stroke missile; Pulling involuntary wheelies was a speciality to start with, as was stalling it. Once I got the hang of it, I spent the next year alternately blowing the baffles in the silencers: Blowing holes in pistons: Trying to kill myself with some of the stupidest riding ever. Crazy, happy, days, but now I'm just coming up to seventy years old, after a lifetime of different bikes, what bike do I fancy as (possibly) my last? Why, the new BSA of course!

@No1Nova Год назад

Thanks you too both of you for creating this video, it's an essential part of motorcycle history and it's story needs to be told. Take care

@biker_dale Год назад

What a great walk back through a truly British product and so much history we need to make sure doesn't disappear just because it relates to motorbikes. So sad that we have lost all this industry abroad, lets see if BSA can make it this time around. Great video.

@thomasgadsby7263 Год назад

Brilliant Freddie; that original Goldie is a thing of beauty, thank you for the effort you put into this video. Ride safe and take care.

@jamespatterson4468 Год назад

A most enjoyable video, one point you didn't mention, was the full correct name for BSA is Birmingham Small Arms. James Patterson a motorcycle and scooter owner since 1962 My current bike after i downsized from my third Harley Davison, is a Honda Rebel 500A .

@AsmodeusT Год назад

Another great video guys, I am running a couple of weeks behind at the moment but wanted to say what a great episode this was. You can really tell that a lot of research went into making this one, you guys are getting more professional by the minute.

@AsmodeusT Год назад

This is not Freddie it is a scam! They do it on multiple popular channels.

@magnet2345 Год назад

My 1st road bike was a (60 or 70's) Bonneville with a left foot shifter. I was racing bicycles at the time so I had the bicycle set up with the shifter on the left side. Bought a new Bonnie when they started production again but have been riding BMW's for probably 40 years. Last year sold my last BMW and bought a new Bud Eakins T120 and I am in 7th heaven. Love the bike. Kudos on your video, I will be watching it over and over. Keep yup the great work. Arne from New Mexico

@110adventures7 Год назад

Wow, what a fascinating video Freddie, you and Monica have done it again, great narration fantastic camera work. A history lesson I shall watch over and over. Triumph, Norton, Royal Enfield and now B.S.A. company names from my childhood, bikes I'd longed to own by bought Japanese instead due to reliability and as they were my only method of transport for leisure and work and I would more than likely been fired if I showed up late for work due to bike issues repeatedly. My only regret is these once great British companies are now owned by overseas companies with the exception of Triumph. A sad sign of the times, bad management, poor products and more than likely union intervention, will we ever learn ?

@FreddieDobbs Год назад

Extremely good points you raise. And your decision making process (needing a reliable vehicle to earn a living) breaks it down in the simplest terms- the Japanese we’re just much better at making bikes that worked.

@SP.05 Год назад

ROYAL ENFIELD : Owned by EICHER Motors (India) BSA : Owned by Mahindra Group (India) NORTON : Owned by TVS Motor (India) VINCENT MOTORCYCLES: Owned by BAJAJ Auto (India) even TRIUMPH MOTORCYCLES has a tie up with BAJAJ INDIANS love motorcycles

@CornishMotorcycleDiaries Год назад

That was a lot better Freddie, yes there was largesse from BSA, but it was in return for something worthwhile, not just 'Isn't this jacket nice...' You realise of course that every BSA fanatic will fact-check every single word and haul you over the coals for anything inaccurate.

@faerieSAALE 5 месяцев назад

Only an authentic BRITISH "MADE in ENGLAND" BSA motorcycle is a true BSA in every since of the word. NOT, some Made in India, Retro Motorcycle with a BSA name tag, with a water cooled engine and cheap plastic parts! If you want the British Look, Sound, and Road Feel of a True British Motorcycle - then buy the best one you can afford. DO NOT BUY "RETRO JUNK" from India.

@lindsaysampford3190 Год назад

Excellent documentary Freddie, you’ve obviously gone to great lengths to put it together. Incidentally, that ‘thing’ you put your hand over was the carburettor intake (the carb alone is worth a small fortune!) so you literally suffocated that Goldie to death!

@JN-fu5gd Год назад

My dad rode his ‘beeza’ as he called it to and from Clacton in Essex to Bristol where he worked as a printer every weekend in the early sixties. Wish he’d kept it!

@-old-school-motorcyclesltd Год назад

Well done Freddie what a great video and especially seeing you riding the Original Gold Star ⭐️ looked amazing on the road!! Cheating a bit with the push start but eh and you must try the kick start one day😊😊 I’m glad I ordered one and every time I see the bike I love it even more I have ridden one and can’t wait to get mine 😊 Thanks for you’re amazing video 😊😊 All the best Phil Green

@chrisgreen8128 Год назад

Excellent Freddie. Very tempted to buy a BSA. Have sat on one and am very impressed.

@Oldtimer-c6y Месяц назад

I know you apologised for lack of technical knowledge, but seriously!? You say you “covered the air OUTLET to make it stop”……..have you never seen a carburettor? It sucks air IN and mixes it with fuel to make the engine go…….oh well, guess know you know. Nice video by the way.

@johnthompson9896 Месяц назад

It didn't mean the end to Triumph at all............ the person who bulldozed the old factory was the new owner and he was smart enough to know it was beyond saving.

@gerardarends6412 Год назад

What a beautiful video, so much British motorcycle history. So nice to see the revival of great brands like BSA (and Royal Enfield).

@tombryan1 Год назад

Sorry, but you coated that story. Ownership drove the company down the tubes. BSA, Norton, Triumph, they all went under because they rode their laurels and stopped innovating just at the time Japanese bikes stepped up with economical and superior machines. Read any cycle magazine from the 70s, the articles will tell you

@columbmurray 4 месяца назад

In 68 bought my first bike from Coburn and Hugh's , aka slow burning fuse , Harringay , London . A BSA Starfire 250. After my test bought a Norton Commando. Later I went Japanese and was surprised how trouble free and easy to service. In my dotage recently I bought a Starfire , a lot of trouble. I now ride a starship , Honda PCX . I'm 80 years.

@gustavbotur6017 Месяц назад

Freddie, thanks for the historical excursion through the British and thus also the world motorcycle school, which influenced the design of the Czechoslovak Jawa as well. I enjoy watching your videos as well as Stuart Fillinghams comments and ratings. Good luck, with the wheels down!

@davidbnsmessex.5953 8 месяцев назад

I bought my first proper motorcycle , BSA SS80 ( C15 ) in 1964 . ( reg FNO 918 B ) , It cost me £250 , £1 for every cc . I earned 3 Guineas a week ! One to my mum , one to spend and one to save for the Bike ! . Now I have a Triumph T100 Black 2015 at age 76 ! . Brilliant ! . Joined the 59 club in ‘64 and went shopping one day in Harrod’s with Rev’ Bill Shergold and got told off for taking the day off work ! . I believe he was riding a Norton Dominator at the time if I remember correctly .