Which to buy, what to pay…
A few years back, prices for genuine top-ofthe-range DBD34 Clubman-spec bikes were hovering around the £20,000 mark – and even higher. These days, though – thanks perhaps to older riders starting to find a standard-spec Goldie a bit more of a challenge than they’re looking for – prices seem to have softened a little bit, so £15,000 can get a very tasty example in your garage.
Bikes in touring specification go for a little less money. Expect to pay around £10,00012,000. Off-roaders are more affordable. Trials or scrambles models in decent condition turn up for £6000-8000, although a connection with a well-known rider can push that up. ZB and BB prices seem to be around £8000-10,000.
Which model and specification you go for depends on what you’re looking for. Swingarm models handle appreciably better than plungerframed machines and offer a bit more power and performance.
A Clubman DBD34 offers most in terms of performance, cachet and probably long-term investment potential – but they are extremely focused machines. If you want something a little less demanding for day-to-day use, perhaps a touring-spec 500 (or 350) would be a better bet – maybe with a standard or scrambles gearbox (the scrambles ’box has three close ratios with a bit of a jump to top) and an Amal Concentric carb.
But don’t discount the earlier ZB or BB models. They might not have the universal appeal of the big-fin models, but they’ll provide a thoroughly enjoyable ride on the right roads – and they still carry the Gold Star name.
Later (big-fin) models are better catered for in terms of both spares availability and specialist support. Over the years, a number of Gold Star specialists have produced complete replica engines and all parts needed to build or repair your own. Of course, that means it’s difficult to be certain what’s actually inside that shiny engine you’re looking at. Ask for receipts for any work – Gold Star owners are usually on top of record keeping. But, if you want a bike to ride regularly, you’ll certainly want a modern crank with a stronger conrod anyway.
In the end, if you really want a Goldie, which variant you go for is your call. Perhaps the performance, aura, sound and stunning looks just edge it for the Clubman DBD34. But if we had our choice, that would have to come with a modern clutch. After all, if you’ve got it, surely you’ll want to flaunt it out on the road at every opportunity.