HOT DOG!

A long time ago, Rob Smith bought a clapped-out classic with seriously canine credentials. The sleeping dog lay for 15 years, until Rob was inspired to undertake a back-to-basics budget build. This, then, is his cut-price creation…

Iwas interested to read about Frank’s plan to build a special using a BSA donor bike, while avoiding the need to break a complete machine. This is precisely what I did a few years ago. One day, almost 25 years ago, my wife Jean informed me that a neighbour had called around regarding a BSA he had for sale. This unknown compatriot wanted a valuation for the bike and thought I could help, possibly as he’d seen me riding various BSA models during the 30 years I’d lived in the area. I discovered he was literally just around the corner from my place. Bursting with curiosity regarding what model he was selling – perhaps a humble Bantam or maybe a DBD 34 Gold Star – I suggested an a immediate viewing. As I left the house, trying to keep my enthusiasm under control, a voice rang out from behind. ‘You’re not going to buy it, are you?’ ‘Of course not, my dear,’ I replied. ‘I’m just going to have a look…’

On my arrival the guy thanked me for my prompt response to his request, apologising for any inconvenience. As we made our introductions, my eyes focused on the obvious contour of a motorcycle covered by a white sheet behind him in the garage. Cutting short any further small talk, I pointed at the shrouded machine, asking if that was the BSA. He replied that it was but made no attempt at an immediate unveiling, and instead commenced telling me how long it had been in his ownership, and from whom it was purchased from, and when, and so on…

I may have appeared a little rude by abruptly asking: ‘Well, what model is it?’ Stepping back, he replied ‘It’s a 650 A10’, while simultaneously whipping off its cover. This revealed an A-to-Z of various parts bolted together, in essence a two-wheeled autojumble stall. Effectively, a dog of a bike.

‘Well, what do you think of her?’ he proudly asked.

I paused for what seemed an eternity, attempting to think of something positive to say about his obvious pride and joy. I asked what year it was and what had been done to the engine, etc – anything to avoid giving an opinion. I discovered it was the remains of a 1959 Golden Flash which had not been run for many years due to possible magneto problems. However, this non-standard, barely assembled,