Old Bike Australasia

Bantams rule the roost

The All British Day to be held at Echunga on Sunday 5th March 2023 will feature the ubiquitous BSA Bantam as a special theme.

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This marque turns 75 years old in 2023 and was one of BSA’s most successful motorcycle­s with a total production run of about 200,000 units sold around the world from its introducti­on in 1948 until production ceased in 1971. Later models were modernised but it’s the original 123cc 2-stroke unit-constructi­on design that most comes to mind when the ‘Bantam’ name is mentioned. The Bantam was a favourite of both metropolit­an and rural people in Australia as it was reliable, cheap to run, light enough for anyone to ride, and withstood a lot of punishment.

There may also be an attempt at a world record for the most number of BSA

Bantams in one place at the same time. A gathering of Bantam riders in England several years ago had 82 Bantams in attendance, so the aim is to better that number.

If you have a Bantam, or even more than one Bantam, now is the time to prepare to attend this historic gathering. There’s special dispensati­on for multiple entries of Bantams: one Bantam entry fee will cover a number of machines.

Interstate visitors may also consider combining their attendance at the All British Day 2023 with these other events: Sellicks Beach historic motorcycle races 11th & 12th March, Adelaide Cup Day Monday 13th March (SA Public Holiday). There is, as always, the numerous and wonderfull­y picturesqu­e winding roads of the Adelaide Hills for riders to discover. These are a joy to ride and a favourite for social rides by all Adelaide-based, interstate and overseas visiting motorcycli­sts. For more informatio­n e-mail: display@allbritish­day.com

 ?? ?? Gary Reid’s photo of Tom Gibson on a Kawasaki Mach III (H1) at Lakeside in 1970.
Gary Reid’s photo of Tom Gibson on a Kawasaki Mach III (H1) at Lakeside in 1970.
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