A7 497cc ohv twin || 420lb || 55mpg || 90mph || 1946-61

BSA’s first 500 twin has smooth power and typically fine handling. Early models may be more soughtafter, but post-1950 bikes with A10based engines are better for spares. The under stressed engine has great reliability and charm. Recommended to anyone who enjoys motorcycling off motorways. Starting out as a rigid, it gained a redesigned engine and a plunger frame, and was later redesigned again to fit into the swinging arm frame. Iron-engined rigids are especially fine. The only real fault is the sometimes dismal 6v lighting, but that’s hardly unique to BSA and is fixable with modern components such as LED bulbs, as is the magneto ignition. A7SS Shooting Star is the sporty one, with slightly more go and a higher price. The A7 is surprisingly affordable for such a pleasant motorcycle.