BSA B32/B34 1946-5 7

THE SPECIALIST

Just five years after BSA'sdemise, archenthusiasts Stan Knight and Andy Stickley started Kidderminster Motorcycles. Becoming highly respected in the supply of classic parts, the business has expanded to cover most aspects of motorcycling, either at its Kidderminster premises or through a comprehensive mail order service. Thanks to Stan Knight for his input on these postSecond World War BSACompetition singles.

■ Kidderminster Motorcycles: 01562 66679; www.kidderminstermotorcycles.com

MODEL HISTORY

The 350cc ohv B31 single was the first ofBSA's postwar offerings to have telescopic forks. The B32, a 'Competition' version, soon followed, announcing its credentials with trials-ready wheels and tyres, blade mudguards and a high-level exhaust option. The purposeful look was unfortunately belied with a penalty- it was heavy. In 1947, it was joined by the B34, a 500cc version.

By 1949, BSAwas looking to a new decade. The Gold Star was revived as its flagship single. The Goldie goodies gradually cascaded down to the B32/34, with the options of plunger rear suspension and alloy top ends that conferred a welcome weight reduction. A revised frame improved the steering, but ground clearance remained a problem.

Gold Star developments continued to influence the siblings. For 1955, there was some rationalisation as BSA'snew swinging arm frame became standard across much of the range. Regrettably, the compromises inevitable with roadster geometry did little to make the B32/34 any more competitive.

By the late 1950s, again BSAwas seeing new ways forward. Off-road sport was changing, trials and scrambles courses were set out for the manoeuvrable two-strokes. While the Gold Star was still available for the die-hards, neither B32 nor B34 were listed for 1958.