Classic Life

PRICING

At around £12,000, a top restoration falls midway between Gold Star and B31/33 prices. This could justify a hefty price tag for a project, while that same money could secure a roadready iron-engine bike. B32s and B34s are easily faked, so checking the authenticity is a wise practice.

IN CONCLUSION

The return of the Gold

Star in 1949 made the Competition models a marketing conundrum. Serious competitors went for the more focused Gold Star, considerably diluting sales of the later Competition models. With few genuine 1950s survivors, prices of restored bikes have gone way up into 'collector' territory.

Many manufacturers offered Competition models. BSAenjoyed the reflected glory of its numerous offroad successes, but many of its talented riders were also extremely adept at altering the standard bikes on which they were supposed to be competing. A practice to which management learned to turn a blind eye.

Unfortunately, failing to offer buyers such proven benefits led to more sales lost to alternatives from other manufacturers.

Given the basic bits, anything can be rebuilt, with sufficient budget. Outclassed in modem Pre-65 events, restored machines are best enjoyed as road bikes. The softly-tuned engines deliver ample torque and can give the rider an easier life than some of their capricious

Gold Star siblings.

A bike that's eminently usable, even if it does not excel in any particular area. Different, but with very good spares availability. Buy at a reasonable price and benefit from high residual values. The perfect restoration project? Sadly, only if you can find one...