What a change of scenery! It looks beautiful there. I think they should get the 650 to other markets before they think about expanding the range. Here in the US, Royal Enfield is established, and they aren’t sitting still. Chinese owned brands are making a bigger push into the market every year. BSA had better get a move on. At the pace they’ve been going, it may be too late already.
As an Aussie in Japan, I would note that the regulations over here favor bikes according to three cc ranges. Up to 250cc, no mechanical inspection required. Just pay and plate it. Registration done. (Hence, a huge 249cc range) Then the middle band , 250-399cc. (400s) These bikes need an inspection every two years that costs at least 500 quid, just for the paper work. if they start asking you to change tyres, chains, sprockets or replace lenses, align lights etc., then it goes up. The only advantage to this range is that it requires a 'mid-size bike licence'. This is cheaper to buy and renew, easier to pass the test and has some benefits the cheaper parking rates, shipping rates etc., but not necessarily cheaper insurance. There are loads of 400cc bikes here for that reason. And speaking of BSA, look no further than the SR500, a bike I believe started the whole retro vibe, and notice that it is by far outnumbered by the SR400, for the reason that 400 is categorised as a mid-sizes bike. Then, the over 400cc class is classified as large. Harder licence test, higher parking rates etc. So what I am saying is that a 350cc would be a mid-sized bike, but if it could be actually, say 377cc, or even 387cc, with water cooling, it could be marketed as a 350, and yet eek out the 30HP-35HP, then BSA might have something. (note the Honda 350CB single is also getting popular now too. Note that the CB, whilst markedly quicker than the Royal Enfield classic, is still only 21 or so HP. These figures are severely crimped by the emission regulations for Europe etc. Another alternative is a BSA 249cc bike. No inspections required and with water cooling, perhaps could give the RE a run for it's money. Even the beautiful little Kawasaki Estrella, a stunning 250 retro, could hit 18HP. (and the carb versions 20)
Nice information there thank you. I guess as BSA is now trying to get out there into worldwide markets they should consider this licencing information. I think a 350 would be fine! Now makes sense why Kawasaki did the zx25r, zx4R and ninja 400 bikes...
Hi Sean and Suzie. Relatively new to the channel but I’ve enjoyed the last month or so. Recent relocation videos have been personally interesting as I moved to central Italy about 10 years ago. As you will know it can be very cold in both Spain and Italy, heavy snow in the mountains last night here. But what is different from the UK is the brilliant winter sunshine and less rain. So lit up properly and you can still ride. After 19 motorcycles I’ve currently got an RE Bullet 500 and love it.
Thank you Ryan for the comment, very much appreciated. Lovely to hear from someone who moved to Europe and if there is anything you would particularly like to see on here please let me know and we will do our best to work it in. Appreciate the support so thank you. Regards, Sean
Aye, i think 350-400cc has great potential in Europe, both mainland and on the isles. Not sure why so many manufacturers shy away from it. Narrow roads, crowded streets, short distances. It's where the lower capacity should shine. Wish Red Star and Honda would follow the RE example.
Gold Star ENGINE MANAGEMENT LIGHT issue. I've not got a 'Beezer' (had a B31, tweeked to look like a Gold Star back in the 1960s !) however I've just been watching a You Tube vid put out by Tec Bike Parts who do goodies for Triumph and Royal Enfield and now BSA. (I've sampled their work - bought a conversion kit from them to upgrade the heel/toe gear change on my R/E Meteor to a conventional set-up. A Very good conversion and vastly improved gear selection). The vid I've just watched was the fitting of a Tec Bike Parts stainless steel exhaust system (header-pipe and reverse-cone silencer. Saves significant weight as the 'cat' is dispensed with as well. A lot of experimental work was done to get an authentic Gold Star exhaust note, and temperature checks done to make sure the easy-breathing new system didn't cause any over-heating). On completion of the fitment it was explained about the auto re-setting of the ECU to adjust to the different exhaust system characteristics = on start-up no throttle use, and run for ten minutes just on tick-over before tweeking the throttle (the generally accepted process for ECU recalibration after an exhaust or air-filter mod) . It was stressed that (at any time) when starting the Gold Star, after turning the ignition on it was important to wait for the Engine Management warning light to go out before pressing the starter. I've seen this mentioned on another Y/T vid (unconfirmed theory that the ECU was still initiating it's boot-up process, and early use of the starter button confused the process, so systen believes a fault has occurred ! !). I think I've seen an owner's comment in another vid that this ' light out' advice is in the hand-book - but who reads a hand-book to start their 'bike 🤔 😂. Hope this advice can be of use to any Goldie owner who wasn't aware 😁.
Thanks, that is indeed required on start up. If you rush the start up on the early bikes and don't allow the ECU 'boot' time you can get an EML flash up. I've had it happen once. Cheers.
Perhaps! I hope not but you never know with BSA. Lets hope its not the worst of all worlds, where they announce it and then it is years before deliveries arrive 😂
It'd make an unknowable number of folks very happy if BSA 650s got to North America in 2024. Aside from my selfish interests, a big yes to a 350. I'd love to see one in scrambler configuration. Thank you for the video.
Hi Richard, thanks for the comment. I was told BSA are working on getting the US market set up with a distribution partner, I hope they do it soon as there are quite a few Americans who seem to have interest in these bikes. I'm actually thinking of ways to make my own bike into more of a scrambler. The problem is moving around makes it harder to have parts shipped to you. Certainly a project for the future... Cheers, Sean
Your right it has to have 30hp and a weight of max wet of 180kg. Even that sound too much for 30hp, I have a 650cc with wet weight of 177kg and 48hp. OK tank is a bit small with 11L. My Trident 660 is 81hp wet 188kg, compare that to the RE Interceptor. I tested that one and the Meteor, not for me thank you. I can drive slow and if I want fast or in between with the Trident, not with those two. The Voge 350AC is interesting, 38hp, I am waiting to test drive that one. Not yet on sale here in France.
You're 100% right about the unsuitability of the RE 350cc bikes on UK motorways. I would have never bought the Meteor if that was what I was going to be doing with it. But that's a bit like saying a Gold Wing isn't a very good motocross bike. LOL. Here in NZ, we have a strictly enforced 100kph limit (62mph), so my Meteor is just fine. The best tuning mod for the 350 Meteor is the DNA air filter, a 'decat' conversion and the one tooth larger gearbox sprocket. With these mods in place the engine is in its happy place at 95kph (according to the 'econ' indicator on the dash). The Kent cam will give more power but won't reduce the cruising rpm because a larger gearbox sprocket won't fit. (A catalyst isn't required in NZ but may be in the UK and Europe.) As for Gold Stars - it's irrelevant here because nobody is importing them.
Hi Sean, have you now physically moved to Spain. I know from your last video that you said you were relocating?🤔 Regarding the BSA and a potential 350 version of the Gold Star, that would make an interesting alternative to the RE J platform range of bikes but it's going to have its work cut out of compete with RE unless they can deliver something with an appreciable increase in power for similar money and to the same build quality standards. I don't think RE have any plans in place to put the new 450 water cooled engine into their J series range of bikes as the existing engine is still a relatively new design and they will want to recoup development costs with that. Their biggest market is the homemarket in India and they are more than happy with this unit there. Power of course isn't everything ( although useful to have) and most people who buy the different variations of the RE 350 know what they are getting and what to expect.🙂👍
Hi Jonathan, we are looking around Spain to build up our knowledge and then make the move. Unfortunately, I don't know a lot about the regions and towns so it's time to explore and find all that out. Very much our plan to relocate this year however. It's fair to say RE are very much the Goliath to BSAs David. I think they will exist in very different spaces and BSA as a niche offering might nibble away at a few sales here and there but usurping RE is not on the horizon. RE products are probably better dare I say it, at this stage anyway. BSA probably more like a Norton for now, although not as pricey thankfully. The one threat to RE is them getting complacent as I think the bullet launch was a little soft and perhaps if the 450 proves unreliable that will really slow momentum especially as triumph now in play too. I'm only talking UK market here and as you say India is where the money is made. It's very interesting, thanks for your comment and nice to hear from you. Regards, Sean
I couldn’t agree more.. a 30bhp 350 is a winner.. badge it as a Shooting Star like the old A7 and I’d be there with my deposit.. especially in green!!! Food for thought.. great video.. hope you’re having a great time out there 👍🏻
Thanks BP. What do you think an electric bike with a BSA badge on it will do? I mean surely that will divide opinions much more than this GS 650! Hope your bike is going well!
@@MindfulMotorcyclist Hi Sean, Today, EV is the way forward - problem is the price. If BSA can make an EV for sub £8k, then they will be on a winner. £8k is a real challenge!!! That said, I think EV is a stepping stone to Hydrogen (not sure why they always present Hydrogen as H2 - when in the periodic it is simply H - 😆). My BSA is like a dream - heated grips are working perfectly - heated jacket to test and video tomorrow morning I think. Keep safe 👍
A bullet proof 20 year old Honda cb 500s has 57bhp top speed 120 mph a great motorcycle for 15 hundred pounds, if you can find a low mileage one. These smaller bikes with 20bhp scare me tbh. I love the look but what happens when you want to overtake a tractor 🚜 🤔
You drop a cog and open the throttle, same as we always did on similarly powered bikes. My Scram is 24bhp - never had a problem yet overtaking a tractor. I can also get up to legal speeds easily enough on the dual carriageways. You just have to hang onto the gears as it winds up.
@@markellott5620 l still think 24hp is inadequate for modern day riding, especially on motorways. There's no dropping down a cog a 70mph when your surrounded with HGVs. This isn't the 50s 60s and l personally think Royal Enfield need to use a bigger motor which would be safer on European roads. The Royal Enfield classic bikes are absolutely beautiful but they lack the power required for modern road use. I grew up riding motocross Mark so l do know the gearing ⚙️ is completely different. Ride Safe Mark.
@@mikerider58 Yes, but these machines aren't sold for motorway riding. In and around the city, they are more than adequate. Out on the dual carriageways, they hold their own. On the byways, they are perfect. If you are planning lots of motorway trips, then don't buy one. I bought my Scram as a training bike. I spend most of the time trundling around behind learner riders in the city - and sometimes they are on more powerful bikes than mine, but I manage to keep up with them well enough. As for traffic, in the vast majority of cases, I am able to pull away more quickly than the average car. They are not underpowered for what they are sold for.
Hi Splodge, that was a nice bike but it was a concept only, I asked them about it and they said in hindsight it was a mistake to bring it to the show as they set expectations that it would come into production and then let people down.
I would of bought a BSA 650 scrambler if they brought out the 2022 NEC concept bike, but ended up buying a fantic caballero 500 anniversary as my Christmas present this year.
I had a 390KTM Duke 40ish BHP and a hard, radical bike. Superb WP suspension, hard seat and a harsh engine with lots of power ,but in no way a relaxing ride. I think there is an optimum power level that can be had from any given sized engine while keeping it in the relaxed riding zone that prospective 350 owners ( old blokes like me) want. The Kent cam and an air box mod is all it needs to get 20% more power at the rear wheel ( 16BHP at the rear wheel in standard trim) . The Market is much much smaller than most people think. Just because 4000 people watch a video it does not mean there are 4000 customers. Even the 350 Classic Enfield is being sold cut price now at around £4100 but it's not for me as I hate spokes and tubed tyres.
As you alluded to t the beginning of the video, the nice thing about the Costa Brava (wild coast) is the verdant greenery that abounds, and as you say, the Pyrenees literally slope down into the Mediterranean.
Thanks for the name-drop in the video. Did you manage to visit Cadaques? Per chance you have made it down to Gibraltar I'll be in 'Paparazzi' having a steak tonight...you're welcome to join me...(I can highly recommend the place, best steak I have ever eaten)@@MindfulMotorcyclist
We didn't get all the way up there this time, there was too much to look at on the way... There's a lovely national park around the castelle di empires/ Cadaques area, which we almost got lost in. We are not passing Gibraltar until later on the year but thanks ever so much for the invite. We'd love to meet with people in person as oppose to chatting on here! Cheers Bib!
They could call it the Starfire, it would lend itself to a small road bike and a scrambler version like triumph. Its nice to have smaller capacity choice.
Hi Sean my thoughts are that they should bring out either a 500 or 650 twin not a single and would match the old a7 or a10 I think there’s enough 350’s out there atm and lacking in power but heh if they produce a 350 great I’d love to see it and test it 😊 The old 350 was called the B31 Call it the B31R B31 Retro 😊😊 Let’s hope they bring a new one out anyway Excellent video Loving the location and the blurred out background 🙌🙌 Phil
Thank you Phil for the comment. I think a 650 twin with water-cooling and a discrete radiator could be quite potent. Would be looking at up to 70hp which would set it apart from the interceptor. You do make a fair point that a new BSA 350 single could get lost in the masses of RE J series bikes...
Have you seen coastrider scotland he hammers his classic 350 allround scotland done over 10k miles on it with no problems and hasn't even done the camshaft mod so i'm confused by the under powered camp
I do really like his channel. Yes there are some owners who are content but a lot also who are complaining about the power or lack there of. Generally they are bullet proof reliable!
Hi, I really do hope that BSA do indeed bring out a 350cc bike, as far as I’m concerned, 20hp from a Royal Enfield isn’t a deal breaker, however 25-30hp would be a little better, hopefully if BSA do bring a smaller capacity bike to market, it will have a long service interval, unlike the RE’s 3000 miles
Hi Jon, yes that is something that is putting people off these days is the short service intervals on bikes. With modern manufacturing there's no reason they cannot be longer. Honda is 8000 usually...
Well presented and researched 👍🏻 I was only talking about the 350 RE range yesterday with a biker friend, if only they were 30BHP, just to maybe maintain 75mph regardless of headwinds or gradients. Interesting note on the HNTR, is it faster from the factory as is? (Hopefully, as it would be my first choice). But then we visited my local Triumph dealer and I got to sit on a Speed 400, which although I understand the quoted 40HP is high in the rev range, I expect it will easily attain that 75mph in all conditions. Time will tell as UA-cam reviews start coming in over here (hope you're on the demo waiting list lol)
Hi Lee, thanks for the comment there, much appreciated. I think the HNTR is faster owing not only to it's state of tune but it's also got 10% less weight than the other bikes in the range, plus a 17inch front (a first for RE) making it more nibble. I expect the gearing might be ever so slightly different too as the Meteor and the Classic have altered gear ratios. The Triumph 400 will feel much faster than any RE 350 I expect, probably doesn't quite have the RE charm though in my eyes anyway... Cheers.
If the 650 gold star is light enough and manageable, and I think they are from my memory of trying one for size at Brooklands prior to the uk launch, then I don’t see the point of releasing a 350. Especially with the Triumph 400 coming and a revised RE with more power on the horizon.
So jealous of the gorgeous weather you have there 😂 Unless I’m mistaken BSA used to make a 500 & 350 Goldstar, so if it’s ever made, it could be called the 350 Goldstar. If they later decide to make a twin, they could name it the Rocket Goldstar to keep the old names going 🤔
Maybe I did, I had a very early supernova, ordered march 2021. Perhaps they tweaked the map on subsequent bikes. Oh I assume BSA will use an existing engine, they are not big enough to develop an engine in house. I suspect they will lift it from the Jawa range...
I don’t know. I have a BMW 1200GS and a Husqvarna 701, I just bought a new Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. I’m nearly 75 and the short seat height and retro looks was too much to pass on. And it was $5,500.
Actually the 350 engines on the Jawa & Yezdi are not up to the mark yet, despite making more power than RE 350, they lack certain characteristics of a classic bike. They need to pull their socks up as triumph has also entered the mid segment and here in India and taking up the market by storm.
I expect you are going to say too revvy, buzzy and short stroke, high compression compared to RE 350 (and 500). Is that right? Just a guess when people say doesn't feel classic... thanks
@@MindfulMotorcyclist actually no, maybe I should have explained a bit differently. When you ride these bikes it feels like something in the engine might break. There’s constant noise which is unpleasant. A lot of owners had breakdowns in the past. Quite a bit of niggles. Triumphs 400 are also quite revy but there’s no clatter at the bottom end. Thankfully they are improving the engines now but that needs to be seen.
We are still waiting for the 650 here in Australia. It's been far too long a wait. And no one knows when we're going to get them either. Such a shame really.
It's a shame really, BSA haven't been on top of their deliveries and distribution. They were announced in the UK Dec 2021 can you believe it and customers on got the bikes in March 2023... US and Australia are waiting for bikes!
Didnt B S A make a Starfire , but i think that was a 250cc ? I think if your used to a bigger bike with some poke in it and your looking for a smaller machine you need a bit more power to win people over ,i had bikes 250cc which could top nearly a Ton . Grate review thanks for the info 👍
@MindfulMotorcyclist Great little bike as was the earlier C15 in its day , I've got a mate with an A6 & an A 7 both lovely bikes which are up and running in fantastic condition both early 50s machines , but in excellent condition one with a re built engine 👍 its a pity we don't have a government that appreciate these wonderful machines , and on a political note they aim to end a hundred years of magnificent engineering all British, how sad how disrespectful of our brilliant engineers of old . Thank you for you input on a subject close to my heart ❤️
Thanks Carl, pleased you found it interesting though I must admit I am not as knowledgeable as yourself and no doubt others regarding the BSAs of old! Cheers, Sean
Yes a BSA competitor to the Speed 400 would be welcome, I think the Speed (and Scram 400x) are a bit plain looking tbh. RE or BSA styling and that performance would be a nice combo...
I am eagerly awaiting an BSA scrambler of sorts, I have a mind to transform my own BSA 650 with some off road tyres, crash protection headlight guard etc... very much a future plan of mine.
I bought the Meteor when it first arrived in the UK - it was supposed to be the dealers demo! Done the DNA mod and de-cat and removed the collector box. It's better, but not enough. A classic looking 350cc bike with around 30 BHP would be perfect for the UK. If BSA did bring a 350 with 30 BHP, I'd trade the Royal Enfield in tomorrow. Don't get me wrong, I love the Meteor but it's just so under powered.
Thanks Paul for the comment. I ordered mine in brown supernova spec in March 21, unfortunately it wasn't delivered until Nov and I was offered a red Stella instead around August. In hindsight I should have gone for the stella and had some summer riding on the bike. I was lured into a slightly higher capacity bike 500cc and traded the Meteor in. Still miss it as aside from power a lovely lovely machine....
If you buy parts to improve performance surely you've just bought the wrong bike? Customising to enhance fuctionality, thats a different argument. Unless you love the look of a sports bike whats the point of all that power to only pop to the shops?
Hi Bob, this is an argument that seems to rage for eternity on the Meteor 350 owners groups with one faction joyfully discussing the modifications and the opposing view point chimes in, if you wanted to go fast you should have bought a sports bike. I did modify my Meteor but that was all ascetics really and nothing for speed, engine crash bars, sump guard and touring seat. With respect to sports bike probably the most you could use on the road is around 100bhp, I only really found out what riding my Daytona 650 was like when I took it on the track, from then on road riding became really frustrating and I've no inclination to do it. I suspect most like to look like fast riding risk takers, more than actually using the bikes to full potential. One slight caveat is that Spain the roads are dead, nice smooth surfaces and warm weather. Still not on my current plan!
RE is transportation in India. RE and the so called BSA in the west are a toy. On I-75 in Florida you go 100 mph in the slow lane. A RE 350 and it's rider would be road kill.
More and more people are using and suggesting the name Starfire, I don't pretend to know about the BSA's of old but I do really like the name! Thanks for the comment!
@@MindfulMotorcyclist the starfire was a 250, and at the time we could ride 250 on L plates so lots of us rode them or had friends that had them, they did a road version and a trail version and were actually quite a good bike. All the best buddy 👍
@@MindfulMotorcyclist well I feel dumb lol . I don't see much use 350 other than a learner or city bike I really like Enfield bsa cf moto but I want that new Harley. So I can say I got a good Harley made in China .....I've hated Harley my whole life have a good one mate
Yes I suppose a 400 would have a little bit more pep, the only reason I suspect a 334cc is there is an existing engine ready to go within the company...
What a change of scenery! It looks beautiful there. I think they should get the 650 to other markets before they think about expanding the range. Here in the US, Royal Enfield is established, and they aren’t sitting still. Chinese owned brands are making a bigger push into the market every year. BSA had better get a move on. At the pace they’ve been going, it may be too late already.
Hi Mark, yes you are right BSA might already be too late. I hope not 😔 but it could be. .
As an Aussie in Japan, I would note that the regulations over here favor bikes according to three cc ranges. Up to 250cc, no mechanical inspection required. Just pay and plate it. Registration done. (Hence, a huge 249cc range) Then the middle band , 250-399cc. (400s) These bikes need an inspection every two years that costs at least 500 quid, just for the paper work. if they start asking you to change tyres, chains, sprockets or replace lenses, align lights etc., then it goes up. The only advantage to this range is that it requires a 'mid-size bike licence'. This is cheaper to buy and renew, easier to pass the test and has some benefits the cheaper parking rates, shipping rates etc., but not necessarily cheaper insurance. There are loads of 400cc bikes here for that reason. And speaking of BSA, look no further than the SR500, a bike I believe started the whole retro vibe, and notice that it is by far outnumbered by the SR400, for the reason that 400 is categorised as a mid-sizes bike. Then, the over 400cc class is classified as large. Harder licence test, higher parking rates etc. So what I am saying is that a 350cc would be a mid-sized bike, but if it could be actually, say 377cc, or even 387cc, with water cooling, it could be marketed as a 350, and yet eek out the 30HP-35HP, then BSA might have something. (note the Honda 350CB single is also getting popular now too. Note that the CB, whilst markedly quicker than the Royal Enfield classic, is still only 21 or so HP. These figures are severely crimped by the emission regulations for Europe etc. Another alternative is a BSA 249cc bike. No inspections required and with water cooling, perhaps could give the RE a run for it's money. Even the beautiful little Kawasaki Estrella, a stunning 250 retro, could hit 18HP. (and the carb versions 20)
Nice information there thank you. I guess as BSA is now trying to get out there into worldwide markets they should consider this licencing information. I think a 350 would be fine! Now makes sense why Kawasaki did the zx25r, zx4R and ninja 400 bikes...
Hi Sean and Suzie. Relatively new to the channel but I’ve enjoyed the last month or so. Recent relocation videos have been personally interesting as I moved to central Italy about 10 years ago. As you will know it can be very cold in both Spain and Italy, heavy snow in the mountains last night here. But what is different from the UK is the brilliant winter sunshine and less rain. So lit up properly and you can still ride. After 19 motorcycles I’ve currently got an RE Bullet 500 and love it.
Thank you Ryan for the comment, very much appreciated. Lovely to hear from someone who moved to Europe and if there is anything you would particularly like to see on here please let me know and we will do our best to work it in. Appreciate the support so thank you. Regards, Sean
Aye, i think 350-400cc has great potential in Europe, both mainland and on the isles. Not sure why so many manufacturers shy away from it. Narrow roads, crowded streets, short distances. It's where the lower capacity should shine. Wish Red Star and Honda would follow the RE example.
I agree with this, small capacity is where it's at. Much more exciting to me that big heavy powerful bikes...
Gold Star ENGINE MANAGEMENT LIGHT issue. I've not got a 'Beezer' (had a B31, tweeked to look like a Gold Star back in the 1960s !) however I've just been watching a You Tube vid put out by Tec Bike Parts who do goodies for Triumph and Royal Enfield and now BSA. (I've sampled their work - bought a conversion kit from them to upgrade the heel/toe gear change on my R/E Meteor to a conventional set-up. A Very good conversion and vastly improved gear selection). The vid I've just watched was the fitting of a Tec Bike Parts stainless steel exhaust system (header-pipe and reverse-cone silencer. Saves significant weight as the 'cat' is dispensed with as well. A lot of experimental work was done to get an authentic Gold Star exhaust note, and temperature checks done to make sure the easy-breathing new system didn't cause any over-heating). On completion of the fitment it was explained about the auto re-setting of the ECU to adjust to the different exhaust system characteristics = on start-up no throttle use, and run for ten minutes just on tick-over before tweeking the throttle (the generally accepted process for ECU recalibration after an exhaust or air-filter mod) . It was stressed that (at any time) when starting the Gold Star, after turning the ignition on it was important to wait for the Engine Management warning light to go out before pressing the starter. I've seen this mentioned on another Y/T vid (unconfirmed theory that the ECU was still initiating it's boot-up process, and early use of the starter button confused the process, so systen believes a fault has occurred ! !). I think I've seen an owner's comment in another vid that this ' light out' advice is in the hand-book - but who reads a hand-book to start their 'bike 🤔 😂. Hope this advice can be of use to any Goldie owner who wasn't aware 😁.
Thanks, that is indeed required on start up. If you rush the start up on the early bikes and don't allow the ECU 'boot' time you can get an EML flash up. I've had it happen once. Cheers.
A BSA 350 will be years away if ever.
Perhaps! I hope not but you never know with BSA. Lets hope its not the worst of all worlds, where they announce it and then it is years before deliveries arrive 😂
It'd make an unknowable number of folks very happy if BSA 650s got to North America in 2024. Aside from my selfish interests, a big yes to a 350. I'd love to see one in scrambler configuration.
Thank you for the video.
Hi Richard, thanks for the comment. I was told BSA are working on getting the US market set up with a distribution partner, I hope they do it soon as there are quite a few Americans who seem to have interest in these bikes. I'm actually thinking of ways to make my own bike into more of a scrambler. The problem is moving around makes it harder to have parts shipped to you. Certainly a project for the future... Cheers, Sean
BSA was know for its 650 twins back in the day like the A10s so i would have thought that would be the way to go but a 350 sounds reasonable.
A 650 twin would be nice. A smaller single as well. A revitalised Starfire...
R E's are limited. Whatever you do, that won't change. I love my classic. And I'm very happy with it.
the goldstar was a no brainer for bsa but their next bike will tell if they are a one hit wonder or in it for the long term .
That's my thoughts exactly, I hope it is the latter but I'm a realist, I know I've gone in as an early adopter 😁
Your right it has to have 30hp and a weight of max wet of 180kg. Even that sound too much for 30hp, I have a 650cc with wet weight of 177kg and 48hp. OK tank is a bit small with 11L. My Trident 660 is 81hp wet 188kg, compare that to the RE Interceptor. I tested that one and the Meteor, not for me thank you. I can drive slow and if I want fast or in between with the Trident, not with those two. The Voge 350AC is interesting, 38hp, I am waiting to test drive that one. Not yet on sale here in France.
I had seen the Trident sales were very high but never heard from an owner personally, nice feedback on what sounds like a great bike! Cheers, Sean
I think you are spot on 😊 very excited for the future 😊 Thanks Sean 😊
Thanks TAYM! Nice to have you pop by! Hope all is good with you and looking forward to more mutterings!! Cheers, Sean
You're 100% right about the unsuitability of the RE 350cc bikes on UK motorways. I would have never bought the Meteor if that was what I was going to be doing with it. But that's a bit like saying a Gold Wing isn't a very good motocross bike. LOL. Here in NZ, we have a strictly enforced 100kph limit (62mph), so my Meteor is just fine.
The best tuning mod for the 350 Meteor is the DNA air filter, a 'decat' conversion and the one tooth larger gearbox sprocket. With these mods in place the engine is in its happy place at 95kph (according to the 'econ' indicator on the dash). The Kent cam will give more power but won't reduce the cruising rpm because a larger gearbox sprocket won't fit. (A catalyst isn't required in NZ but may be in the UK and Europe.)
As for Gold Stars - it's irrelevant here because nobody is importing them.
Thanks Andrew appreciate the comment. I wasn't aware about the 100kph limit in NZ ...
Hi Sean, have you now physically moved to Spain. I know from your last video that you said you were relocating?🤔 Regarding the BSA and a potential 350 version of the Gold Star, that would make an interesting alternative to the RE J platform range of bikes but it's going to have its work cut out of compete with RE unless they can deliver something with an appreciable increase in power for similar money and to the same build quality standards.
I don't think RE have any plans in place to put the new 450 water cooled engine into their J series range of bikes as the existing engine is still a relatively new design and they will want to recoup development costs with that. Their biggest market is the homemarket in India and they are more than happy with this unit there.
Power of course isn't everything ( although useful to have) and most people who buy the different variations of the RE 350 know what they are getting and what to expect.🙂👍
Hi Jonathan, we are looking around Spain to build up our knowledge and then make the move. Unfortunately, I don't know a lot about the regions and towns so it's time to explore and find all that out. Very much our plan to relocate this year however. It's fair to say RE are very much the Goliath to BSAs David. I think they will exist in very different spaces and BSA as a niche offering might nibble away at a few sales here and there but usurping RE is not on the horizon. RE products are probably better dare I say it, at this stage anyway. BSA probably more like a Norton for now, although not as pricey thankfully. The one threat to RE is them getting complacent as I think the bullet launch was a little soft and perhaps if the 450 proves unreliable that will really slow momentum especially as triumph now in play too. I'm only talking UK market here and as you say India is where the money is made. It's very interesting, thanks for your comment and nice to hear from you. Regards, Sean
I couldn’t agree more.. a 30bhp 350 is a winner.. badge it as a Shooting Star like the old A7 and I’d be there with my deposit.. especially in green!!! Food for thought.. great video.. hope you’re having a great time out there 👍🏻
Thanks Duncan, I think we are of a similar mindset, especially the green bike part 😀.
A Gold Star 350 was available in the past so I understand. BSA are working on their EV instance due to be available at end of 2025
Thanks BP. What do you think an electric bike with a BSA badge on it will do? I mean surely that will divide opinions much more than this GS 650! Hope your bike is going well!
@@MindfulMotorcyclist Hi Sean, Today, EV is the way forward - problem is the price. If BSA can make an EV for sub £8k, then they will be on a winner. £8k is a real challenge!!! That said, I think EV is a stepping stone to Hydrogen (not sure why they always present Hydrogen as H2 - when in the periodic it is simply H - 😆). My BSA is like a dream - heated grips are working perfectly - heated jacket to test and video tomorrow morning I think. Keep safe 👍
A bullet proof 20 year old Honda cb 500s has 57bhp top speed 120 mph a great motorcycle for 15 hundred pounds, if you can find a low mileage one.
These smaller bikes with 20bhp scare me tbh.
I love the look but what happens when you want to overtake a tractor 🚜 🤔
You drop a cog and open the throttle, same as we always did on similarly powered bikes. My Scram is 24bhp - never had a problem yet overtaking a tractor. I can also get up to legal speeds easily enough on the dual carriageways. You just have to hang onto the gears as it winds up.
@@markellott5620 l still think 24hp is inadequate for modern day riding, especially on motorways.
There's no dropping down a cog a 70mph when your surrounded with HGVs.
This isn't the 50s 60s and l personally think Royal Enfield need to use a bigger motor which would be safer on European roads.
The Royal Enfield classic bikes are absolutely beautiful but they lack the power required for modern road use.
I grew up riding motocross Mark so l do know the gearing ⚙️ is completely different.
Ride Safe Mark.
@@mikerider58 Yes, but these machines aren't sold for motorway riding. In and around the city, they are more than adequate. Out on the dual carriageways, they hold their own. On the byways, they are perfect. If you are planning lots of motorway trips, then don't buy one. I bought my Scram as a training bike. I spend most of the time trundling around behind learner riders in the city - and sometimes they are on more powerful bikes than mine, but I manage to keep up with them well enough. As for traffic, in the vast majority of cases, I am able to pull away more quickly than the average car. They are not underpowered for what they are sold for.
I would much rather the Scrambler 650 they displayed at the shows. That was a nice looking bike.
Hi Splodge, that was a nice bike but it was a concept only, I asked them about it and they said in hindsight it was a mistake to bring it to the show as they set expectations that it would come into production and then let people down.
Good discussion. On a side note, i realy like that jacket, what make is it?
Hi Wayne, this jacket is called Oxford Churchill and it's large. Thanks for your comment.
I would of bought a BSA 650 scrambler if they brought out the 2022 NEC concept bike, but ended up buying a fantic caballero 500 anniversary as my Christmas present this year.
Nice Christmas present for yourself Roger!
Thanks, your video of the cab deluxe from Midwest moto helped me decide to buy one. (the one i bought might even of been in that video)
I think a comfortable 350 could be a nice commuter bike if priced right.
Agreed, comfortable and enough power to be usable but without losing the charm. Starfire might be a nice name...
I had a 390KTM Duke 40ish BHP and a hard, radical bike. Superb WP suspension, hard seat and a harsh engine with lots of power ,but in no way a relaxing ride. I think there is an optimum power level that can be had from any given sized engine while keeping it in the relaxed riding zone that prospective 350 owners ( old blokes like me) want. The Kent cam and an air box mod is all it needs to get 20% more power at the rear wheel ( 16BHP at the rear wheel in standard trim) . The Market is much much smaller than most people think. Just because 4000 people watch a video it does not mean there are 4000 customers. Even the 350 Classic Enfield is being sold cut price now at around £4100 but it's not for me as I hate spokes and tubed tyres.
Thanks for the comment Brockett, some good points made!
As you alluded to t the beginning of the video, the nice thing about the Costa Brava (wild coast) is the verdant greenery that abounds, and as you say, the Pyrenees literally slope down into the Mediterranean.
Yes I've been very surprised how green and lush everything is. There's trees everywhere!
Thanks for the name-drop in the video. Did you manage to visit Cadaques? Per chance you have made it down to Gibraltar I'll be in 'Paparazzi' having a steak tonight...you're welcome to join me...(I can highly recommend the place, best steak I have ever eaten)@@MindfulMotorcyclist
We didn't get all the way up there this time, there was too much to look at on the way... There's a lovely national park around the castelle di empires/ Cadaques area, which we almost got lost in. We are not passing Gibraltar until later on the year but thanks ever so much for the invite. We'd love to meet with people in person as oppose to chatting on here! Cheers Bib!
They could call it the Starfire, it would lend itself to a small road bike and a scrambler version like triumph. Its nice to have smaller capacity choice.
I love the name Starfire and if it was a factory small capacity scrambler with retro styling, I'd probably trade in my own GS... 😊😊
Hi Sean my thoughts are that they should bring out either a 500 or 650 twin not a single and would match the old a7 or a10 I think there’s enough 350’s out there atm and lacking in power but heh if they produce a 350 great I’d love to see it and test it 😊
The old 350 was called the B31
Call it the B31R
B31 Retro 😊😊
Let’s hope they bring a new one out anyway
Excellent video
Loving the location and the blurred out background 🙌🙌
Phil
Thank you Phil for the comment. I think a 650 twin with water-cooling and a discrete radiator could be quite potent. Would be looking at up to 70hp which would set it apart from the interceptor. You do make a fair point that a new BSA 350 single could get lost in the masses of RE J series bikes...
@@MindfulMotorcyclist
Hi Sean
Just my thoughts maybe even a 750cc
Eh who knows the market has lots of choice atm 😊😊
Have you seen coastrider scotland he hammers his classic 350 allround scotland done over 10k miles on it with no problems and hasn't even done the camshaft mod so i'm confused by the under powered camp
I do really like his channel. Yes there are some owners who are content but a lot also who are complaining about the power or lack there of. Generally they are bullet proof reliable!
Hi, I really do hope that BSA do indeed bring out a 350cc bike, as far as I’m concerned, 20hp from a Royal Enfield isn’t a deal breaker, however 25-30hp would be a little better, hopefully if BSA do bring a smaller capacity bike to market, it will have a long service interval, unlike the RE’s 3000 miles
Hi Jon, yes that is something that is putting people off these days is the short service intervals on bikes. With modern manufacturing there's no reason they cannot be longer. Honda is 8000 usually...
Since it's the same company who makes BSA and Jawa, they could easily put the engine from the Jawa Perak 350 into a BSA. That's a great machine!
My thinking exactly, development cost low, new model yielding sales and public image of brand expansion. No brainer. Cheers!
I was about to make the same point. Most of the work to make a BSA 350 is already done by the sister Jawa.
Well presented and researched 👍🏻 I was only talking about the 350 RE range yesterday with a biker friend, if only they were 30BHP, just to maybe maintain 75mph regardless of headwinds or gradients. Interesting note on the HNTR, is it faster from the factory as is? (Hopefully, as it would be my first choice). But then we visited my local Triumph dealer and I got to sit on a Speed 400, which although I understand the quoted 40HP is high in the rev range, I expect it will easily attain that 75mph in all conditions. Time will tell as UA-cam reviews start coming in over here (hope you're on the demo waiting list lol)
Hi Lee, thanks for the comment there, much appreciated. I think the HNTR is faster owing not only to it's state of tune but it's also got 10% less weight than the other bikes in the range, plus a 17inch front (a first for RE) making it more nibble. I expect the gearing might be ever so slightly different too as the Meteor and the Classic have altered gear ratios. The Triumph 400 will feel much faster than any RE 350 I expect, probably doesn't quite have the RE charm though in my eyes anyway... Cheers.
If the 650 gold star is light enough and manageable, and I think they are from my memory of trying one for size at Brooklands prior to the uk launch, then I don’t see the point of releasing a 350. Especially with the Triumph 400 coming and a revised RE with more power on the horizon.
So jealous of the gorgeous weather you have there 😂 Unless I’m mistaken BSA used to make a 500 & 350 Goldstar, so if it’s ever made, it could be called the 350 Goldstar. If they later decide to make a twin, they could name it the Rocket Goldstar to keep the old names going 🤔
Thanks Peter, appreciate the comment. That would be a range of three bikes all with the name Goldstar! 350, 650 and the twin rocket!
350 was b 40 unit bike or b31 pre unit. Did a 441cc bike also.
It would be good for older people!!!
It would indeed, very manageable especially if around 180kg with low centre of gravity...
Welcome a 350, the 650 i found a bit clumber some at the front end. Is CB350RS coming to UK?
Blimey, you must have had a slow meteor, mine does 65 with ease-two up. Wonder where BSA will source the 350 engine; buy in, or new in house design?
Maybe I did, I had a very early supernova, ordered march 2021. Perhaps they tweaked the map on subsequent bikes. Oh I assume BSA will use an existing engine, they are not big enough to develop an engine in house. I suspect they will lift it from the Jawa range...
I don’t know. I have a BMW 1200GS and a Husqvarna 701, I just bought a new Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. I’m nearly 75 and the short seat height and retro looks was too much to pass on. And it was $5,500.
Thats a very good price, that is cheaper than we have them here in pound sterling! You got a great deal.
Actually the 350 engines on the Jawa & Yezdi are not up to the mark yet, despite making more power than RE 350, they lack certain characteristics of a classic bike. They need to pull their socks up as triumph has also entered the mid segment and here in India and taking up the market by storm.
I expect you are going to say too revvy, buzzy and short stroke, high compression compared to RE 350 (and 500). Is that right? Just a guess when people say doesn't feel classic... thanks
@@MindfulMotorcyclist actually no, maybe I should have explained a bit differently. When you ride these bikes it feels like something in the engine might break. There’s constant noise which is unpleasant. A lot of owners had breakdowns in the past. Quite a bit of niggles. Triumphs 400 are also quite revy but there’s no clatter at the bottom end.
Thankfully they are improving the engines now but that needs to be seen.
@AdityaDevSultan thanks for that explanation. Not really what we want to hear if that engine is to be used in a new BSA...
We are still waiting for the 650 here in Australia. It's been far too long a wait. And no one knows when we're going to get them either. Such a shame really.
It's a shame really, BSA haven't been on top of their deliveries and distribution. They were announced in the UK Dec 2021 can you believe it and customers on got the bikes in March 2023... US and Australia are waiting for bikes!
Rotax had a 350 version of the 600 which itself was the root to the 650. Same case with 6 speeds and different cylinder/head.
Interesting point, thanks for sharing. I think a 6 gear would be a nice addition, for economy if nothing else...
Didnt B S A make a Starfire , but i think that was a 250cc ?
I think if your used to a bigger bike with some poke in it and your looking for a smaller machine you need a bit more power to win people over ,i had bikes 250cc which could top nearly a Ton . Grate review thanks for the info 👍
Thanks Carl for the comment and the feedback. Starfire would be a lovely addition to the range. Cheers, Sean
@MindfulMotorcyclist Great little bike as was the earlier C15 in its day ,
I've got a mate with an A6 & an A 7 both lovely bikes which are up and running in fantastic condition both early 50s machines , but in excellent condition one with a re built engine 👍 its a pity we don't have a government that appreciate these wonderful machines , and on a political note they aim to end a hundred years of magnificent engineering all British, how sad how disrespectful of our brilliant engineers of old . Thank you for you input on a subject close to my heart ❤️
Thanks Carl, pleased you found it interesting though I must admit I am not as knowledgeable as yourself and no doubt others regarding the BSAs of old! Cheers, Sean
Left hand drive engaged! 😂
Was it you TNT who made that LHD comment originally? haha
@@MindfulMotorcyclist erm, yes! 😂
@@MindfulMotorcyclistyou need to alter the headlamp as well
I'll do that next time 😂
Jawa is pronounced Yawa. Is there any word yet on the 650 Scrambler being produced?
Thanks, David. I'm not always on point with pronunciation. They actually came out and said the 650 Scrambler WILL NOT be produced! Sadly...
That 334cc is a made in India engine which is used for Jawa brand motorcycles..
Correct, but for the Perak bike not the Jawa 42.
There is a new Hunter 450 based on the new Himmy Sherpa engine on the way for sure!
Or dare we dream a Scram 452!
@@MindfulMotorcyclist hahaha either way we'll still be pampered!
BSA had a 350 Goldstar in line with the 500.
Someone else said that too! I suspect it will be called 'Starfire' or something so the people don't get confused between two GS models. Cheers Jeff!
I would like to have a 441 Shooting Star replica with power, weight, and price comparable to the speed 400.
Yes a BSA competitor to the Speed 400 would be welcome, I think the Speed (and Scram 400x) are a bit plain looking tbh. RE or BSA styling and that performance would be a nice combo...
l think they would better off in the 400-450 market with road and off road versions
I am eagerly awaiting an BSA scrambler of sorts, I have a mind to transform my own BSA 650 with some off road tyres, crash protection headlight guard etc... very much a future plan of mine.
I bought the Meteor when it first arrived in the UK - it was supposed to be the dealers demo!
Done the DNA mod and de-cat and removed the collector box. It's better, but not enough. A classic looking 350cc bike with around 30 BHP would be perfect for the UK. If BSA did bring a 350 with 30 BHP, I'd trade the Royal Enfield in tomorrow.
Don't get me wrong, I love the Meteor but it's just so under powered.
Thanks Paul for the comment. I ordered mine in brown supernova spec in March 21, unfortunately it wasn't delivered until Nov and I was offered a red Stella instead around August. In hindsight I should have gone for the stella and had some summer riding on the bike. I was lured into a slightly higher capacity bike 500cc and traded the Meteor in. Still miss it as aside from power a lovely lovely machine....
@@MindfulMotorcyclist yeah, shame we have to look elsewhere. Might change it this year. Just subscribed!
@@pauld7827 Much obliged Paul, thanks for joining and I'll endevour to keep the content interesting for you 👍👍😊😊
@@MindfulMotorcyclist 👍
If you buy parts to improve performance surely you've just bought the wrong bike? Customising to enhance fuctionality, thats a different argument. Unless you love the look of a sports bike whats the point of all that power to only pop to the shops?
Hi Bob, this is an argument that seems to rage for eternity on the Meteor 350 owners groups with one faction joyfully discussing the modifications and the opposing view point chimes in, if you wanted to go fast you should have bought a sports bike. I did modify my Meteor but that was all ascetics really and nothing for speed, engine crash bars, sump guard and touring seat. With respect to sports bike probably the most you could use on the road is around 100bhp, I only really found out what riding my Daytona 650 was like when I took it on the track, from then on road riding became really frustrating and I've no inclination to do it. I suspect most like to look like fast riding risk takers, more than actually using the bikes to full potential. One slight caveat is that Spain the roads are dead, nice smooth surfaces and warm weather. Still not on my current plan!
Royal Enfield for me.
Which one?
RE is transportation in India. RE and the so called BSA in the west are a toy. On I-75 in Florida you go 100 mph in the slow lane. A RE 350 and it's rider would be road kill.
Did nobody ask for a 750 Rocket Gold Star Twin?
There's a shift to smaller capacities and up at that cc there's loads of competition sadly..
BSA makers already make the Jawa
That's right!
Starfire
Great name
my mate had one, lovely looking. The Triumph 400X should have kept the Trailblazer name too.
There something wrong here . My 1970 Honda 350 would do 110.
There's something very wrong, it can be condensed into one word 'Euro5' 😂
They have the bike already…. A Jawa 42
I was thinking the Perak would be used...
Oh yes a BSA 350 Starfire perhaps, if it was about 30 bhp and the right price,Mmm
More and more people are using and suggesting the name Starfire, I don't pretend to know about the BSA's of old but I do really like the name! Thanks for the comment!
@@MindfulMotorcyclist the starfire was a 250, and at the time we could ride 250 on L plates so lots of us rode them or had friends that had them, they did a road version and a trail version and were actually quite a good bike. All the best buddy 👍
You too Mike! Cheers 👍
A 400cc BSA would be better than a 350cc
Bsa bantam 125 sell worldwide use money to develop a65 or a10 twin, 750 engine or even 800.prfer look of a 10 motor.
Too much competition already
From who? RE or other brands?
@@MindfulMotorcyclist Many brands around the world
Think u mean 650
I have a 650, this video was about the 350...
@@MindfulMotorcyclist well I feel dumb lol . I don't see much use 350 other than a learner or city bike
I really like Enfield bsa cf moto but I want that new Harley. So I can say I got a good Harley made in China .....I've hated Harley my whole life have a good one mate
😅if they are clevor it would be a 400
Yes I suppose a 400 would have a little bit more pep, the only reason I suspect a 334cc is there is an existing engine ready to go within the company...