1953 BSA M33
Introduced in 1953, the 1953 BSA M33 features a 499cc OHV single engine producing 23hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Specifications
Engine
- Type
- OHV single
- Displacement
- 499 cc
- Cylinders
- 1
- Power
- 23 hp @ 5500 rpm
- Torque
- 35.0 Nm
- Compression
- —
- Bore × Stroke
- 82.0 × 94.0 mm
- Cooling
- Air-cooled
- Fuel System
- Amal carburetor
Chassis & Transmission
- Frame
- Steel single cradle
- Front Suspension
- Telescopic fork
- Rear Suspension
- Plunger
- Front Brake
- Drum
- Rear Brake
- Drum
- Front Tyre
- —
- Rear Tyre
- —
- Transmission
- 4-speed
- Final Drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top Speed
- 130 km/h (81 mph)
- ¼ Mile
- —
Dimensions & Weight
- Dry Weight
- 175 kg (386 lbs)
- Wet Weight
- 187 kg (412 lbs)
- Seat Height
- 780 mm
- Wheelbase
- 1370 mm
- Ground Clearance
- —
- Fuel Capacity
- 14.0 L
History & Story
BSA's 1953 BSA M33 arrived in 1953 as a standard motorcycle designed for the discerning rider. Produced in United Kingdom, it quickly earned recognition as a capable standard motorcycle from the 1950s.
At the heart of the 1953 BSA M33 sits a 499cc OHV single engine producing 23 horsepower at 5500 rpm. The single-cylinder powerplant features a single-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by Amal carburetor. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 4-speed transmission and chain final drive.
The chassis employs a steel single cradle frame with telescopic fork up front and plunger at the rear. Stopping power comes from drum front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 175 kg (386 lbs) dry, the 1953 BSA M33 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1370 mm wheelbase.
Performance-wise, the 1953 BSA M33 achieves a claimed top speed of 130 km/h (81 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 780 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
At the heart of the 1953 BSA M33 sits a 499cc OHV single engine producing 23 horsepower at 5500 rpm. The single-cylinder powerplant features a single-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by Amal carburetor. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 4-speed transmission and chain final drive.
The chassis employs a steel single cradle frame with telescopic fork up front and plunger at the rear. Stopping power comes from drum front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 175 kg (386 lbs) dry, the 1953 BSA M33 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1370 mm wheelbase.
Performance-wise, the 1953 BSA M33 achieves a claimed top speed of 130 km/h (81 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 780 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
Known Issues
- Oil leaks typical of British singles and twins
- Lucas electrical components unreliable
- Primary chain adjustment critical
- Period-correct fasteners and hardware hard to find
Fun Facts
- The 1953 BSA M33 was produced in BSA's United Kingdom facilities
- The 1953 BSA M33 featured a steel single cradle frame typical of 1950s design philosophy
Collector Information
- Parts Availability
- Moderate
- Collector Rating
- 5/10
Resources & Parts
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