1955 BSA B33
The 1955 1955 BSA B33 is a 499cc single-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of BSA's most memorable motorcycles of the 1950s.
Specifications
Engine
- Type
- OHV single
- Displacement
- 499 cc
- Cylinders
- 1
- Power
- 23 hp @ 5500 rpm
- Torque
- 35.0 Nm
- Compression
- —
- Bore × Stroke
- 85.0 × 88.0 mm
- Cooling
- Air-cooled
- Fuel System
- Amal carburetor
Chassis & Transmission
- Frame
- Steel single cradle
- Front Suspension
- Telescopic fork
- Rear Suspension
- Twin shock
- 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
- 170 kg (375 lbs)
- Wet Weight
- 183 kg (403 lbs)
- Seat Height
- 780 mm
- Wheelbase
- 1370 mm
- Ground Clearance
- —
- Fuel Capacity
- 14.0 L
History & Story
In 1955, BSA launched the 1955 BSA B33 — a standard motorcycle that would come to define an era of motorcycling. Hailing from United Kingdom, it combined United Kingdom engineering with standard motorcycle appeal.
At the heart of the 1955 BSA B33 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 twin shock at the rear. Stopping power comes from drum front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 170 kg (375 lbs) dry, the 1955 BSA B33 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1370 mm wheelbase.
Performance-wise, the 1955 BSA B33 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 1955 BSA B33 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 twin shock at the rear. Stopping power comes from drum front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 170 kg (375 lbs) dry, the 1955 BSA B33 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1370 mm wheelbase.
Performance-wise, the 1955 BSA B33 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 1955 BSA B33 was produced in BSA's United Kingdom facilities
- The 1955 BSA B33 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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