1959 BSA A10 Golden Flash

1959 BSA A10 Golden Flash

standard50sUnited Kingdom

BSA released the 1959 BSA A10 Golden Flash in 1959 with a 646cc OHV twin powerplant making 34hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV twin
Displacement
646 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
34 hp @ 5750 rpm
Torque
47.0 Nm
Compression
—
Bore × Stroke
70.0 × 84.0 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
155 km/h (96 mph)
¼ Mile
—

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
182 kg (401 lbs)
Wet Weight
195 kg (430 lbs)
Seat Height
790 mm
Wheelbase
1400 mm
Ground Clearance
—
Fuel Capacity
14.0 L

History & Story

When BSA unveiled the 1959 BSA A10 Golden Flash in 1959, it signaled the company's commitment to the standard motorcycle segment. Built in United Kingdom, this standard motorcycle embodied the spirit of 1950s motorcycling.

At the heart of the 1959 BSA A10 Golden Flash sits a 646cc OHV twin engine producing 34 horsepower at 5750 rpm. The twin-cylinder powerplant features a twin-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by Amal carburetor. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 4-speed transmission and chain final drive.

Weighing 182 kg (401 lbs) dry, the 1959 BSA A10 Golden Flash uses a steel single cradle frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises drum front and drum rear units.

Performance-wise, the 1959 BSA A10 Golden Flash achieves a claimed top speed of 155 km/h (96 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 790 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Today, the 1959 BSA A10 Golden Flash is considered a respected classic that attracts serious collector interest and continues to appreciate. Parts availability is rated as moderate, making ownership a dedicated pursuit. It remains an icon of BSA motorcycling from 1950s.

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 1959 BSA A10 Golden Flash was produced in BSA's United Kingdom facilities
  • The 1959 BSA A10 Golden Flash featured a steel single cradle frame typical of 1950s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Moderate
Collector Rating
7/10

Resources & Parts

🔧 Find 1959 BSA A10 Golden Flash Parts on eBay Search eBay Motors for parts, accessories and restoration supplies 📖 Haynes Manual for BSA Workshop manuals, service guides and technical references 🛡 Insure Your Classic BSA Specialist classic motorcycle insurance from Hagerty

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