1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman

1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman

racing60sUnited Kingdom

A racing machine from 1962, the 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman delivers 42hp from its 499cc OHV single engine.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV single
Displacement
499 cc
Cylinders
1
Power
42 hp @ 7000 rpm
Torque
44.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
85.0 × 88.0 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
Amal TT 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
175 km/h (109 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
143 kg (315 lbs)
Wet Weight
154 kg (340 lbs)
Seat Height
790 mm
Wheelbase
1370 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
14.0 L

History & Story

The 1962 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman was introduced by BSA as a racing machine aimed at riders seeking racing machine performance and style. Manufactured in United Kingdom, it represented BSA's vision for the single-cylinder racing machine market during the 1960s.

The 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman is motivated by a 499cc OHV single single-cylinder unit delivering 42hp at 7000 rpm. Breathing through Amal TT carburetor and kept cool by air-cooled, the engine drives through a 4-speed transmission with chain final drive.

Built around a steel single cradle frame, the 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman suspends its 143 kg (315 lbs) on telescopic fork forks and twin shock rear units. Braking relies on drum at the front and drum at the rear, with a 1370 mm wheelbase providing stability.

Performance-wise, the 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman achieves a claimed top speed of 175 km/h (109 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for racing machine duties. The seat height of 790 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Today, the 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman is considered an extremely rare and highly prized collector piece, commanding premium prices at auction. Parts availability is rated as difficult, making ownership a dedicated pursuit. It remains an icon of BSA motorcycling from 1960s.

Known Issues

  • Oil leaks typical of British singles and twins
  • Lucas electrical components unreliable
  • Primary chain adjustment critical

Fun Facts

  • Pristine examples of the 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman can command six-figure prices at auction
  • The 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman is considered one of the most collectible motorcycles from BSA
  • With a power-to-weight ratio of 293.7 hp per tonne, the 1962 BSA Gold Star Clubman offered thrilling performance

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Difficult
Collector Rating
10/10

Resources & Parts