Lot number	217
Hammer value	£3,100
Description	BSA A7
Registration	ASJ 890
Year	1958
Colour	Maroon
Engine size	497 cc
Chassis No.	FA7 16580
Engine No.	CA7 1620

The BSA A7 was to be the staple 500cc offering from the Small Heath firm from 1946 through to 1961.

Designed in late 1939, its launch was delayed by the war, demand during this period being for the rugged, slogging side-valve models rather than the more complex, as yet untried OHV units.

Marketed under the slogan ‘Its time YOU had a BSA’, its 26bhp would take it to nearly 90mph and they were strong sellers, helping BSA to top the sales charts year on year.

This 1958 example was purchased by the vendor’s late father. Unfortunately any paperwork that came with it has gone astray, although the bike is recognised on the DVLA computer so the new owner should be able to apply for a replacement V5 in the usual way.

It has clearly been comprehensively restored in the past, the speedometer showing just 63 miles which may well be the distance travelled since its renovation was completed. Now needing some light recommissioning, the engine is free to turn and has good compression.