BSA Bantam 150 Major D3

History

The original design of the BSA Bantam came from a German design, the DKW RT125 that was received as part of war reparations. This fact was kept pretty quiet until long after the demise of BSA and for many years the Bantam was thought by many to be a 'truly British' lightweight motorcycle. The BSA designers converted the design to meet British conventions and into Imperial measurements for manufacture in Birmingham.
The first Bantams were available only in all-over Mist Green and sold for ?60 plus tax. Over the years they gained improved suspension and electrics and the engine size increased from 125 to 175cc.

This particular example is a Bantam Major D3 model dating from 1956. Produced from 1954 until 1957, the D3 had a swinging arm rear end from 1956 on, rather than the earlier rigid or plunger rear suspension. Its 150cc engine also had a little more urge, up from the 4hp of the 125cc to a heady 5.3hp.

Said to run and ride well, and in excellent restored condition, the bike comes with a fair bit of history and receipts for work totalling around ?1,000. The registration number is believed to be original but is non-transferable. Altogether a lovely little bike that would grace any collection.