BSA Gold Star 650: The iconic British brand BSA Motorcycles has made a triumphant return to India with the launch of its flagship model, the Gold Star 650. This modern classic motorcycle aims to capture the hearts of Indian riders with its retro-inspired design and powerful performance. Let’s dive into what makes the BSA Gold Star 650 a compelling option in the competitive 650cc segment.
BSA Gold Star 650 Price and Variants
BSA has priced the Gold Star 650 competitively, starting at Rs 2.99 lakh (ex-showroom). This positions it as a strong contender against rivals like the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, which starts at Rs 3.03 lakh (ex-showroom). Here’s a breakdown of the variants and their prices:
- Highland Green: Rs 2.99 lakh
- Insignia Red: Rs 2.99 lakh
- Midnight Black: Rs 3.11 lakh
- Dawn Silver: Rs 3.11 lakh
- Shadow Black: Rs 3.15 lakh
- Legacy Edition – Sheen Silver: Rs 3.34 lakh
With six color options to choose from, riders can pick the Gold Star that best suits their style.
BSA Gold Star 650 Design and Features
The BSA Gold Star 650 strikes a perfect balance between vintage charm and modern functionality. The bike’s design pays homage to its predecessor with several classic elements:
- Chromed, teardrop-shaped fuel tank
- Curved fenders and side panels
- Wire-spoke wheels
- Circular headlight with daytime running light (DRL)
- Round analogue dials with upside-down readings
- Faux cooling fins
- Vintage-style crankcase
- Conventional ‘gold star’ peashooter exhausts
- Broad, single-piece handlebar
- Single-piece, flat bench-style seat
Despite its retro looks, the Gold Star 650 doesn’t skimp on modern features. Riders will appreciate:
- Twin-pod instrument cluster
- Engine immobilizer
- 12V charging socket
- USB charger
BSA Gold Star 650 Power and Performance
At the core of the BSA Gold Star 650 lies a robust 652cc single-cylinder engine. Developed in collaboration with Rotax, this liquid-cooled DOHC 4-valve powerplant delivers:
- Maximum power: 45bhp at 6,500rpm
- Peak torque: 55Nm at 4,000rpm
The engine pairs with a 5-speed gearbox and features a slip-and-assist clutch for smooth gear changes and improved control.
BSA Gold Star 650 Chassis and Suspension
BSA has equipped the Gold Star 650 with a well-engineered chassis and suspension setup:
- Cradle frame for stability
- 41mm telescopic fork at the front
- Twin shock absorbers at the rear with 5-step preload adjustment
This combination promises a comfortable ride while maintaining the bike’s classic character.
BSA Gold Star 650 Wheels, Brakes, and Safety
The Gold Star 650 rolls on:
- 18-inch front wheel
- 17-inch rear wheel
- Pirelli Phantom Sportscomp tyres
For stopping power, BSA has fitted:
- 320mm front disc
- 255mm rear disc
- Dual-channel ABS (anti-lock braking system) as standard
BSA Gold Star 650 Dimensions and Capacity
- Kerb weight: 201 kg
- Fuel tank capacity: 12 litres
- Wheelbase: 1,425mm
- Seat height: 782mm
These dimensions make the Gold Star 650 a manageable ride for various rider sizes.
The BSA Legacy in India
While the Gold Star 650 marks BSA’s official re-entry into the Indian market, the brand has a rich history in the country. Before India’s independence, British officials imported BSA motorcycles as gifts, particularly for the Parsi community. Now, under the ownership of Mahindra’s Classic Legends, BSA aims to reclaim its place in the hearts of Indian motorcycle enthusiasts.
The BSA Gold Star 650 brings together the best of both worlds – classic styling and modern engineering. With its competitive pricing, diverse color options, and impressive features, it’s poised to make a significant impact in the 650cc segment. Whether you’re a nostalgic rider or a newcomer to the world of classic motorcycles, the Gold Star 650 offers an enticing package that’s hard to ignore.
As BSA writes its new chapter in India, the Gold Star 650 stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic motorcycles in the modern era. It’s not just a bike; it’s a piece of history reimagined for today’s roads.
