1969 BSA A65 Lightning Rocket 658cc Cafe Racer Special

This superb motorcycle was almost entirely designed by ex. Speedway rider John Darrell, who is regarded as a specialist engineer of motorcycles and has been responsible for rebuilding many Vincents, Brough Superiors and Speedway machines. The handmade frame of this BSA is made from T45 aircraft steel tubing and the fuel tank was fabricated in alloy in Guernsey and apparently took five days to produce. The foot rest brackets and wheel rims are also alloy, and the wheels were built using stainless steel spokes.

The 658cc Lightning Rocket engine has been rebuilt with new con-rods, a new carburettor and new engine mountings. The gearbox has also been rebuilt and we are told that most components have been either renewed or reconditioned. The ignition system is by Branson and the 12 volt electrical system has a new battery located under the seat; at present this is disconnected. The Manx alloy mudguards, Gold Star exhausts and a racing seat enhance the exceptional motorcycle.

Six hundred hours of John Darrell’s time was lavished on the restoration of the BSA and it remains a credit to his craftsmanship and engineering skills; regrettably, poor health and a serious Speedway accident forced him to part with his Dream Machine and ownership passed to the current custodian, a motorcycle collector.

Supplied with SOK 602H is the V5C registration certificate, starting instructions and the first MOT test certificate following the rebuild (dated 3 June 2015) with a mileage recording of just one mile. With the current odometer reading at two miles, we would recommend a recommissioing service before returning this fabulous machine to the road.

Auction Date: 13 September 2018