BSA A65 Spitfire MK III

When it was unveiled in 1965 the BSA A65 Spitfire was the company's fastest ever production bike. Sold only for the model years 1966-68. it is now one of the most sought-after British bikes of the sixties.

Our bike is an original British market example. notable for having been in the last owner's hands for 39 years. It is being offered for sale for the first time since 1976. It is a Mk III example (they confusingly started with the Mk II) built and registered in 1967. The frame number is A65SA1833**. The high compression Spitfire engines were notoriously fragile back in the day and early in its life our bike received a Lightning lump from the same year (engine number A65LA183**). This was believed to have been done in the early 1970s and is correctly shown on all the old V5s. The difference between the two engines is not great - about 2 bhp and a few miles per hour top speed. The Lightning engine's lower compression also makes it happier on modern fuel and is more tractable.

The owner took the bike off the road in 2005 and restored the cycle parts. The frame was stripped and powder coated and there are numerous receipts for parts. including new fork springs. shocks. head bearings. wiring loom and silencers. The bike was fitted with Boyer Bransden electronic ignition. It appears to have all the right parts. including the correct Dunlop alloy rims in good condition. alloy levers and twin Amal GP carbs. It is is very tidy order throughout. with mostly good chrome. The fork top covers are the worst part but there is a spare pair with it that are suitable for rechroming.

Due to advancing age (owner not bike!). it was laid up in 2011 until recently. It has now been carefully recommissioned. with a new battery. stripped and cleaned carbs and fresh oil. The tank has been sealed with Flowliner ethanol-proof epoxy. Despite having lain dormant for over four years. she fired up second kick and passed the MOT with no advisories. The indicated mileage of 38800 miles is believed to be correct.

This is a rare opportunity to buy one of the iconic sports bikes of its era. So much rarer than the big Triumphs and stunning to look at. it should be a great investment. It is ready to ride as is and with very little effort could be made top class. Viewing is most welcome by appointment at my workshop approx. 10 miles west of Salisbury. within easy reach of the A303/A36/A30 main routes. Payment by cash or bank transfer only.
Correction: The carbs are of course Amal Concentrics which are correct for the Mk III and IV.