1950 BSA B31, 350cc lovely example with original reg. & V5C

1950 BSA B31 350cc
Here is a really good running example of one of the most solid British “cooking” singles ever built, the BSA B31. This example from 1950 is in plunger frame form which gives an old school look. Note the dual seat is a later update, this bike would have had single saddle and separate pillion originally and would look even more “old bike cool” with that set up. The bike starts well and sounds well. No strange mechanical noise. Riding is fun, typical British plodder, good gears and clutch, good brakes, speedo working OK. Charging system is working well, good lights and good charge properly regulated with modern regulator inside the old regulator box.
The bike comes with its most up to date V5 doc. Registration number FNJ376 cannot be transferred to another vehicle. Date of registration is recorded as 3rd March 1950. Frame number is ZB31.S.8068, engine number is ZB31.13389. The are genuine factory stampings and match the V5C doc. The bike is eligible for Historic Class (free) road tax and is MOT exempt. The new owner will have to obtain historic class road tax through a main Post Office as it has not been taxed for a while.
Cosmetically the bike is quite nice and honest as it is. I would say it is original and unrestored apart from the tank which has been repainted at some point. The tank is good inside and has not been internally linered. There is some deterioration in the tank's paint-work. I expect this is because it was painted over old chrome. Wheel rims have both lost their chrome and have been black painted over. Spokes are old and blackened. This all kind of looks in keeping for a bike of this period. When they were being used they were not kept in pristine condition for long and this is typical of how most of these everyday transport mounts would have looked. The enamel on the frame is generally good but has been touched up in places. There is no fin damage on the engine. Exhaust is in very good condition, seat is also very good. Front tyre is a good but 50% worn Avon SM ribbed, rear is well worn (but still got a few miles in it) Avon SM MKII All in all this is a very sound sweet running example of the ever popular B31, ideal for a bit of improvement and recommissioning to make 100% ready for action. Or possibly the new owner may choose to restore completely. Personally I think its patina and honest old bike look need to be preserved and the bike should be enjoyed pretty much “as is”. Don't miss this lovely old B31! Selling as a sound and solid very good runner !