Resurrecting a classic motorcycle is not an easy task. You can, for sure, pick up a simple premix, curdle it through engineering and produce a prototype. But then you are immediately choked by regulations, new-age customers and the bubble narrative-building marketing teams. So to please them all, the mixture has to be balanced. In that sense, the BSA Gold Star 650 is more than just a revival of an iconic British nameplate that holds a legendary status in the world of two-wheelers, but also a fun to ride everyday usable machine for all those who get the idea.
Known for its dominance in the mid-20th century amongst the likes of Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 and Kawasaki Z650, the Gold Star has been reimagined by Classic Legends to cater to modern riders while preserving the character that made it a classic. Built to balance nostalgia and practicality, very honestly this single-cylinder roadster is a testament to timeless design infused with modern engineering. Why the Indian market has to wait so long against the European market to get the BSA looks like an oversight.
An Ode To The Past
The BSA Gold Star 650 captures the essence of old times with styling cues that celebrate the original model, especially if you pick the legacy edition livery. From the polished aluminium engine fins to the teardrop fuel tank with the rarer BSA badge, it does evoke memories of a bygone era like many of its competitors. The seamless exhaust pipe, wire-spoked wheels, and absolutely gorgeous dual-dial instrument cluster further enhance its retro appeal. But despite the vintage aesthetics of that gauge, it subtly integrates modern touches such as LED telltales and a tiny yet effective digital display within the analogue setup.
What really stands out is the attention to detail. The balanced proportions of the bike, the minimalist branding, and the use of premium finishes speak volumes about BSA’s commitment to retaining the authenticity of the Gold Star lineage. We would prefer some metal flake in the paint as an option to add some more flavour to its antiquated appeal. Also, the shadow black we were riding tends to bend in with the others too damn easy, not the choice when you want to feel special. Pick the legacy any day of the week, or the highland green.
Old School Charm With Modern Bits
At the heart of the Gold Star 650 sits a 652cc single-cylinder engine, which is both a nod to the classic thumper and a modern engineering marvel. Developed by the geniuses at Rotax and tuned for a linear torque delivery the engine puts out 45 bhp and 55 Nm of peak torque. The power band is smooth and manageable thought out.
The single-cylinder setup mated with a five-speed gearbox provides an engaging riding experience, particularly when you open the taps and let it breathe a little. Triple digit speeds are fairly easy and it keeps pushing past 150 kmph. But then it settles down when you want it to. You can hyper-mile it to 28kmpl, but it will return you about 22kmpl on a regular basis when you ride it like a motorcycle and not a fashion accessory.
The exhaust note is another hallmark of this motorcycle. Its deep and throaty rumble reminiscent of classic British singles adds an emotive element to every ride, but on the side of pushing it hard and not like a dugout canoe. While the engine is air-and-oil-cooled to preserve the old-school charm, how it will handle Indian summers is kind of an unknown for now, we will ride it in the next summers. You will love the way the catalytic convertor is tucked away whilst the exhaust looks seamless from header to the tip. Modern emission compliance ensures the Gold Star meets current standards without compromising its performance.
Ride & Handling Meets Mixed Emotions
Well, the Gold Star is built around a steel tubular frame that offers great stability and comfort. The suspension setup comprises 41mm telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers with preload adjustability. Although it is tuned for plush ride quality, it does get bouncy at times. However, during normal use tackling urban potholes or long stretches of open highways, the bike absorbs imperfections with relative ease.
It’s only when you push it really hard through the corners that the ill temperament of that rear shock setup edges into the picture. But since it has a kerb weight of 213 kg, the low centre of gravity and well-thought-out ergonomics make it approachable for riders of varying experience levels. The 18-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels wrapped in Pirelli Phantom Sportscomp tyres deliver a confident grip on diverse road conditions, adding to the bike’s versatility. As a side note, as a suggestion we would ask you to swap the rubber for better ones to further improve its capabilities and enhance the feedback from those Brembos. Dual-channel ABS is standard, providing additional safety during emergency braking.
Everyday Usability
Its strength lies in its duality as both a lifestyle statement and a practical motorcycle. The upright riding posture, wide handlebars, and low set well-padded seat make it a more than agreeable choice for commutes and weekend rides alike. The switchgear and controls are thankfully intuitive and simple, quality can be improved though. Also because it is a single cylinder, it is narrow making the footpeg position much more comfortable for regular use.
Although minimalist in its approach to almost everything, the Goldstar 650 has plenty for riders who still believe in the energy of capabilities versus spec sheets. These additions subtly enhance the practicality of this retro-inspired machine without detracting from its classic appeal.
The BSA Gold Star 650 strikes a harmonious balance between nostalgia and modernity. It captures the charm of a classic British single while addressing the expectations of today’s riders. Priced competitively in its segment, the Gold Star offers an authentic retro experience without excessive complexity. All that we urge is that Classic Legends takes utmost care of its BSA customers as they are bound to be more enthusiastic than just casual Instagram buyers.
As a final thought for riders who yearn for a motorcycle that connects them to the golden age of motorcycling while delivering the reliability of modern engineering, the Gold Star 650 is a compelling choice. It now rests on Classic Legends to keep the legend alive.
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