BSA Gold Star 650

History and heritage immediately come to one's mind when talking about the BSA Gold Star 650. This bike was discontinued in 1963, but Classic Legends revived this very bike to serve vintage aesthetics in a modern fashion.

This bike showcases old-school charm with modern reliability. First, it was sold in the UK and selected markets in 2021. Now, the company launched it in the India market in 2024 at an ex-showroom price starting at Rs. 2.99 lakh. The Gold Star 650 is the largest-capacity single-cylinder bike in the country. Its timeless design, featuring retro touches, makes it a standout among competitors like the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650.

The Gold Star 650 is known for its classic look and retro style. This motorcycle celebrates the great times of motorcycling in the past. Its simple body, round headlights, and shiny chrome parts show off a vintage elegance. When we tested it out, we were really drawn to details like the different stitching on the seat and the little British flag logo. Wherever you go, people look at you with admiration, as if you belonged to motorcycling history.

The quality of the Gold Star 650 is excellent. The paint finish is top class, and overall fit and finish exude premium workmanship. As of now, it is available in 6 colour options. In our view, the Silver Sheen and Insignia Red colour scheme feels nostalgic. Even the switches feel tactile and solid. Actually after 1,000 km of riding, the Gold Star feels as strong as it looks, with no rattles and weird noises.

BSA Gold Star 650 is powered by a 652cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine sourced from Rotax. It produces 45 bhp and 55Nm of torque. This engine delivers a performance that feels both old-school and modern. While testing, low-end acceleration was smooth and mellow, which can be perfect for city rides.

Beyond 3,000 rpm, the bike transforms. The strong mid-range torque provides an exhilarating pull that continues up to its redline of 4,000 rpm. Reaching 100 kmph is effortless, and overtaking at high speeds is a breeze. The bike can accelerate from 0 to 60 kmph in just 2.7 seconds.

Fuel efficiency is decent for a 650cc motorcycle. Expect around 25-30 kmpl, depending on your riding style. The 12-litre fuel tank is sufficient for city rides and short weekend trips. However, long tours may require frequent fuel stops.

We would like to tell you that this bike is built differently than other Classic Legend bikes. Unlike any other bike, the heat management is excellent, even in heavy traffic and low gears. Vibrations are minimal, with a slight buzz at higher RPMs that never feels intrusive.

The Gold Star 650’s kerb weight of 213 kg makes its presence felt, especially at low speeds. However, its low seat height of 780 mm ensures accessibility for most riders. The upright riding position feels commanding, with a slight stretch to reach the handlebars. The footpegs are centre-set, and the spacious seat offers comfort for short rides.

The bike’s suspension setup is a mixed bag. It handles small bumps well but struggles over rough roads. The telescopic forks and dual rear springs feel firm, leading to a slightly jarring ride on uneven surfaces. At highway speeds, the ride remains stable but feels busy over long stretches.

Furthermore, testing the braking performance was excellent due to the Brembo brakes. The front brake offers sharp bite and confidence-inspiring stopping power. However, the Pirelli Phantom Sportscomp tyres could be better stored in the stock. They perform decently in dry conditions but lose grip on wet roads, demanding caution.

BSA Gold Star 650 keeps things simple and retro, but it sneaks in modern features where it counts. The twin-pod analogue console is classic yet quirky, with speed and rpm needles that move downward in a unique style. A quaint amber backlight makes it delightful at night, though the small LCD screens for fuel and trip meters can be tough to read in sunlight.

Practical additions include USB Type-C and Type-A charging ports, a 12-volt socket, and dual-channel ABS for safety. A slipper clutch ensures smoother gear shifts, and the integrated tell-tale lights above the headlamp add a neat touch. While the switchgear and headlight are basic, they do the job well. 

BSA Gold Star 650 is a treat for retro motorcycle lovers. It offers timeless design, robust performance, and a premium feel. The engine’s mid-range torque is the highlight, making every ride enjoyable. The bike’s high-quality build and elegant styling add to its charm.

The firm suspension and heavy clutch may deter some buyers. The stock tyres’ wet-road performance and the slightly high price also need consideration. For now, the Gold Star 650 stands as an enticing alternative to the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, offering a unique blend of heritage and performance.