1967 BSA Thunderbolt 650 in Gatlinburg, TN

BSA (Birmingham Small Arms) was founded in England's famous steel-making center during the Crimean War (1856) as a loose collection of machinists and craftsmen making weapons for the British Army. They moved on to hammer their swords into plowshares by building bicycles during the late 19th century and then motorcycles in the early 20th century. During WWI and WWII they made both motorcycles and weapons, including the Sten gun, the Bofors gun, and the famous .303 British Enfield rifle. One of their motorcycle logos was three rifles stacked together in a tripod. By the 1950s they were the world's pre-eminent manufacturer of motorcycles and owned companies like Triumph and Ariel. They also ruled the flat tracks with their fast and powerful 500cc and 650cc bikes - many of these (Lightning, Spitfire, Thunderbolt) named for famous WWII fighter planes. During the 1960s however, the Japanese "borrowed" a number of BSA designs and patents and began making inexpensive knockoffs in huge, mass-produced numbers. By the early 1970s BSA was out of business. This bike is an original, unmolested example of a classic BSA built of solid English steel. Matching numbers on frame and engine. Starts easily, shifts smoothly, and runs well. Excellent throttle response and smooth idle. Headlight, tail light, horn, brakes, speedometer, odometer, and ammeter all in working order. Front forks professionally rebuilt and wheel bearings renewed for safety. New, correct control cables for easy shifting, reliable braking, and good acceleration. New, correct Amal carb for smooth idle and quick throttle response.Boyer electronic ignition for easy, one-kick starts and a hot spark.Bike was in dry warehouse storage for years and odometer currently reads 7002 miles, actual mileage is undoubtedly higher. Two small (2-3") tears in left side of seat, one stitched up by hand years ago (see photo). Small 2" stainless weld in front fender. Tank is in original condition with the usual scratches and dents, but retains original patina and original Thunderbolt decal. Tires in good condition. Clear TN title.