1970 BSA Rocket 3 750cc Motorcycle

Description

The Birmingham Small Arms Company had, by the time World War II broke out, become the largest manufacturer of motorcycles in the United Kingdom. By the early 1960s, BSA was a dominant player on the motorbike stage, exporting to countries all over the world, and suppling many of their police and armed forces. Developed alongside the Triumph Trident, the BSA Rocket 3 triple was the biggest and most powerful BSA yet and was aimed squarely at the American market. Using a four-stroke, air-cooled 750cc motor with a bore and stroke measuring 67x70mm, the Rocket 3 featured three Amal Concentric 626 carburettors and a 9.5:1 compression ratio. Developing 58bhp at 7250rpm, the BSA was capable of reaching impressive speeds yet earned a reputation for reliability as well. The Rocket 3 was introduced to the public in 1969 and sold in just three colours; red, blue or lime green. Production continued until 1972, however, by the late 1960s the Japanese had begun to erode the dominance of BSA - and the British motorcycle industry in general - to the point where the BSA Group ceased building any motorcycles in 1972 and did not recommence until 1976.

History

- 1970 BSA Rocket 3
- 750cc three-cylinder
- All original

Often described as the first true Superbike, and the last major motorcycle developed by the original Triumph company, the badge-engineered BSA Rocket 3 differed from its British brother in having a double loop in the frame with the engine mounted at a slant, whereas the Triumph had a single downtube with a vertical engine. Our 1970 BSA Rocket 3 is finished in red with chrome highlights on the tank, and chrome guards and spoked wire wheels. The frame is not modified or cut, and the Rocket 3 is complete and in good original condition throughout. The front fork dust covers have split and there’s some pickling to the chrome tail light housing, all easily attended to. These ‘70s era bikes are becoming increasingly collectible. The 1970 BSA Rocket 3 is being offered for sale here unregistered.

Note: Shannons advise that all potential buyers research and inspect motorcycles before purchase to authenticate originality and condition as a pre-purchase inspection report is not carried out on these vehicles.

*The Bid Extension rule applies to all lots