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I went today to have a look at a BSA Firebird - My first real bike in 1970 was a new firebird and I still think they're sex on wheels.

This bike is titled as a 67 but looks to me like a 69. It's had a lot of cosmetic work (rims, fenders, mufflers, paint) but it's mechanically original except for an electronic ignition. A bit oily but not awful.

The guy wants $5K for it which is probably fair but it puts it out of the impulse buy range. It runs well and sounds AMAZING so I'm thinking about it. I had a vintage triumph before the america which I also thought was pretty but I never looked back once I got the new one. What I really need is a modern bike that looks and handles like a 60's BSA!

While I have always liked the look of the BSA, I have never really heard a lot of good things about them. Triumph definately had more reliability, even if they were produced by the same co. The attraction of the Beezer is it's rarity compared to the Trumpet. But if you're gonna really ride it, look for a Triumph instead. Just my opinion.

I have always considered a Triumph and BSA as Trumps for the masses and the Beezers as more of an elitist ride. I have no proof, but I was told long ago that the BSA s, cost a premium above Triumph s listed prices as well. There was a third competitor for full size bikes from 1960-70 s England, "Royal Enfield", I would still give my left one for a clean 1968 "750 Interceptor". Make that 4th competitor, I forgot all about Nortons, oops.