In the late 20’s, Britain’s motorcycle industry was rapidly expanding. This was partly due to price cutting started by Triumph’s Model P, which sold for less than 43 pounds in 1925. The BSA S27 was built to help compete at low prices, thanks to a MSRP of 45 pounds. However, the fact that they were ‘basic’ means that many were scrapped for metal in WWII – so finding one in good shape now is a difficult feat.
The S27 was offered in two versions – the ‘deluxe’ model features a wedge tank as shown here. Though the seller says it’s a 250cc engine, research indicates that it actually features a 493cc unit four stroke unit with side valves. It came with dummy rim brakes, clincher tires, acetylene lighting, and BSA’s three-speed hand shifted transmission.
This specific BSA S27 was restored for display in the 60s, then spent 40 years mounted in a restaurant. The seller brought it back to life in 2008 – see below for a video of the first run post restoration. It’s “not a show bike, but still very attractive”, and won its class in the 2010 Clubman’s All British Motorcycle Show.
Find this BSA S27 for sale in San Carlos, California with bidding up to $10,500
