BSA

BSA have been producing motorbikes since 1910 to date.

• 1861 Founded to make mass-produced guns, the initials stood for Birmingham Small Arms.

• 1880 Bicycle manufacture led to supply of parts to motorcycle trade.

• 1904 Parts could be used by other firms to produce machines using Minerva engines.

• 1910 Entry into market with single model that remained as standard - reflecting quality of materials and design. First model had vertically-mounted 3.5hp engine, chain-driven magneto, sprung forks and excellent fininsh. A TT rear-hub, two-speed model was soon added.

• 1914 Model H produced, with 4.25hp sidecar, all-chain drive and three-speed geatbox. The belt-final drive, model K was then added.

• 1920 Model E 771cc V-twin introduced. Lasting for two decades, this model had a three-speed gearbox and and all-chain drive.

• 1921 The 3.5 model dropped and alloy chaincases introduced, adding style to the machines. The Senior TT bikes were all retired that year, preventing race participation some time.

• 1922 Addition of the V-twin, 985cc, model F.

• 1923 Appeance of two new singles - the 348cc model L and the 493cc model S.

• 1924 The V-twin model F of 1922 becomes the model G.