BSA Motorcycles 1910

The Birmingham Small Arms Co., Ltd. Birmingham.

Stand No. 66.

The new B.S.A. motor-bicycle is bound to prove one of the great attractions of the show, and every agent interested in motor-cycles should make a point of thoroughly inspecting it. The engine is of the single-cylinder type, with 85 min. bore and 88 mm. stroke, developing 3½, H.P. at 1,500 revolutions per minute. Both inlet and exhaust are mechanically operated; the tappet rods and valve guides are made with a sliding cover, to prevent dirt entering the timing mechanism. The piston has a dome-shaped top; it is both light and strong, and is fitted at the top with two lap-jointed rings. The adjustable pulley used on this machine can be operated without the use of tools, all that is necessary being to take the belt out of the groove, and slide the movable flange inwards along a key. The locking ring can then be screwed up with the fingers to any position. The patent spring fork merits particular attention. The springs are placed in such a position as to strengthen the head and allow of easy access to all front parts. By means of a nut at the top, ready adjustment is obtainable.

An interesting feature of the machine is the magneto box. This is made of aluminium, and is firmly fixed to a platform placed sufficiently high to completely shelter the delicate mechanism of the magneto from wet or dust. Sliding doors at each side allow of easy access to the magneto for timing, etc., and the driving chain of the magneto is adjustable for wear.

Exceedingly heavy fly-wheels are fitted, and we learn that it is possible to control the machine at as low a speed as three miles an hour; while those who have ridden the machine state that the engine is exceedingly flexible, and that. it instantly picks up after being retarded. The silence of the engine with the cut out closed is particularly noticeable. The machine has a low frame, and this, with the' long handlebars provided, and the convenient position of the foot-rests, makes the B.S.A. motor-bicycle a most comfortable mount. The general appearance of the machine is neat and workmanlike, while of the workmanship it is only necessary to say that it is quite up to the famous B.S.A. standard. The retail price is £50, or when fitted with free engine. £56 10s.

Stanley Show, 1910

Birmingham Small Arms Co., Ltd.

Birmingham. Stand No. 66.
In motor-bicycles the B.S.A. machine, for next season are certain to become popular, and the name of the makers is quite sufficient guarantee that neither of the patterns manufactured have been placed upon the market without most careful testing. Both machines are of the same H.P. and type, in so far as single cylinder motors are employed, but in the more expensive pattern a free engine is fitted. We certainly think that the public are showing a preference for free engine machines, and that such types will gain in favour and, perhaps, finally supersede the fixed engine variety, which is certainly not so easy from the mounting point of view, and is somewhat more difficult to control.

We think that the B.S.A. Company has done very wisely in offering both types to their agents and customers. The frame is of the parallel top-tube pattern with extra tubular stay to the head. The front fork has a horizontal hub action with main and buffer springs. The magneto is chain driven, and enclosed in an aluminium cover. The pedal brake acts on a dummy belt rim. The drive is by belt. with adjustable pulley, and pedalling gear is fitted. The details of this fine machine are particularly good.

Olympia Show, November 1910