BSA Lightning Rocket

The BSA Lightning Rocket was a Birmingham Small Arms Company (BSA) motorcycle made in Birmingham. A highly-tuned version of the BSA A65R Rocket, it was BSA's bid to capture the potentially lucrative USA export market in the mid-1960s. Twin Amal 389/206 carburetors and high-compression pistons, combined with an optional close-ratio gearbox, gave lively acceleration.

BSA Lightning Rocket

Manufacturer	BSA, Birmingham
Also called	BSA A65-2L
Production	1964-70
Predecessor	BSA Royal Star
Successor	BSA A65L
Engine	654cc, OHV parallel twin
Top speed	115mph
Power	48 bhp @ 6,250 rpm
Transmission	Four speed gearbox to chain final drive
Brakes	Drum brakes
Wheelbase	56 inches (140 cm)
Seat height	32.3 inches (82 cm)
Weight	395 lb (179 kg) (dry)

Sharing many A65 cycle parts, the Lightning Rocket had a slimmer fuel tank and mudguards, with additional chrome. From 1965, the A65 was discontinued in the UK and the BSA A65L Lightning became the main BSA production twin.

BSA Lightning Rocket at the National Motorcycle Museum (UK)

See also

• BSA Royal Star
• BSA Spitfire