BSA: 50 years later

Mar. 2, 2004 – Sadly, BSA is but a memory now, having ceased production more than 30 years ago. But in 1954, the British firm was a force to be reckoned with.

That year, factory BSA motorcycles, piloted by a dazzling array of racing talent including Motorcycle Hall of Fame members Bobby Hill, Dick Klamfoth, Tommy McDermott, Ken Eggers and Al Gunter, achieved a spectacular five-place sweep, giving BSA recognition and status that it had not previously enjoyed in America.

A half-century later, BSA collectors and fans gathered again in Daytona to celebrate the achievement as part of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum's new "BSA's Greatest Daytona" exhibit.

The exhibit, on display at the Speedway during the two-day AHRMA road races, features restored examples of the Gold Star singles and Shooting Star twins that carried the day 50 years ago. Also on hand for the event were some of the original racers, including first-place finisher Bobby Hill.

After Bike Week, the exhibit will return to the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum in Pickerington where it will remain on display through the end of 2004.

© 2004, Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum