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BSA B32

 

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Make Model

BSA B32

Year

1949

Engine

Four stroke, single cylinder, Overhead valve

Capacity

348 cc / 21.2 cub in.

Bore and Stroke

71 x 88 mm

Compression Ratio

6.5:1

Cooling System

Air cooled

Lubrication

Dry sump

Exhaust

Single, stainless steel and chrome

Carburetor

Single Amal Monobloc

Ignition 

Lucas magneto MO1L

Starting

Kick start

Clutch

Multi-plate

Maximum Power

16.2 kW / 22 hp @ 6000 rpm

Transmission 

4-Speed manual

Final Drive

Chain

Front Wheel

WM2 x 19 in.

Rear Wheel

WM2 x 19 in.

Front Tyre

3.25 x 19 in. Dunlop Gold Seal

Rear Tyre

3.5 x 19 in. Dunlop Gold Seal

Front Suspension

Hydraulic fork

Rear Suspension

Swinging arm fork with shocks

Front Brake

8 in., drum

Rear Brake

7 in., drum

Wet Weight

175 kg / 385 lbs

Fuel Capacity

19 L / 5 US gal

 

BSA's rugged, workaday B31 was manufactured from 1945 to the end of 1959, its overhead-valve engine providing the basis for the renowned Gold Star sports roadster. At the time of its introduction, the B31 was BSA's sole all-new model, joining the lightweight 'C' and heavyweight 'M' ranges carried over from pre-war days, and was produced initially with rigid frame and telescopic front fork. In January 1946 it was joined by a Competition variant, the B32, which boasted a high-level exhaust system, 21" front wheel, additional chromium plating, a crankcase shield and lowered gearing. An alloy cylinder barrel and head, broadly similar to those used on the contemporary Gold Star but retaining a separate pushrod tunnel, became available as B32 options from 1949 onwards, as did plunger rear suspension in common with the rest of the 'B' singles range.