Description
8/7 Update: As pointed out in the comments, the frame and engine numbers are consistent with a BSA Lightning. We apologize for any confusion; the seller was under the impression that this example was a Spitfire from the factory.
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
1968 was the last year of the “Mark” Spitfires, and just 1,291 of them were built. Improvements over the MkIII included Amal Concentric carbs and a twin leading shoe front brake. Here’s a beautifully restored example that features the Euro market (read: much better looking and larger) fuel tank.
There were additional changes – Lucas ignition points that were adjustable independently, a bump in power to 54 horsepower, and some improvements to the oiling system. Top speed was approximately 115 miles per hour and the dry weight was 408 pounds.
This example is VIN: A65LA10659, engine #: E00376A65L.
The odometer shows 4 miles, which the seller states represents the distance covered after the restoration. True mileage is unknown.
Maintenance:
The seller states that this BSA is the product of a “full restoration and rebuild” by Tom Robinson of BBC Triumph.
As it had not been ridden for some time, he had it serviced at Century Cycles in April 2024:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had our service department perform a safety inspection. They note the following in their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: COATED, OK
Tire Year Front/ Rear: 5021/5221
Tire % Front/ Rear: 99/99
Tire Press Front/ Rear: 36/38
Brake % Front/ Rear : SHOES/SHOES
Front hydraulic fluid: CABLE
Rear Hydraulic Fluid: CABLE
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid: CABLE
Oil: OK
Coolant: AIR
Low Beam: OK
High Beam: OK
Turn: N/A
Tail Light: OK
Brake Light: OK
Plate Light: TAIL
Kill: N/A
Horn: OK
Fork: OK
Shock/s: OK
Final Drive: OK
Battery Standing Voltage: 12.6
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: 13.5
Notes:
• BOTH CARBS HAVE SLIGHT DRIP FROM FLOAT BOWLS
• HEADLIGHT UPSIDE-DOWN
• MAIN FUSE BLOWN UPON ARRIVAL
• RIGHT CYLINDER NOT FIRING AT IDLE
• BIKE ARRIVED WITH PETCOCK “ON”
Recommended Repairs:
• FIX HEADLIGHT
• DIAG CARB ISSUE
• INSTALL PROPER FUSE
Modifications:
The seller has affixed some tape to prevent the bars from rubbing on the tank at full lock.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop Gold Seal tires with date codes of 5021 and 5221.
The sale includes one key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this BSA is offered on a clean California title. Per the CA DMV, a new plate is required to determine associated registration fees.
Have any Spitfire stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
