Bsa thunderbolt vs lightning forum. The difference is almost like day & night.

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Bsa thunderbolt vs lightning forum 2nd impression, flicking through, Wow, its got Aug 11, 2015 · BSA Thunderbolt vs Lightning. The Triumph front end had a 6. May 12, 2017 · 1970 BSA Lightning with dual Clear Hooter horns and the Lucas 6RA relay on the head stay Just like the 1970 Triumph Bonneville the BSA lightning was the only model for 1970 that featured dual horns. May 16, 2020 · Hi Dennis. In the 1971 part book Lighting valves and T-bolt valves have the same part number. 100% F May 27, 2013 · 68’ A65 Lightning “clubman” 71’ A65 Thunderbolt 67’ D10 sportsman (undergoing restoration) 68’ D14 trials (undergoing transformation) 70' A50 Royal Star 67’ A65 Spitfire (awaiting restoration) 72’ A65 Thunderbolt - (Awaiting rebuild into replica A70) 59’ A10 Golden Flash And a few unit twin engines. Also. In the process, the 1968 sliders and end caps became unique -- they don't fit any other year of BSA. 040- 71-2885 stamped 71. The BSA Thunderbolt was produced from 1964 to 1972, fitted with a 654 cc parallel twin that made 46 horsepower. Apr 18, 2023 · If BSA’s latest iteration keeps true to the company’s heritage, then the Lightning and Thunderbolt names (most recently used by Buell, but those trademarks having since lapsed), will be destined for twin-cylinder bikes. The lightning is a parts source mostly in boxes along with a bunch of various BSA parts. I will eventually do a resoration on the Tbolt since the motor only has low miles on a rebuild. Aug 9, 2019 · The VS does not use a fitting at the top but instead has a shelf part way down the tunnel/ hole in the tank for the rubber doughnut to press against. Aug 25, 2007 · Britbike forum Forums British Motorcycle specific Brands Bsa bulletin board 1969 BSA Lightning Paint Codes: Forums Calendar 1968 Thunderbolt 1969 Twinkle 250 1972 Lot 43 1972 BSA 650cc A65 Lightning. 1971 version has a hole for a brake cable guide. ) main jet: 300 Jul 13, 2021 · Trident and Rocket 3 used chrome versions. 1969 BSA A65 Lightning 1994 moto guzzi California 1970 BSA Thunderbolt 1971 Norton Commando Aug 4, 2011 · Hi All - Has anyone run a 930 Amal Concentric carb on a single carb BSA A65 head? Not doing it for performance, I just don't have any 928's laying around but I have a 930. The BSA Thunderbolt was one of three bikes BSA was cranking out in late 1960s. My father in law has a cpl bikes im working on. Gear ratios of the Lightning, Thunderbolt and Spitfire are identical, each having a 20 tooth gearbox sprocket, a 47 tooth rear wheel sprocket and a 4. Fitted with 12 volt electrics, a Zener diode voltage regulator and twin coil ignition, the Thunderbolt sold well in the important US import market and with the 3. Just like Triumph the unit BSA twin was a further development of the early pre unit A7, A10 motors. In our eyes, the designs got uglier over time - culminating in the bike we feature today. Apr 12, 2007 · I'm pretty sure 71 Lightnings came stock with the modern-butt-ugly rectangular tanks. Feb 19, 2014 · This is a 1968 BSA A65 Lightning. 020- 71-2884 stamped 71. Jul 31, 2015 · BSA basically designed the Thunderbolt as a ‘Touring’ model. Has been in a garage and not started since 1987. I have to add initially I was a five to ten times kicker, but after a lesson in high speed kicking techniques where one learns to kick at lightening speeds (maybe that's how the ike got its name), now each times a winner. 75". Jun 7, 2010 · thunderbolt = 1 carb lightning = 2 carb for all practical purposes the thunderbolt is the better bike however at 6,000 rpm the lightning puts out marginally more power What are the differences between the BSA Thunderbolt and BSA Lightning? I have a chance to buy a Thunderbolt from a friend, 1972 -- running and all. Find your dream classic car from over 10,000 private adverts plus many more trade adverts on Europe&#039;s No 1 classic cars site. Question: Taking stock bikes off the showroom floor, after appro Late 1960s -1970s BSA Motorcycle History. I have a couple of questions regarding my procedure for changing oil today. For better performance I would have the lightening head ported and flow tested and just run a couple PWK 32mm flat slides. Nov 2, 2007 · Hi Chaps, Champion N3C's on the Lightening and N4C's on the T-Bolt. I was studying a chart that shows Amal jetting for various models and years of BSA, and for 1968 Lightning, which is the last year of the screw-in pilot jet, the chart shows a 20 pilot jet and a 2. 5: 1 or, the Thunderbolt—and the Lightning, surprisingly— has 9. 5 slide cutaway. biz has an efficient motorcycle classifieds. Asking price. Jan 7, 2022 · The Thunderbolt was BSA’s single carb 650 twin, made from 1964 to 1972. Oct 31, 2015 · After years of much use and joy, my 1969 A65T (Lightning Replica)will come apart. I have already started to dissasemble the bike, so any input from anyone would be greatly appreciated. A traditional air cooled 650 cc twin cylinder with a single large bore Amal Monobloc carburettor, it did not suffer from the same level of vibration as earlier BSA twins and could comfortably cruise at 70 mph (110 km/h). It's the same as on mine. Apr 23, 2008 · For the last few days I have been reading BSA Twins and Triples by Roy Bacon. is that original or die someone take the tack off? Dec 3, 2010 · Re: Vibrations: better ride a Commando than a BSA Lightning I bought a oil in frame Thunderbolt in bits about twenty years ago. Bikez has a high number of users looking for used bikes. SRM pumps. I currently own a 76 T140 , 63 , 65 , 66 TR6 and a 66 Triumph Thunderbird . Looked ok when I'd rebuilt it, but wouldn't pull the skin off a rice pudding without shaking all over. I run Champions N3C in my Lightning and the Firebird, the plugs are absolutely fine and troublefree. and these were the carefully selected "showroom" bikes given out Jan 8, 2022 · 68’ A65 Lightning “clubman” 71’ A65 Thunderbolt 67’ D10 sportsman (undergoing restoration) 68’ D14 trials (undergoing transformation) 70' A50 Royal Star 67’ A65 Spitfire (awaiting restoration) 72’ A65 Thunderbolt - (Awaiting rebuild into replica A70) 59’ A10 Golden Flash And a few unit twin engines. ) Dickens is also a one-time BSA rider, having owned a Thunderbolt (the Lightning’s single-carb sibling) in the 1970s. Feb 1, 2017 · Britbike forum Forums British Motorcycle specific Brands Bsa bulletin board ignition timing 1965 bsa thunderbolt: Forums 68’ A65 Lightning “clubman May 1, 2008 · 1968 BSA Lightning Cafe 1968 BSA Thunderbolt The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. The BSA Thunderbolt feels the same way. It's very jerky, grabby, and inconsistent. Take up the slack in the throttle and kick it through. Also of course, a 21-tooth gearbox sprocket as opposed to 19 for the lightning. 0:1. Since I got my 08 T100 there they sit. No wonder the British bike industry went down the crapper. You can list all 1972 BSA A 65 Thunderbolt available and also sign up for e-mail notification when such bikes are advertised in the future. 1968 BSA A65 1968 MGB Roadster 1979 Chevrolet Camaro The BSA Lightning was the British firm’s attempt at an all-around streetbike, slotting between the Spitfire and Thunderbolt. in road tests. I changed all fluids, rebuilt carb, new Dunlop K70's, new c Jul 8, 2019 · As has been stated before on this forum what is a match for one Nutley Blue on one bike might be different for the same model produced 2 months later and called the same color. Oct 21, 2024 · Britbike forum Forums British Motorcycle specific Brands Bsa bulletin board 1968 BSA Lightning Fork Issues: Forums Calendar Active Threads: New Sponsor post:. It is my feeling the 1970 BSA Thunderbolt with single carb was one of the best running BSAs. At the time, it was one of the fastest motorcycles available – able to top hit 108 miles per hour, and it’s one of the lasting legacies of Birmingham Small Arms, as just a few years later, the Japanese invasion of reliable motorcycles would put BSA out of business. Sep 27, 2012 · I have owned 7 BMWs from an 1955 single to a 1979 R100S , 2 Commandos , 3 BSA twins A10 , A65 Thunderbolt and an A65 Lightning and a number of 60s Triumph twins including Bonnevilles and TR6s . Bike hasnt been running for almost twenty years, been stored in a garage. Must have been fun working at BSA, and frustrating. What puzzles me is the VIN On my other Triumphs the engine number and frame numbers are usually aligned. The trouble is I have to pay for anything I destroy. Any tips or advice you can give to help guide me through doing it right would be much appreciated. The wheels are in need of chrome just like everything else almost. mine is blue. Nov 19, 2013 · Britbike forum Forums British Motorcycle specific Brands Bsa bulletin board 1970 BSA A65 Lightning swap meet find: Forums Calendar 1970 BSA Thunderbolt 1971 Apr 24, 2009 · I just picked up a 65 BSA Lightning Rocket (according to frame and engine numbers, seller thought it was a '67). Thread starter MustangGuy; Start date Sep 17, 2013; Help Support Buellxb Forum: M. Nov 23, 2015 · Tim, what year BSA? A dual-fire coil usually accompanies an electronic ignition system, since those produce a spark on every cycle, with a "wasted" spark on the cylinder that's on the exhaust stroke. Even though the Frames and Engine might have ben assembled/built in different places (as was the case with the Rocket 3 I think), the numbers wer Oct 21, 2024 · Okay I feel semi confident that I need 68 BSA lower fork legs, part numbers 97-2501 and 97-2504. Looking for some help please- I am restoring a UK 72 Lightning. In the 1960s, both were 650cc twins, but it’s unclear what direction Mahindra will take with the names in the future. I am looking to make the colour scheme red and white as per the normal export design with the small tank. This 1970 model is a classic, the last before the restyled “oil-in-frame” model appeared. Also Read: Adding Thunderbolt 4 on Your Computer. ATF in the primary is a trade-off between good clutch performance and longevity and good primary chain longevity. 650cc · Petrol · 1,734 miles Sep 2, 2014 · Hi guys, New to forum and wanted to post a pic of my new scooter. Parts are easily available in the US and UK, but British parts in general are more expensive than Japanese. It developed this strange clutch issue after 9,000+ trouble free miles. With the single carb it is much less trouble than the twin carbs of the Lightning. 2668 Yes, slashes and dots. Apr 20, 2019 · It seems that motor oil vs. <O Jun 9, 2006 · Britbike forum member. Posts: 42. dual carb: Forums Calendar 1966 BSA Lightning (2) 1970 BSA Thunderbolt Oct 21, 2024 · However, in 1968 they started using the Triumph TLS front brake. The Chrome fitting is only used on the A65 tanks with the chrome strips and that do not have the ledge. Oct 15, 2012 · I used to own a 71 thunderbolt,it still is the fastest 650 bsa iv owned or riden since and that was 25 years ago, it was standard apart from hornet pipes ,electronic ignition polished ports (about a mm bigger than standard) and a 30mm carb with a 250 main jet. Feb 23, 2019 · 68’ A65 Lightning “clubman” 71’ A65 Thunderbolt 67’ D10 sportsman (undergoing restoration) 68’ D14 trials (undergoing transformation) 70' A50 Royal Star 67’ A65 Spitfire (awaiting restoration) 72’ A65 Thunderbolt - (Awaiting rebuild into replica A70) 59’ A10 Golden Flash And a few unit twin engines. Is this really a question? The difference is price is negligible according to Burton's Bike Bits. If you also look at two-strokes in the late seventies, when the power jet came on the scene. Thx Brad Feb 27, 2013 · The Lightning versions sported twin carbs, as did the highly-strung Spitfire which was intended for competition use. Firebolt vs Lightning. Theres a Norton, a Triumph, and my headache bike, the 69 bsa thunderbolt. dual carb: Forums Calendar 1966 BSA Lightning (2) 1970 BSA Thunderbolt Thx guys. Jan 31, 2024 · I have no direct experience with Thunderbolts, but I put 32mm Mikunis on my Lightning (vs. I've been running these with a Boyer and stock coild and always fire up first / second kick. mgcorreia. Bikez. A little more relaxed steering, a more comfortable seating position, and a longer kick start lever (which made starting the bike easier) made the bike really quite comfortable. Known internally as the A65, the motor was BSA’s attempt at unit construction. It's been sitting aprox. but Norton ran 19" front BSA is probably best known for their Lightning, but they also had a touring complement known as the BSA Thunderbolt. Dec 5, 2009 · Congrats on finding a Lightning Rocket. 87 : 1 top gear. Feb 26, 2011 · They are easier to maintain, tune and balance than the dual carb Lightning or Spitfire, but you could swap to a dual head and carbs if you wanted a tad more speed. Bad news: 1. This bike is supposed to have hot cams and a higher compression ratio, but I'm not sure if that simply applies to all Lightnings, or if those from '64. This makes it quite difficult to ride. From £1,800. One owner. The inlet should have 0. 0 slide cutaway. The original "FS"-'n'-number locks and keys were supplied by a British company called Willmott-Breeden; they supplied much of the contemporary British motor industry, and the basic system is still in use on other things. The chart does not address the Amal Premier carbs. The BSA Lightning was designed as the all-round sports machine of the 1960s, [5] planned largely for export to the US market [6] to complement the touring Thunderbolt and the later development, the supersports Spitfire. 2667 +. Jan 5, 2006 · 1969 BSA A65 LIGHTNING The 650 Lightning was BSA’s top-line bike, and meant to do battle with the market-dominating Triumph Bonneville and had twin carbs just like the Bonnie. Oct 24, 2011 · I know that the 650 cylinder is taller than the 500 cylinder by 1 fin I believe. Jun 18, 2014 · That picture is not a '71 headlight, ignore the switch and the ammeter. Truly a survivor. Prices are $4,000 to $5,900, which seems expensive compared with the Aug 31, 2015 · By 1969 BSA had tackled most of the A65’s obvious flaws (and the ones which remained required rather more fundamental efforts to improve them). I'm hoping to keep this bike all original. Bonneville and Tiger used painted. First off I used 10W40 Motorcycle oil and I drained the oil tank and removed the sump plate and drained that out, then I put in 1/2 pint back into the crank via the small plate in fro Oct 21, 2024 · Okay I feel semi confident that I need 68 BSA lower fork legs, part numbers 97-2501 and 97-2504. Buckinghamshire. The Bronze/Ivory combo was for the 1971 Lightning with the Dove Grey frame. MustangGuy Well-known member. Burt would have had the Trident in production in the early 60s. Is that a factory color? Only has a speedo, no tach. , 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto Gear ratios of the Lightning, Thunderbolt and Spitfire are identical, each having a 20 tooth gearbox sprocket, a 47 tooth rearnwheel sprocket and a 4. By this time the A65 was well-developed Sep 7, 2009 · I have a 69 TBolt and a 68 Lightning in my storage right now. 30mm for the Lightning. I have one of their pumps assembled since 8 years in my 69 Lightning, absolutely fabulous. I've visited sites where someone asks something that I feel is a legitimate question only to get responses like "Are you kidding? If you don't know how to do that just give up now" "What the ****? Can you even bolt on a wheel to the frame?" etc. Mar 20, 2014 · Hi Well said Nick and a well written explanation. Sep 16, 2018 · 68’ A65 Lightning “clubman” 71’ A65 Thunderbolt 67’ D10 sportsman (undergoing restoration) 68’ D14 trials (undergoing transformation) 70' A50 Royal Star 67’ A65 Spitfire (awaiting restoration) 72’ A65 Thunderbolt - (Awaiting rebuild into replica A70) 59’ A10 Golden Flash And a few unit twin engines. I like the tank on yours much better and have been considering the upgrade myself. Oct 23, 2016 · Honda didn't kill the Brit bike, BSA management killed themselves. Wassell oil pumps vs. It would comfortably cruise at 70mph and was capable of doing the ton. It differs from the BSA Lightning mainly in having a single Amal Monobloc carburetor instead of twin carbs. I think the Lightnings have twin carbs, and are rarer than the single carb models, please let me know. Feb 10, 2024 · 68’ A65 Lightning “clubman” 71’ A65 Thunderbolt 67’ D10 sportsman (undergoing restoration) 68’ D14 trials (undergoing transformation) 70' A50 Royal Star 67’ A65 Spitfire (awaiting restoration) 72’ A65 Thunderbolt - (Awaiting rebuild into replica A70) 59’ A10 Golden Flash And a few unit twin engines. Clutch does NOT slip once fully Jul 14, 2021 · A65 THUNDERBOLT The Thunderbolt was the single-carb version of the Lightning, intended to be the lower-priced Roadster in BSA’s 650 lineup. Start with the idle mixture screw one full turn out. Description of issue: Clutch does not engage smoothly. Apr 18, 2016 · Britbike forum member. Did the A65 Lightning run on Champion N3 or N4 plugs? Also, are there modern Feb 3, 2014 · BSA Rocket Scrambler BSA Gold Star Scrambler Norton N15CS Triumph TR6SS Triumph Bonie Laverda 750SF Laverda Egli 750 BSA Rocket 3 AJS Stormer Norton Commando Bultaco Sherpa Moto Morini 3-1/2 Sport Beta Cross Moto Guzzi Le Mans 1 Ducati MHR Sep 27, 2012 · I have owned 7 BMWs from an 1955 single to a 1979 R100S , 2 Commandos , 3 BSA twins A10 , A65 Thunderbolt and an A65 Lightning and a number of 60s Triumph twins including Bonnevilles and TR6s . Non-HD V-Twin Motorcycle Discussion. I think that means there is not much difference. Off with it's Head! So, here it goes Engine is building pressure, piston slap, I suspect its the rings, etc Rocker cover off Apr 9, 2007 · There are 3 BSAs advertised locally, either 1969 or 1971, so all unit construction, and I assume, Oil In Frame models. ” (Both bikes were fitted with the same twin-leading-shoe front brake from 1968 onward. 1970 BSA Thunderbolt 1971 Norton Commando Apr 25, 2007 · 1968 BSA Lightning Cafe 1968 BSA Thunderbolt The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. Nov 4, 2011 · BSA 650 wiring/ignition question Jump to Latest 10K views 10 replies 5 participants last post by 4bangger Feb 2, 2012 Oct 23, 2003 · Forums. Question: Taking stock bikes off the showroom floor, after appro Sep 3, 2017 · That the switch has only three terminals suggests it's original, 'original Lucas' started putting on four terminals (two pairs) only a few years later. Long time friend has a '71 BSA 650 of which he is the original owner, and has been in parts for 20 years. 650cc · Petrol · 58,256 miles · Manual · 4 speed. the stock 30mm), and I had (and still have, to some degree) a problem with air speed at low rpms. I just pulled a 1964 bsa lightning rocket out of my barn. Dec 1, 2013 · I have found some early 1970's BSA motorcycles (a Gold Star, Lightning, and Thunderbolt) for sale near me, but am a bit worried about their reliability to get me in to work every day. The single-carb Thunderbolt fulfilled more of an everyday, touring role, and by 1968 it sported 12-Volt electrics, a Concentric carb, two-way fork damping and a three-spring clutch to go with its four-speed gearbox. i would go 30mm ,im almost sure bsa didnt fit a bigger carb because the twin carbed Jun 26, 2009 · Fin: Depending on how "factory" you want your bike to be there is also a slight diffrence between the side covers (pre 71) the Tbolt covers have a recess on the inner edge to accomodate the air cleaner because of the single carb sticking staight out the back of the motor, the lightning ones dont because the air cleaners stick out on an angle and dont have the extra lenght due to the Tbolt Dec 31, 2013 · The Lightning was faster no doubt, but the Trophy had better low end power that came on earlier in the powerband, which for me, made it easier to ride fast on the canyon roads near home. The redesigned frame had been specified by BSA’s management even though the factory’s development riders had warned that it was too tall, making the bike unmanageable for riders of average height or below. If memory serves, you should have red wires to the following connections: bottom of the shell, the main lamp socket, the pilot lamp socket, and the high-beam warning light. 50" span between the sliders, while BSA had 6. The SRM-pump is a proven product. 2nd impression, flicking through, Wow, its got Sep 19, 2007 · Thanks for the input guys,As I said my A65R is a total rebuild and refit from the ground up,i. VerticalScope Inc. USB C vs Thunderbolt. The Lightning Rocket was originally a US model, but also seems to have ended up in Oz in fair numbers. BSAJonn. But thunderbolt is faster and more efficient than USB C. 87:1 top gear. Matching #s on the thunderbolt. . I am a little reluctant to spend much money on the existing Amal. Did you use the stock Thunderbolt jetting? Thanks! 1972 BSA Thunderbolt. Development of the engine aimed to make it more reliable, quieter and less prone to oil leaks, with top speed sacrificed to Britbike forum Forums British Motorcycle specific Brands Bsa bulletin board Single carb vs. Thx Brad 68’ A65 Lightning “clubman” 71’ A65 Thunderbolt 67’ D10 sportsman (undergoing restoration) 68’ D14 trials (undergoing transformation) 70' A50 Royal Star 67’ A65 Spitfire (awaiting restoration) 72’ A65 Thunderbolt - (Awaiting rebuild into replica A70) 59’ A10 Golden Flash And a few unit twin engines. Newark. They all have close to 10,000 miles on them and are not currently running, but were when they were stored several years ago, although they need varying amounts of Feb 10, 2024 · 68’ A65 Lightning “clubman” 71’ A65 Thunderbolt 67’ D10 sportsman (undergoing restoration) 68’ D14 trials (undergoing transformation) 70' A50 Royal Star 67’ A65 Spitfire (awaiting restoration) 72’ A65 Thunderbolt - (Awaiting rebuild into replica A70) 59’ A10 Golden Flash And a few unit twin engines. Now the paint supplier has specified two red shades appropriate to a 72 bike - What he has sent me is unfortunately not what I want. £4,750. I am new to this site. Jan 13, 2016 · 5) No two BSA's were actually the same colour from one end to another after BSA stopped using fully viitrified enamel in the mid 50's. Birmingham Small Arms was founded in 1862, started making bicycles in the 1880’s and true motorcycles around 1910. Jul 6, 2007 · The carbs were 32mm as opposed to 30mm for the lightning so the head must have been different with 32mm inlet ports. Powered by the traditional 650cc air… The BSA Thunderbolt was designed as a touring motorcycle. Compared to the Lightning the Thunderbolt was rather tame but in truth that was really a good thing. I have not been on the forum for awhile as work has kept me away from the bike I would like to do an oil change on my 66 Lightning with a 68 motor in it, I have never done this on a BSA before. I want to set up as minimal a system as possible just to get it running so I know what the condition the engine is in, then I am going to tear the whole bike apart to start my hardtail conversion project. Japanese/European Cruisers 66 BSA Lightning. If my new chrome slide and carb still stick and I choose to replace itwhat are the recommended suggestions for a stock motor, single carb A65T Thunderbolt BSA? I have a Mikuni 42 on my Harley BadBoy and Mikuni 34 ' s on my Kawasaki triples. I've ridden my Brother's 74 750 Bonny, and it doesn't seem to have the &quot;pull you off the handlebars&quot; power that my old BSA had. Clutch does NOT slip once fully 2 days ago · I have a 1966 BSA Lightning. The issue with just replacing the spindle/axle is that the post that retains the brake plate will be at a further distance from the brake plate itself, vs the correct set up of having everything tight. Nov 16, 2022 · Found a 1967 BSA Thunderbolt. I do not want to talk about the MCA-cast iron pump that was installed Jan 5, 2025 · The 1972 bikes were much less flashy than the 71 bikes and much better looking imho. Does your tank have the ledge part way down the hole? Here is what the VS tank bit look like. May 21, 2010 · Ok, I know this is the wrong place to post a BSA thread, but since y'all are family, I thought I'd do it anyway. This is the first time I've had a bike that transmission isn't lubricated by the engine oil. But no matter how BSA dressed them up, these new unit-construction twins never sold as well, or garnered the same respect as was accorded to the pre-unit Aug 7, 2010 · Britbike forum Forums British Motorcycle specific Brands Bsa bulletin board 1965 BSA Lightning Rocket: Forums Calendar Active Threads: 1968 Thunderbolt 1969 4 days ago · The story of the BSA A65 and A50 motorcycles 1962 -1973 By Peter Crawford Wideline publishing. 008” gap The exhaust 0. So, despite the reputation—and a well-earned one—of the siports models, the Thunderbolt would never be far 'behind. But, you get the idea. 5 Dec 29, 2007 · Hey folks hope everyone had a great holiday. Apr 23, 2012 · it looks like 26mm intake ports vs. My question is about how to service the gear box oil. 010” gap If you remove the 3” disc on the primary side there is a pin which will line up with the timing marks on the rotor, this mark is at 34° (providing the pin is in the left hand hole) the points cam should be under tension as this is the fully advanced timing mark. For less t Jul 14, 2021 · The 650cc BSA A65 carried model names like Rocket, Thunderbolt, Thunderbolt Rocket, Lightning, Lightning Rocket, Lightning Clubman, Spitfire, Hornet, Spitfire Hornet & Firebird Scrambler. Apr 17, 2016 · 1970 BSA 441 VS 1969 Greeves 24CS Ranger it is a 1969 BSA 650 Thunderbolt - not a Lightning. At this time,I can offer,one pair, of one of, the following- STD. Meanwhile, the A65 enjoyed many years of sales success worldwide, with the two most popular models being the A65T Thunderbolt and the A65L Lightning. I've heard it's possible to use a dual-fire coil with a breaker point system, but I haven't seen an example of this in practice. 1971 BSA Thunderbolt. 0), but they still don't have that "grab you by the seat of your pants The BSA A65R Rocket was one of a series of unit construction twin cylinder Birmingham Small Arms Company (BSA) motorcycles made in the 1960s. Jun 16, 2021 · Thank Rambo. I believe the second half of the model number denotes the bore size. Jul 30, 2007 · The BSA is a good ride-to-work bike, less agile than the Triumph, and the front brake wasn’t that good. 0), but they still don't have that "grab you by the seat of your pants While the Spitfire Mk III, the Hornet and the Wasp have a 10. Posts: 138. Read any period road test and see how the testers baged the poor colour continuity and how every pannel was a different shade of the same colour. 5: 1 or, the Thunderbolt and the Lightning, surprisingly - has 9. Britbike forum member. I know it is a BSA forum. 650cc · Petrol · 1,734 miles · Manual · 4 speed. It's the same as on the OIF A65 except for the 65 being 70. The 69 & 70 have a much better braking system than the 68's. I'm trying to find out if it's as original as I think. The only A70 specific parts I have found are pinion gears (there is an ebay seller with a small quantity, oddly it is not listed in the bulletin) and conrods. Click here to sell a used 1972 BSA A 65 Thunderbolt or advertise any other MC for sale. The stroke between both motors is the same. Original OIF frame busted where they frequently do, lower plate. Joined: Apr 2008. Sydney Australia. I alleviated the problem somewhat by going with a very small slide cutaway (like 2. But I also want to put some miles on it. This did the same allowed the use of a smaller choke size to improve overall carburation, with the extra jet being used on the largest openings. Mar 1, 2019 · Morgan, I have NOS A70 BSA/Hepolite pistons. Ideally I'd put the bike back on the dyno with the mixture corrected and the 52mm mufflers rather than 36mm or whatever they are and mess with timing and see what's possible. I changed my A50 to a 650 by replacing the cylinder and head (and pushrods and cam) because the 650 parts were just cheeper to find. No problem, BSA just made their sliders a little different to take up the slack. Mar 6, 2022 · 68’ A65 Lightning “clubman” 71’ A65 Thunderbolt 67’ D10 sportsman (undergoing restoration) 68’ D14 trials (undergoing transformation) 70' A50 Royal Star 67’ A65 Spitfire (awaiting restoration) 72’ A65 Thunderbolt - (Awaiting rebuild into replica A70) 59’ A10 Golden Flash And a few unit twin engines. my copy arrived yesterday, first impression, its a real hardback with lots and lots of pictures, many i had not seen before, it even smells good. Good news: Engine completely rebuilt 20 years ago. Thinking of buying. Joined: Jun 2006. Hastings. Has May 12, 2017 · The baby sister of the Lightning, BSA’s Thunderbolt got the usual 650cc twin but it was paired with just one Amal carb compared to the two carbs of the faster Lightning. Nov 24, 2022 · About a year ago I got a 1970 Lightning in a hard tail frame that I've finally got running and trying to get on the road. When comparing the BSA Thunderbolt to the Lightning, it’s ‘the same girl just wearing a different dress’. Not completely sure, but I suspect BSA twins used chrome versions as well. Tank and side covers are green. The Fora platform includes forum Jul 17, 2008 · Britbike forum Forums British Motorcycle specific Brands Bsa bulletin board Single carb vs. The ’69 Lightning was certainly fast enough and handled well. Apr 21, 2023 · Iconic British motorcycle brand BSA, now owned by India’s Classic Legends, a subsidiary of the Mahindra Group, looks set to revive more models under the revived BSA brand. Between USB C and Thunderbolt, there aren’t many physical differences. These three bikes played different roles – the Spitfire was a pure performance machine, the Lightning was the ‘tweener – think of it as their all-around sport bike of the day, and the Thunderbolt was a touring rig. 1972-1973 versions had an extra wire added which makes it harder to install. Feb 17, 2023 · More importantly, this Lightning was the first with a new “oil-in-frame” chassis that was considerably taller than its predecessor. Apr 18, 2008 · Originally posted by bantam menace: I agree!, much more sense of achievement when it is done by yourself!!! Feb 23, 2019 · The A70L stamp looks legit. Produced from 1964-1972, the bike had two major updates through its' life. Joined: Sep 2009. busy. The problem is that I need paint codes. For those that are familiar with the dual horns they are called Clear Hooter horns which today are extremely difficult and hard to locate. Aug 25, 2007 · Britbike forum Forums British Motorcycle specific Brands Bsa bulletin board 1969 BSA Lightning Paint Codes: Forums Calendar 1968 Thunderbolt 1969 Twinkle 250 1972 Jan 20, 2011 · While the Spitfire Mk III, the Hornet and the Wasp have a 10. The Lightning Rocket was a 2 year model and ultimately became the Lightning in 66. The company has applied for trademark rights on a trio of classic BSA model names, which include the BSA Bantam, BSA Lightning and BSA Thunderbolt. 1968 BSA Lightning Cafe 1968 BSA Thunderbolt 1969 BSA Royal Star 1972 BSA Thunderbolt Sep 19, 2014 · Thx guys. You can find the Thunderbolt to transfer data at 40Gb/s while USB C is just half of it. Boston, Massachusetts - USA. Was this a good bike? Apr 13, 2008 · There is a very high entry barrier. Apr 12, 2008 · With the single carb it is much less trouble than the twin carbs of the Lightning. As the multi-cylinder bikes arrived so the pressure could be taken off the twins, and the Lightning was allowed to settle into an almost genteel sports-tourer role while the Rocket 3 took the strain. The bike is in good running condition, strong idle, clean carbs, etc. , 111 Peter Street, Suite 600, Toronto Dec 22, 2018 · So Hepolite resp. Oct 7, 2008 · From the 1967 Factory Spares manual for A65 Thunderbolt: Carb: 389-233 (Note that the carbs for the Lightning are 389-229 (right hand) and 689-229 (left hand)). Mar 27, 2007 · I've had a 67 BSA Thunderbolt and I'm restoring a '67 Triumph Bonny right now. I would like to find catalogs so I can begin my restoration. The number for the Thunderbolt is larger, but I believe the bore size is 28mm vs. Feb 25, 2019 · Britbike forum Forums British Motorcycle specific Brands Bsa bulletin board BSA A70 Lightning parts vs A65: Forums Calendar 72’ A65 Thunderbolt - (Awaiting Oct 10, 2014 · The BSA Lightning 650 was the British firm’s attempt at an all-around streetbike, slotting between the Spitfire and Thunderbolt. There is a chance that Federal Mogul has changed or will change the type designation for the plugs, I have read the N3C would be listed as Champion Additional photos are available here for your perusal. OP. and reached over 100 mph (160 km/h). I cannot really tell about the engine mounts, the engine is complete and out of the frame. At present GREEN MONSTER I can't afford the new 3 phase upgrade,got to draw a line Jun 6, 2010 · Britbike forum member. Aug 4, 2009 · Britbike forum member. New gas tank and gas. Oct 2, 2014 · 72’ A65 Thunderbolt - (Awaiting rebuild into replica A70) My 64 Lightning Rocket has the 19" inch rims. A version branded as the A65 'Thunderbolt Rocket' was aimed at the US market. These pistons include rings,gudgeon pins,and circlips. Sep 7, 2016 · 1969 BSA A65 Lightning sup to you ,google "britbike forums A65 oil filters" , its come up loads as a topic. It's very interesting reading. The difference is almost like day & night. Oct 21, 2024 · Okay I feel semi confident that I need 68 BSA lower fork legs, part numbers 97-2501 and 97-2504. They went back to black frames and the tanks were a solid color, red for the Lightning and bronze for the Thunderbolt. like that on my 71 Thunderbolt. For 1969-1970, which has the fixed pilot jet, the chart shows a 3. Joined Apr 24, 2012 Messages Nov 18, 2020 · Yep it's pretty cool. It just never had the styling to compete with the Triumph. Curiously, the single carb head Thunderbolt with an otherwise very similar engine only got one 28mm carb and a 20-tooth sprocket. The bike is off the road at the moment, but when it was running, I replaced most of the removable parts in the carb and still struggled to get it to run well. Like all 1971 BSA A65s, it got the new oil-bearing frame, seen here in late-1971 black, and those gorgeous (but not very effective) conical brake hubs. 25 years. Jump to Latest 3K views 66 BSA Lightning. I have the history and original owners manual and tools. Ads are free. A lightning should have 2, if it only has one the you need to make sure it's better for a thunderbolt. 1972 BSA Brochure (US models) 1972 BSA ad (UK model) without the Feb 28, 2021 · The story of the BSA A65 and A50 motorcycles 1962 -1973 By Peter Crawford Wideline publishing. This remarkably well preserved A65T Thunderbolt is the rider you have been looking for! Less than 16k miles over 53 years, this bike exudes not only charming So first of all, thanks for reading. If I were to cast a dual carb manifold for the Thunderbolt would the increased runner length increase velocity enough to flow as much air as the lightning head? Anyone ever heard of a dual carb manifold on a thunderbolt? I'll have my furnace back together soon and may try it out just for shits and giggles. 29mm. Feb 2, 2015 · 1957 BSA A10 Spitfire Scrambler (numbers matching, very correct, very nice condition) 1965 BSA A65 Lightning Rocket "Clubman" (restored) 1966 BSA A65 Spitfire MK-II (restored) 1967 BSA A65 West Coast Hornet (under restoration) 1975 Norton Commando Roadster (2100 miles) 2001 Kawasaki W650 Jan 2, 2021 · If I recall correctly, BSA had specified Champion N3 for the Lightning, N4 for the Thunderbolt. In the first chapter written about A7 / A10, he states that according to motorcycle press tests it was possible to extract 104 mph from first edition of Golden Flash in 1950, and first model of Road Rocket showed Apr 12, 2008 · Just my opinion but if you can find one, go for a 69 or 70 Thunderbolt. I had both a 67 & 69 Thunderbolt bought new, so I speak with a little experience. e bought frame then bought engine then bought forks then wheels etc!needless to say there is NO wiring on the bike at all,I will be making it up myself including the main loom which I have done on 2 previous bikes. Offline Auction. I found, in the past when I used motor oil, long before clutch discs wore out, they would get inundated with cooked-on oil goo, causing both slipping and sticking. If you check around the going rate for a 70 BSA is twice what a 71 brings. New tires, battery, coils, but i cant get power to ignition. The BSA development team decided to keep costs down by re-using the well proven single sided front brake from the BSA Gold Star and the same full race camshaft as the BSA Lightning. Apr 1, 2013 · I have a 1964 BSA A65D Lightning Rocket, and have been told that it's somewhat rare in terms of not as many produced as later L/Rs. The Thunderbolt was a single carbureted model, aimed at touring, while the Lightning was fitted with dual carburetors and a tachometer. [2] The A65R Rocket was produced from 1964 but was stopped in 1965 when all development at BSA was halted by financial Mar 15, 2010 · Thank you for the replies. - 71-2710 stamped 71/2666 +. They are a unique piece of unit twin history. cxnav yamw ijgbr jad jdcrzf sbezyyh qtu wnmaj fvtnqa ahmgvfd