Lot 315: 1951 BSA D1 123cc Bantam

The BSA ‘Bantam’ was such an instant success when introduced in 1949 that the makers were inundated with orders, at times beyond their ability to manufacture. In order to speed production, Lucas were recruited as an alternative to Wico-Pacy as suppliers of the uncomplicated flywheel electrics for the new machine in order to fulfil orders. USL 471 is such an originally Lucas-equipped Bantam, to the original rigid-framed design, which remained popular for some time by avoiding the weight and complication of a sprung rear. Rebuilt to an excellent standard by its late owner, an engineer who favoured the Bantam, it has been on SORN since 2004. Complete with V5C, it should soon be ready for use following minimal re-commissioning.