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2014 Shannons Melbourne Summer Classic Auction
Lot
38

1961 BSA A10 Super Rocket 650cc Motorcycle

$9,000

Sold

Specifications

Engine Twin-cylinder, 646cc
Gearbox 4-speed manual
Colour Silver / Chrome
Trim Black

Description

This lot is no longer available

BSA's first parellel twin motorcycle was designed by Bert Hopwood, who joined the Birmingham company after successful stints with Triumph and Norton. Announced in October 1949, this was to be BSA's first completely new post-war model and, although designated the A10, soon earnt the Golden Flash nickname after the all-over gold paint scheme. Based on the earlier A7 500cc model, the A10 saw the engine capacity increased to 650cc, with a one-piece forged steel crank, a new lightweight alloy cylinder head and single larger rocker box, plus a cast-in carburettor manifold. With an Amal carburettor, the A10's air-cooled motor developed 35 horsepower at 5700 rpm. Although sold with rigid rear frame as an option, most buyers chose the new plunger suspension set-up, while the gearbox was bolted to the rear of the engine, which enabled the primary chain to be easily adjusted via a slipper housed within the primary chain case. A hinged rear mudguard proved another useful feature, making removal of the rear wheel relatively painless. The vast majority of A10 production was destined for the US market, where the metallic paintwork was designed to attract maximum publicity, while domestic buyers made do with a more sombre black and chrome combination. BSA launched a high performance A10, badged the Road Rocket, in 1954 featuring high compression pistons and a high lift camshaft to raise power output to 40 horsepower. As a high speed cruiser the Road Rocket had few peers and enjoyed a strong following, particularly in America. The ultimate A10, launched in 1957, was rebadged the Super Rocket, featuring a tuned motor, a revised alloy cylinder head and an Amal TT racing carburettor. Other changes included the revised twin-tube frame and full-width alloy brake hubs. Modestly described in BSA's sales literature as "...the highest performing, most brilliantly finished sports motorcycle on the road", the Super Rocket certainly out-performed most of its contemporaries, exceeding the magic 100 mph mark thanks to the healthy 40 horsepower output. Today, the A10 Super Rocket is a handsome British motorcycle, perfect for weekend rides and club days and, like all BSAs, the owner is well catered for by clubs and specialists, both here and overseas.