1965 BSA 173cc D7 Bantam
Registration no. GXC 372C
Frame no. D7. 47730
Engine no. FD.77045

BSA's government-encouraged copy of the German DKW R.125, was made 'British' by simply reversing the engine-unit drawings for right-side controls, thus providing the post-war 'basic trainer' for thousands of motorcyclists - including the writer with the 125cc 'Bantam D.1' of 1949, a wholly successful motorcycle and the company's best seller. Thousands were sold. BSA took the hint and though there was no D2, the D3, D5, D7 and D14 variants followed into the 'seventies, a range which became a byword for economy and reliability, still served by specialist firms to this day. Changes were made to colours, suspension, capacity and gearbox, but the Bantam remained essentially itself, a motorcycle regarded with much affection. This example of the mid-years D7, reluctantly up for sale by its VMCC member owner because of his advancing years, has been very well-maintained and is a first-kick starter, said to run very well. Presently on SORN, it comes with a V5C, an original hand-book and other BSA material, its old RF.60 logbook and the owner's detailed service log. Needing, of course, the usual safety checks before use, close inspection of this charming little lightweight is highly advised.