1967 BSA WD B40

As Mike Hawthorn had demonstrated the performance of small Japanese 125cc motorbikes on the racing circuits in the 1961, The British Small Arms Company were forced to re- think their current offerings in the BSA range.

Popular amongst their range , the current C15 was given a re bore to 343cc with heavier front forks, 7inch brakes and 18 inch wheels, having also telescopic front forks with swinging arm rear suspension. This became the new B40.

Production of the civilian version was to cease in 1967 but during 1965 BSA had been requested to submit four B40s built to army specifications, for evaluation by the Fighting Vehicles Research and Development Establishment at Chertsey, Surrey. After some 10,000 miles of trials, an order was placed for 2000 B40s, about a third of which were bound for BAOR. Despite the reduction in performance, the Solex carburettor was exchanged for an Amal as the former was thought to stick open in adverse conditions. The C15 competition model provided the basis of the all-welded frame with provision for fitted paniers on each side. Deep Bronze green was the colour and any chrome work was dulled down .Some 3000 machines were supplied to the military up to 1970, with 141 going to the RAF and 34 to the Royal Navy.

This particular military issue machine was manufactured in 1967 for the UK Forces, under the contract WV6769. It was formally registered with the DVLA in 1990 and purchased from Ireland in 2019 by its current custodian, a keen motorcycle expert, who understands that the BSA saw military service in Northern Ireland, but there is no documentation with the motorcycle to verify this.

In all respects, this is a nice, tidy machine, in full working and show ready condition. It has been well maintained mechanically. In its original green livery, it’s a rare motorcycle nowadays and certainly one for the military enthusiast. The original panniers are fitted, and a non-original silencer, although the original is supplied (which requires a small welding repair).

The history file contains the V5C registration certificate, two MOT test certificates and information and history on the brass identification plates used on these models.

Please note that as the BSA was registered in 1990, unusually and incorrectly it is not MOT or TAX exempt. However, this technicality should be relatively easy to rectify with the DVLA.

Auction Date: 8 September 2022