1956 Other Makes BSA AJS MATCHLESS NORTON

BM215593

Clear

BSA built its reputation on its single cylinder motorcycles, and the M21 600cc is its biggest single ever, a “flathead” thumper built for military duty, civilian work and for hauling family-sized sidecars through England’s winding country lanes. The M21 is far more rare than its smaller 500cc M20 sibling, with increased torque and more acceleration. Neither of these sidevalve singles are roadburners, however. They were designed and engineered for effortless, liesurely motoring and unparalleled durability. What we have here is perhaps the finest example of an M21 civilian model anywhere. Restored without regard for cost, it is a museum quality classic, almost 100% correct and original right down to the fasteners throughout, restored and replated in nickel or cadmium. Even the ultra-rare lower chainguard section is present, as is every piece of original sheetmetal, fittings and components. I was told that the total for painting, plating and polishing alone came to $15k and I believe it. Everywhere you look it is amazing. The black finish on all sheetmetal, frame, brackets and small bits is polished and miles deep. Probably better than when it left Browns Lane in 1956.  Chrome is superb, with a bit of bluing to the exhaust pipe as is usual. The ivory panel on the tank sets off the black finish, hand-lined in gold. Even the wheels are black enameled and lined in gold to match, laced with stainless steel spokes for maintenance-free beauty and shod with fresh Dunlop Gold Seal K70 tyres. This machine is nothing less than a symphony of mouth-watering gorgeousness. Available in both rigid and plunger frame configuration, this example is the former, as preferred for sidecar work. Its well-sprung solo saddle provides all the suspension deemed necessary in its day. Steering and handling is light and effortless. Everything on this machine operates properly. All electrics, lighting, horn, charging, as well as the restored chronometric Smiths speedometer showing 11 miles since restoration. I fitted a fresh 6-volt battery inside a dummy Lucas battery case for original perfection. It was recently serviced after storage and display for the last couple of years. It starts first kick and settles into an idle so low, your pulse after hearing it run will probably be faster. Thump…..thump…..thump…. Everything is rebuilt/restored. The engine/clutch/gearbox operating properly, brakes relined, etc. The only thing on the BSA that I know is not original is the fuel petcock and I believe the throttle might be from a later year but I’m not certain. The only flaws I have found are a small crack in the paint to the left of the gas cap (visible in the over-tank photo), some chipping on the front fender tip which has been touched up, and the inner left fork cover contacted the fender and chipped the paint, which I covered with black tape and is almost invisible. The front fender, by the way, is the original ribbed item with holes drilled for a front license plate (“pedestrian slicer”) which I never fitted, but you might like to, with some professional lettering “56 M21 600cc” or the like in gold to match the striping. I have a clear Utah title for the machine but never transferred it into my name in California. A Bill of Sale will accompany the title. This machine would make a superb addition to any British motorcycle collector’s collection, and is worthy of display in your office or living room (I already have one antique BSA on display in mine) if you chose to keep it pristine for investment rather than riding. I live in the Los Angeles area and this magnificent machine will be on display at The Queen’s English British automobile and motorcycle show at Woodley Park in Van Nuys on Sunday the 14th, in case you are local and would like to see it in person. Feel free to email me with any questions. My Buy It Now price is a great deal for this machine, far less than the cost of restoration. This is an opportunity to own what is perhaps the best example of an M21 civilian model anywhere. I’ll accept PayPal for the deposit but not the balance, for which I prefer a cashier’s check (which will have to clear both our banks of course), wire transfer or cash in person. Feel free to email me with any questions. Thanks for looking and good luck! ? Dave