Topic: Talk to me about BSA Rocket 3's

[zoo mob]

I'm kind of tempted by one that is for sale in the area, not real clear on the condition, supposedly kind of rough, but that's a pretty subjective term. They're asking $3000, which sounds like a ton, and unless its really nice, I would not dream of paying anywhere near that much. That being said, one in decent condition just sold on ebay for $8500. What are you guys' thoughts on taking a British triple project if its complete and can be had for under $2000? Foolish? Awesome?

Thanks

[SkyPilot]

Sounds like a great deal if it's complete and can be had for $2000.00.  

I hung with two brothers that loved British bikes and owned a shop.  They were both confirmed Norton Commando owners.  A BSA "Rocket 3" triple came into the shop and, after riding it, we all agreed that it was at the top of the British bike heap at that time, the 1970s.  We prefered the BSA triple over the Triumph Trident triple as well.  

Would love to have one in nice shape!  GOOD LUCK!

[zoo mob]

No pics yet, but here is the response I got to my email:

"My boyfriend, Richard,  bought the bike locally from an old car wheeler/dealer when he was 15 or 16. He then painted it and repaired the hole in the bottom of the gas tank and rode it off and on in the summer months for around 15 years, keeping it in the barn the rest of the year. About 20 years ago it just never came out of the barn again. It was running great when it went in the barn, however, the motor is seized at this point. There is some pitting of the chrome, and it needs a lot of cleaning and polishing.
 We are really hoping to sell it to someone who will restore it, rather than tear it down for parts.
 The title is clear, there are no parts missing, and he thinks he can even find the little tool kit that came with it.
 Mileage is 2,567. The engine always ran perfectly and didn't have any work done on it since Richard bought it. He is a 3rd generation mechanic by trade. The first gear, idler shaft, and clutch were all replaced, along with some bearings in or around 78. So was the primary chain and the chain case.
 At this point we have an offer of $2000."


I'm waiting for her to text me pics (who doesn't have access to a regular digital?) we'll see how it looks, bummer that its been repainted.



 

[bryanj]

Mechanical parts are available in UK but cosmetics are not easy to get so buy with that in mind

[bucky katt]

vintage brit bikes in this area as basketcases are selling for 2000 and up. a guy down the street from me got a 68' bonneville 650 in nice unrestored condition for 7500.

[ColinMc]

I know I got a 74 Commando in similar kind of shape and I paid 2500 for it. Ended up just cleaning it up a little getting it running, then selling it for funds for another project. I already had my 75 Commando which was finished lol.

[tom8Toe]

If you have an opportunity to pick one up $2000.00, I say jump on it. I sold mine back in the late '80's early '90's. To this day, I regret the decision to sell it. Mine was a '72 A75. A photo can be found by following the link to my gallery within my signature.

http://gallery.sohc4.net/main.php?g2_itemId=300866

[zoo mob]

Strangely, there is also a 75 triumph trident in running condition for $2000, and a Z1 B I'm trying to buy for $1850. Wish me luck, I need one of these bikes!

[bill440cars]

Strangely, there is also a 75 triumph trident in running condition for $2000, and a Z1 B I'm trying to buy for $1850. Wish me luck, I need one of these bikes!

           Okay, I'm wishing YOU luck and I really DO hope You get the Z1 myself. Nothing at all against the British bikes (my Granddad and my Dad had the franchise for BSA, Royal Enfield, Norton, Matchless and AJS back in the 60's. Now, I've never ridden a BSA, my personal favorites are the OLD (50's) 500cc Gold Star and the 650 twimn Super Rocket. Always favored the Commandos and the Manx. Love to have a Matchless Typhoon (for those who don't know, a 600cc Single!) Royal Enfield TT Interceptor or a 57' Indian (RE) Apache (700cc twin). NAnd I've ALWAYS liked the Z1 Kaw and the closest I've come to having ANY of those, is the 83' GPZ1100 that I recently scored on ebay. What a RUSH!