BSA Bluestar W34/8 / 4.99hp 1934 500cc 1 cyl ohv

Manufacturer: BSA

Model: W34/8 / 4.99hp

During the 1930s BSA concentrated on producing a range of dependable, well-made, competitively priced motorcycles. Its contemporary advertising slogan: 'One in Four is a BSA', reflected the Birmingham-based company's status as the world's largest motorcycle manufacturer. In 1927 BSA had introduced the influential 'Sloper' - so called because its inclined cylinder - starting a trend that saw many of its rivals launch similar machines. Nevertheless, models with vertical cylinders continued to form part of BSA's extensive range, outliving the Sloper when the fashion for inclined cylinders faded. The Depression of the early 1930s forced a cut back in the number of models, just ten being offered for 1932. Among these though, were three new 500s, one a sidevalve and two with overhead valves, all of which shared a common bottom end and the 85x88mm bore/stroke dimensions that would characterise all BSA's 500cc singles, including the legendary Gold Star, right up to the beginning of the unit-construction era in the 1960s. The two new ohv 500s were typed W32-7, the sports version being given the name 'Blue Star', a title that was also applied to the equivalent 250 and 350 models. Both featured engines having vertical cylinders and magneto ignition carried in conventional cycle parts with rigid frames and girder front forks. The Blue Star came with a tuned engine incorporating a high-compression piston and 'hotter' cams, twin-port cylinder which makes it a very sporty and powerful bike with 28hp! Originally an optional extra, a full electric lighting system became standard equipment for 1934. The W34-8 Bluestar model were available in two versions: hand gear change or foot gear change.

This beautiful 1934 BSA Bluestar has been restored years ago and is fitted with Amal carburetor, Lucas lightning set, Smiths speedo, oil pressure gauge and ammeter. It is a powerful bike and is a fine runner.