Early BSA - can you help me identify

[Wanderer]

I'd be very grateful for any help in trying to identify the exact model of BSA shown in the picture. It's one of my dad's early bikes. I've just found the very early negative, and have scanned it in using a flat bed scanner. Judging by the registration, it's c. pre 1936 (when format started to change). Going off that, I've started researching and think I'm getting pretty close with something like a BSA B34-2. Are there any BSA experts on here who could perhaps add any further insight?

 

[alimey4u2]

250 cc 1936 BSA B2

 

[alimey4u2]

Ta Daaaa...

 

[Wanderer]

alimey4u2 - many thanks for that, very grateful.

However, my research has also continued. I believe that the registration AVT letters were issued between March 1934 and September 1934, which would rule out the later B2 model. It would also lend additional support to the B34-2 possibility. The shape of the squarish box on top of what I guess is the gearbox also fits with the B34 option, as does the chrome top to the petrol tank.

Any thoughts?

 

[Thunder]

alimey4u2 - many thanks for that, very grateful.

However, my research has also continued. I believe that the registration AVT letters were issued between March 1934 and September 1934, which would rule out the later B2 model. It would also lend additional support to the B34-2 possibility. The shape of the squarish box on top of what I guess is the gearbox also fits with the B34 option, as does the chrome top to the petrol tank.

Any thoughts?

Is that the ladies side saddle version?

Good luck with the research

 

[Phil Clarke]

If you go onto the classic bike magazine forum you'll find out a lot more info.

 

[Wanderer]

Here's the other negative I found. Less clear shot of the bike, but this time showing my dad ...

 

[Wanderer]

If you go onto the classic bike magazine forum you'll find out a lot more info.

Thanks Phil. Already there

 

[alimey4u2]

Looks like you're on the right track Will....

Edit: Yup that's what is is.....

 

[Tomcat]

Maglita

Will, the squarish box in your pic is probably a Maglita, which was a combined magneto and lighting generator, renowned for doing neither job very well . I've got a B30/4, which is a 1930 250 OHV with twin port head. The options list for this machine included a lighting set and Maglita, or for extra dosh, a proper Lucas magneto and magdyno.

 

[Wanderer]

I've got a B30/4, which is a 1930 250 OHV with twin port head.

Many thanks for the info Tomcat. One thing I am wondering, if I decide to go ahead and try to get one of these as project to get on the road, is how real world usable they are?

 

[Phil Clarke]

A mate of mine has used (and still does) a pre war sunbeam and a BSA model L 1925 as a daily commuter. the trick is to get it sorted enough to be reliable. His model L is not ideal as it has belt rim brakes which really don't work at all. So the '36 will be a better prospect with drum brakes. The only other issue is that you become very adept at avoiding potholes...