The iconic British brand BSA is finally launching its Gold Star 650 in India on August 15th, courtesy of Classic Legends (a Mahindra Group company) which also owns Jawa and Yezdi. This highly anticipated arrival promises to stir up the mid-size roadster segment currently dominated by Royal Enfield’s 650 twins
A Legacy Revived
BSA’s return to India is fascinating because the motorcycles themselves are manufactured here. The initial stir came when these bikes were shipped to the UK from India in 2022, leaving enthusiasts wondering when they’d be available domestically. BSA’s revival began in 2016 when the Mahindra Group acquired the brand, breathing new life into this legendary marque.
Classic Design Meets Modern Performance
The BSA Gold Star stays true to its heritage with a design heavily inspired by the original. The sculpted fuel tank, curved fenders, and chrome accents all scream retro cool. But beneath the classic charm lies a modern 652cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine churning out 45 bhp and 55 Nm of torque, paired with a five-speed gearbox. This positions it as a direct competitor to the highly popular Royal Enfield Interceptor 650.
The Gold Star’s UK price tag of GBP 6,500 (around INR 6.23 lakh) sits slightly above the Interceptor’s GBP 6,200 (around INR 5.94 lakh). However, industry experts expect BSA to launch the Gold Star in India with a more aggressive price tag to challenge Royal Enfield’s dominance in the 3 lakh (ex-showroom) price range.
The arrival of the BSA Gold Star 650 on August 15th is a significant event for motorcycle enthusiasts in India. With its competitive pricing and classic-modern design, this brand’s return promises to shake up the mid-size roadster segment and offer riders a compelling alternative.