4-Point Overview:
- BSA revives its legendary Bantam badge with a modern 350cc motorcycle
- Based on the Jawa 42 FJ platform, but styled with a classic British twist
- Powered by the proven 334cc Alpha 2 engine paired with a 6-speed gearbox
- Targeted at UK and European markets; no India launch on the cards
Intro: A Familiar Name, A Fresh Purpose
Some bikes don’t just roll off the factory floor — they come with history in their veins. The BSA Bantam 350 is exactly that. Once a household name among lightweight British motorcycles, the Bantam has returned in a completely new avatar. But here’s the twist: it shares its DNA with the Jawa 42 FJ, yet wears a look that’s distinctly BSA.
Let’s break down what this retro-modern roadster is all about.
Classic Looks, Modern Roots
Yes, it’s based on the Jawa 42 FJ, but you wouldn’t know it at first glance. BSA has given the Bantam 350 its own styling — more elegant and understated, with clear British café racer cues. You get a clean round headlamp, teardrop-shaped tank, and a minimal tail section that nods to the Bantam of the 1950s, but with enough modern touches to make it road-ready for 2025.
It’s not flashy — and that’s exactly the point.
Trusted Engine, Familiar Feel
Underneath the tank, the Bantam 350 runs on a 334cc liquid-cooled Alpha 2 motor — the same one found in the Jawa and Yezdi lineup. It makes about 29 bhp and 29 Nm, paired to a 6-speed gearbox. That means you’re getting dependable mid-range torque, smooth shifts, and just enough punch for city rides or countryside cruises.
It’s not about setting lap times — it’s about enjoying the ride.
No India Plans — And There’s a Reason
This may sting for Indian enthusiasts, but the Bantam 350 won’t be sold here. Why? Classic Legends, the parent company, wants to keep the BSA name exclusive and premium in India. Launching a smaller-displacement bike under the badge could dilute its legacy. So for now, the Bantam stays a UK/Europe-only affair.
That said, the Scrambler 650, which debuted alongside it, is coming to India.
What’s BSA Signalling?
With this launch, BSA isn’t just reviving a name — it’s reintroducing its philosophy. Lightweight, classically designed, and built for daily riders who want something with soul. The Bantam 350 is more than a product; it’s a message: Heritage can evolve.
Spec Table: BSA Bantam 350 at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 334cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder (Alpha 2) |
| Power/Torque | ~29 bhp / ~29 Nm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed manual |
| Platform | Shared with Jawa 42 FJ |
| Key Design Bits | Round headlamp, teardrop tank, sleek rear section |
| Launch Region | UK & Europe only |
Conclusion: A Revival with Character
The BSA Bantam 350 isn’t about chasing trends or mass-market sales. It’s a carefully built homage to a classic, repackaged for modern riders abroad. While India may not get to experience this retro-flavoured middleweight, it’s clear that BSA is quietly carving out a space in the global scene — one timeless bike at a time.