Poison's Rikki Rockett's 1964 BSA A65 Lightning Rocket, restored, runs perfectly

Owned by Poison’s Rikki Rockett1964 BSA A65 Lightning RocketEngine Number Number: A65D 5124 BSA followed their acquisition of Ariel with the purchase of Triumph in 1951. It was decided from the outset that BSA and Triumph would retain complete autonomy. Indeed that policy endured for almost two decades until BSA Triumph Group Ltd were in dire financial straits by when a certain amount of Badge Engineering did then occur albeit against great opposition from a loyal middle management. So when it came to the vital introduction of unit construction motors BSA unfortunately lagged about three years behind. BSA's 650cc A65 still sold across the globe in tens of thousands; its rugged engine also evolved into the definitive mode of propulsion in the hyper competitive world of European sidecar racing. By 1965 this machine had become the Lightning which was a natural design progression aimed at the American market. This California black license plate matching numbers icon of British caf? racer and rocker culture of the 1960s is most appropriately owned by the drummer of quintessential rock band Poison Rikki Rockett. From Mechanicsburg PA this founding member of the band has been a huge fan of the Britbike scene that began in the cafes of the North Circular of London. He began Brit Iron Rebels a vintage and modern retro motorcycle internet-based group dedicated to that Rocker motorcycle culture. Some years ago the bike was subject to a complete restoration. Rockett’s enthusiasm to ride is reflected in just how the bike was built. It was completely dismantled and everything was rebuilt refurbished or replaced as needed. The engine was fully rebuilt and the gearbox was gone through and then hung in the powder-coated frame. All cycle parts were rebuilt including new Excel rims polished painted and laced with stainless spokes. The bike was upgraded to electronic ignition to aid reliability. Attention was given as needed to brakes and suspension. Up front a Triumph T140 front end was installed with disc brake for the greatly improved braking of 1970s technology. Cosmetically the bike is beautifully presented. Tank and side panels were repainted and remain in excellent condition. The rest of the bike is also nicely settled with the patina of a high quality restoration. The bike is in excellent riding condition. Fresh from service to ready the bike for sale it starts easily idles well and the engine is responsive and powerful. It shifts well through the gearbox with a good clutch. Brakes and suspension work well and all electrical systems operate as they should. And again Rockett’s enthusiasm for the bike is reflected in the mileage. When he purchased it as a one-owner California machine it showed only 2500 miles and now the odometer reads 10660 miles. This is a great opportunity to acquire a fantastic riding British icon of cool owned by an American icon of the same.

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