BSA might have disappeared from UK showrooms in the early 70s, but the famous Birmingham Small Arms brand is making a proper comeback under new ownership. Now part of the Mahindra Group, BSA returned in 2021 with the retro-styled Gold Star 650 – and for 2025, there’s not one but two new models joining the line-up.
First up is the Bantam 350. The original Bantam was a post-war 125 two-stroke based on a German DKW design, built to get Britain moving again. This new version follows the same spirit – light, simple and affordable – but with modern performance and kit.
Power comes from a water-cooled 334cc DOHC single making around 28bhp – a healthy step up from rivals like the Royal Enfield Meteor and Honda GB350S. At 185kg, it’s a light, easy-handling package, with a steel-tube frame, LCD dash, LED lights, dual-channel ABS and a proper 320mm front disc with ByBre caliper. The best bit? An introductory price of just £3500 OTR.
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Also new is the Scrambler 650 – a tougher, more modern twist on the Gold Star 650. Styling changes include a black-finished engine; new mudguards; updated tank and seat design; a taller stance with 19-inch front wheel; Pirelli Scorpion tyres; and an 840mm seat height. Underneath it’s the same solid recipe: 45bhp single-cylinder motor, steel-tube frame, Brembo brakes – and at £5999 it’s a strong alternative to bikes like Royal Enfield’s Bear 650.
With these two models, BSA is showing it’s serious about making a mark again – and at these prices, it could win plenty of fans.
