Feeling of Firing Up
The 2024 BSA Goldstar 650 for the first time feels like bringing a piece of history back to life. The low growl of the engine immediately stirs up a sense of nostalgia, and from the moment you throw a leg over it, you know this bike is special. It’s a machine that masterfully combines classic styling with modern engineering—one that captures the essence of motorcycling while delivering a smooth, refined experience on the road.
First Impressions Timeless Style
Before I even started the engine, I found myself admiring the Goldstar’s design. It’s clear that BSA has put a lot of thought into this bike, paying homage to their heritage while ensuring it still feels current. The design screams classic British motorcycle—wire-spoke wheels, a large chrome fuel tank with polished panels, and that beautifully round, vintage headlight. It doesn’t try to look futuristic, and that’s precisely the point. The retro styling is the real charm here.
The silver version I rode was particularly striking. The attention to detail is obvious, from the high-quality paintwork to the finish on the frame and engine components. The BSA badge on the tank stands proud, adding that extra bit of authenticity. When you see it parked, it’s hard not to feel like you’ve been transported back to the golden era of British motorcycling.
Engine & Performance Power Where It Counts
Nestled in that vintage frame is a 652cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC engine. It puts out a respectable 45 bhp at 6,000 rpm and 55 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Those numbers might not seem like much compared to today’s sport bikes, but on the road, they translate to a more than adequate amount of power for most riding conditions.
The engine is surprisingly responsive for a single-cylinder, and it’s really the torque that makes this bike such a pleasure to ride. From the moment you open the throttle, the Goldstar 650 pulls strongly and smoothly, particularly in the mid-range. Riding around town, I found that it effortlessly handled stop-and-go traffic without needing constant gear changes. The low-end torque really helps here.
Once you get out of the city and onto more open roads, the bike begins to show its true colors. It doesn’t demand to be revved high to feel alive—quite the opposite. Whether cruising at 60 km/h or pushing it to around 120 km/h on the highway, the power delivery is smooth and predictable. It never feels stressed, even when you’re asking for a little more speed. For me, this bike was all about enjoying the journey, not chasing high speeds.
Exhaust Note A Classic Soundtrack
One of the highlights of the ride for me was the exhaust note. The sound of the BSA Goldstar 650 is beautifully rich and throaty—deep enough to give it some character, but not so loud that it’s obnoxious. It’s got a low rumble that immediately lets you know you’re riding something with a lot of history. It’s a satisfying reminder of the visceral pleasure of motorcycling. There’s no high-pitched whine or aggressive roar here, just a confident, reassuring hum that makes every ride feel special.
Handling & Suspension Balanced and Composed
The Goldstar’s handling is perfectly suited to its retro charm. With a wheelbase of 1,425 mm and a seat height of 780 mm, the bike feels stable yet agile enough to handle a range of riding scenarios. The ergonomics are spot on for an upright, classic riding posture—nothing too aggressive, just comfortable and easy to manage.
The suspension setup is fairly conventional with 41 mm telescopic front forks that offer 130 mm of travel, and twin shock absorbers at the rear providing 97 mm of travel. On the road, it felt just right—firm enough to give good feedback through the corners but soft enough to handle uneven surfaces without jarring your spine. It’s not going to soak up bumps like a cruiser, but it strikes a nice balance between comfort and handling precision.
On twisty back roads, the Goldstar was surprisingly composed. It’s not a sport bike by any means, but it holds its line well through corners. The steering feels natural and the bike is predictable, which is exactly what I want from something that leans so heavily into its retro appeal. It’s not about racing from apex to apex, but more about enjoying each curve and bend in the road.
Brakes & Safety Features Modern Confidence
Stopping power is provided by a 320 mm disc at the front with a Brembo caliper and a 255 mm disc at the rear. While this is a retro-styled bike, the braking performance is very modern, with standard ABS that kicks in smoothly and doesn’t feel intrusive. The Brembo brakes do an excellent job, providing a strong and progressive feel when squeezing the lever. I tested it out in various conditions, including some light rain, and it held up with confidence.
The brakes never felt overly sharp, but they didn’t lack bite either. When you need to stop quickly, they inspire plenty of confidence. Given the overall weight of the bike at 213 kg, it’s reassuring to know you’ve got brakes that can bring it to a halt without drama.
Classic Meets Modern Technology
While the Goldstar 650 embraces a classic look, it doesn’t completely ignore modern technology. The round analogue gauges give a charming old-school vibe, with the speedometer and tachometer front and center. But tucked away neatly is an LCD display that provides practical information such as fuel level, gear position, and trip meters. It’s a subtle touch of modernity that doesn’t feel out of place.
I was also pleased to find LED lighting throughout, including a headlight that does an excellent job of illuminating the road ahead. It’s a small detail, but it’s nice to know that even though this bike looks like it’s from the ’60s, it’s got some modern conveniences built in.
There are no fancy rider modes, no traction control, no adjustable power maps. And honestly, I didn’t miss them. This bike feels wonderfully analog in a world that’s increasingly digital. It’s a refreshing change and makes the riding experience feel more connected and raw.
Riding Comfort Built for the Road
After a full day of riding, I was impressed by how comfortable the Goldstar 650 was. The seat is well-padded, providing enough support for longer rides without becoming uncomfortable. The upright riding position kept strain off my wrists and back, making it easy to ride for hours without fatigue setting in.
At higher speeds, you definitely feel the wind—there’s no windscreen to hide behind—but the bike remains stable. It’s not a full-on touring bike, but it’s perfectly capable of handling long stretches of open road if you’re in the mood for a ride that’s more about savoring the experience than blasting through miles as fast as possible.
Fuel Efficiency & Everyday Use
BSA claims a fuel efficiency of around 25-28 km/l, and during my time with the bike, that held true. With a 12-liter fuel tank, you’re looking at a range of roughly 300 km between fill-ups, which is decent for a bike in this class. It’s not a fuel miser, but it won’t leave you constantly searching for the next gas station either.
As a daily commuter, the Goldstar 650 would make for a unique and enjoyable ride, but it’s best suited as a weekend machine or for those who really appreciate the retro vibe it offers. It’s not built for long-distance touring or heavy urban traffic, but it shines on relaxed rides through scenic routes.
Final Thoughts The BSA Goldstar 650 Experience
Riding the BSA Goldstar 650 feels like stepping back in time while still enjoying the perks of modern motorcycling. It’s a bike that’s built for those who love the charm of vintage machines but don’t want to deal with the quirks of old technology. It delivers a smooth, engaging ride with just the right amount of power, character, and refinement.
This isn’t a bike that’s going to win any spec sheet battles. It’s not the fastest, the most powerful, or the most high-tech. But that’s not what the Goldstar is about. It’s a celebration of motorcycling’s past, brought into the present with modern engineering and a deep respect for its heritage.
For those who appreciate the simplicity and charm of a classic motorcycle, the 2024 BSA Goldstar 650 is a perfect blend of old and new. It’s a bike that doesn’t try to impress with flashy gimmicks or over-the-top performance figures. Instead, it impresses by offering an authentic, deeply satisfying riding experience that’s hard to find in today’s hyper-competitive motorcycle market.
