Photo ou archives : F-M. Dumas
708
BSA / RICKMAN
500 Gold Star Métisse / Vic Allan - 1957
Comeback time
Long dominant on the racetracks, four-stroke singles were also pre-eminent in motocross – especially the famous BSA Gold Star – until they were deposed by high-revving two-strokes at the start of the Sixties.
Improved by Rickman
Already with an enviable reputation in its original form, the Gold Star was made better yet by a Rickman Brothers Métisse frame; at the beginning of the Sixties, 80 percent of motocross machines had come from the little Rickman factory. This particular BSA Gold Star was rebuilt in 1991 around a 1957 Gold Star engine, using a new Rickman frame. It is used in motocross races for pre-1965 machines by Vic Allen, who was British champion, riding for Bultaco, in 1974 – when he was the first rider to clinch both 250 and 500cc championships – and again in 1975.
Europe's No.1 Pre-1965 Event
These pre-1965 motocross races have become deservedly popular, attracting young talents as well as the great names of the past. Europe's premier pre-1965 event is held each year at Beauval-en-Caux, in Normandy, France, where between 10,000 and 15,000 spectators gather to watch more than 350 machines that have traveled from all over Europe to take part. As in fashion and popular music, it's almost as though it's the Sixties all over again. There's no reason why cycles can't get in on the act!
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 499cc (85x85mm) single cylinder four-stroke
Valves: overhead pushrod
Fuel System: carburetor
Transmission: 4-speed
Suspension: (front) telescopic forks; (rear) swinging fork
Brakes: drums
Wheels: wire
Weight: 276 lb
Powered by a 1957 BSA Gold Star DBD 34 single, this bike competes in historic motocross events, held over courses which are every bit as testing as those of the Sixties.