1959 BSA A7 Shoting Star

Specifications
- Category
- Naked bike
- Displacement
- 497.0 ccm (30.33 cubic inches)
- Power
- 19.7 HP (14.4 kW) @ 6000 RPM
- Top speed
- 168.0 km/h (104.4 mph)
The 1959 BSA A7 Shoting Star
1959 BSA A7 Shooting Star sat at the sportier end of BSA's parallel-twin lineup, built for riders who wanted more urgency than the standard A7 offered without stepping up to a bigger machine. This is a torquey, mechanically straightforward twin that rewards a rider who's comfortable with kickstarts, points ignition, and the general mechanical sympathy older British bikes demand. On the road it feels lively for its class, happiest cruising at a brisk pace rather than being wrung out constantly, and the higher state of tune compared to the base A7 is noticeable the moment you open the throttle. It's a bike that wants regular use, not a garage queen existence, though plenty end up as the latter today. The 1959 model carried over without significant mechanical changes from the prior year — buyers comparing it to a 1958 example should focus on mileage, service history, and condition rather than spec differences. Owners tend to be seasoned classic British bike riders, often with a Triumph or Norton twin already in the shed, drawn to the A7 Shooting Star's blend of usability and moderate collector standing. It suits someone wanting an honest rider rather than a pure investment piece.

