In many ways, the 650cc spot has scratched the perfect itch for me as a motorcyclist. What started as idle curiosity gave way to possibly the most thought-out impulse purchase I’ve ever made. My Interceptor 650—gleaming chrome, bright blue paint (and of course, endless peccadilloes and fit-and-finish flaws)—has been a fast friend through years of rides, both solitary and in great company. I’d started to believe I’d outgrown single-cylinder motorcycles entirely—until I swung a leg over BSA’s re-entry into the Indian market: the Gold Star 650.
At first glance, the Gold Star's classic design captivates. The tank’s sweeping lines, subtle chrome accents, and quintessentially retro twin-pod instrument cluster hark back to a golden era of motorcycling. Classic Legends has done an admirable job of honouring the BSA name, balancing modern needs with a respectful nod to history.
The real star of the show, however, is its engine. A reworked 652cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled unit delivers 45PS and 55 Nm of torque—a configuration that prioritises mid-range torque over outright power. The bike’s piston, at 100mm in diameter, is significantly larger than that of most premium singles, contributing to its muscular pull. This setup does result in a slight delay in throttle response at low RPMs. While that first thump can feel characterful, this can be a hurdle in spirited overtakes; though when you get going, the rush from 2,000 to 4,000 goes by in a smile-inducing flash. However, first gear feels short, and the bike occasionally stalls below 1,800 RPM in heavy traffic. While this isn’t a dealbreaker, it can make urban commutes a touch frustrating.
Another standout feature is the braking setup. With Brembo brakes front and rear, the Gold Star 650 inspires confidence, whether you’re cruising or tackling sudden stops. The suspension, on the other hand, is a mixed bag. The front telescopic forks manage bumps well, but the rear twin shocks are overly soft and bouncy, particularly on uneven roads. This detracts from the bike’s otherwise balanced handling and limits its potential for spirited riding in bad road conditions.
Ergonomically, the Gold Star 650 strikes a comfortable note. Its upright seating position and low 782mm seat height make it approachable for riders of varying experience levels. Of particular note is the view from the riding position—the lines drawn from the headlamp-mounted gauge, passing through the upside-down speedo and RPM gauges and finally through the relatively rear-set mirrors provides a sense of depth perception to the front end while seated—the impression is subtle, but gives you a commanding feel while behind the handlebars.
In terms of features, the Gold Star embraces simplicity. Its twin-pod cluster, complete with a speedometer, tachometer, and minimal digital readouts, is charmingly retro. Practical touches like twin USB ports are welcome, though the modest 11.7-liter fuel tank capacity means more frequent stops on long journeys.
Priced between Rs 2.99 lakh and Rs 3.35 lakh (ex-showroom), the Gold Star 650 positions itself as a direct rival to the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. While its single-cylinder configuration offers a distinct character, potential buyers might hesitate over Classic Legends’ relatively limited dealer network and the bike’s premium pricing. And despite the many compliments this bike receives at red lights, up close, certain elements detract from its charm. Cheap stickering on the logos and some inconsistent finishing on the engine casing remind you this is a bike built to a cost. Still, its overall aesthetic is striking, particularly in the chrome-heavy variants that echo BSA’s postwar heyday.
Ultimately, the Gold Star 650 delivers on many fronts. It’s a beautifully designed motorcycle with an engaging engine and plenty of character. However, areas like rear suspension and a few aesthetic missteps leave room for improvement. For riders seeking a slice of nostalgia wrapped in modern engineering, the Gold Star is a compelling choice.
