First BSA A7 .

[BSABeginner]

Hi
I have had bikes for years but have just bought my first classic BSA  A7 and feel like I am having to learn everything again .
The old lad I bought her from called her Betty and I think she looks lovely and Betty is a good name for her .
Wife thinks I have finally cracked .

I am working my way through the Haynes manual but was hoping for some basic tips to help me make it through the first 12 months without breaking anything on her or me !

Any suggestions no matter how daft would be gratefully received .

[brackenfel]

Congratulations on your purchase and welcome to the Forum !
I have found this a very friendly and invaluable source of information, I'm sure you will find the same..
Just keep an eye on the various topics that arise & I'm sure you'll learn a lot about BSAs, I certainly have... The Haynes can be a bit vague in places but it's not a bad place to start.

From the picture "Betty" looks to be a later model & if the previous owner was long-term I doubt if you'll have much trouble.. Like anything new to you, put fresh oil everywhere, check it over and then go out and enjoy riding!

If anything does then give cause for concern a quick post here on the particular issue will soon get a host of helpful responses, usually based on finding out the hard way!..

All the best,

Adrian

[Sidcar]

Hi BSABegginer,
Best way to get to know your bike is to ride it. If your anywhere near Banbury get down to the Banbury Cross 7.00 am tomorrow and join us for a breakfast run.

Sid

[BSABeginner]

Thanks Adrian /Sid
I am afraid I  live in the North of Scotland but hopefully the weather will improve to allow me to get out on her.
My first run out when I first  got her home was a real challenge just trying to get her in the right gear but I
loved it and sure I will get better .
Thanks for the advice and I think I will be visiting the forum on a regular basis for  help .

Ron

[Goldy]

Hi BSABeginner. If it,s your first classic then the main thing is to service it regularly. Check the tank oil level every time you go out. Change the oil frequently. It should have a six spring clutch and this needs to be correctly adjusted, so keep an eye on it. Main thing is to enjoy  riding it. All the best.

[BSABeginner]

Thanks Goldy
Wish I had joined the forum before I went out for my first ride . Had thought there was enough petrol to make it to the petrol station !
Did discover the bike is easy to push and I must have lost a few pounds pushing it . Will make sure I service it regulary and change the oil too.
Thanks again for the advise .
Ron

[wilko]

If left standing for any length of time drain the crankcase first, or at least check the oil tank for significant oil level drop.

[A10Boy]

Hi and welcome

Great looking bike, i hope you have many years enjoyment from it. Two things perhaps you ought to be aware of, one already touched on.

First, Wet sumping, you will only get an accurate level in the oil tank after you have ridden it at least 3-4 miles, make a mental note of the level at the end of your journey and when you put it away. Then when you go to start her for your next ride, check the level again before starting, if its dropped, don't be tempted to fill the tank prior to starting unless you have drained the sump. If you top up the oil tank and there's already a pint or two in the sump you will be in a right mess.

Secondly, I wouldn't want to worry you unduly but the only real area of concern I would have on using an unknown A7/A10 is any possible wear on the timing side bush. If its worn, oil pressure to the big ends is reduced which isn't good as you know. Its easy to check - remove the RH exhaust and gear lever, remove the timing side cover catching the oil in a bowl. You will see the end of the crank and if there is more than a few thou play up and down, it will need an overhaul. I know it sounds a lot of work but as they say - a stitch in time etc. If its OK you will have confidence in it. I found wear in the bush when I bought mine and overhauled the engine soon after. Now I have full confidence in it.

The main thing is enjoy it.