BSA Bantam 350 Returns – A Classic Reborn!

Classic Legends has expanded its BSA Motorcycle line-up for international markets by launching a new 350cc model, bringing back the famous BSA Bantam name. Reports from the UK, where BSA Motorcycles is holding a media ride for two new models, reveal the introduction of the BSA Bantam 350 and a BSA Scrambler 650.

The Scrambler 650 is based on the BSA Gold Star 650, which is already available in India, while the Bantam 350 is an all-new model that closely resembles the Jawa 42 FJ sold in India. BSA’s decision to revive the Bantam name follows their 2023 move to file trademarks for several classic BSA model names, including Bantam, Lightning, and Thunderbolt.

The new Bantam 350 seems to share its platform with the Jawa 42 FJ and is likely powered by the same 334cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine in the “Alpha2” format, producing 28.8 bhp and 29.62 Nm of torque. The main difference is that the Bantam 350 uses a single exhaust, while the Jawa 42 FJ and Jawa 350 have twin exhausts.

BSA first made a comeback in 2021 with the launch of the new BSA Gold Star, featuring a 652cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. With the new 350cc Bantam, BSA aims to compete in the entry-level modern classic motorcycle segment, which is currently led by Royal Enfield.

The BSA Bantam 350 joins the Gold Star 650 and Scrambler 650 in BSA’s overseas line-up. Since the Gold Star is already on sale in India, both the Scrambler 650 and Bantam 350 are also expected to launch in the Indian market soon.

The original BSA Bantam was produced from 1948 to 1971 and used two-stroke engines ranging from 123cc to 173cc. Along with the Gold Star, the Bantam was one of BSA’s most successful models, with estimated sales between 350,000 and 500,000 units during its production run.