BSA A7

BSA A7
1948 BSA A7, with rigid rear end
ManufacturerBSA
Production1946–1962
AssemblySmall Heath, Birmingham England
SuccessorBSA A50
Engine495 and 497 cc (30.2 and 30.3 cu in) straight twin
Bore / stroke495: 62 mm × 82 mm (2.4 in × 3.2 in)
497: 66 mm × 72.6 mm (2.60 in × 2.86 in)
Top speed85 mph (137 km/h) (495)
90 mph (140 km/h) (497)
Power26 bhp (19 kW) (495)
30 bhp (22 kW) @ 5800 rpm (497)
Ignition typeMagneto
TransmissionDuplex primary chain to 4-speed gearbox, bolted to rear of crankcase
Single-row primary chain to separate 4-speed gearbox (swinging arm models)
Frame typeRigid
Plunger
Half-duplex cradle
Wheelbase1,391 mm (54.75 in)
Weight166 kilograms (366 lb) (dry)
Fuel capacity3.5 imp gal (16 L)

The BSA A7 is a range of 500cc parallel-twin engined motorcycles that was made by Birmingham Small Arms Company (BSA) at its factory in Armoury Road, Small Heath, Birmingham. The range was launched in 1946 with a 495 cc (30.2 cu in) long-stroke engine. An improved 497 cc (30.3 cu in) version based on the BSA A10 engine was launched in 1950. Various A7 models continued in production with minor modifications until 1961–62, when the unit construction A50 model superseded them.