KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- BSA Goldstar 650 is the only single-cylinder 650cc motorcycle in India
- Comes with a price tag of Rs 2.99 lakh (ex-showroom), making it the most affordable 650cc motorcycle
- Competes with the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650
Classic Legends brought the BSA Motorcycle to India a few months back and the brand made its entry to the Indian market with the launch of the BSA Goldstar 650. The Goldstar 650 has been launched at Rs 2.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The motorcycle has created a lot of buzz in the market for being the biggest single-cylinder 650cc motorcycle in the market and the brand has made a lot of claims about the motorcycle. We recently tested the new BSA Goldstar 650 and here are the pros and cons of the Goldstar 650. Meanwhile, you can join our 91Wheels Whatsapp Channel to never miss out on any automotive updates.
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BSA Goldstar Pros
Refined & Tractable 650cc Engine
One of the major USP of the Goldstar 650 is its engine. It comes with the biggest single-cylinder 652cc engine producing 45 bhp and 55 Nm of peak torque. This engine comes mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Now, this engine is tuned for good tractability and is super refined. The engine responds well to the throttle input, it offers sufficient low-end torque for easy maneuverability in traffic. Moreover, if you want to push it hard, it offers a smooth and quick acceleration as well. The gear ratios are tuned well and you can take the motorcycle at 90 in 4th gear.
Retro Design Looks Good
The Goldstar 650 pays tribute to the original Goldstar model. The brand has made the motorcycle with proper retro looks. The round headlamp assembly, teardrop fuel tank with offset fuel filler cap, and long single-seat setup look good on the motorcycle. It offers a proper retro charm with its appealing and minimalistic design. The colour options with premium paint quality enhance its appeal.
Premium Hardware Components & Decent Features
The Goldstar 650 comes with premium components such as Pirelli Phantom tyres, Brembo brake calipers on both ends and a premium paint finish with chrome treatment. The brand has made the motorcycle premium while keeping it affordable for a 650cc engine. If we talk about the features, the Goldstar 650 is loaded with a decent number of features such as a hazard lamp, dual-channel ABS, slipper, assist clutch, analogue instrument cluster, Type A & Type C charging ports, 12V port among other features.
Offers Great Handling
If we talk about the handling of the Golstar 650 is something that needs a special mention. Even after weighing over 200 kg, it doesn't feel that heavy while riding. It is agile making it easy to maneuver in city traffic, the straight-line stability is pretty good. It rides well and offers good handling which makes it easy to handle.
BSA Goldstar Cons
Bumpy Ride Quality
With telescopic front forks and dual-spring rear shock absorbers, the Goldstar 650 fails to offer a plush ride quality. The suspension setup is a bit on the softer side. The 41mm front forks work well and absorb bumps with ease whereas the rear becomes unsettling on bumps and breakers. The softer tuning of the rear suspension results in a bumpy ride quality.
Fit & Finish of Some Parts Could've Been Better
BSA has offered premium components in the Goldstar 650 but the fit and finish in some areas could've been improved. The welds on the frame are visible in some areas which can be an eyesore for some customers. Also, some panel gaps are visible on the speedometer console which is not expected after paying over Rs 3 lakh on-road for a motorcycle.
Heavy Clutch
The clutch on the Goldstar 650 is a bit on the heavier side. While riding the motorcycle in traffic it feels heavy even after being fitted with a slipper and assist technology. The brand should've tuned the clutch action a bit on the lighter side to make it more rider-friendly.
Brand Recognition
BSA, backed by Classic Legends owned by Mahindra, competes with the already well-established Royal Enfield. The brand is relatively new in the Indian market and has a limited network. The BSA is currently sold via Jawa-Yezdi dealerships and will be serviced at the same service centers as the Jawa-Yezdi motorcycles.
Watch the detailed pros and cons video of the BSA Goldstar 650 below.
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Verdict
BSA Goldstar 650 is a good motorcycle if you are planning to buy a big engine cruiser. It is comfortable, agile, quick, and tractable which will offer you a good riding experience. However, the limited sales and service network is a challange for the brand. The Goldstar is definitely worth considering if you are in the market for a 650cc retro motorcycle.
