Description
BSA 1934 J 34-11 498 cc ohv V-twin frame # 11276 engine # B 11.276.
At the 1933 Olympia show BSA displayed a 14-model range; more than 60 machines were showed an one of the newcomers was a handsome 498 cc (63×80 mm) OHV v-twin, the model J 34-11. The machine was actually not a complete newcomer: it was based on a design specially prepared for the War Office a year or so earlier. After extensive tests the military authorities were satisfied with its performance and between 1933 and 1936 some 700 machines were ordered by the Army, War Office and RAF: the model J was for some years the standard British Army motorcycle. At Olympia it created great interest with the public because of its good looks and OHV twin engine, which engine type was new in the BSA range.
At around £70 the model J was 20% more expensive than a comparable single cylinder OHV and it was but slightly more powerful. Consequently, not too many of these interesting machines were sold to the general public in their 3-year production run and today they are pretty rare birds and consequently very costly.
This handsome machine has been carefully built around an original engine and gearbox. Many other parts fitted are 1930s style BSA, but not genuine model J. The tank top dashboard contains amp and oil pressure gauges, inspection light and light switch. A sprung pillion seat, a tyre pump and a distinctive Vokes air filter are fitted and there’s full electric lighting on board. Front and rear brakes are coupled; by pressing the left hand side foot pedal both brakes are applied. For independent use of the front brake the handlebar lever can be used. BSA offered this system for a number of years in the mid-thirties. The four-speed gearbox has a foot change mechanism and the tyres are 4 x 18 rear and 3.50 x 18 front. This goodlooking thirties V-twin is a fine runner and comes with current road registration. The Classic Motorcycle of March, 2017 features a road test of a restored/ reconstructed 1934 Model J under the title “Marvellous Middleweight”.