1969 BSA A75R Rocket 3

Description

• BUY NOW FOR £10,250
• Please contact us if you’ve any questions or would like to arrange a viewing
• 740cc triple engine
• BSA Dating Certificate
• Matching numbers

After making its name producing powerful, well-handling singles and twins, BSA saw the need to adapt to the oncoming arrival of Japanese bikes. BSA’s response was the Rocket 3. Launched in 1968 as a 1969 model, the A75R Rocket 3, to give it its full title, was a break with tradition and a massive leap forward. Technologically innovative. Smooth and powerful, it took everyone by surprise. Now they are very sought after by enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Overview

• 740cc OHV 4-stroke transverse three-cylinder triple engine (hence ‘3’)
• 67 x 70mm bore and stroke
• 58bhp
• Triple 27mm Amal 626 concentric carburettors
• 12 volt
• 4 speed gearbox with chain drive
• Telescopic forks with two-way damping
• Swingarm rear with 3-position adjustable twin shock absorbers
• 8.0-inch TLS drum at the front
• 7.0-inch SLS drum at the rear
• 3 1/4 x 19-inch front tyre, 4 x 19-inch at the rear
• 32-inch seat height
• 4.25 gallon tank

This 740cc capacity, triple was a masterstroke. The triple was only nine centimetres wider than the twin.

Back then, the Rocket 3’s engine delivered the smoothness that buyers were asking for, as well as more power. Road tests at the time acknowledged it as the fastest multi-cylinder machine of its era. It was apparently capable over 120mph. To prove the point, it is reported BSA sent several Rocket 3s to undertake speed runs at Daytona. The Rocket 3s set AMA Speed Records, which gave the BSA great publicity and Honda a bloody nose as it launched its new CB 750. C’mon the plucky Brits!

The four-speed gearbox came with a Bork & Beck diaphragm clutch, and brakes front and rear were shoe and drum, with a twin leading shoe (TLS) on the front. The Rocket 3 frame used twin down tubes.

The BSA top brass wanted the Rocket 3 to take BSA into and through the 70s. It drafted in UK based Ogle Design. Their success included the Reliant Scimitar GTE and Bond Bug, amongst others. Influenced by US distributors, the Rocket 3 received ‘modern’ higher bars and delightful triple-exit exhaust silencers dubbed ‘Raygun’ exhausts.

Large, slotted side covers with the legendary ‘Rocket Three’ emblem and a squared-off tank were distinctive design features. The Rocket 3 came in any colour you liked as long as it was red or blue.

A ribbed alloy oil cooler was fitted below the fuel tank. Electrics were 12 volt. In keeping with the innovation, the cockpit featured a wide range of instrumentation: ammeter, speedo and tacho, as well as oil pressure and high beam warning lights. The speedo read a top speed of 150 mph. We wouldn’t advise trying it though.

• This Rocket 3 is an early version manufactured 23 April 1969
• Manufactured at British Motor Cycle Ltd, Armoury Road, Small Heath, Birmingham.
• The vendor has owned this Rocket 3 since 2020
• Lack of use and the option of a Honda Goldwing in his garage means it’s coming to the market
• Frame number CC0176A75R
• Engine number CC01976A75R
• Black frame with Flamboyant Red panels, tank and mudguards
• Side and centre stand
• Black BSA seat with white piping
• White pin striping on the mudguards
• All the chrome and bright work looks to be in good condition, given its mature years
• Front fork gaiters
• Spoked rims and wheels
• Chrome rear grab-rail for pillion riders
• Black Smiths clocks with red needles

The images say more than we can. Various imperfections/wear & tear marks that are usual with bikes of this age are present.

The most enjoyable sight is those wonderfully designed fan tail silencers. If you look through the images, you’ll note that attractive golden hue on the top of header pipes too.

With the devaluing of the Pound, the American market was the prime destination; the UK needed Dollars. Many went in that direction, only a few came back. It is rare treat to find one in UK today which means they are usually snapped up quickly. Production numbers are difficult to pin down, but it is generally accepted around 6,000 Rocket 3s were produced. Compare that to nearly 50,000 for the Triumph Trident, its sister bike

Summary

For many owners, the triple’s smoothness and individual exhaust note is enough. They’ll also tell you a well-sorted Rocket 3 will match a CB750 for performance and beat it for handling.

The rarity means Rocket 3s aren’t cheap. The good news is that at the moment they are still within reach of the average enthusiast. Importantly, they offer something different and distinctive. They don’t come along every day. If you want to grab a bargain before prices rocket, don’t hang about.

Vehicle Location: Salford, Greater Manchester M6 – it’s the responsibility of the winning bidder to make collection / transportation arrangements directly with the vendors.

Would like to arrange a viewing or have a question about this BSA Rocket 3 A75R? Please contact us at team@evoke-classics.com and we will speak to the vendor on your behalf.

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