1969 BSA A65 Firebird Scrambler

Without Reserve

Chassis: Frame No. AC17011A65F
Engine: AC17011A65F

High-Performance 650 CC Street-Scrambler Model
Rare Example with Distinctive 1969-Only Styling Cues
Restored by BSA Specialist Don Harrell of Visalia, California

650 CC OHV Parallel-Twin Engine
Twin Amal Carburetors
52 BHP at 7,000 RPM
4-Speed Manual Gearbox
Front and Rear Drum Brakes
Front Telescopic Fork
Rear Swing-Arm Suspension with Twin Shock Absorbers

The Firebird Scrambler was BSA’s contribution to the growing interest in the US for enduro-look street scramblers, which possessed the style of a thoroughbred motocross machine but were more user friendly and designed for both on- and off-road use. The Firebird lineage can be traced back to the A65 Spitfire Scrambler and Hornet models of the early- to mid-1960s, which were popular with off-road racers. Introduced for the 1968 model year and aimed squarely at the North American market, the Firebird Scrambler featured the same 650 cc parallel twin as its predecessors but benefited from more modern styling and useful amenities. For 1969, the Firebird was updated with a scalloped fuel tank and a pair of high pipes exiting on the left side, complete with the famous “barbeque grille” heat shield. The BSA Firebird remained in production until 1971, but many consider the 1969 models as the best of the breed due to their distinctive design cues.

According to the consignor, this 1969 Firebird Scrambler was cosmetically and mechanically restored by highly regarded BSA specialist Don Harrell of Visalia, California. Having accrued less than 450 miles since the restoration was carried out, the BSA remains in outstanding condition and is poised for success at concours events. A relatively rare model boasting one-year-only styling and outstanding performance from its large-displacement parallel twin, this 1969 Firebird Scrambler occupies a unique position in BSA history and is sure to impress the most discerning collector.