The 1969 BSA A65L Lightning is a stock-looking example from the tail end of classic BSA production, and is said to run and ride well. Built in Birmingham as the sporty entry in the BSA lineup, the Lightning was designed largely for export to the North American market. The seller found it at an estate sale after a long search, but a year later a move and resulting lack of space force its sale, which includes a clean Ontario title.

Paint on the fuel tank could be original and signs of use over 48 years combine for a general air of patina as shown in the gallery below. Simple controls look accounted for, but the tach is in need of repair and the speedo is the correct model but not original, so true mileage is unknown.

All chrome shines well while showing its age up close, and the stock-style dual seat looks to be in good shape. A small ding occupies the side of the otherwise undamaged tank, and side covers appear to be 1968 units with original decals but have been painted by hand at some point.

Balanced exhausts were fitted for 1969 and are present here, flowing through matching chrome mufflers. The headlight is working but its lens is cracked.

Down below, power is supplied by a non-matching but correct 650cc single cam, overhead valve unitized twin. With 53hp in new tune, mid-range performance was emphasized over the theoretical 108mph top speed.

By 1969, many previous design issues had been remedied – fed by period twin Amal carbs, this example is described as running well and mechanically sound, shifting smoothly through its four-speed gearbox.

Both wheels are described as in good working order, and the modern tires appear to have plenty of tread left. Drum brakes include a front twin leading shoe unit, and both are operating fine according to the seller.

Shortly after bringing the bike home, a workplace transfer and move to a condo resulted in no room to keep it. Service records are not available so maintenance history is unknown.