Classic Legends Revives Iconic BSA Bantam Nameplate for Overseas Buyers

Classic Legends has brought back a celebrated name from British motorcycling history with the introduction of the BSA Bantam 350, tailored specifically for international markets. While it shares its underpinnings with the Jawa 42 FJ, the Bantam 350 distinguishes itself with a retro design that includes a teardrop tank and clean, minimalist lines. Powered by a 334cc liquid-cooled engine, the bike is positioned as an entry-level offering within BSA’s global portfolio. At present, there are no plans for a launch in India. The revival signals Classic Legends’ broader strategy to capitalise on BSA’s vintage appeal and strengthen its presence in key overseas markets by blending modern engineering with classic styling cues.

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Classic Legends has revived the BSA Bantam name, decades after the original was discontinued. Once a popular lightweight motorcycle in post-war Britain, the original Bantam was produced from 1948 to 1971 and came with engine capacities ranging from 123cc to 173cc.

BSA Bantam 350: Underpinnings, Powertrain, Design, and More

The newly unveiled BSA Bantam 350 is a modern take on this heritage, developed specifically for export markets. Although it carries the BSA badge, the bike closely mirrors the Jawa 42 FJ introduced in 2024. In fact, the Bantam 350 appears to be a rebranded version of the Jawa, sharing its frame, engine, and many design elements. The use of matte black on components like the engine, exhaust, and front forks gives the motorcycle a sportier, more contemporary look.

The Bantam 350 features a neo-retro design language with a round headlamp, teardrop-shaped tank, black alloy wheels, short fenders, and fork gaiters. It also incorporates signature touches that reflect its British roots, such as a Union Jack graphic on the fuel tank and BSA’s “Three Gun Salute” logo on the crankcase. A silver-finished exhaust tip adds a more refined look.

From a technical standpoint, the Bantam 350 is identical to the Jawa 42 FJ. It is equipped with telescopic front forks and twin shock absorbers at the rear. Braking is handled by a 320mm disc at the front and a 240mm disc at the rear, both assisted by dual-channel ABS. The motorcycle rolls on tubeless tyres mounted on 18-inch front and 17-inch rear alloy wheels.

Powering the bike is a 334cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine mated to a six-speed gearbox. The engine delivers 29bhp at 7,750rpm and 29.62Nm of torque at 6,000rpm. The Bantam weighs 185 kg (kerb), has a fuel tank capacity of 13 litres, and offers a seat height of 800mm.

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Positioned as BSA’s most accessible model, the Bantam 350 will first go on sale in the UK and is expected to expand to other European countries. A launch in the United States is also on the cards following its European debut. However, an India launch seems unlikely at this stage.