Iconic engines: BSA 441cc Victor

Designated the Victor Grand Prix the new version of the motorcycle carried an engine much more suited to MX racing. Bottom end and big end bearings were much stronger giving a stiffer base for the power to churn from.

The unit produced only ‘modest’ power compared to a 500 MX motor but, the advantages of lighter weight and a more compact machine meant this power was more than adequate.

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Weight had been carved off in a number of ways and the Victor highlighted the fact that BSA had no shortage of ideas to improve its machines – for instance, the alloy barrel had no cast iron liner inside. Hard chrome was deposited directly on to the aluminium, allowing tighter clearances for the piston to work in and hence a quieter engine with less weight. bike


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