1968 BSA Spitfire Mark IV, BSA’s ultimate twin-cylinder hot rod and Bonneville slayer. Described by Cycle World at the time as, “the fastest street machine under 750cc.” Featuring a 56-horsepower, high-compression engine, the one-year-only Mk IV is the highest evolution the BSA 650 twins. Less than 800 manufactured worldwide. It is a mint, unrestored, original example with only 2,125 documented miles, of which 410 were put on during my nearly 10 years of ownership. It is the last motorcycle in my collection, and the hardest to part with. This is a very early ’68 with the “Y” suffix. It features all the correct-for-’68 specs: double-leading shoe front brake, 32mm Amal Concentric carbs, folding rider foot pegs, star lever-adjustment wheels, lever-style petcocks, exposed rear springs with chrome covers, crossed-flags decal on side covers with no indent, condensers moved near the coils below the seat. 

Only a few age-related cracks around the DZUS fasteners in the side covers. There is a small paint bubble on the top of the fiberglass gas tank near the filler. There are a few minor paint chips on the frame, consistent with age—I chose to leave them alone as this is a Survivor. Same for the crossed-flag transfer decals on the side covers—but they are easily replaced. Otherwise, the bike is in remarkable shape. I believe the paint to be original as stated by previous owners, one of whom was the president of the BSA Owners Club of Northern California. The Borrani alloy wheels are straight and with no scratches, as would be expected of such a low-mileage bike. The tires appear to be original. There is some cracking visible on the side walls. I will leave to the new owner whether to replace or not. The rest of the chrome and alloy parts are excellent. A previous owner replaced the mufflers, sourced through Wassels in England. Tool kit is perfect. I have ownership records from the previous three owners. This started life as a Calif. bike. (It has obviously been cherished by the previous owners too—the mileage ridden works out to just 44 miles per year.) 

In anticipation of this sale, the bike has been thoroughly serviced by a master mechanic, to the tune of $910. This includes complete fluid change; remove, clean, and rebuild carbs; remove front forks, disassemble and clean, replace leaky seals and replace one corroded fork leg; replace clutch plates; new plug wires; and complete carb and engine tune-up. It runs like a dream. 

The bike is currently in Poughkeepsie, NY and is available for inspection, local pickup, or shipping—including international (buyer arranges and pays for own shipping). I will try to assist if needed. Feel free to call me directly (212.799.2972) with any questions. Fuel has been drained. Battery not included in sale. $500 PayPal deposit required within 24 hours of end of auction; remaining balance due within seven business days.