This amazing barn find BSA WM20 500cc motorcycle has been stored in a Swedish barn since the 1950s and remained untouched since recently discovered in 2020. This is a completely original motorcycle, and whilst not currently running the bike has retained all the original patina from its army paint scheme and markings.
Full restoration or retain the current patina?
Many would argue that conducting a full but and bolt restoration on this bike would ruin the originality of the bike, which represents a true survivor from the 1940s pre-war era. I tend to agree with this view because there are already fully restored BSA WM20 examples out there if you are looking for a very clean bike.
Whoever wins this bike within the auction I hope they decide to keep the original condition and perhaps only restore to the point where usable again as a demonstration bike, possibly a museum piece to celebrate motorcycles of the WW2 conflict.
Useful workshop tools for your barn find restoration
If you are attempting the restoration yourself and haven’t had much experience you’ll need to consider building up your collection of tools and equipment to handle the process. Vintage British bikes is this age will also lead you to speak to experts on vintage BSAs, maybe owners clubs and forums who can also provide specialist tools, parts and services.
You may find it helpful to read our recent article on useful workshop tools to provide some inspiration and ready your garage for your next restoration project.
2 Comments
Denis Bissell · June 20, 2020 at 3:41 pm
This is just what i am looking for, something to plod around on along the country lanes and down to collect a paper now and then And once a year take it along to the War & Peace show
Alan · June 20, 2020 at 4:07 pm
Thanks for the comment Denis. I completely agree with you that it would be a great bike to plod down the country lanes to collect a paper, or maybe a pub lunch.