1952 AJS 7R vs 1949 BSA B32
Full specifications comparison •
2 motorcycles
Full Specifications
Differs
Same
| General |
| Year | 1952 | 1949 |
| Model | AJS 7R | - |
| Make Model | - | BSA B32 |
| Weights & Capacities |
| Dry Weight | 129 kg / 285 lbs | - |
| Fuel Capacity | 22.7 L / 6.0 US gal | 19 L / 5 US gal |
| Oil Capacity | 4.0 L / 8.4 US pints | - |
| Wet Weight | - | 175 kg / 385 lbs |
| Performance |
| Top Speed | 193 km/h / 120 mph | - |
| Max Power | 29.8 kW / 40 hp @ 8000 rpm | 16.2 kW / 22 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Engine |
| Displacement | 349.2 cc / 21.3 cub in | 348 cc / 21.2 cub in. |
| Engine Detail | Single cylinder, 4-stroke, OHC Triple-Camshaft | Four stroke, single cylinder, Overhead valve |
| Bore x Stroke | 75.5 x 78 mm | 71 x 88 mm |
| Carburetor | - | Single Amal Monobloc |
| Compression Ratio | 12.2:1 | 6.5:1 |
| Cooling System | Air/oil cooled | Air cooled |
| Exhaust | 1-into-1 | Single, stainless steel and chrome |
| Fuel Induction | Carburetor, 1 3/16 Amal | - |
| Ignition | Lucas magneto | Lucas magneto MO1L |
| Lubrication | - | Dry sump |
| Spark Plug | B6ES | - |
| Starter | Kick | Kick start |
| Drivetrain |
| Clutch | Dry, multiplate Ferodo | Multi-plate |
| Final Drive | Chain | Chain |
| Final Drive Ratio | 4.87:1 | - |
| Transmission / Drive | 4-Speed | 4-Speed manual |
| Chassis |
| Frame Type | Tubular double cradle | - |
| Suspension - Front | Telescopic fork | Hydraulic fork |
| Suspension - Rear | Dual shocks | Swinging arm fork with shocks |
| Wheels & Brakes |
| Brakes - Front | Drum | 8 in., drum |
| Brakes - Rear | Drum | 7 in., drum |
| Rims - Front | 2.75 x 19 | - |
| Rims - Rear | 3.50 x 19 | - |
| Tyres - Front | - | 3.25 x 19 in. Dunlop Gold Seal |
| Tyres - Rear | - | 3.5 x 19 in. Dunlop Gold Seal |
| Wheels | Steel, wire spokes | - |
| Wheels - Front | - | WM2 x 19 in. |
| Wheels - Rear | - | WM2 x 19 in. |
Verdict
🏆
Winner on specs
1952 AJS 7R
The 1952 AJS 7R edges out the 1949 BSA B32 thanks to its lighter kerb weight. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.
Key Differences
1952 AJS 7R - Advantages
- ⚖️Lighter: 129 kg vs 175 kg - easier to handle and less fatiguing on long trips.
1949 BSA B32 - Advantages
- ✓Competitive all-round: The 1949 BSA B32 matches or exceeds its rival across all measured criteria.
1952 AJS 7R vs 1949 BSA B32 - FAQs
What are the engine differences between the 1952 AJS 7R and 1949 BSA B32?
The 1952 AJS 7R uses Single cylinder, 4-stroke, OHC Triple-Camshaft, while the 1949 BSA B32 is powered by Four stroke, single cylinder, Overhead valve.
Which is lighter, the 1952 AJS 7R or the 1949 BSA B32?
The 1952 AJS 7R is lighter at 129 kg compared to 175 kg for the 1949 BSA B32 - a difference of 46 kg. This is a meaningful difference that affects handling and rider fatigue.
Which should I buy, the 1952 AJS 7R or the 1949 BSA B32?
Both are strong choices. The 1952 AJS 7R has the edge in lighter kerb weight, while the 1949 BSA B32 offers a compelling alternative. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.