1949 BSA B32 vs 1952 AJS 7R
Full specifications comparison •
2 motorcycles
Full Specifications
Differs
Same
| General |
| Year | 1949 | 1952 |
| Model | - | AJS 7R |
| Make Model | BSA B32 | - |
| Weights & Capacities |
| Dry Weight | - | 129 kg / 285 lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 19 L / 5 US gal | 22.7 L / 6.0 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 | 16.2 kW / 22 hp @ 6000 rpm | 29.8 kW / 40 hp @ 8000 rpm |
| Engine |
| Displacement | 348 cc / 21.2 cub in. | 349.2 cc / 21.3 cub in |
| Engine Detail | Four stroke, single cylinder, Overhead valve | Single cylinder, 4-stroke, OHC Triple-Camshaft |
| Bore x Stroke | 71 x 88 mm | 75.5 x 78 mm |
| Carburetor | Single Amal Monobloc | - |
| Compression Ratio | 6.5:1 | 12.2:1 |
| Cooling System | Air cooled | Air/oil cooled |
| Exhaust | Single, stainless steel and chrome | 1-into-1 |
| Fuel Induction | - | Carburetor, 1 3/16 Amal |
| Ignition | Lucas magneto MO1L | Lucas magneto |
| Lubrication | Dry sump | - |
| Spark Plug | - | B6ES |
| Starter | Kick start | Kick |
| Drivetrain |
| Clutch | Multi-plate | Dry, multiplate Ferodo |
| Final Drive | Chain | Chain |
| Final Drive Ratio | - | 4.87:1 |
| Transmission / Drive | 4-Speed manual | 4-Speed |
| Chassis |
| Frame Type | - | Tubular double cradle |
| Suspension - Front | Hydraulic fork | Telescopic fork |
| Suspension - Rear | Swinging arm fork with shocks | Dual shocks |
| Wheels & Brakes |
| Brakes - Front | 8 in., drum | Drum |
| Brakes - Rear | 7 in., drum | 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
1949 BSA B32 - Advantages
- ✓Competitive all-round: The 1949 BSA B32 matches or exceeds its rival across all measured criteria.
1952 AJS 7R - Advantages
- ⚖️Lighter: 129 kg vs 175 kg - easier to handle and less fatiguing on long trips.
1949 BSA B32 vs 1952 AJS 7R - FAQs
What are the engine differences between the 1949 BSA B32 and 1952 AJS 7R?
The 1949 BSA B32 uses Four stroke, single cylinder, Overhead valve, while the 1952 AJS 7R is powered by Single cylinder, 4-stroke, OHC Triple-Camshaft.
Which is lighter, the 1949 BSA B32 or the 1952 AJS 7R?
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 1949 BSA B32 or the 1952 AJS 7R?
Both are strong choices. The 1949 BSA B32 has its own strengths, while the 1952 AJS 7R stands out for lighter kerb weight. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.