2025 BSA Bantam 350 vs 1949 BSA B32
Full specifications comparison •
2 motorcycles
Full Specifications
Differs
Same
| General |
| Year | 2025 | 1949 |
| Make Model | BSA Bantam 350 | BSA B32 |
| Dimensions |
| Seat Height | 800 mm / 31.5 in | - |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm / 56.7 in | - |
| Weights & Capacities |
| Fuel Capacity | 13 Litres / 3.4 US gal | 19 L / 5 US gal |
| Wet Weight | 185 kg / 408 lbs | 175 kg / 385 lbs |
| Performance |
| Max Power | 21.3 kW / 29 Hp @ 7750 rpm | 16.2 kW / 22 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 29.6 Nm / 21.85 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm | - |
| Engine |
| Displacement | 334 cc / 20.4 cu in | 348 cc / 21.2 cub in. |
| Engine Detail | Four stroke, single- cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves, twin spark plugs | Four stroke, single cylinder, Overhead valve |
| Bore x Stroke | 81 x 65 mm | 71 x 88 mm |
| Carburetor | - | Single Amal Monobloc |
| Compression Ratio | - | 6.5:1 |
| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled | Air cooled |
| Exhaust | - | Single, stainless steel and chrome |
| Fuel Induction | Fuel injection | - |
| Ignition | - | Lucas magneto MO1L |
| Lubrication | - | Dry sump |
| Starter | Electric | Kick start |
| Drivetrain |
| Clutch | - | Multi-plate |
| Final Drive | Chain | Chain |
| Transmission / Drive | 6 Speed | 4-Speed manual |
| Chassis |
| Frame Type | Tubular steel dual cradle chassis | - |
| Suspension - Front | 41mm telescopic forks | Hydraulic fork |
| Suspension - Rear | Dual shock absorbers with 5-step adjustable preload | Swinging arm fork with shocks |
| Wheels & Brakes |
| Brakes - Front | Single 320mm floating disc, floating calliper | 8 in., drum |
| Brakes - Rear | Single 240mm disc, floating calliper | 7 in., drum |
| ABS | Standard | - |
| Tyres - Front | 100/90-18 M/C | 3.25 x 19 in. Dunlop Gold Seal |
| Tyres - Rear | 150/70-ZR17 M/C | 3.5 x 19 in. Dunlop Gold Seal |
| Wheels | Wire spoke alloy | - |
| Wheels - Front | - | WM2 x 19 in. |
| Wheels - Rear | - | WM2 x 19 in. |
Verdict
⚖️
Too close to call
The 2025 BSA Bantam 350 and the 1949 BSA B32 are evenly matched across the key measurable criteria. Your decision comes down to personal preference, riding style, and which brand's dealer network best suits your location.
Key Differences
2025 BSA Bantam 350 - Advantages
- 🌡️Liquid cooling: Consistent engine temperature in stop-start traffic and hot climates.
- 🔧Fuel injection: Precise fuelling, better cold-start reliability, and lower maintenance requirements.
- 🛑Standard ABS: A meaningful safety advantage in emergency braking on wet or loose surfaces.
1949 BSA B32 - Advantages
- ⚖️Lighter: 175 kg vs 185 kg - easier to handle and less fatiguing on long trips.
- ⛽Larger fuel tank: More range between stops - an advantage on touring routes and remote roads.
2025 BSA Bantam 350 vs 1949 BSA B32 - FAQs
What are the engine differences between the 2025 BSA Bantam 350 and 1949 BSA B32?
The 2025 BSA Bantam 350 uses Four stroke, single- cylinder, DOHC, 4 valves, twin spark plugs, while the 1949 BSA B32 is powered by Four stroke, single cylinder, Overhead valve.
Which is lighter, the 2025 BSA Bantam 350 or the 1949 BSA B32?
The 1949 BSA B32 is lighter at 175 kg compared to 185 kg for the 2025 BSA Bantam 350 - a difference of 10 kg. This is a small difference unlikely to be a deciding factor in everyday riding.
Which has the larger fuel tank, the 2025 BSA Bantam 350 or the 1949 BSA B32?
The 1949 BSA B32 has the larger tank at approximately 19 litres vs 13 litres for the 2025 BSA Bantam 350. At 5-6 l/100 km that is roughly 316-380 km vs 216-260 km between stops.
Does the 2025 BSA Bantam 350 or 1949 BSA B32 have ABS?
The 2025 BSA Bantam 350 is listed with ABS as standard. The 1949 BSA B32 does not list ABS. ABS provides a meaningful safety benefit in emergency braking on wet or loose surfaces.
Which should I buy, the 2025 BSA Bantam 350 or the 1949 BSA B32?
Both are strong choices. The 2025 BSA Bantam 350 has the edge in liquid cooling and fuel injection, while the 1949 BSA B32 stands out for lighter kerb weight and larger fuel tank. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.