Here is some information about the BSA 250cc Bikes.
250cc Models C10 1945-57, 249cc, sv single, 310lb, 75mpg, 55mph A post-war utility bike with rigid
frame, un-damped forks, minimal brakes and side-valve engine. Not the
most reliable bike. C11/C11G 1945-55, 249cc, ohv, 320lb, 80mpg, 60mph Better than the C10 the motor has OHV.
C11G was available as a 3 speeder with rigid frame or 4 speeder with plunger
frame, both with a better front brake and generator electric’s. Not a bad looking bike C12 1956-58, 249cc, ohv single, 320lb, 75mpg, 67mph Basically the same engine as the C11G
but housed in modern chassis with reasonable suspension, better brakes and a
more comfortable seat. This is the last pre-unit construction 250. C15 Star 1959-67, 249cc, ohv single, 320lb, 70mpg, 75mph A 250cc unit construction engine with
neat styling. In their day most models were prone to gearbox problems
when treated harshly, but this should not be a problem now-a-days with an owner
who rids the bike steadily. The sports version was the SS80 with roller
big-ends which was quicker but was also less reliable, again this should not be
a problem now-a-days. The standard models are easy to convert to 12v electrics,
which improves lighting and allows the owner to fit electronic ignition. The
C15T and Scrambles are more expensive to buy. An excellent classic to buy
and own as there are plenty of models around and spares are easy to come by. C25 Barracuda / B25
Starfire 1966-1970, 249cc, ohv single,
330lb, 60mpg, 75mph Restyled C15 to try and keep up with the
times. Tougher internals and castings, but less reliable due to the high
compression engine, big-end problems being the most likely. The B25 Starfire
introduced in 1968 is a better bet as it was more reliable and had less
vibration following a mild de-tuning. Also sold as the Fleetstar for fleet
users which was a de-tuned version which gives more reliability and in a
modified frame. B25SS Gold Star 1971-72,
249cc, ohv single, 320lb, 55mpg, 80mph Last of the C15-based series with the
new oil-bearing chassis and smart Street Scrambler styling for BSA’s final
fling. Nice bike which was let down by the leaky and out-of-date engine. Naming
it the ‘Gold Star 250’ did not help sales or credibility. Badly assembled when
new, but any that are still running should be OK.