Is this a BSA Rocket?

[judithbonser]

I have just bought what I was told is a BSA Rocket. The frame number is EA79336, and the engine number is DA10R5989.  Here's the odd bit - it was first registered in 1962 (which reflects the year of the engine), but the frame number corresponds with the year 1957.  It has a current V5 - I'm not thinking that there is anything untoward here, however doesn't DVLA as a rule use the year of the frame for the V5? This just seems very odd - has anyone else encountered similar? and if so, has an explanation for this? Also, Does anyone know what model the engine belongs to?

many thanks :-)

[Bess]

Hi,
    Sounds like the frame has been replaced in the past and the owner submitted the different frame number to the DVLA who altered the log book accordingly. The engine number DA10R5989 is a series A10RR, Super Rocket from September 1961 to January 1962.

Best wishes...

[judithbonser]

Ahh - many thanks for your reply Bess - much appreciated :-)

[JulianS]

I had a Super Rocket with an FA7 series frame and CA10R series engine with V5C showing first registered January 1962 . Previous owner had had it since 1962. Unfortunately he had passed away and I did not learn how that came about.

Different rules back then, and many changes since then.

Another possible explanation - if a bike is treated as a reconstructed classic by DVLA then they date it according to the age of the youngest of the major parts (frame, forks, wheels, engine and gearbox) not the date of the frame, see what they say on this link;

https://www.gov.uk/vehicle-registration/reconstructed-classic-vehicles