BSA Motorcycles Set For Official Australian Return In 2026

Exciting news has come in overnight, confirmation that British-born motorcycle marque BSA Motorcycles will officially return to Australia in 2026, continuing the brand’s global revival with the appointment of Leisk Moto Imports (LMI) as its official importer and distributor for the local market.

The move forms part of BSA’s rapid international expansion following launches across the UK, Europe, India, Japan and New Zealand. Australian dealers will be supplied by LMI, which is based in Perth, Western Australia. The revived BSA brand, owned by Classic Legends Pvt Ltd, has gained momentum globally in recent years, unveiling three new motorcycles in 2025 alone as it continues to expand into new markets.

BSA originally launched in Australia more than a century ago and remains fondly remembered by many riders for classics such as the BSA Bantam Bushman from the 1960s. Now the company is preparing to re-enter the region with a new line-up of modern retro machines.

The range will include the BSA Gold Star 650, the BSA Scrambler 650, and the BSA Bantam 350. Each model blends classic styling with modern performance and efficiency, while meeting Euro 5+ emissions standards. The entire range will also be LAMS approved, allowing learner riders to access the brand as part of BSA’s strategy to broaden the appeal of motorcycling.

The Gold Star 650, a 652cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder modern-retro roadster, was first launched in 2022 following BSA’s awaited return to production. In 2024, the Scrambler 650 was revealed as a versatile urban scrambler capable of light off-road riding. It features Brembo brakes, dual-channel ABS and Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres.

The Bantam 350 followed with a surprise launch in the UK last summer, reintroducing a historic BSA nameplate. Styled with classic cues including a round headlight, teardrop fuel tank and curved rear fender, the new Bantam echoes the original model that helped mobilise post-war Britain while aiming to offer accessible, easy-going performance for modern riders.

BSA also previewed its fourth model and first adventure bike, the BSA Thunderbolt, at the 2025 EICMA show in Milan. Due for release this year, the Thunderbolt features rally-inspired styling, premium traction control and three ABS modes, referencing the original Thunderbolt touring model while targeting modern adventure riders.

The Australian operation will be led by Jeff Leisk, Managing Director of LMI and one of the most respected figures in the local motorcycle industry. A former professional racer who represented Australia internationally, Leisk previously served as Managing Director of KTM Australia for more than 20 years, gaining extensive experience across distribution, dealer development, marketing, racing and customer engagement.

A key priority for LMI will be building a national dealer network capable of delivering premium customer experiences across Australia. “We have every faith that Jeff and the LMI team will help drive the BSA legacy forward.”

Australia pricing is TBA, but the UK pricing converts to a starting price of roughly $11,440 AUD.

Jeff Leisk, Managing Director at LMI said: “We are honoured to represent such an iconic heritage brand. BSA has a proud history and an exciting future.

Our focus is to build a professional national dealer network and connect meaningfully with the dedicated BSA community across Australia. We look forward to supporting our dealer partners and delivering an exceptional ownership experience for Australian riders.”

BSA is scheduled to officially launch in Australia in mid-2026, with riders able to register their interest via the BSA Australia website and follow the brand through its local social media channels.

This very cool 1929 BSA S-29 500cc ‘Sloper’ motorcycle is expected to sell with ’no reserve’ for $17,000 – $20,000 at Shannons 2020 Winter Timed Online Auction from 19-26 August.

BSA’s roots trace back to 1861 in Birmingham, England, when the company was originally known as Birmingham Small Arms. Once the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer and a key part of Britain’s industrial history, the brand closed in the 1970s before being revived in 2016 by Classic Legends, a subsidiary of Mahindra Group.

Connect with BSA Australia on social media – Instagram – Facebook. 

Register your interest and check out the website here…