The 2026 BSA Bantam 350 review is one of the most interesting tests we’ve done this year, not because it’s packed with tech or headline-grabbing power figures, but because it goes completely the other way. This is BSA’s modern reboot of a famous name, aimed at riders who want simple, affordable motorcycling without the noise, complexity or inflated price tags.

This is a real-world UK test ride by Liam Simm, Moto Planet presenter and rider, who put the Bantam 350 through its paces on British B-roads, through villages and along single-track countryside lanes. It’s a proper road test in the kind of conditions most UK riders actually use their bikes in.

Summary

• Engine 334cc single-cylinder
• Power 29 hp @ 7,750 rpm
• Torque 29.6 Nm @ 6,000 rpm
• Weight 185 kg (wet)
• Fuel Capacity 13 litres
• Price From £3,499 (UK)

Buying advice: Who is this bike for? Who should skip it?

The BSA Bantam 350 is clearly aimed at new riders, returning riders, urban commuters and anyone who wants a second bike purely for fun. At £3,499 it dramatically undercuts most of the modern retro 350–400cc class, while still offering ABS, a usable chassis and genuine real-world performance for UK roads.

If you're commuting daily, pottering through countryside lanes or just want something simple and stress-free to ride, the Bantam suits that life perfectly. Riders who want big power, motorway dominance or advanced rider aids will need to look elsewhere.

Engine & performance on UK roads

The 334cc single-cylinder engine produces 29 horsepower, which on paper doesn’t sound exciting. On UK B-roads, though, it’s exactly the right kind of power. Between 20–40 mph the Bantam pulls smartly, and it squirts out of corners with genuine enthusiasm.

It’s not built for high-speed motorway work, but for real-world riding it delivers exactly what most riders actually need. The light throttle and low effort clutch make it exceptionally easy to live with in traffic and through villages.

Suspension, handling & brakes

There’s nothing complicated here: telescopic front forks with no adjustment, and a rear shock with five-stage preload. On rough single-track roads the Bantam stays composed and predictable. It’s firm enough to control the chassis but not harsh.

Braking is handled by a single disc front and rear, supported by ABS on both ends. Feedback is good, stopping power is perfectly adequate, and it suits the character of the bike very well.

Comfort & riding position

The riding position is neutral, upright and immediately familiar. At 5’9”, Liam was flat-footed at stops, and the narrow feel of the bike makes it unintimidating even for shorter riders. Peg position, bar height and reach all feel naturally balanced.

The seat is on the firm side, but perfectly acceptable for commuting, short touring runs and casual weekend rides.

Technology & dashboard

The Bantam 350 makes a clear statement by not chasing modern tech trends. There is no TFT display, no ride modes and no connectivity systems. Instead, you get a small round LCD display showing fuel, speed, revs and mileage. That’s it.

Switchgear is large, glove-friendly and intuitive. Combined with ABS as the only overt safety net, the Bantam genuinely delivers distraction-free riding.

Sound & character

For a small-capacity single, the Bantam sounds far better than expected. It delivers subtle pops and a surprisingly rich note at low speeds. It never becomes antisocial, but it does add a sense of personality that many budget bikes lack.

Ownership, running costs & reliability

With a 13-litre tank and typical fuel economy expected to sit around 80–90 mpg in mixed UK use, the Bantam 350 delivers excellent range and extremely low running costs. That places it squarely as one of the cheapest full-size motorcycles to own in the UK.

BSA offers a standard two-year manufacturer warranty, with servicing intervals expected every 6,000 miles. Parts pricing and insurance groupings should remain very accessible due to the low power output and simple mechanical layout.

Practicality is strong for commuting and solo riding. Two-up is possible for short trips, though luggage capacity will be limited without accessories. For riders looking to expand storage options, a lightweight setup from our motorcycle top boxes or tank luggage ranges works well for bikes like this. Check out our motorcycle luggage and accessories.

How the BSA Bantam 350 compares to its rivals?

Against the Royal Enfield Hunter 350, the Bantam undercuts on price and feels lighter and more playful at slower speeds, though the Enfield offers a slightly more polished finish. Compared with the Honda CB350, the Bantam is far cheaper and more accessible, while the Honda delivers superior build quality and refinement.

Against the Yamaha XSR125, the Bantam simply feels more like a real full-size motorcycle. It offers more torque, more road presence and better long-term comfort, while the Yamaha wins on brand reputation and modern tech.

Verdict

The 2026 BSA Bantam 350 succeeds because it doesn’t try to be anything it isn’t. It strips motorcycling back to the essentials: an approachable engine, easy handling, low running costs and genuine riding joy on UK roads.

It won’t replace high-performance bikes or long-distance tourers, but as a fun, affordable, everyday motorcycle, the Bantam 350 makes a very strong case for itself.