Front forks

[JulianS]

These are the final version of the forks for the full width hub A7 and A10 Swarfy refers to.

Used from 1960 until 1965 including the A50 A65 full width hub models.

The fork bottoms used on the 1968 only A65 lightning and Spitfire Mark 4 are similar in appearance to the 1958/59 parts but need different internals to take the damper rod. They also have stronger clamps and mudguard stay brackets.

[RDfella]

Given BSA's full width hub brake would be in breach of today's trade description act, I'd go for fitting the Ariel wheel.

[Swarfcut]

RD Agree with that. The Ariel has its charm, but for my money a well set up half width hub type is the best of the standard options.  Simple, lots of adjustment, and ability to reverse the lever as debated in earlier posts.

 Swarfy

[Superflash]

Well I've managed to sort it out. The guy I bought the forks and front wheel from has in fact got the correct wheel in stock, so we'll do a swap. It's not as bright and sparkly as the one I got, but at least now I know what I'm dealing with. Will have to replace the rim and spokes, but again, but that's all good simply due to knowing what I have/need. In conclusion, todays lesson is - all that glitters is not gold.