[4] The BSA Lightning was designed as the all-round sports machine of the 1960s,[5] planned largely for export to the US market [6] to complement the touring Thunderbolt and the later development, the supersports Spitfire.

[7][better source needed] A close ratio gearbox combined with a high lift camshaft made for lively acceleration and performance at higher rpm than the standard A65.

[citation needed] A useful feature was an 'emergency starting' key position for times when the battery was flat to connect the alternator current directly to the ignition coils.

[1] From 1969 the Lightning was improved with balanced exhaust pipes, redesigned silencer-internals, widened crankcase-half mating faces and a twin leading shoe front brake.

[12] A working missile launching system was fitted to the motorcycle but the explosion which destroyed the car was actually detonated remotely by stunt coordinator Bob Simmons.