Lot details Registration No: N/A Frame No: B10M8842 Engine No: B10M8842 cc: 350 MOT Expiry Date: N/A
Norton had intended to release a revised, dedicated racing motorcycle based on the International model for the 1940 season, however, the outbreak of war in September 1939 precluded it. For the next five years Bracebridge Street was preoccupied with supplying machines to the armed forces. The new racer, which eventually became available during 1946, featured a single overhead cam engine displacing either 348cc typed 40M or 499cc typed 30M with a bore and stroke of 71 x 88 mm or 79.62 x 100mm respectively. The engine featured all alloy construction and hairpin valves and was housed, together with the four speed gearbox in a rolling chassis that owed much of its design to the pre war factory bikes. The rear end of the frame utilised a plunger suspension system, whilst the front featured telescopic forks of Norton's own design bearing the trademark "Roadholder". Conical steel hubs were laced to alloy rims. Named the Manx, the new model quickly established itself as a force to be contended with in competition and remained largely unchanged for the next two years.
The example offered, a 348cc 40M dating from the models first year of availability was originally supplied by Halens of Cambridge and was purchased by the present owner in 1971. He undertook its restoration during 1973 with the engine being rebuilt by a "very qualified" engineer. New old stock components were used where necessary to maintain originality and the wheels were rebuilt using brass nipples and stainless spokes. The machine, which has been dry stored since the restoration, has only ever been test run, subsequently being turned over regularly. The original RN carburettor together with an original parts book and instruction manual accompany the machine which is presented in "very good" cosmetic condition. The engine is described by the vendor as being "superb" and the transmission and electrical system as "very good".
All successful bids must be paid in full by midday the day after the auction at the latest.
You can collect your new pride and joy from our venue until 1pm the day following the sale or our partners are on hand to help arrange safe transportation:
If so, contact one of our friendly specialists for your free valuation by completing the form below and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible.
If you prefer to speak to humans, don't hesitate to call our office on +44 (0)1925 210035