Norton Motorcycles has announced its sponsorship of the Lansdowne Classic Series for the 2024 season.
Founded in 1998, the Lansdowne Classic Series is a British Championship dedicated to preserving the spirit of historic Grand Prix racing. Featuring pre-1965 motorcycles, the Norton Manx has been a prominent favourite on the grid since its inauguration.
As a headline sponsor, Norton Motorcycles is happy to support the motorcycling community that it has long been a proud member of. The 2024 season will also include the introduction of the Norton Rider of the Meeting, a commendation for a competitor at each round of the championship.
Robert Hentschel, CEO of Norton Motorcycles, said: “While Norton has an illustrious history within international motorcycle racing, we recognise the importance of investing in grassroot motorsports in the UK. With our new sponsorship of the Lansdowne Classic Series, we look forward to supporting the motorcycling community throughout the season.”
Gordon Russell, Lansdowne Classic Series Organiser, said: “We are delighted to have Norton join the series this year. It will help raise the profile of the series, and classic racing, and hopefully attract new (and old) riders to get involved. It really is a very special community of riders and Grand Prix motorcycles that are the envy of any paddock. We are recreating the sight, sounds and spirit of racing in the 1950s and early 1960s. Our rules are designed to create a level playing field so you will always see some of the closest racing at any meeting.”
The opening round of the season begins on the 6th – 7th April at Pembrey Circuit.
Norton Motorcycles announces appointment of Chief Technology Officer Brian Gillen
Norton Motorcycles, part of the TVS Motor Company Group, today announced the appointment of Brian Gillen as Chief Technology Officer. Brian joins with a wealth of experience from Magneti Marelli, and most recently MV Agusta, where he had a long stint of 15+ years and last held the position of R&D Director. Brian is an expert in the fields of R&D leadership, engine and vehicle design, and World Championship motorcycle racing.
Speaking on his appointment: “As a long-time enthusiast of the iconic Norton brand, it is an incredibly exciting time to join the company’s leadership team. I am looking forward to work with the talented team of engineers and develop cutting-edge, premium motorcycles, with quality at the forefront of everything we do.”
Norton Motorcycles CEO – Dr Robert Hentschel said: “Brian comes with very rich experience and expertise in engine and vehicle design, emerging technologies, and connectivity. I am confident that his joining the team will further strengthen our commitment to technological innovation and engineering excellence, and this will soon reflect in the world class product range that we are developing.”
Norton Motorcycles has begun a new sales partnership with Winchester Motor Group in Hampshire to open all-new South Downs Motorcycles.
Norton is the sole motorcycle brand stocked at South Downs Motorcycles, with the full product range on offer, including the Norton Commando 961, the V4SV, the V4CR, the recently launched 125-year Limited Editions, and the company’s branded apparel.
Located just a short ride from renowned motorcycle locations, South Downs Motorcycles is in the perfect spot to serve the motorcycle community.
Visitors will be able to view, test, and buy their Norton motorcycle on site via the dedicated South Downs Motorcycles team, as well as organise servicing and repairs, and purchase parts, accessories, and apparel.
The Hampshire location opening coincides with the ongoing Norton Limited Edition Road Show. As such, the Road Show will be extended to include South Downs Motorcycles, reaching South England in February.
Mark Mills-Goodlet, Managing Director of Winchester Motor Group, said: “We’re very excited to be joining Norton’s expanding network of sales partners. In the Commando 961, V4CR and V4SV Norton has a truly unique collection of British made motorcycles that, along with their attention to customer care, gives us the confidence to begin our first two-wheeled offering.”
Chris Bexon, Head of Sales at Norton Motorcycles, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Winchester Motor Group to open our first Norton-dedicated sales partner location. South Downs Motorcycles is in a perfect location deep in the heart of motorcycle country, and by working with such an established business as Winchester Motor Group, we look forward to celebrating our successes together.”
About Winchester Motor Group
Established in 1965 by Robert Mills-Goodlet and his wife Pam, Winchester Motor Group is a family-owned business that has over 50 years of trading experience as an automotive retailer.
The business is one of the longest serving Volkswagen agents in the country with five locations across Hampshire. It prides itself on its exceptional customer service, which the dedicated Norton team will subsequently bring to its new South Downs Motorcycles branch.
Norton Motorcycles has released an all-access FPV (first-person view) drone flythrough of its Solihull headquarters.
Covering 73,000sq ft, the UK facility houses all development and production of Norton’s model line-up including the Norton Commando 961, the V4SV superbike, and the new V4CR.
With access to areas rarely open to the public, the video visits departments from across the Norton production line – coasting through Design, Quality Assurance, Engine Building and more.
The flythrough allows viewers to go behind the scenes at the British motorcycle manufacturer, catching glimpses of everything from the company’s master welders and polishers in action, to the meticulous end-of-line inspection. The film even teases what the future holds for Norton.
Norton Motorcycles has launched a Limited Edition motorcycle collection to celebrate the brand’s 125th anniversary.
Six limited edition motorcycles from the current model range will pay homage to Norton’s rich history, as they take on the look of two past production models and two classic race bikes: the Energette, Manx, the Formula 750 Works Racer and the NRS588.
Each motorcycle will contain the specifications of the current Norton line-up: Commando 961, V4SV, and V4CR. As these are limited editions, there will be a production run of just 125 models across the entire collection, and in the case of the V4CR, the allocation will come from the total 200 model production run.
The collection will first be revealed in the metal at this year’s Motorcycle Live from 18th – 26th November at NEC Birmingham.
Join Norton in Hall 3A Stand 3E10 to see the Limited Edition collection first-hand.
About the collection
Commando 961 LE Energette
Commando 961 LE ‘Energette’
The Norton Energette was Norton’s first step in the motorcycle world. Created in 1902 by founder James Lansdowne Norton and produced until 1906, the Energette used Norton’s own design of bicycle frame accompanied by a 142cc Clément engine and two-speed Sturmey Archer gearbox. Whilst a devil to ride by modern standards, the Energette – with its ‘The Norton’ logo and yellow bodywork – was marketed as being ‘good for doctors’.
Based on the Commando 961, the Commando 961 LE ‘Energette’ takes styling from the original machine with its deep yellow paint, brown leather saddle, alloy yokes, natural alloy engine, silver headlight, polished alloy handlebars and polished Öhlins suspension. The colour-matched seat cowl also wears a commemorative 125-year anniversary crest, bearing the Limited Edition logo.
Commando 961 LE Manx
Commando 961 LE ‘Manx’
One of the most successful British racing motorcycles in history, the Norton Manx was developed in 1937, and produced until 1962, making it one of the longest-running production racing motorcycles. A key participant in both international Grand Prix and privateer racing, the Manx claimed victory in 13 Isle of Man TT races and continued to compete every year until the 1970s.
Based on the Commando 961, the Commando 961 LE ‘Manx’ references the iconic silver tank with black bodywork and frame. The ‘Manx’ adds an even sportier dimension with a black engine, black footrests, black yokes, black Öhlins suspension, carbon fibre chainguard and carbon fibre flyscreen. The colour matched seat cowl also wears a commemorative 125-year anniversary crest, bearing the Limited Edition logo.
Commando 961 LE Transatlantic
Commando 961 LE ‘Transatlantic’
In 1972, Norton created a 750 works race bike to compete in the Formula 750 category, with riders including Peter Williams, Phil Read, Tony Rutter, Mick Grant and David Aldana. Claiming victories in the British 750cc Championship, the F750 Isle of Man TT and of course the Transatlantic Trophy, the red, white, and blue racing livery became known globally in the space of two years. The 850cc successor to the racing machine released in 1974 was the road-legal version of the Commando competitor and had a top speed of 115mph.
Based on the Commando 961, the Commando 961 LE ‘Transatlantic’ reinterprets the iconic red, white and blue colour scheme across the petrol tank, airbox, seat unit and seat cowl. Added to this is a black engine, black footrests and black yokes. The colour-matched seat cowl also wears a commemorative 125-year anniversary crest, bearing the Limited Edition logo.
Commando 961 LE 588
Commando 961 LE ‘588’, V4SV ‘588’ & V4CR ‘588’
Boasting a 588cc liquid-cooled twin-rotor Wankel engine, the Norton F1 was the road-legal version of the dominating 588cc rotary powered racing motorcycles. Taking countless wins across British road racing, the RC588, RCW588 and NRS588 were victorious across both British Superbikes and the Isle of Man TT in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Based on the Commando 961, the Commando 961 LE ‘588’ takes cues from the livery of the rotary race bikes. The ‘588’ channels this racing attitude with a black engine, black footrests, black yokes, black Öhlins suspension, carbon fibre chainguard, carbon fibre flyscreen and iconic gold rims. The colour matched seat cowl also wears a commemorative 125-year anniversary crest, bearing the Limited Edition logo.
V4SV 588
The V4SV ‘588’ and V4CR ‘588’ also share the same racing livery, adding gold anodised OZ Racing wheels along with the commemorative 125-year anniversary crest on the top of the seat unit.
Across the celebratory Limited Edition collection, the Commando 961 LE models will be priced from £18,999, whilst the V4CR ‘588’ and the V4SV ‘588’ will be priced at £49,999 and £51,999, respectively.
All models will be available to buy direct or via Norton’s sales partner network following the collection’s first public appearance at Motorcycle Live, 18th-26th November 2023.
Norton Motorcycles has expanded its lifestyle clothing range to include an Autumn/Winter Collection*.
The collection introduces a revamped colour palette to the already stylish lifestyle range as well as several new items.
The short-sleeve t-shirts now come in Off-white, Black, Burgundy, Navy, and Khaki options, while the hoodie is offered in Burgundy, Black, Military Green, and Navy. The sweatshirt has also had a colour update with Burgundy, Khaki, Navy and Black all added to the roster.
Topping off the collection, Norton has created a selection of headwear, including a Black panel snapback cap, a Black mesh snapback trucker cap, and a winter-appropriate beanie available in Black, Light Grey, Orange or Khaki.
All clothing items feature the Norton Motorcycles logo in a variety of colours and forms dependent on the selected item.
Initially available to buy in the UK and US, the Autumn/Winter Collection will also soon be in mainland Europe, too.
The seasonal collection joins the current items in the lifestyle range that was first launched in August 2023, and features T-shirts, sweatshirts and hoodies made from 100% organic ring-spun combed cotton in Black with an embroidered Norton logo on the front.
Norton Motorcycles partners with Mental Health Motorbike charity following World Mental Health Day.
Mental Health Motorbike is a free face-to-face and online mental health first aid support charity for the UK biking community, providing a network of support for bikers, by bikers.
Alongside a financial donation to help the charity deliver on its wider aims, Norton has lined up an initial cohort of 16 employees to train as Mental Health First Aiders to provide support where it’s needed within the Norton community.
To continue its commitment to the wellbeing of its people in the long term, Norton will form a committee that is dedicated to supporting the company’s employees, as well as the wider biking community, and the local area.
Norton Mental Health First Aiders will also attend Mental Health Motorbike events throughout the year to offer a helping hand to those that need it.
Rob Ridgway, Head of HR at Norton Motorcycles, said, “Norton is committed to supporting our employees both inside and outside of the workplace, as well as the wider motorcycle community that many of them are part of. Partnering with Mental Health Motorbike is another way we can ensure that they are getting the help they need and are equipped to help others in need too.”
Paul Oxborough, Founder of Mental Health Motorbike, said, “We’re delighted to be working with Norton Motorcycles helping to increase the mental health support available to their employees and the wider community. This the first time Mental Health Motorbike worked directly with a motorcycle manufacturer, so it’s a very exciting time for us and a big moment in the charity’s history.”
Norton Motorcycles has launched an online store for its latest lifestyle apparel line.
The site will feature Norton’s brand-new range of t-shirts, sweatshirts, and hoodies; available in sizes ranging from extra small to 3XL.
Every item of clothing in the new lifestyle line is made from a stylish 100% organic ring-spun combed cotton in Black and features a large, embroidered Norton logo on the front – ensuring extra durability and longevity.
Starting at £60 RRP, the range has been designed and embroidered here in the UK and is picked, packed, and shipped from the factory. Currently only available to UK customers, Norton aims to expand internationally soon.
The new range of apparel includes:
· Black Hoodie with Large Embroidered Logo – Unisex
· Black Sweatshirt with Large Embroidered Logo – Unisex
· Black Short-Sleeve Tee with Large Embroidered Logo – Unisex
For those interested in seeing more metal than material, Norton Motorcycles’ model line-up – the Commando 961 SP and CR, the V4SV superbike, and the newly launched V4CR – is also available to view and buy through the online store.
To find out more about clothing collection available through Norton’s new online store, go to shop.nortonmotorcycles.com
Norton Motorcycles has released the first set of dates for its #Nortonrider Roadshow.
Beginning mid-August, the dates will see test rides starting at Norton Motorcycles headquarters in Solihull, P&H Motorcycles in Crawley, Williams Automobiles in Bristol, Judd Racing in Nottingham, and Thor Motorcycles in Bodmin, respectively.
Those keen to participate will have the new generation Norton Commando 961 available to test ride from the locations and dates specified below.
August dates for #Nortonrider Roadshow
Norton Motorcycles Headquarters, Solihull: Wednesday 16th and Thursday 17th August
P&H Motorcycles, Crawley: Saturday 19th August
Williams Automobiles, Bristol: Wednesday 23rd August
Judd Racing, Nottingham: Saturday 26th August
Thor Motorcycles, Bodmin: Thursday 31st August
To sign up for the #Nortonrider Roadshow, visit the page here.
Norton Motorcycles expands sales partner network as it becomes the first motorcycle brand available from Williams Automobiles.
Norton Motorcycles has begun a new sales partnership with established automotive dealership Williams Automobiles in South Gloucestershire.
The announcement marks another significant step in Norton’s sales partner strategy, with Williams Automobiles becoming the twelfth location from which the Norton model line-up is available in the UK.
Norton Motorcycles is the first motorcycle brand sold through Williams Automobiles, with the full product range on offer: the Norton Commando 961, the V4SV and the recently launched V4CR.
Visitors to the dealership will be able to view, test, and buy their Norton motorcycle on site via the dedicated Williams team, as well as organise servicing and repairs, and purchase parts and accessories.
Henry Williams, Director of Williams Automobiles, said: “We’re delighted to begin our partnership with Norton Motorcycles and make them our very first motorcycle brand available from Williams. It’s a brand with an incredibly rich heritage – much like us – and has a very exciting product range. We’ve wanted to offer motorcycles for some time, so to have something truly British joining the rest of our made in Britain range is a joy.
“Our conversations with Norton have made it clear from the outset that the company shares our values and our passion for quality, and I look forward to seeing what the future brings as we join their sales partner network.”
Robert Hentschel, Chief Executive Officer at Norton Motorcycles, said: “Like Norton, Williams Automobiles has a rich history and is dedicated to showcasing the very best in British engineering.
“We look for sales partners that share our purpose to provide the highest quality products whilst delivering the very best customer experience. Williams is the perfect candidate, and we’re delighted to be working with Henry and the team as we become their first motorcycle brand, joining their exquisite Morgan, Lotus and Caterham offering.”
Over 100 years of Williams Automobiles
Established in 1911 by Harry Williams, Williams Automobiles remains a family business to this day. A specialist in Morgan, Lotus and Caterham cars, the dealership is now run by Henry Williams – the fourth Williams generation to do so.
Based in a stunning rural location 30 minutes outside of Bristol, the Williams Automobiles dealership comprises three showrooms, two separate workshops and a large detailing bay. Throughout its 112-year history, the business has always prided itself on its customer-focused approach and its specialist automotive expertise.
You can find Williams Automobiles at:
Totteroak Courtyard,
Horton,
Chipping Sodbury,
Bristol
BS37 6QG
Norton Motorcycles has begun a new sales partnership with established dealership Thor Motorcycles to cover South West England.
The announcement marks another significant step in Norton’s sales partner strategy, as it continues to deliver its new Commando 961 and the V4SV superbike to UK riders.
Visitors to the Bodmin dealership will be able to view, test, and buy their Norton motorcycle on site via the dedicated Thor team, as well as organise servicing and repairs, and purchase parts and accessories.
Colin Treleaven, Managing Director of Thor Motorcycles, said: “We’re delighted to be joining Norton’s sales partner network. At Thor, everyone is passionate about motorbikes – we’ve been selling and restoring them for over 40 years – so to have the likes of the new Commando in the showroom is really exciting for us. I look forward to showcasing the Norton brand and its motorcycles to our customers here in the South West.”
Christian Gladwell, Chief Commercial Officer at Norton Motorcycles, said: “Thor is a strong addition to our sales network. With such a wealth of experience in the trade, having originally started out with classic British motorcycles, it’s a delight to see Norton return to the area with such a well-respected dealership.”
More than 40 years in the business: Thor Motorcycles
Based in Cornwall, Thor Motorcycles has been in operation for over 40 years. The team covers almost everything relating to motorcycles, including: bike sales, restoration, customisation, engine building, wheel building, frame building and repairs, all types of welding, tyre supply and tyre fitting, parts supply, and clothing and accessories.
Norton Motorcycles has begun a new sales partnership with established four-wheel motor dealership Oakmere Motor Group to cover Cheshire.
The announcement marks another significant step in Norton’s sales partner strategy, as it continues to deliver its new Commando 961 and the V4SV superbike to UK riders.
With Norton becoming the first motorcycle brand available at Oakmere Motor Group, visitors to the Cheshire dealership will be able to view, test, and buy their Norton motorcycle on site via the dedicated Oakmere team, as well as organise servicing and repairs, and purchase parts and accessories.
Jonathan Jarratt, Managing Director of Oakmere Motor Group, said: “Norton Motorcycles is Oakmere’s very first motorcycle brand, and what a name to add to our showroom. It’s a company with an incredibly rich heritage and exciting new products. From the outset, it was clear Norton shared our values and a passion for quality, so we are delighted that we are now a Norton sales partner.”
Christian Gladwell, Chief Commercial Officer at Norton Motorcycles, said: “We’re very excited that Norton can join a well-established and professional dealership such as Oakmere. They’ve had great success over 45 years with the likes of Lotus, Morgan and Caterham, so Norton is the perfect addition to their growing portfolio.”
About Oakmere Motor Group
Established in 1978 as a family-run Lotus specialist, Oakmere Motor Group has grown over the past 45 years into an award-winning multifaceted dealership.
With many of its staff serving for over 20 years, Oakmere Motor Group has a completely customer-focused approach, which they will subsequently bring to the Norton Motorcycles’ customer base from its two branches: Northwich and Prestbury.
You can find Oakmere Motor Group at:
Manchester Road,
Northwich,
Cheshire
CW9 7NA
Norton Motorcycles launches London atelier and announces major expansion of UK dealer network.
Norton Motorcycles has launched its flagship London location, theNorton Atelier, at the Bike Shed in Old Street, London.
The space brings Norton’s range of premium motorcycles to the capital and houses the brand’s new lifestyle apparel line, created in collaboration with Savile Row designer Nick Tentis.
Both the Norton Commando 961 SP and CR, and the V4SV superbike are available from theNorton Atelier. The space will be staffed by the Norton team who can advise on options, arrange test rides as well as facilitate purchases.
The unveiling of theNorton Atelierand the announcement of the new sales partners sees Norton grow and diversify its product offering, while continuing to deliver its desirable motorcycles and the very best in customer service excellence.
Christian Gladwell, Chief Commercial Officer at Norton Motorcycles, said: “Seeing the Norton brand move from within the four walls of Norton HQ and out into the marketplace is positive on a number of levels.
“Dealer partner enquiries signified the level of demand for our motorcycles, and I’m immensely proud of the work the commercial team has done to meet that demand with what is a growing dealer network. More dealers mean more riders enjoying the results of the hard work and dedication that the entire team at Norton has contributed towards.
“Opening the London Atelier is also a big milestone for the brand. For Norton to have created the first of its own spaces from scratch shows our commitment to the growth of this historic marque, at the same time as setting a new standard for motorcycle retail.”
TheNorton Atelier
Created in collaboration with fashion designer Nick Tentis, theNorton Atelieris a contemporary design in a stylish location housing examples of Norton Motorcycles’ product line-up as well as the first examples from its off-bike apparel collection – also, designed by Nick Tentis.
The space presents a vision of things to come for the Norton brand, providing an environment that is representative of the new Norton DNA: timeless style and craftsmanship informed by 125 years of heritage and expertise, tailored to modern taste.
Nick Tentis, the Savile Row fashion designer behind the creation of theNorton Atelier, said: “For the first Atelier, I wanted to create a space that reflected the history and values of the Norton brand while also creating the perfect environment to display the new clothing collection. Outfitting the space with a tailored mix of both bespoke and vintage furniture perfectly encapsulates Norton’s past, present and future.”
Gareth Charlton, Global Brand Director of Bike Shed Moto Co. said: “I am delighted to welcome Norton Motorcycles into our shop space at 386 Old Street. With their glorious history and dynamic vision for the future I cannot think of a better neighbour for Bike Shed Shoreditch. Having ridden their wonderful new Commando 961 and witnessed first-hand the stunning detail, and execution, they have sought in the fit-out of Norton Atelier London I very much look forward to frequently walking next door.”
Sales partner network expansion
In addition to theNorton Atelier, five further sales partnerships have been announced by Norton Motorcycles, including: Krazy Horse London, P&H Motorcycles, Via Moto, Thor Motorcycles and Oakmere Motor Group.
All well-established dealerships, the new agreements see the businesses offering Norton’s product range to existing customers, with test rides, servicing and repairs, and parts and accessories all available from the UK-wide locations.
As a result of the new partnerships, the Norton sales partner network has expanded to cover the south, south-west and south-east of England, as well as South Yorkshire and Cheshire.
Norton Motorcycles honours Beatrice Shilling with 1938 Norton International at opening of Coventry University building.
Norton Motorcycles has presented its heritage collection 1938 Norton International at the official opening of the Coventry University’s Beatrice Shilling Building.
A pioneering mechanical engineer in both the fields of motorsport and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), in 1934, Beatrice Shilling became one of three women to win the Gold Star at the Brooklands circuit, completing a lap with an average speed of 101mph on her very own Norton M30 500cc.
In her honour, Coventry University has named its new Faculty of Engineering, Environment & Computing building after the famous engineer and motorcycle racer.
The official opening of the building was delayed due to COVID and rescheduled for 8th March on International Women’s Day, as well as what would have been Beatrice’s 114th birthday, and so the celebration of Shilling’s accomplishments within STEM and motorsport is timely.
For the event and to recognise the significance of Shilling’s contributions, Norton presented its 1938 Norton International – a close relation to the Norton M30 – from the heritage collection that usually resides within the foyer of the company’s Solihull headquarters.
The celebration welcomed as special guests Beatrice Shilling’s great-niece Jo Denbury and her daughter Saskia Preston, as well as Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE, Co-founder and CEO of Stemettes, the award-winning social enterprise focussed on inspiring and supporting girls, young women and non-binary young people in STEM.
A woman in a man’s world: Life of Beatrice Shilling
1909 – Beatrice Shilling was born in Waterlooville, Hampshire.
1923 – At age 14, Beatrice reportedly bought her first motorcycle quickly learning to strip and rebuild its engine to improve the bike’s performance.
1929 – Having worked on motorcycles throughout her youth, Shilling was keen to pursue this passion and went on to study electrical engineering at The University of Manchester.
1932 – After receiving her Bachelor’s degree, Beatrice stayed on for a further year gaining a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering.
1934 – A competitive motorcycle racer, Beatrice became one of only three women to win the Gold Star at the Brooklands circuit, finishing a lap with an average speed of over 100mph on her Norton M30 500cc. This was the fastest lap ever to be achieved in her time.
1936 – Unafraid to compete in a male-dominated industry, Beatrice was recruited to the Royal Aircraft Establishment (R.A.E.), writing manuals for aeroplane engines.
1939 – Three years later and Beatrice is promoted to Technical Officer, charged with carburettor research and development. It was at this point, World War II broke out and Beatrice’s expertise became crucial to the war effort. Working closely on the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine used in the Spitfire and Hurricane, Beatrice developed the R.A.E. restrictor to prevent the aeroplane engines from becoming flooded with fuel when entering a steep dive.
1949 – Beatrice was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by King George VI.
1956 – Beatrice joined the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and was elected as an Associate Member. This was in addition to her long-standing membership of the Women’s Engineering Society.
1959 – Following World War II, she turned to racing cars with her husband George, including at Goodwood Members’ Meetings where they scored several high-placed results.
1969 – After retiring, Beatrice received an honorary doctorate from the University of Surrey.
1990 – Beatrice Shilling passed away at the age of 81 leaving a legacy of exceptional contribution to engineering and motor racing.
Norton Motorcycles has today begun its delivery programme for the highly anticipated, re-engineered V4SV superbike.
Ensuring uncompromising levels of quality, power and handling, the V4SV has been put through extensive engineering processes and a rigorous testing regime at the brand’s recently opened headquarters in Solihull.
Production of the V4SV has been integrated into an increasingly packed order book which includes the new Commando 961 SP and CR, as well as Commando Classics for historic NMUL customers.
The delivery programme marks an important milestone in the brand’s commitment to producing the highest quality, luxury motorcycles.
Dr. Robert Hentschel, CEO of Norton Motorcycles, said: “We’ve commenced the delivery programme of both V4SV while also filling the order book for our new Commando variants, which will be available across a growing dealer partner network.”
“This expansion plan is an exciting chapter in the Norton story, given it’s come in our 125th year I feel that Norton is in a fantastic position. It has taken a huge effort from the team at Norton to get here and I’m proud of the entire company. I’d also like to extend my thanks to the customers that have waited patiently for us to get to the stage that we’re at.”
Uncompromising quality – about the re-engineered V4SV*
Available in two colour options, Carbon and Manx Silver, the V4SV features carbon fibre body work, a TIG-welded aluminium tube frame handcrafted and polished to a mirror finish, and a Union Jack on the tail of the motorcycle.
Each model is powered by Norton’s own liquid-cooled 1,200cc, 72-degree V4 engine, and optimised to produce 185bhp at 12,500rpm and 125Nm of torque at 9,000rpm.
The superbike’s design includes an aerospace-grade aluminium chassis, a full quick shift and auto blipper system, adjustable front and rear suspension, Brembo disc brakes, a sophisticated lean-angle sensitive traction-control and three engine modes (wet, road and sport).
Also fitted is a full-colour six-inch TFT display, which includes rear-view camera functionality and an under-seat carbon fibre 15-litre fuel.
*The products presented are subject to regional applicability and the final specification can change.
About Norton Motorcycles
Norton Motorcycles was founded in 1898 as a manufacturer of fittings and parts to the two-wheel trade.
Norton Motorcycles went on to become one of the most iconic British motorcycle brands, manufacturing famous models such as the 650SS, Atlas, Commando, Dominator, Manx, Navigator and more – constantly innovating in motorcycle technology, with features advantageous for lightness and strength in motorcycle racing. Norton Motorcycles has an unrivalled history in motorsport and the brand name is synonymous with Isle of Man TT racing.
In April 2020, Norton Motorcycles was acquired by TVS Motor Company, India’s third-largest motorcycle manufacturer. Under the leadership of TVS, Norton is based out of a new manufacturing facility in Solihull, West Midlands, building British motorcycles in England using traditional hand-crafted techniques with modern day machinery for consistently high quality.
This initiative is in support of the existing test ride capability available directly from Norton HQ in Solihull.
Same icon. Different standard. About the Commando 961**
In 1967, the world had its first glimpse of the Norton Commando. The following decade saw over 55,000 models sold, with the Commando winning multiple accolades including Machine of the Year for five successive years. The Commando became a household name, completely synonymous with the Norton brand, and went on to establish itself as a British icon recognised across the globe.
The Commando was and still is impacting pop culture. Loved by riders and actors alike, it has been featured in many iconic movies and television programmes over the years.
Now, the new generation Commando continues this legacy.
Built by Norton’s team of passionate experts to the highest standards, its beautifully handcrafted frame and tantalising aesthetics complement the Commando 961’s air-oil-cooled parallel twin engine capable of developing 76.8bhp @7250rpm and 81Nm @6300rpm. All of this harmonises with the bike’s quintessential hour-glass silhouette and a hand-polished exhaust to deliver a spine-tingling chorus, and a riding experience impossible to forget.
Should a customer wish to purchase the Commando 961 following a test ride, prices are from £16,499 for the SP and £16,999 for the CR.
*‘Test Ride to You’ offering is free and is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour in duration. Subject to T&Cs
**The products presented are subject to regional applicability and the final specification can change
Norton Motorcycles has purchased 55 classic Norton bikes to start its heritage collection.
The collection, which spans from 1916 to 1992, boasts some of the rarest Norton bikes and sidecars ever produced including models such as Model 1 ‘Big four’, the company founder James “Pa” Norton’s favourite bike, and a rare speedway from 1930.
1921 Model 1
A 1968 Norton Atlas Police motorcycle used for Royal Family escorts, which previously rode alongside the Queen, the Queen Mother and Prince Charles is another notable bike that has been acquired.
Norton bought the bikes from single collector, Ian Loram, who has amassed the unique collection since his first classic purchase in the late 90’s.
A small selection of bikes will initially take pride of place in the reception area of the recently opened Norton HQ in Solihull, with bike fans likely to be able to get a glimpse of them in person later in the year.
1929 CJ350
“It is highly unusual for any major manufacturer to have the chance to purchase such a large, high quality, collection that represents the history of your brand, all in one go,” said Robert Hentschel, CEO of Norton Motorcycles.
“When the opportunity arose through Ian, we jumped at the chance to buy the collection and bring 55 classic motorcycles home.
“Norton has a near 125-year history that is unrivalled in the motorcycle world – and one we want to celebrate now and in the future. While it’s a hugely exciting time for us looking ahead with the recent opening of a new factory, an exciting product road map and the £100 million investment from TVS, it’s vital that we continue to celebrate the great products of our past because they will impact and steer our future.”
1929 JE350
Ian Loram added: “I started collecting Norton Motorcycles in the late 90’s and would take every approach to not miss an opportunity to buy a rare Norton on sale. So many of the bikes hold a very special memory but it’s now a collection for the headquarters to enjoy.
“James “Pa” Norton always strived to innovate and having my facility tour during the handover of the collection, I was filled with a wonderful sense that Pa would be very proud of what is being done in his name.”
1930 DT Speedway
Seven rare Norton’s to get excited about
The newly purchased line-up contains the 1921 Model 1. This was a favourite of Norton founder, James “Pa” Norton, who rode a 633cc Big Four combination 3,000 miles across Africa in 1921.
Just one of 53 built by Norton for speedway racing, the 1930 DT with a 500cc twin port and ¾ gallon fuel tank. Norton loaned several DT’s to established riders. This precise model was loaned to Oliver Langton for speedway racing.
The road-going version 1990 Norton F1 Rotary, based on the RCW588 racing motorcycle.
Adding to the collection includes the 1929 CJ350 designed by Walter Moore, which saw under 200 models produced.
Norton’s historic DNA is renowned for featherbed frames, used on numerous models by Norton for close to 20 years. The collection features British racing motorcycles, such as the 1950 Norton Manx on a featherbed frame and style modification for racing.
With only six remaining in the world, the extremely rare saddle tank racing styled 1929 JE350.
A fully restored 500cc 1938 Clubman International.
Norton Motorcycles has revealed a prototype of the V4CR, a naked Café Racer derivative of the V4SV superbike.
This is the first prototype to be designed, engineered and built at the recently opened global headquarters in the UK.
Sharing the same engineering DNA, 185bhp 1200cc V4 engine and engineering advancements from the V4SV, the new V4CR’s stripped-back appearance showcases the unrivalled craftsmanship and uncompromising quality behind one of the most powerful British café racers out there. Fitted with a carbon fibre fuel tank and body panels, polished billet aluminium swingarm and frame, the V4CR also features compact framework and a shorter rear frame for an aggressive and commanding stance.
Dr Robert Hentschel, Chief Executive Officer, Norton Motorcycles:“The prototype VC4R is the next step in Norton’s strategic growth plan on its journey to becoming the world-leader in luxury hand-crafted motorcycles.”
The V4CR prototype is Norton’s latest project to use the marque’s refined V4 platform, revised over the last 16 months by a team of 30 engineers and subject to tens of thousands of road and track miles, as part of Norton’s unrelenting development process. The V4CR builds on those solid foundations and reintroduces fans to Norton’s iconic café racer heritage.
Note: Norton’s V4CR prototype will make its public debut on the Norton stand (Hall 3, Stand 3C10) at Motorcycle Live from 4-12th December, 2021
