1954/5 Norton 348cc Manx Model 40M

Frame no. J10M2 57859 Engine no. K10M 62506 (see text)

The history of this machine is a fascinating web of some of the best-known names of post-war Norton racing. Purchased by the previous late owner from Rex McCandless, he was told by McCandless that it had been ridden by Bob Mcintyre, although sadly this is unconfirmed. Norton factory records reveal the frame of this machine was despatched from the factory to the famous Norton rider Denis Parkinson on 16th April 1954. At some time, the engine of this bike, unsurprisingly for a racer, has been replaced. Norton factory records confirm the replacement engine was initially used in an 'Ex-Works racer' and the date code in the number places it in 1955. Having been used by Norton and presumably reconditioned, it was then despatched to Reg Dearden on 22nd August 1956 under his company name of Chorlton Light Cars. It is no surprise that he was favoured with the previous year's Works engines, such as this. How Dearden's engine, coupled with Parkinson's chassis, came to be owned by Rex Mcandless is unknown. Reg Dearden sponsored countless riders including stars such as Geoff Duke, Gary Hocking, Dave Chadwick, John Hartle, George Catlin, and Terry Shepherd. Believed unused since the mid-1960s, the machine will require re-commissioning at the very least and possibly more extensive restoration before further use. Sold strictly as viewed, it comes with a Norton Owners Club dating certificate.