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LOT 123

Property of a deceased's estate 1928 Norton 490cc Model 16H Project Registration no. VF 2907 (see text) Frame no. 31293 Engine no. 36799 (see text)

Sold for £7,475 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 123

Property of a deceased's estate, 1928 Norton 490cc Model 16H Project
Registration no. VF 2907 (see text) Frame no. 31293 Engine no. 36799 (see text)

Property of a deceased's estate
1928 Norton 490cc Model 16H Project
Registration no. VF 2907 (see text)
Frame no. 31293
Engine no. 36799 (see text)

Having hitherto relied on proprietary engines, Norton introduced its own in 1907. The long-stroke sidevalve single displaced 633cc and the new model it powered became known as the 'Big 4'. Smaller capacity versions followed, and in 1911 the '500' adopted the classic 79x100mm bore/stroke dimensions that would characterise the half-litre (actually 490cc) Norton for the next 50 years. Norton's newcomer was among the fastest in its class, being the first machine under 500cc to be officially timed at over 70mph: some going for 1911. Small wonder that 'Unapproachable' began to be applied to the Norton singles at around this time. The 490cc engine was revised for 1914 and the following year gained a new frame with lowered riding position and the option of a Sturmey-Archer three-speed gearbox. When fitted with chain drive, the 490cc sidevalve single became the 'Model 16', its designation changing to '16H' in 1921 when a new, lower frame was introduced.

The old-style buff logbook on file (issued 1940) shows that at that time this machine was fitted with engine number '38280' (stamping still visible on the cylinder barrel). It should be noted that there is no V5C registration document with this Lot, though a photocopy of the aforementioned logbook was stamped by the DVLA in March 2011. This motorcycle's condition, completeness, and correctness is not known and thus it is sold strictly as viewed.

Saleroom notices

The '38280' number stamping to the cylinder barrel appears to be over-stamped.

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