LOT 531

1929 Norton 490cc Model 18 Registration no. SV 6914 Frame no. S37919 Engine no. 35641

Sold for £17,250 inc. premium

Lot 531

1929 Norton 490cc Model 18
Registration no. SV 6914 Frame no. S37919 Engine no. 35641

The Spring Sale - The International Classic MotorCycle Show|23 April 2022, 10:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1929 Norton 490cc Model 18
Registration no. SV 6914
Frame no. S37919
Engine no. 35641

First seen in prototype form in 1922, the first overhead-valve Norton made little impact in that year's Senior TT, although at Brooklands D R O'Donovan raised the world 500cc kilometre record to over 89mph using the new motor. A road-going version - the Model 18 - was catalogued for 1923, quickly establishing a reputation for both speed and reliability when a standard engine assembled from parts was used to set numerous records. Demonstrating that racing really did improve the breed, the Model 18 gaining Webb forks and better brakes for 1925 as a direct result of the works team's experiences. The Model 18 retained its essentially Vintage characteristics until 1931 when the range was extensively redesigned, the most obvious external alteration in its appearance before then being the adoption of a 'saddle' tank for 1929.

This Vintage-era Model 18 was restored by a previous owner in 1995 and has belonged to the current vendor since 1999. Since acquisition the Norton has been used on various VMCC events including the Graham Walker Run and Banbury Run, and was last ridden in 2017; only gentle re-commissioning should be required before further use. Described by the vendor as in good condition throughout, the machine is offered with a VMCC dating document; old/current V5C Registration Certificates; and a quantity of photocopied marque-related literature. It should be noted that a modern BT-H magneto is fitted (original included).
Offered without key

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