LOT 615 *N
1954 Norton 490cc Model 16H Registration no. 2925 (Guernsey) Frame no. J 256297 Engine no. J 252905
Sold for £5,980 inc. premium
Lot 615*,N
1954 Norton 490cc Model 16HRegistration no. 2925 (Guernsey) Frame no. J 256297 Engine no. J 252905
The Autumn Stafford Sale – The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show|16 October 2022, 10:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground
1954 Norton 490cc Model 16H
Registration no. 2925 (Guernsey)
Frame no. J 256297
Engine no. J 252905
Registration no. 2925 (Guernsey)
Frame no. J 256297
Engine no. J 252905
Having hitherto relied on proprietary engines, Norton introduced its own power unit 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 and stroke dimensions that would characterise the half-litre (actually 490cc) Norton for the next 50 years.
Norton's new sidevalve was among the fastest in its class, being the first machine under 500cc to be officially timed at over 70mph, which was some going for 1911. Small wonder that the slogan 'Unapproachable' began to be applied to the Norton singles at around this time. When fitted with chain drive, the 490cc sidevalve single became the 'Model 16' in Norton's numbering system, changing to '16H' in 1921 when a new lower frame was introduced. Norton's trusty 16H sidevalve would be continuously up-dated for the next 30-plus years before taking its final bow, alongside the Big 4, in 1954.
Resident in Guernsey since November 2004, the last-of-the-line 16H offered here was restored in 2010 and is described by the vendor as in excellent condition throughout. Last run in May/June 2022, the machine is offered with a States of Guernsey registration document.
Offered without key
Norton's new sidevalve was among the fastest in its class, being the first machine under 500cc to be officially timed at over 70mph, which was some going for 1911. Small wonder that the slogan 'Unapproachable' began to be applied to the Norton singles at around this time. When fitted with chain drive, the 490cc sidevalve single became the 'Model 16' in Norton's numbering system, changing to '16H' in 1921 when a new lower frame was introduced. Norton's trusty 16H sidevalve would be continuously up-dated for the next 30-plus years before taking its final bow, alongside the Big 4, in 1954.
Resident in Guernsey since November 2004, the last-of-the-line 16H offered here was restored in 2010 and is described by the vendor as in excellent condition throughout. Last run in May/June 2022, the machine is offered with a States of Guernsey registration document.
Offered without key
Footnotes
* Import VAT Low Rate: Import tax at the reduced rate of 5% of the Hammer Price and Buyers Premium will apply should the lot remain in the UK.
N (NOVA): This lot is subject to a fee of £125 + VAT payable by the Buyer, to undertake the relevant NOVA and C88 (Customs) clearance applications. Please see the Conditions of Sale for further information.
All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.
Saleroom notices
The engine number is: 52905 J2.
Additional information
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- 15 October 2022, 09:00 - 17:30 BST
- 16 October 2022, 09:00 - 17:30 BST
Lot symbols
| * | Import low rate |
| VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium. | |
| N | NOVA declaration |
| If purchased by a UK resident, this machine is subject to a NOVA declaration, whilst the responsibility of submitting the NOVA rests with the Buyer to do so, Bonhams will facilitate the process by engaging an agent (SHIPPIO) to undertake the NOVA and C88 (customs) application if applicable on the Buyer's behalf. A fee of £350 + VAT to do so will be added to the Buyer's invoice. |
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