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LOT 323

1950 Norton 490cc 500T Trials Project Registration no. MXS 539 Frame no. E3T 27267 Engine no. E3T 27267

Sold for £3,450 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve

1950 Norton 490cc 500T Trials Project
Registration no. MXS 539
Frame no. E3T 27267
Engine no. E3T 27267

The Norton 500T was introduced in 1949, and continued in the Norton range until 1955. During that period, it established itself as one of the more effective trials machines of its day. With 100 degrees of rotation on the front forks, alloy engine, Norton's class-leading long Roadholder forks, a Dunlop trials saddle, small petrol and oil tanks, low compression, and strengthened alloy mudguards, the 500T proved to be an extremely good trials tool for the likes of John Draper, Geoff Duke, Jeff Smith, Olga Kevelos, and many others. This project was purchased by the owner some years ago, as a restoration project, and some of the rarer parts were no longer with the machine. Accordingly, with not inconsiderable effort and expense, he has sought out and obtained the missing parts. It now has the correct petrol and oil tanks, tool box, rear mudguard stay, Manx-type clutch and brake levers (replicas), correct wide ratio short-shaft dolls-head gearbox, and correct Smiths 467/33/L speedometer, cradle and cup. As one side of the top gearbox mounting has cracked, there is also a spare gearbox shell. As the owner's plans have changed, there is now an opportunity for someone else to embark on a restoration of one of the most iconic trials bikes of the post-war era. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves as to the completeness, or otherwise, of this project which is sold strictly as viewed, for restoration. Documentation consists of a current V5C only. The machine does not have a key.

Footnotes

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

This lot is now offered without Reserve.

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