Norton-JAP 1,150cc Racing Motorcycle

•New Dick Adams Manx frame and swinging arm
•Rebuilt JAP engine running on methanol
•Four-speed AMC gearbox

Developed from a design by Rex McCandless and first used by Norton on the works single-cylinder racers in 1950, when Geoff Duke rode it to a debut race victory at Blandford, the legendary 'Featherbed' frame has long been the special-builders' favourite. The McCandless design was way ahead of its time, and of the opposition, enabling Norton to maintain the competitiveness of their singles in the face of the growing challenge from foreign multis. New standards of steering, roadholding and comfort were set by the new frame, which was immediately dubbed 'Featherbed' by Norton works star Harold Daniell. Although designed with a single-cylinder engine in mind, the generously proportioned Featherbed would in time prove capable of accommodating a wide variety of different power units: twins, triples, fours and v-twins: all could be made to fit with a little ingenuity.

This unique example incorporates a new Dick Adams Manx frame and swinging arm and is powered by a c.1949 JAP 8/80 dirt-track sprint engine, rebuilt with a new crankshaft, con-rods and other parts. The magnesium crankcases were modified in period to dry-sump lubrication and recirculating oil by fitting a detachable alloy sump and the twin-gear JAP oil pump. The bore size has been increased to 86mm (stroke 99mm) for a capacity of 1,150cc. Fully rebuilt by Ewan Cameron, the engine features a new press-fit crankshaft and con-rod assembly; new 86mm pistons (12:1 compression ratio); new valves, cams and followers; reduced-fin alloy cylinder barrels; and new pull-down studs. Two Amal Type 27 twin-float carburettors supply the mixture, which is sparked by a pair of BTH magnetos. Power is transmitted via a Bewley clutch to an AMC four-speed gearbox. The engine runs on methanol and racing castor oil.

The running gear features a new Manx Norton double-sided 4LS front brake; Manx forks; 18" alloy wheel rims; Hagon adjustable shock absorbers; and an AMC alloy conical rear hub. This unique 'special' has been hand built by Ewan Cameron, including the tanks and exhaust, all in 1970s 'Evel Knievel' style. There are no documents with this Lot.