LOT 219

1930 Norton 490cc Model 18 Registration no. GH 2308 Frame no. unable to locate Engine no. 47602

Sold for £10,350 inc. premium

Lot 219

1930 Norton 490cc Model 18

The Autumn Stafford Sale - The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show|13 October 2024, 11:00 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1930 Norton 490cc Model 18
Registration no. GH 2308
Frame no. unable to locate
Engine no. 47602

Like the majority of their contemporaries, Norton relied on the sidevalve engine until the 1920s, when the existing and well-tried 490cc unit was used as the basis for the firm's first overhead-valve design, which was first seen in prototype form in 1922. A road-going version - the Model 18 - was catalogued for 1923, quickly establishing a reputation for both speed and reliability. Alec Bennett won the Senior TT for Norton in 1924, and, demonstrating that racing really did improve the breed, the Model 18 gained Webb forks and better brakes for 1925 as a direct result of the works team's experiences.

This Vintage-era Model 18 was a 'basket case' when purchased by our vendor in the early 1970s. The vendor has used the Norton extensively as a ride-to-work bike as well as taking part in many VMCC events and trips abroad. The engine was overhauled 10 years ago with a new carburettor and rebuilt magneto, while the wheels were rebuilt with new rims and spokes, etc. Unfortunately the paint has started to lift on the tank (the tank has been lined). According to the vendor, the Model 18 "Goes like the wind" and is "enormous fun". The machine is offered with a most substantial history file containing old/current V5/V5C documents, an old-style green logbook, numerous invoices, technical information, expired MoTs etc.
Key not required

Footnotes

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This Lot will be auctioned on Sunday 13 October starting at 11am GMT.

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