The Dale Winfield Motorcycle Collection, 1957 Norton 350cc International

• Very late example
• Originally built as a '500'
• Engine changed
• An older restoration

One of the most charismatic model names in motorcycling, 'International' was first used by Norton for its top-of-the-range sports roadster in 1932. All new, the Inter's overhead-camshaft engine had been developed in the works racers over the preceding two years and retained Norton's classic 79x100mm bore/stroke dimensions. By the time production halted in 1939 the Inter was being built with a four-speed foot-change gearbox and plunger rear suspension, reappearing postwar in similar guise save for the hydraulically-damped Roadholder front fork, which replaced the pre-war girder. The Inter would remain fundamentally unchanged until 1953 when it gained the race-developed Featherbed frame, all-alloy engine and 'laid down' gearbox. Expensive to make and challenged by cheaper parallel twins of comparable performance, the Inter ceased to be catalogued after 1955 but could be obtained to special order until 1958.

Currently displaying a total of 281 miles on the odometer, presumably the distance covered since restoration, this late Featherbed International comes with a photocopied V5 registration document in the name of Stanley Robinson of Rossendale, who purchased the machine 1982. A note on file states that it is one of less (sic) than 20 made or sold that year (1957) and mentions an engine rebuild by Phil Kettle. Also on file is an old-style RF.60 continuation logbook recording a change of engine (and capacity, from 500cc to 350cc) in June 1975, since when the engine has been changed for a second time (to '1676'). (It should be noted that the V5C and HPI printout still lists the engine – 'M16228' - fitted in 1975.) Furthermore, the frame number prefix is indistinct (Possibly reading '11' for an International Model 30, or '14' for a Model 99 Dominator), accordingly, prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the composition and correctness of the machine's component parts prior to bidding.

The accompanying MoT expired in March 1988. Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning or possibly more extensive restoration before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed (the engine turns over). Key not required.