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LOT 222

1958 Norton 490cc ES2 'Special' Registration no. DSL 160 Frame no. 78276 (see text) Engine no. 78276 N4

Sold for £2,530 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve

1958 Norton 490cc ES2 'Special'
Registration no. DSL 160
Frame no. 78276 (see text)
Engine no. 78276 N4

This unique ES2 was built by previous owner Mr Ken Merrick, who was pictured with it in Old Bike Mart's report on the Donington Show in February 2007 (copy on file). Ken had built the Norton to his personal taste as a practical everyday motorcycle, incorporating numerous upgrades. These included a Weslake short-stroke steel crankshaft; Alfa big-end bearing; alloy cylinder barrel with BSA B50 piston; external oil filter; and an alloy cylinder head, gas-flowed and converted to unleaded compatibility. Other sensible modifications include belt primary drive; a Norton Commando clutch; and Super Blend bearings in the reconditioned gearbox. The electrics have been converted to 12-volt operation, featuring a Boyer Power Box regulator; halogen headlamp; and flashing indicators, while other notable features include a twin-leading-shoe front brake; alloy wheel rims; and a wideline Featherbed frame, restamped to match the engine number (the original frame would have been a pre-Featherbed type).
The Norton was acquired by our vendor in 2014 and last taxed until 30th April 2015. Not used for some time, the machine last ran in May 2024 and will require recommissioning to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road (it should be noted that it runs on Castrol R oil). The machine comes with sundry invoices; a current V5C document; expired MoTs and tax discs; NOC dating letter; specification sheet; and instruction manuals. The odometer reading at time of cataloguing/photography is 5,372 miles. It should be noted that the frame number appears to be a non-factory stamping and it is possible (but not verified) that the 'N4' frame number prefix is obscured by the fixing nut/washer. Prospective bidders must satisfy themselves to the originality, authenticity and provenance of the machine prior to bidding.
Offered with 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.
Please see the Auction Information and Guide for Buyers at the top of the main sale page, for bidders' obligations. The Spring Stafford Sale

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This Lot will be auctioned on Sunday 27 April, with the auction starting at 11am GMT.

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  • 26 April 2025, 09:00 - 17:00 BST
  • 27 April 2025, 09:00 - 17:00 BST

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