1956 Norton 490cc Model 30 International

One of the most charismatic model names in motorcycling history, 'International' was first used by Norton for its top-of-the-range sports roadster in 1932. The Inter's overhead-camshaft engine had been developed in the works racers for the preceding two years, and although (in the case of the '500') it retained the classic 79x100mm bore/stroke dimensions and shaft-and-bevels cam drive of the existing CS1, was entirely new. Based on the works bikes and intended for racing, the International could nevertheless be ordered with refinements such as lights and a kick-starter equipped gearbox. By the time production halted in 1939 it was being built with a four-speed foot-change 'box and plunger rear suspension (the 'Garden Gate' frame), reappearing after the war in similar guise save for the adoption of 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, an all-alloy engine and the '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 still be obtained to special order until 1958, many of these later machines incorporating Manx components.

The Inter offered here includes the original sales invoice from P Pike & Co listing a Manx front brake and a rev counter as extra cost options. Our private vendor advises that this machine is also fitted with 'Daytona' close-ratio gears; Manx inlet/exhaust cams; magnesium cam box; oil centre-feed to the cams; and Borrani alloy wheel rims. The dynamo and magneto have been overhauled recently and a new Lucas braided wiring loom fitted. Interestingly, 'MCO 104' was owned by two brothers: Graham and Barrington Boase. There were two Inters built with this specification, the other - 'MCO 105' - is still extant.

'MCO 104' also benefits from extensive restoration, having been fully repainted/re-chromed and assembled using stainless fastenings throughout, while the engine was reputedly rebuilt by Barry Stickland. The Norton was said to last run in 2025, and the vendor hopes to have recommissioned it by time of sale.

Sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers must satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's history, originality, authenticity, mechanical condition, mileage and completeness (or otherwise) prior to bidding. Accompanying paperwork includes numerous invoices; the original buff logbook; a V5C Registration Certificate; and the aforementioned purchase invoice.
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