Norton Motorcycles, a brand synonymous with British engineering and racing heritage, has weathered numerous storms to emerge into a new era. From its inception in the late 19th century to its modern-day revival, Norton’s journey is a testament to resilience and innovation.
James Lansdowne Norton founded the company in 1898 in Birmingham, UK, initially manufacturing cycle chains. By 1902, Norton had begun importing engines from Switzerland and France to build his own motorcycles. The brand quickly gained recognition when Rem Fowler won the twin-cylinder class at the inaugural Isle of Man TT race in 1907 on a Norton. This victory marked the beginning of Norton's long-standing association with racing, which continued until the 1960s.
In 1908, Norton developed its own side-valve, single-cylinder engine, which became the backbone of its motorcycles until the 1950s. Despite early successes, the company faced financial difficulties and was saved by R.T. Shelley & Company, which rebranded it as Norton Motors. James Norton, who became a director, witnessed his motorcycles win the Isle of Man TT Senior and Sidecar categories in 1924 before his untimely death in 1925 at the age of 56.
Walter Moore designed the CS1 engine in 1927, but his departure in 1930 led Arthur Carroll to develop a new overhead camshaft (OHC) engine. This engine laid the foundation for future OHC and double overhead camshaft (DOHC) singles. Norton also acquired the design rights to Sturmey Archer gearboxes and clutches in 1934, commissioning Burman to continue their production.
After World War II, Norton sought to expand its production line, introducing models like the Norton Dominator 500 in 1949. However, the brand's dominance in racing was challenged by competitors like AJS and Italian multi-cylinder models. In 1950, the McCandless brothers of Belfast developed the 'Featherbed' frame, which restored Norton's competitive edge. The Dominator adopted this frame in 1951, leading to success both on the racetrack and in the consumer market.
Despite these achievements, Norton faced financial difficulties and was acquired by Associated Motorcycles (AMC) in 1953. The Birmingham factory closed in 1962, and production moved to Woolwich, London. This transition led to the development of a new, improved Norton gearbox used in larger models under the AMC banner. In 1955, the Dominator 99, powered by a 600cc engine, was introduced.
By 1960, the 'Featherbed' frame was redesigned to accommodate shorter riders, resulting in the 'Slimline' frame, while the original was dubbed the 'Wideline'. In 1961, Norton introduced the 650cc Manxman for the American market, followed by the Norton 650SS and Atlas 750 in Britain.
The 1960s saw a significant challenge from Japanese manufacturers, leading to the collapse of AMC in 1966. Norton-Villiers emerged from the ashes, introducing the iconic Commando in 1969. The Commando, known for its power and handling, offered various styles, including Scrambler, Street Model, and Tourer (badged as the 'Interstate'). Despite innovations like the electric start in 1974, the company faced financial decline and went into liquidation in 1975.
In 1972, BSA also struggled and merged with Norton-Villiers to form Norton-Villiers-Triumph, with the 'Triumph' name coming from BSA's Triumph subsidiary. Industrial unrest at Triumph's Coventry factory led to the creation of a worker's cooperative. The 828 Roadster was released in 1974, but by 1975, Norton was only producing two models.
The 1980s and 1990s were turbulent for Norton, with ownership changing hands multiple times. In 2008, British businessman Stuart Garner acquired the brand after 15 years of US ownership, ensuring that the marque, which famously carried Che Guevara on his South American adventure, continues to live on.
Norton Motorcycles' journey is a rich tapestry of innovation, racing glory, and resilience. As the brand moves into a new era, it continues to inspire motorcycle enthusiasts around the world.
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