Description
This motorcycle is Lot 274 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Autumn Stafford Sale (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show) on 12 & 13 October, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 1 - 176 are to be sold from 11:00 on Saturday 12th October 2024.
Lots 201 - 429 are to be sold from 11:00 on Saturday 13th October 2024.
Public Viewing:
Available 12th & 13th October 2024 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Stafford County Showground (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show).
Lot 274
c. 1968 Norton 745cc P11 Replica
Registration no. YRD 58F
Frame no. 107940
Engine no. B20 107940
Norton were part of the AMC group from 1953, but continued to operate independently until, in 1962 it was decided to close the Bracebridge Street factory, and transfer the manufacture of Norton to the main AMC factory at Plumstead. Possibly because of that, at some point, the management considered the cross-fertilisation of engines and frames, coming up with the new 750 Atlas engines and Matchless frames. A limited number of 750 Atlas engines/ Matchless frames had appeared late in 1963 in some export bikes, but the combination was not available in the UK. In 1964, Norton announced the Atlas model, which utilised the tried and trusted Featherbed frame. However, the Atlas/ Matchless combination became established as a model, initially as a Matchless (G33), then as a Norton (N15). Later, came the P11, built mainly for the US market as a street scrambler, styled as desert racer, but with lights and road equipment.
YRD 58F has been recreated by previous owner as a replica of the P11 model. Based on a matching numbers machine, it incorporates many believed-genuine P11 components. Particular attention is drawn to the hubs, folding footrests, oil tank, mudguards, exhaust system, handlebars, and Dunlop rims. The present owner has used the Norton occasionally, and advises that it runs and rides very well. Taxation class is Historic Vehicle, and the bike is presently on SORN. Documentation comprises a current V5C, an old V5C, an old V5, and a few receipts.
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. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
