Description
This motorcycle is Lot 428 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 428
Norton 490cc OHC Racing Sidecar Combination
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. 49390 & M9197xB (see text)
Engine no. CS 55422 (see text)
Its Roadholder front fork and plunger rear suspension suggest that this Norton sidecar outfit's chassis dates from the late 1940s/ early 1950s; certainly the look of the machine is typical of that era. However, the engine mount frame lug is stamped '49390' which, if a Norton number, indicates a 1931 year of manufacture for the frame. The stamping by the rear plunger ('M' or '11' '9197xB') does not conform to Norton factory stampings or stamp location, while the unusual rear frame construction, almost certainly devised to facilitate attachment of the sidecar chassis, is not of Norton origin. Engine number 'CS 55422' suggests that the engine started life in a 1933 CS. The additional engine number stamping '9199' appears to be a modern. An older restoration, since deteriorated, this 500cc Norton sidecar outfit has clearly not been used for a considerable period; accordingly, the machine will require careful recommissioning, or possibly more extensive restoration, before returning to the racetrack and thus is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective purchasers must satisfy themselves with regard to the condition, completeness, authenticity and compatibility of this Lot's component parts prior to bidding. Offered without documents. History unknown.
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.
