Description
This motorcycle is Lot 222 - To be auctioned by Bonhams at The Spring Stafford Sale (The International Classic MotorCycle Show) on 26th & 27th April, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 1 - 147 are to be sold from 14:00 on Saturday 26th April 2025.
Lots 201 - 410 are to be sold from 11:00 on Sunday 27th April 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 26th & 27th April 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Stafford County Showground (The International Classic MotorCycle Show).
Lot 222
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.
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.
