Description
This motorcycle is Lot 372 - 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 101 - 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 372
c. 1965 Norton '650SS' Café Racer
Registration no. CFV 348C
Frame no. 18 11176 (see text)
Engine no. 18R85644 (see text)
Norton launched its first 650cc twin, the US-market Manxman, in 1960. Available in Europe the following year, the Dominator 650 was built in standard, De Luxe and SS variants, all of which featured a new cylinder head with down-draft inlet ports. With 49bhp on tap, plentiful low-down torque, and exemplary handling courtesy of its race-proven Featherbed frame, the 650SS was one of the outstanding sports motorcycles of the 1960s, being more than a match for Triumph's Bonneville in terms of all-round performance. Indeed, in February 1962 Motor Cycling achieved a best one-way speed of 119. 5mph at MIRA with a 650SS, more than 10mph up on that of the Bonneville tested the previous summer.
Well maintained and very well looked after, this handsome Café Racer has seen very little use over the last 20-plus years. According to the vendor, the machine was supplied new via Sid Mularney of Leighton Buzzard and still has one of his stickers attached. The vendor purchased the Norton in London in 2003. Notable features include a Bob Newby belt primary drive and competition clutch; a Lucas competition magneto; twin-leading-shoe front brake; Manx-style solo seat; alloy Manx-style fuel tank; and clip-on handlebars. It should be noted that the machine's frame and engine numbers display evidence of overstamping. Accordingly prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the origins and authenticity of the machine's component parts prior to bidding. Offered with a current V5C Registration Certificate.
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.
