c.1957/8 Manx Norton 40M, 349cc. Registration number, not ro...

Estimate

£10,000 - £14,000

c.1957/8 Manx Norton 40M, 349cc. Registration number, not road registered. Frame number M40 1008. Engine number SM46 40M 87332.
There is no paperwork with this machine.
While in recent times the Commando was arguably the firm's most charismatic machine there's no doubt, historically, that the Manx will be Norton's best-remembered model.
The Manx was developed to win the Isle of Man TT from single overhead cam international racers by Norton racing team engineer Joe Craig. The double overhead cam configuration was developed in 1937 and after many problems perfected one year later. The Manx was delayed by the outbreak of World War II but reemerged for the 1946 Manx Grand Prix. The motorcycle was upgraded with new telescopic forks and in 1948 gained twin leading shoe brakes. In 1950 the innovative Featherbed frame was developed, giving the Manx a significant competitive advantage through a low centre of gravity and short wheelbase that was perfectly suited the challenging island TT course. The all-welded, tubular featherbed frame was light and trim, without the usual forgings that added unnecessary weight. In 1950, the featherbed Manx recorded a double hat-trick of podium positions at the TT.
Norton withdrew from the TT in 1954 but the Manx remained popular with privateer's for many years to come in 30M (500cc) or 40M (350cc) guise.
This example was raced by Richard (Dick) Carr throughout the North East, including Olivers Mount from at least 2008 (see scrutineering stickers). In 2017 our deceased vendor purchased it and raced it at Rockanje Classic Races, claiming a 2nd in 2018.
Ready to race again there is a video of the bike running.