[{"id": 8506699, "authorName": "MaPa1203", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mapa1203/", "bidAmount": 3185, "content": "$3,185 bid placed by MaPa1203", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651758696, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8506751, "authorName": "Thomas54", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/thomas54/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Good timing. Just read that Norton is back in business thanks to TVS Motor Company of India. It will be interesting to see what they come up with for this market.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1651759206, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8506782, "authorName": "baloo", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/baloo/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Nicely done!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651759483, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8506916, "authorName": "Toadandsin", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/toadandsin/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Very impressive build, well done, sweet running machine", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651760896, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8507102, "authorName": "Quadrifoglio", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/quadrifoglio/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Beautiful build and it starts right up cold!\r\n@Thomas54: To your point, it's kinda sad seeing the Indians having to rescue/resuscitate yet another British motoring enterprise. Happy, at least, to see it happen.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1651762485, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8507119, "authorName": "NMPete (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/nmpete/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The Norton Atlas was an amazing bike; it won numerous prestigious races, was used by the British police force, and was a gentleman\u2019s bike for commuting or traveling. It had one of the best handling frames of the time and became known as the Featherbed frame due to its excellent handling. The \u201cFeatherbed\u201d frame is still used for racing today! But as the Atlas engine size grew to 750cc the \u201chard mounted\u201d motor caused greater bike vibration. Next generation, Norton Commando increased engine size to 850cc and developed the isoelastic mounting system to reduce vibration, but it did introduce a minor handling quirk that caused some rear lateral movement during breaking and entering turns that was a little unsettling.\r\nThis bike is the best of both generations: a 1984 Atlas \u201cFeatherbed\u201d frame with great handling, a \u201cFeatherlastic\u201d custom motor mounting system to reduce engine vibration, and a larger 1975 E-Start Commando motor for electric start and extra grunt and left-hand shift. There are a few other \u201cFeatherlastic\u201d conversions, but this may be the only Atlas like it in the USA.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1651762640, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8507326, "authorName": "NMPete (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/nmpete/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Here are answers to some questions I received:\r\n\r\n12V system with TriSpark electronic ignition\r\n\r\nThe engine was taken from a 1975 Commando MKIII\r\n\r\nThe Featherlastic kit uses new original 1975 Commando isoelastic rubber shafts in engine mounts modified to fit the Atlas. There are 3 here; front , rear, and also one on top of the engine to replace the original Commando head steady. Vibration is typical Norton at low RPM, but then smooths out as revs go up. At 80 MPH it is quite smooth and a very pleasant ride for a Norton. There is a minor vibration on deceleration from the chain (engine is vibrating up and down but the rear wheel is not, so the chain wobbles a little).\r\n\r\nInstruments are new original style \r\n\r\nTank and seat are original Atlas parts (Tanks is clean inside and repainted; seat is recovered)\r\n\r\n60 MPH is about 4000 RPM\r\n\r\nTank is 3.6 gallons", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1651764566, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8507563, "authorName": "lazyeye6", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/lazyeye6/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I'm impressed! The craftsmanship and attention to detail is apparent. I doubt there is another one like it anywhere.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651766230, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8507945, "authorName": "drailer", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/drailer/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "wow that's a beautiful Atlas. Deserves to go for a lot. Love the electric start.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651769187, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8508344, "authorName": "Pistol_Pete", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pistol_pete/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@NMPete, 4K RPM at 60MPH makes me think that you are running a 19 tooth sprocket. My '68 Commando came stock with that but I swapped it out for a 22 tooth. Plenty of torque but lower engine speed, a nice compromise. The description mentions a four shoe front brake but outward appearances of the front drum it appears to be a twin leading shoe from a Commando, a better arrangement than the original. Maybe the only change to consider for the new owner would be to be to source a 5 speed gear set which fits in the standard transmission case. Unfortunately the only one I know of is the Quaife but it is not an overdrive fifth gear. Beautiful build, if mine it would be a tough decision to sell. GLWA!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1651770916, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8508881, "authorName": "sodoffyoutosser", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/sodoffyoutosser/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Incredible! The first thing I thought was this thing must vibrate like crazy. I didn't know it was possible to adapt isolastic mounts to a featherbed frame, although I've never looked into it. Strange to see the engine canted forward in this frame with these cycle parts- reminds me of a Panther.\nSounds great. Good luck!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651772723, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8509533, "authorName": "Dobb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dobb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I'd choose this bike over the entire BaT box of chocolates on display right now. Simply beautiful! \r\nNew \"Nortons\" IMO aren't Nortons. I had a '70's 750. Nothing pulls or sounds like a Norton but a Norton.\r\nGLWTA!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1651775605, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8509778, "authorName": "Nortono", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/nortono/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Drop. Dead. Gorgeous.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1651776533, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8512589, "authorName": "Silverc4s", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/silverc4s/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I had a 1964 500SS as my Daily Driver in Singapore, many years ago. It was a wonderful motor, I loved every experience with it, commuting or traveling thru Malaysia on weekend trips. Brings back a lot of memories. You have done the world a service by creating this artwork.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1651789029, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8513829, "authorName": "shdurland", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/shdurland/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@NMPete The isolastic mounting system was on all Commandos - 1967 - 1977, both 750cc and 850cc\r\n\r\nI own a 70 Commando S, a 72 Commando and a 74 Commando and have in the past owned a 65 and 73", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651805785, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8513837, "authorName": "shdurland", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/shdurland/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@NMPete - 750 from 1967 through 1972 (including Combat) and 850 from 1973 - 1977", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651805869, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8514861, "authorName": "bernal", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bernal/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I hope I win this is a keeper", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651842783, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8514862, "authorName": "bernal", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bernal/", "bidAmount": 5000, "content": "$5,000 bid placed by bernal", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651842802, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8515027, "authorName": "oldone", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/oldone/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "WOW!!!....Drool!!!....Slurp!!!! (He reaches for a towel...)....Continues drooling......WOW!!!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651844611, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8515487, "authorName": "2hecknback", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/2hecknback/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The Quaife 5-speed was close ratio for competition and very rarely used in street bikes.\r\nThe Norton box was its weak point, and the 5 speed was more fragile.\r\nThe answer is to gear the countershaft sprocket for preferred balance of acceleration and cruise/top speed, and slip the clutch in first if necessary.\r\nThe Commando Isolastic set up included dampening the swingarm and chain.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1651848743, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8515852, "authorName": "bringatrailer", "authorUrl": "", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The listing has been edited to note the correct brake configuration. -BaT", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1651851967, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8515936, "authorName": "Johnmccoyitaly", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/johnmccoyitaly/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Thomas54 The first thing that the new owners of the Norton trademark are doing is canceling listings for original old Norton parts on eBay, which John Bloor at Triumph never did. Looking at the new reincarnated BSA, Matchless, and Brough Superior, I am not looking forward to a new Norton from India, although the Enfields have evolved nicely.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1651852692, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8522795, "authorName": "adbuch", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/adbuch/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Johnmccoyitaly - \"The first thing that the new owners of the Norton trademark are doing is canceling listings for original old Norton parts on eBay\". I really don't think this is possible. Last time I checked, there were over 31,000 Ebay listings for Norton parts - many of them original used parts.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651904873, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8524345, "authorName": "jimijimi", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimijimi/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "BaT scores again!\r\n\r\nHaving ridden both Atlas and Commando models back in their day, this one seems to have captured the best features of both. I find the canted cylinder a little jarring with the Atlas bodywork but recognize that there are limits to what can be done with existing components. \r\n\r\nI'm wondering how it does on current lead-free gas but, being a pushrod motor, it should be no big deal to drop the compression ratio until it doesn't knock.\r\n\r\nGLWTA!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651940532, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8525792, "authorName": "Johnmccoyitaly", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/johnmccoyitaly/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@adbuch My BAT comment was \"The first thing that the new owners of the Norton trademark are doing is canceling listings for original old Norton parts on eBay\". I did not say that they have already cancelled EVERY listing on eBay. They have registered their rights to the name and could prevent anyone else from selling. I personally have 966 eBay items on seven eBay sites worldwide with \"Norton\" in the name, and only one has been removed so far. Manufacturing companies in India do buy NOS sample parts from us to remanufacture and also sell on eBay, but blocking shops like us that have been in the business a long time (since 1946 for us) isn't fair. The genuine NOS item lost listing was of little value, and we just gave it for FREE to a regular Norton customer, but formal protests allowed by eBay or Amazon have proven pointless. If enough people are affected, then there might be some resolution, but the intent of my original comment was that I am not looking forward to respectful management of the Norton history by the new owners, so far. We can always hope that something nice develops in the future.\r\nHere is what appears AFTER your eBay listing for a genuine Norton part is removed:\r\n\r\nYour listing didn't follow our VeRO Unauthorised Item Policy. Unauthorised copies or counterfeits are illegal and not allowed on eBay\r\nWhat activity didn't follow the policy\r\n \r\n\r\nYour listing was reported by the rights owner listed below as a counterfeit item. Please see the policy below for information about why we don't allow counterfeit item\r\n\r\nWhat you need to do next\r\nItems removed for this policy cannot be relisted. Please ensure that your future listings are for authentic items only. For these items, they should be described accurately and completely, so buyers know that it is an authentic item.\r\n\r\nWhat is the policy\r\n- Your listing was reported by The Norton Motorcycle Co. Limited for\u202foffering a counterfeit item.\u202f eBay\u2019s\u202fVerified\u202fRights Owner (VeRO) programme offers intellectual property rights owner(s) a way to report listings that they believe infringe on their rights\u202f\u202f\r\n- Counterfeits are illegal, and not allowed on eBay\u202f\r\n- If you believe a mistake has been made, you will need to contact the rights owner directly.\u202fIf the rights owner approves your appeal, please have them contact us directly to reinstate your listing(s)\r\nYou can send an email to:\r\nnortonmotorcycles.ipr@ybrandprotection.com\r\n\r\nThe Norton Motorcycle Co. Limited is the title holder of the NORTON products. We may be contacted at nortonmotorcycles.ipr@ybrandprotection.comTruthfully,Corsearch Brand Protection on behalf of Norton Motorcycle Co.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1651947664, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8525907, "authorName": "Johnmccoyitaly", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/johnmccoyitaly/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Back to talking about this beautiful Norton, I just had a look at my own 1975 Commando, and the slant of the engine appears to be the same. I would not have guessed that the longer length inside the Featherbed frame required by the engine slant would have worked in a frame designed for a shorter drive train, but the builder here sure made it work well. The transmission does appear a little closer to the engine than in a Commando, which must be accomplished by the special engine plates, but that must be an illusion, or the stock primary case on the other side would not fit. The advantages of the newer engine are a big bonus, limited only by the old drum barkes, but no one would buy this beauty to use as a racer. I am curious about the only obvious non-Norton part, the rear brake lever. What was adapted? Great job overall!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651948255, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8526281, "authorName": "NMPete (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/nmpete/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "John - Good comment about the engine/tranny; they are in the same Commando original position. The primary is original MKIII with the hydraulic chain tensioner (vs the earlier adjustible trans). I had to fabricate a cross shaft for the rear brake and used a brake lever from a box of old parts (I think it might be Moto Guzzi).", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1651949804, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8528772, "authorName": "adbuch", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/adbuch/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Johnmccoyitaly - Perhaps they have \"an axe to grind\" with you personally, but I just can't see this happening to all Norton parts listings any more than to old Ford parts listings.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1651964395, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8529053, "authorName": "lazyeye6", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/lazyeye6/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "There is always a dick", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1651968478, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8530050, "authorName": "adbuch", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/adbuch/", "bidAmount": 5500, "content": "$5,500 bid placed by adbuch", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1651989438, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8536413, "authorName": "G_Orwell", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/g_orwell/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Mounting the Commando engine/gearbox assembly into a featherbed frame necessitated rotating the front of the engine up slightly, resulting in a few degrees less forward cant. However, the engine/gearbox spatial relationship remains unchanged from the Commando. This same slightly rotated assembly was used when a company made \"converta\" plates to ridgidly mount the commando engine/gearbox assemblies into featherbed frames. The addition of the front isolatics necessitated that the whole engine/gearbox assembly be moved a small amount rearward. This was not problematic, as the distance between the crankshaft and the mainshaft is considerably shorter on the commando than on the featherbed engine/gearbox variations, making the engine/gearbox assembly and primary chaincase somewhat more compact in length.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1652063059, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8542878, "authorName": "DaveD", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/daved/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "As stated below, this is a stellar build. Quality and attention to detail everywhere. \n\nAs the owner of perhaps one of the earliest Atlas models (an early '62 I've owned for 43 years), there is much here that's chalk and cheese, but that's just me. The Mikuni carb should be an Amal Premier, as a Premier is as good as the Mikuni and it's period correct for a Commando. Tyres should be something more period, like Avons, or even Dunlop K81s at the most modern. Left-side shift works for some, not for others. But again, I'm in the minority.\n\nHave to disagree with @2hecknback \"the Norton 'box was its weak point.\" The 4-speed Norton gearbox was one of the most robust gearboxes ever to come out of England and was used in countless high-performance specials over the decades. I've had exactly zero problems with the gearbox of any Norton I've owned (which is too many to recall).\n\nAs many of us \"age out\" of the joy of kickstarting a big motor, the electric starter here is a huge plus. That's why the modern Triumphs are so popular today. Guys with classic Triumphs in their garages look lovingly at them as they roll their modern, electric start machines out to join the club rides...and the kickstart machines get left in the garage with less use all the time.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1652130951, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8544561, "authorName": "Paul_Blouin", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/paul_blouin/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@DaveD\r\n\r\nMy brother and I have sheared a tooth off of first gear more than a couple times either street racing or practicing starts. Sure was easy to fix in the day. That was abuse, of course. I like it just how it is, except I would want more brakes. Would like to try a featherlastic some day.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652148053, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8544866, "authorName": "2hecknback", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/2hecknback/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@DaveD I meant to say the 4-speed was its weakest point, but I don't doubt your experience. However, it was originally designed for a bike of much less displacement and bhp, and eventually found its limits in competition. The Quaife 5-speed cluster fit into the same housing.\r\nThis custom bike isn't a candidate for a museum display, so features like non-original tires and carbs are no issue, just practical choices for riding. It still retains its \"gentleman's express\" classic look. Tire tech has improved a lot since '64 and are a personal choice in any case. \r\nE/S is great, but bump starts can be an option too. Lol. \r\n\r\nOne advantage of separate engine and gearbox is that their relative position can be altered without a problem. \r\n\r\n@Johnmccoyitaly Seems odd Norton would pick an nos part to hassle you with. Ebay needs to review its practices because what you describe won't wash. However, trademark protection can get weird, and lawyers are the ones driving it. In the USA, Land Rover's attorneys have intimidated independent shops that work on nothing but old Rovers so that none I know of use the brand name in their business: Not in their trade name, signage, stationary, nothing. JLR even tried to trademark the shape of their old trucks so that Ineos couldn't build the upcoming Grenadier. I wonder if their accountants reflect the loss of goodwill on the balance sheet.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1652153336, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8548112, "authorName": "Johnmccoyitaly", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/johnmccoyitaly/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@hecknback The dialogue about India and Norton started when another BAT user innocently commented that it was nice to see the Norton name back in business, and my thought was that more damage than good could also result if the beloved name is just stuck on the side of some crap mechanical device made by the highest bidder for the trademark. I have been selling commercially on eBay since 1999 and they do take the path of least resisitance on copyright and trademark issues, allowing anyone filing documents claiming rights, to control what goes on their website. Our business started in 1946 included the Norton franchise, we were the dealership for the Euromart west coast sub-distributor for Berliner. and we knew a lot of the old timers. When a someone in our area dies or retires (usualy happening concurrently) we often are asked to help the families dispose of any remaining inventory. The item removed by eBay was a collection of original old Norton varnish type dry transfer and waterslide decals offered for archive use only, since they were so old that they would have probably crumbled when applied. Your guess is as good as mine as to why they wanted this item to disappear, and eBay did not cancel any listings for hard metal parts, and I hope that the vintage replacement parts market is left alone. It has been my experience that a new trademark owner first assumes the use of a name by producing popular consumer goods like clothing and decals. Some years ago (seems like yesterday), a manager at the nearby distributor Rocky Cycle Company (later Tucker Rocky) told me that their second biggest sales category for the entire distributorship was in fact decals! Who would have thought that anyone besides kids loved and bought stickers! A quick look today shows that sellers NOT from India offer generic Norton decals on eBay as \"seller refurbished\" (WTF?) and most other \"Norton decals\" on eBay have oem Norton part numbers, with cheap generic ones now available from... wait for it... INDIA!\r\nhttps://www.ebay.com/itm/115279965304?hash=item1ad738ac78:g:MuoAAOSwd~ZiIy9y\r\nhttps://www.ebay.com/itm/304466483467?hash=item46e39dd90b:g:x7IAAMXQ2UVQ7r1v\r\nhttps://www.ebay.com/itm/224821010778?hash=item345860615a:g:DN8AAOSw98ph-7Aj\r\nThis is the New World where we all must live, and why old school people like me want cool old original stuff like this nicely modified 1964 Norton. I hope that this can end the political Norton discussion, and I will now share more bike specific knowledge about this beautiful bike. Thanks", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1652205942, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8548210, "authorName": "drailer", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/drailer/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "curious to see what this goes for. This is an amazing motorcycle.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652206332, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8548951, "authorName": "Johnmccoyitaly", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/johnmccoyitaly/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@DaveD commented that this high quality modified English Norton should have an English AMAL carburetor instead of a Japanese Mikuni, and I agree in theory. But the reality is that the builder thoughtfully changed from two carbs to one for clearance issues and recognized that the highest horsepower from twin carbs was no longer important. Mikuni conversions became popular due to the very real fact that original AMAL concentric carbs used a diecast slide in a diecast body that could wear out amazingly fast, while those clever Japanese offered chrome plated brass slides in the same type of diecast bodies that virtually never wore out, and used to cost less than buying new AMAL carbs on a regular basis. The 1970's AMAL MKII copy of a Mikuni and subsequent 2020 era AMAL Concentric Premium did fix the slide issue, but the problem is availablility of manifolds, as the Mikuni with (either old metal flange mount or) new spigot type with matching rubber flange uses a wider bolt pattern mount than AMAL concentric, early or new Premium. If there is indeed some small producer of 2-into-1 Norton manifolds for Amal Concentric, I am unaware of them, and the Norton Mikuni kit is bolt-on ready to go and more widely available. The next owner could take this beautiful creation to the next lever with a custom made AMAL compatible manifold, but most of us are going to be happy with the present functional configuration.\r\n\r\nI can share information about the confusion with Norton gearbox reliability based upon dealership experience. Norton was briefly the fastest regular production motorcycle that a regular customer could buy, and more than a few new customers bought them only for that reason, coming from bikes with a down for first, up for three shift pattern. Imagine forgetting your shift pattern during a street race at 7000RPM and downshifting by mistake, like you did on your last bike. BANG!!!! Not the fault of the gearbox, although it was originally designed for a 500cc, and then applied to 600, 650, 750, and finally 850 models without huge design changes. I have never blown one up, but I bought my first Matchless (with same Norton shift pattern) at age 15 and never forgot.\r\nSecond Norton gearbox problem involves aftermarket parts. Typical of many European motorcycle factories (even Ducati today), Norton was only an assembly plant, with most all parts made by suppliers, either dedicated or supplying multiple brands. When Norton was forced by the British government to combine with Triumph to form NVT Norton Villiers Triumph in late 1974? after the failure of the government forced Triumph BSA merger of 1971, things went downhill quickly by 1975. No money = no spare sparts. The healthiest segment of the British motorcycle industry was the spare parts suppliers (a British bike owner was never far from his spare parts suppler), and they did what they do best, which is to fill demand in the marketplace buy sourcing the maximum number of items possible, usually by just going to the original suppliers for Norton and Triumph who were left with inventories produced in good faith, but now without their original factories being able to pay. But remember that I mentioned \"most all parts were made by suppliers\"? The AMC gearbox was specific to AMC Motorcycles who owned Norton, and an outside gear producer was the only aftermarket option. The new gear producer used a different pitch on the gear faces, which is fine as long as all gears matched. The different gear pitch was not widely disclosed (or maybe even discovered) until a lot of replacement and oem gears were mixed in the service shops. The bikes went down the road, but did not last long. There was also a batch with faulty heat treating. The western USA Norton sub-distributor Euromart went so far as to send transmission parts out for high quality heat treating at a local specialist called Alloy Hard Surfacing in San Jose, just around the corner from the later Raber's Parts Mart location. AHS was started by our family friend with motorcycles and we have sold two different large inventory batches directly from Raber's after their closure. Small world...\r\nTires are consumables and there are some great English Avon (now owned by USA Cooper Tires) or English Dunlop (now owned by Japanese Bridgestone) options available to be considered at the next tire change. Big motor with old brakes means that you should ride prudently and replace the linings with a specialist performance product when that time arrives. One of our greatest old car fears is that the young people earning a lot of money will never learn to drive stick shift cars, and either allow them to go to static display or install restomod transmissions, both of which would be a shame. Same for R/H shift bikes, and so this bike has a better chance of being ridden longer into the future, which makes me smile.\r\nI love this bike! Left hand shift people have no excuse for buying. Classic enthusiasts should have no excuse for buying. If anyone has any technical questions, please ask them and one of us will try and answer them. I still have dozens of classic bikes (and one car) to be sold here on BAT, so save me as a seller for when they eventually appear, but I have nothing like this bike and don't miss your chance to buy this beauty. I am going to guess that the sale price will be far less than the cost to build your own.", "likes": 8, "timestamp": 1652209895, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8551351, "authorName": "DaveD", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/daved/", "bidAmount": 5750, "content": "$5,750 bid placed by DaveD", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652220454, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8551734, "authorName": "adbuch", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/adbuch/", "bidAmount": 6000, "content": "$6,000 bid placed by adbuch", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652224031, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8556156, "authorName": "Swedesport", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/swedesport/", "bidAmount": 6250, "content": "$6,250 bid placed by Swedesport", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652292943, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8557226, "authorName": "adbuch", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/adbuch/", "bidAmount": 6500, "content": "$6,500 bid placed by adbuch", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652297927, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8560790, "authorName": "spuh", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/spuh/", "bidAmount": 6600, "content": "$6,600 bid placed by spuh", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652330316, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8560807, "authorName": "adbuch", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/adbuch/", "bidAmount": 6800, "content": "$6,800 bid placed by adbuch", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652330749, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8560819, "authorName": "spuh", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/spuh/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I'm coming a little late to this party; this bike didn't look especially interesting as a thumbnail. That may be more of a comment on my eyesight than on BaT's format. Glad I saw it.\r\n\r\nBig thanks to @johnmccoyitaly for your excellent insights. On Nortons in general, this beauty in particular and on TNS's treatment of you on ebay. I have a soft spot for Nortons and would love to see this latest incarnation finally revive the brand in a more permanent fashion than all the preceding efforts. Let's hope it's just a case of over enthusiastic lawyers and sanity will soon be restored.\r\n\r\nOdd that no one has mentioned it yet, but this is the first classic Norton I can recall seeing without a kickstarter. Yes, it has the electric leg but all the others so equipped have kept the lever too. Oh, and BaT still has it listed as having a 4ls front brake despite evidence to the contrary.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1652331131, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8561311, "authorName": "beemerbum1", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/beemerbum1/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "For the record, Mikuni copied AMAL.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652360122, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8561660, "authorName": "wytfut", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wytfut/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "And don't forget excelsior hendersons trademarks went to India.. also", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652364042, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8561861, "authorName": "daveelwell7542", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/daveelwell7542/", "bidAmount": 7000, "content": "$7,000 bid placed by daveelwell7542", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652365831, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8562231, "authorName": "MikeC", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mikec/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Mikuni did not copy Amal\r\nThey were lisceneced by Amal to build to Amal design \r\nhttps://www.mikuni.co.jp/en/corporate/history/", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1652369324, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8562525, "authorName": "kstadelman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/kstadelman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I had something very similar to the featured bike. After a crash I mounted a rebalanced 750 Commando motor in a featherbed frame. Vibrations were never a problem. Went 154mph at Bonneville with it in 71. Seemed to handle better than a Commando. Really a solid feeling bike and lighter. Mine had disc's all around. This is going to make someone very happy.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1652371789, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8563092, "authorName": "Swedesport", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/swedesport/", "bidAmount": 7100, "content": "$7,100 bid placed by Swedesport", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652375279, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563110, "authorName": "daveelwell7542", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/daveelwell7542/", "bidAmount": 7200, "content": "$7,200 bid placed by daveelwell7542", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652375348, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563225, "authorName": "adbuch", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/adbuch/", "bidAmount": 7300, "content": "$7,300 bid placed by adbuch", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652375884, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563356, "authorName": "Wovoka", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wovoka/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Ay, Dios mio!!! First Norton was a Domintor 88 followed by a 99, followed by a '64 Atlas, brought back to my next USAF station disassembled in the back seat of a Corvair... First response, having decided to search for ONE last bike in my \"advanced\" age, was saliva dribbling off my lips. But located in New Mexico? Am on Whidbey Island, west of Seattle & wondering now about transportation cost to my door. Any estimates out there? 14 minutes to go and I expect I'd have to pass on this beauty...", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1652376266, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8563426, "authorName": "brit00704106", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/brit00704106/", "bidAmount": 7400, "content": "$7,400 bid placed by brit00704106", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652376538, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563449, "authorName": "adbuch", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/adbuch/", "bidAmount": 8000, "content": "$8,000 bid placed by adbuch", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652376602, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563450, "authorName": "daveelwell7542", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/daveelwell7542/", "bidAmount": 9000, "content": "$9,000 bid placed by daveelwell7542", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652376611, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563458, "authorName": "adbuch", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/adbuch/", "bidAmount": 9100, "content": "$9,100 bid placed by adbuch", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652376633, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563465, "authorName": "daveelwell7542", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/daveelwell7542/", "bidAmount": 9500, "content": "$9,500 bid placed by daveelwell7542", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652376651, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563490, "authorName": "Swedesport", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/swedesport/", "bidAmount": 10000, "content": "$10,000 bid placed by Swedesport", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652376737, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563494, "authorName": "beemerbum1", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/beemerbum1/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "MikeC Yes that is pedantically correct. Oh and \"licensed\". Cheers.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652376750, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8563502, "authorName": "daveelwell7542", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/daveelwell7542/", "bidAmount": 11000, "content": "$11,000 bid placed by daveelwell7542", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652376791, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563528, "authorName": "brit00704106", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/brit00704106/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "when this bike is sold can someone email me on hoe to get the isoelastic mounts as have same configuration without the rubber engine mounts thanks good luck", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652376887, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8563543, "authorName": "WAH", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wah/", "bidAmount": 12250, "content": "$12,250 bid placed by WAH", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652376961, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563547, "authorName": "daveelwell7542", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/daveelwell7542/", "bidAmount": 12500, "content": "$12,500 bid placed by daveelwell7542", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652376976, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563557, "authorName": "WAH", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wah/", "bidAmount": 13500, "content": "$13,500 bid placed by WAH", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652377010, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563559, "authorName": "beemerbum1", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/beemerbum1/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Nice to see a good ole Norton getting some love here. Makes me wonder if I should sell my 67 650SS. Nah.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1652377019, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8563565, "authorName": "adbuch", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/adbuch/", "bidAmount": 14000, "content": "$14,000 bid placed by adbuch", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652377029, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563568, "authorName": "daveelwell7542", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/daveelwell7542/", "bidAmount": 15000, "content": "$15,000 bid placed by daveelwell7542", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652377041, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563576, "authorName": "DaveD", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/daved/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Serious bid bumps here!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1652377062, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8563575, "authorName": "adbuch", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/adbuch/", "bidAmount": 16000, "content": "$16,000 bid placed by adbuch", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652377062, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563581, "authorName": "WAH", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wah/", "bidAmount": 16500, "content": "$16,500 bid placed by WAH", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652377083, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563583, "authorName": "adbuch", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/adbuch/", "bidAmount": 17000, "content": "$17,000 bid placed by adbuch", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652377099, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563588, "authorName": "daveelwell7542", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/daveelwell7542/", "bidAmount": 17500, "content": "$17,500 bid placed by daveelwell7542", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652377111, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563592, "authorName": "adbuch", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/adbuch/", "bidAmount": 18000, "content": "$18,000 bid placed by adbuch", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652377127, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563616, "authorName": "daveelwell7542", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/daveelwell7542/", "bidAmount": 18250, "content": "$18,250 bid placed by daveelwell7542", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652377223, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563617, "authorName": "adbuch", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/adbuch/", "bidAmount": 19000, "content": "$19,000 bid placed by adbuch", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652377236, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 8563628, "authorName": "daveelwell7542", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/daveelwell7542/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Enjoy it! Great bike.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1652377271, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8563647, "authorName": "adbuch", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/adbuch/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Sold on 5/12/22 for $19,000 to adbuch", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652377357, "type": "bat-bid-reserve"}, {"id": 8564182, "authorName": "Quadrifoglio", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/quadrifoglio/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Such a nice piece. Thought it'd bring ore.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1652379694, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 8567140, "authorName": "Sluggo503", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/sluggo503/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "To clarify on the Amals, Amal designed the VM Round slide Carbs but Triumph-BSA-Norton refused to purchase them, so the design was sold under license to Mikuni as John McCoy correctly noted with his link, a relationship that goes back to the 1920s. I have this argument constantly with British bike folks and the comments about Asian parts not realizing it's a British design. A engineer from Amal stated in a classic bike magazine article that the big 3 British companies threatened if any price increases they would go with another brand, as a result at one point in the 1970s Amal lost 1pound per carb installed, but made it up in spares sales. Interestingly Amal made as well a Mk 1.5 Concentric and I have a pair, instead of a choke it has a VM style \"Enrichener\" as Mikuni's don't have chokes. Emissions and noise mandated a proved Design resulting in the MK2 which has many similar features as a VM round slide, some racers prefer these but the stock ones had issues, my friends at Rabers sold a Mk2 tuning kit to fix their issues & are a good carb but I prefer the VM Mikuni's and at my shop so did customers. Fun fact, a VM Mikuni's conversion really improves BSA unit singles, especially B44 & B50, and we're a popular seller for those bikes. \r\nAs to the gearboxes, there's a lot to improve them, mandatory is upgrade the bearings especially the layshaft, some modes to replace O rings to lipped seals but the main shafts are prone to bending, at Vintage Rebuilders the rejection rate was astronomical on used parts eventually on the VR series many new parts made including better castings being they became hot rodded VR880s. 2 things help considerably run a outboard bearing support like the Steve Many design ( easily fabbed) and swap to a stronger but lighter mass belt drive setup. 3rd, a clever fellow in the Phillipines is making some excellent products and I highly suggest his improved full cush rear hubs with 1 piece axles ( Don Pender, aka \"Maddass\" on In-accesable Norton). Here's what Norton America did on the 952/961 prototypes, a local Harley dealer, George Latus told Kenny don't screw around, use the Sportster-Buell cassette style trans, as well as being 5 speeds, optional 6 from Baker drive train. Kenny used a Suzuki clutch and Alternator as well. The starter is the same as Sportster & Buell but even my Kubota tractor used it and many other vehicles. \r\nAs to \"Feather-lastics, there's a few out there, often seen at INOA rallies. There used to be a well known one in Seattle named \"Baby Shakes\" the key is DYNAMIC balancing to engine mount design, but ALL stock Norton's need all specs chk and dynamic balancing as they have horrible rocking coupling but not unusual to find gross errors including loose flywheel bolts and mismatch flywheel with 40 thou stroke difference. A few Wednesday bikes out there but most need full rework which is why the INOA has 3 volume tech guide on how to fix all the issues, once you do that, they are a awesome bike. Congratulations to the seller. Hope to see the buyer at a INOA rally, 2022 is upstate NY, pending but I believe 2023 will be Lumby BC Canada, if so I will be there with Norton America Prototypes and some vintage Norton's.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1652392531, "type": "comment"}]