1950 Norton 500T
An example of the much-admired Norton 500T sold from 1949 to 1954 has joined our display. Based on a prototype built by road racer Artie Bell and inventor Rex McCandless, designer of the legendary Norton Featherbed frame, it blends Norton’s torquey 490cc ohv ES2 engine with a modified rigid frame from a military 16H side-valver. The Roadholder front fork’s yokes set the stanchions almost level with the steering head for improved low-speed handling, also helped by a narrow steel fuel tank. From 1950, a light alloy cylinder head and barrel pared dry weight down to 136kg (300lb). Ridden successfully by works riders, including road racing legend Geoff Duke, the rugged and torquey 500T was also popular with privateers. Nearly 900 were sold. The freshly-restored Norton was photographed before the toolbox had been fitted to the upper rear frame stay.
