Norton 1927 Model 21 / 18 500cc 1 cyl ohv 2609

SOLD

Description

Norton 1927  Model  21/18  490 cc   OHV  single   frame # 28930  engine # 28930

By the end of 1922  the first OHV model Norton was brought out, the 490 cc  Model 18.
At its introduction it got the factory code word of “Speedy”,  which certainly showed some foresight: speeds up to 100 mph were attainable with carefully tuned engines.
In the course of 1923 a number of speed events were won, but  in 1924 the Model 18 really showed what it was capable of.
In June   Alec Bennett won the senior TT  on a model 18 with an average speed of  61.64 mph; the sidecar TT was won by George Tucker on a 588 cc version of the model. Both the French and Belgian GPs were won, and  Bert Denley  captured the coveted British One Hour Record at 87.07 mph.
In 1925  a new drum brake and  Webb centre spring forks were featured; in 1926 the Model 18 got a mechanical oil pump which was fitted to the magneto drive cover.
For 1927  a  490 cc OHV with “ lubrication  of the constant circulation Semi Dry Sump type”  became available, this model was catalogued as the Model 21.
We assume that at some point in history this Model 18 was fitted with a technological more advanced M 21 engine.
The engine left the works on February 27th 1927 and went to a dealer called Jack Pilling of Bury, Lancashire.
The frame left the Norton works in July.
This machine has been restored with care.