Description
Norton 1928 Model 18 490 cc OHV single
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. I
n 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 a mechanical oil pump on the magneto drive cover was added.
The Model 18 retained its essentially vintage characteristics until 1931 when the range was extensively redesigned.
The most obvious external alteration in its appearance before then was the adoption of a saddle tank for 1929.
The machine we can offer here still has the characteristic ‘twenties flat tank.
Today the Vintage Model 18 enjoys landmark status as Norton's first overhead-valve roadster and is highly prized by discerning enthusiasts.
This impressive Norton comes complete with Lucas electric lighting, P&H bulb horn, Cowey speedometer and André steering damper.
It was in the possession of the last owner for 50 years!