Description
Norton 1928 588cc OHV “ Model 19” frame # 33143 engine # 40926 79×120
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.
The sidecar TT winning engine with bore and stroke dimensions of 79×120 mm in a Model 18 rolling chassis was catalogued as the Model 19.
A notable new feature for 1928 was the double barrel silencer with spiral baffles.
This example of Norton’s top-of-the-range, overhead-valve sports roadster of the Vintage period is one of the most sought after of all Norton motorcycles.
The former owner has used this well-fettled older restoration regularly till about ten years ago, when it was laid up and stored in a heated garage and he reports that its performance is still surprising – easy 60 mph cruising with plenty in hand – while both steering and handling are said to be excellent.