Description
Norton 1958 Model 50 350cc Frame 13N 78888 Engine N13 78888
Designed by Edgar Franks in 1933, the first run of the model 50 was almost identical to the Norton model 18 except for the bore and stroke.
The single-cylinder engine was 348 cc with pushrod operated overhead valves.
The model 50 and its twin-port brother, the 55, being junior versions of the 490cc Models 18 and 20 respectively.
Norton’s sporting 350 single was built in several versions and continuously developed during a production run lasting until 1963, post-war innovations including the adoption of the AMC gearbox in 1956 and a switch to superior alternator electrics and the peerless ‘Featherbed’ frame for 1959.
When road testing a used example provided by a London dealer in 1964, UK monthly magazine Motorcycle Mechanics reported 75 mph (121 km/h) top speed with 50 to 60 mph (80 to 97 km/h) cruising.
This Model 50 Norton was in one family from new till recently.
She was always well maintained and ridden by several members of the family.
She benefitted from a complete overhaul recently and runs like a clock at first kick.
She is ready for the season and for many happy summer miles.