Norton Motorcycles
Founded: 1898
Age: 126 years
Country: England
Website: www.nortonmotorcycles.com
Total series: 27
Active series: 3
Discontinued series: 24
The Norton Manufacturing Company had its humble beginnings in the year 1898 by producing cycle chains. Mr. Norton produced his first motorcycle with a Belgian Cement engine. All of his motorcycles were produced with first class engineering designs and won many races. From early on Norton bikes had four speed gearboxes, saddle type petrol engines and automatic chain lubrication. The company developed a powerful engine called OHC which won the TT. In 1934, Norton introduced his oil bath primary chain case which furnished the bikes until 1970. Though Norton bikes were mainly used for racing, they are quite comfortable to ride and can be used regularly. Riding a Norton bike allows you to be in full control and you dominate the road. Don't forget about the admiring glances almost guaranteed to be thrown in your direction. Norton motorcycles are fuel efficient and inexpensive to maintain. Owning one of these vintage motorcycles will only add a feather to your cap.
Active series
Discontinued series
Brand timeline
1898
- founded as manufacturer of motorcycle parts
1902
- start manufacturing motorbikes with bought, french and swiss, engines
1907
- Rem Fowler wins Isle of Man TT on Norton
1908
- First motorcycle with own engine
1916
- Norton logo is introduced on tanks of bikes
1925
- Founder James Lansdowne Norton dies
1947
- First of 8 consecutive Isle Of Man TT wins
1953
- Associated Motor Cycles (AMC) buys Norton
1968
- introduction of Norton Commando 750cc model
2008
- Stuart Garner buys rights to Norton
2009
- World record for fastest motorcycle with a rotary engine with 173mph
2020
- Company goes into administration due to unpaid taxes
- TVS Motor Company buys company