LOWBOY RACER
The Manx Norton has no rivals for the accolade of being the ultimate British racing single, whether in 350cc or 500cc guise. As a production race bike, only the later Yamaha TZ250/350 can match its global appeal and formidable record of success over such an extended period in the hands of its customers.
Way back when
In 1950 Norton introduced the “double-knocker” Manx engine (the nickname it received due to its new double overhead cam design). Combined with the Ulster-built Featherbed frame designed by the McCandless brothers, it enabled the Bracebridge Street factory to keep abreast of the emerging European multi-cylinder opposition for a few extra years, providing Geoff Duke with the means to take both 350cc and 500cc World Championships in 1951, and the 350cc title again in 1952.
The single-cylinder Manx Norton is a gallant example of the traditional British love of the underdog, for even after the factory team withdrew from racing at the end of 1954, Norton’s image was yet upheld by the hundreds of privateers who continued to race Manx Nortons successfully right up until the early 1970s.
But as far as World Championships went, Duke’s trio of titles was the end of the line for Norton. Yet the British factory continued developing new ways of keeping its aging singles competitive, particularly in terms of frontal area, against the wider, heavier fours. This resulted in the so-called “Silver Fish” Kneeler frame in 1953, and the following year’s low-slung F-Type (for “Flat”) engine with its horizontal cylinder,
