BRITISH BIKE GUIDE PART THREE
16H
490cc sv single || 365lb || 55mpg || 65mph || 1945-55
A most un-Nortonlike slogger, with less performance than a modern 125. They do have much charm though, and some riders prefer them to BSA’s equivalent M20, which was also a favourite with Second World War dispatch riders. Used to be found with family chair attached and completely worn out, now usually observed at military reenactment meetings.
Prices: low £3000 || high £6500 (military models more)
N15CS
745cc ohv twin || 420lb || 45mpg || 110mph || 1964-68
Norton Atlas engine in a Matchless chassis and off-road clothes makes for a wild, heavy early trail bike. Mainly sold in the US as ‘desert sleds’. Loads of noise, vibes and excitement. Strangely, the Atlas engine shakes rather less in the Matchless’s lugged frame than in Norton’s all-welded Featherbed. Visual stunners, and with on/off road performance to match.
Prices: low £7000 || high £15,000
Model 30 (International)
490cc ohc single || 360lb || 60mpg || 95mph || 1946-58
Cammy sports single that offered similar performance to the 88 twin but required much more effort to achieve it. Good looks, class and oil leaks fail to justify the high prices. Kamshaft kudos is invaluable, however,
Prices: low £18,000 || high £35,000
