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The 1952 Norton ES2 and 1958 Norton Dominator 99 represent two chapters in Norton's storied history.
The 1952 Norton ES2 from United Kingdom was powered by a 490cc OHV single producing 22hp at 5000rpm. Weighing 170.0kg (375 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1958 Norton Dominator 99 by contrast offered 597cc of OHV twin power, delivering 31hp at 6000rpm. Tipping the scales at 182.0kg (401 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1950s bikes represent the golden age of British motorcycling and early Japanese innovation, with well-maintained examples commanding premium prices.
The 1952 Norton ES2 from United Kingdom was powered by a 490cc OHV single producing 22hp at 5000rpm. Weighing 170.0kg (375 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1958 Norton Dominator 99 by contrast offered 597cc of OHV twin power, delivering 31hp at 6000rpm. Tipping the scales at 182.0kg (401 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1950s bikes represent the golden age of British motorcycling and early Japanese innovation, with well-maintained examples commanding premium prices.
Specifications Comparison
| 1952 Norton ES2 | 1958 Norton Dominator 99 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 490 cc | 597 cc |
| Power | 22 hp | 31 hp |
| Torque | 30.0 Nm | 40.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 125 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 170.0 kg | 182.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 182.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 780 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Norton machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1952 Norton ES2 laid the groundwork with 22hp, while the later 1958 Norton Dominator 99 pushed output to 31hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1958 Norton Dominator 99 holds the edge with a 6/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Norton collection.
About the 1952 Norton ES2
A standard motorcycle from 1952, the 1952 Norton ES2 delivers 22hp from its 490cc OHV single engine.
Full 1952 Norton ES2 Profile →About the 1958 Norton Dominator 99
Introduced in 1958, the 1958 Norton Dominator 99 features a 597cc OHV twin engine producing 31hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1958 Norton Dominator 99 Profile →