1947 Norton International

1947 Norton International

racing40sUnited Kingdom

The 1947 1947 Norton International packs a 490cc OHV single engine with 29hp into a racing machine package from Norton.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV single
Displacement
490 cc
Cylinders
1
Power
29 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque
35.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
79.0 × 100.0 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
Amal carburetor

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel single cradle
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Plunger
Front Brake
Drum
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
4-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
145 km/h (90 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
155 kg (342 lbs)
Wet Weight
168 kg (370 lbs)
Seat Height
780 mm
Wheelbase
1370 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
14.0 L

History & Story

The 1947 1947 Norton International was introduced by Norton as a racing machine aimed at riders seeking racing machine performance and style. Manufactured in United Kingdom, it represented Norton's vision for the single-cylinder racing machine market during the 1940s.

The 1947 Norton International is motivated by a 490cc OHV single single-cylinder unit delivering 29hp at 6000 rpm. Breathing through Amal carburetor and kept cool by air-cooled, the engine drives through a 4-speed transmission with chain final drive.

Weighing 155 kg (342 lbs) dry, the 1947 Norton International uses a steel single cradle frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and plunger rear suspension. The braking system comprises drum front and drum rear units.

Performance-wise, the 1947 Norton International achieves a claimed top speed of 145 km/h (90 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for racing machine duties. The seat height of 780 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Today, the 1947 Norton International is considered a desirable collector motorcycle that has appreciated significantly in value over the decades. Parts availability is rated as difficult, making ownership a dedicated pursuit. It remains an icon of Norton motorcycling from 1940s.

Known Issues

  • Isolastic mounting rubber bushings wear
  • Oil leaks from numerous gasket surfaces
  • Lucas electrics need attention
  • Gearbox mainshaft bearing wear
  • Period-correct fasteners and hardware hard to find

Fun Facts

  • The 1947 Norton International is considered one of the most collectible motorcycles from Norton
  • The 1947 Norton International was produced in Norton's United Kingdom facilities
  • The 1947 Norton International featured a steel single cradle frame typical of 1940s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Difficult
Collector Rating
8/10

Resources & Parts