1952 Norton ES2

1952 Norton ES2

standard50sUnited Kingdom

A standard motorcycle from 1952, the 1952 Norton ES2 delivers 22hp from its 490cc OHV single engine.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV single
Displacement
490 cc
Cylinders
1
Power
22 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque
30.0 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
Twin shock
Front Brake
Drum
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
4-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
125 km/h (78 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
170 kg (375 lbs)
Wet Weight
182 kg (401 lbs)
Seat Height
780 mm
Wheelbase
1380 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
14.0 L

History & Story

Norton's 1952 Norton ES2 arrived in 1952 as a standard motorcycle designed for the discerning rider. Produced in United Kingdom, it quickly earned recognition as a capable standard motorcycle from the 1950s.

At the heart of the 1952 Norton ES2 sits a 490cc OHV single engine producing 22 horsepower at 5000 rpm. The single-cylinder powerplant features a single-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by Amal carburetor. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 4-speed transmission and chain final drive.

Built around a steel single cradle frame, the 1952 Norton ES2 suspends its 170 kg (375 lbs) on telescopic fork forks and twin shock rear units. Braking relies on drum at the front and drum at the rear, with a 1380 mm wheelbase providing stability.

Performance-wise, the 1952 Norton ES2 achieves a claimed top speed of 125 km/h (78 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 780 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

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 1952 Norton ES2 was produced in Norton's United Kingdom facilities
  • The 1952 Norton ES2 featured a steel single cradle frame typical of 1950s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Moderate
Collector Rating
5/10

Resources & Parts