1962 Norton Manx 30M

1962 Norton Manx 30M

racing60sUnited Kingdom

A racing machine from 1962, the 1962 Norton Manx 30M delivers 54hp from its 499cc DOHC single engine.

Specifications

Engine

Type
DOHC single
Displacement
499 cc
Cylinders
1
Power
54 hp @ 7200 rpm
Torque
46.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
86.0 × 86.0 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
Amal GP carburetor

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel featherbed
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
220 km/h (137 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
136 kg (300 lbs)
Wet Weight
146 kg (322 lbs)
Seat Height
760 mm
Wheelbase
1370 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
14.0 L

History & Story

When Norton unveiled the 1962 Norton Manx 30M in 1962, it signaled the company's commitment to the racing machine segment. Built in United Kingdom, this racing machine embodied the spirit of 1960s motorcycling.

The 1962 Norton Manx 30M is motivated by a 499cc DOHC single single-cylinder unit delivering 54hp at 7200 rpm. Breathing through Amal GP carburetor and kept cool by air-cooled, the engine drives through a 4-speed transmission with chain final drive.

Built around a steel featherbed frame, the 1962 Norton Manx 30M suspends its 136 kg (300 lbs) on telescopic fork forks and twin shock rear units. Braking relies on drum at the front and drum at the rear, with a 1370 mm wheelbase providing stability.

Performance-wise, the 1962 Norton Manx 30M achieves a claimed top speed of 220 km/h (137 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for racing machine duties. The seat height of 760 mm makes it accessible for most riders.

Today, the 1962 Norton Manx 30M is considered an extremely rare and highly prized collector piece, commanding premium prices at auction. Parts availability is rated as very difficult, making ownership a dedicated pursuit. It remains an icon of Norton motorcycling from 1960s.

Known Issues

  • Isolastic mounting rubber bushings wear
  • Oil leaks from numerous gasket surfaces
  • Lucas electrics need attention
  • Gearbox mainshaft bearing wear

Fun Facts

  • Pristine examples of the 1962 Norton Manx 30M can command six-figure prices at auction
  • The 1962 Norton Manx 30M is considered one of the most collectible motorcycles from Norton
  • The 1962 Norton Manx 30M is widely regarded as a milestone in motorcycle history
  • With a power-to-weight ratio of 397.1 hp per tonne, the 1962 Norton Manx 30M offered thrilling performance

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Very difficult
Collector Rating
10/10

Resources & Parts