1964 Norton 650SS

1964 Norton 650SS

sportbike60sUnited Kingdom

The 1964 1964 Norton 650SS is a 646cc twin-cylinder sport bike that became one of Norton's most memorable motorcycles of the 1960s.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV twin
Displacement
646 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
49 hp @ 6800 rpm
Torque
52.0 Nm
Compression
—
Bore × Stroke
68.0 × 89.0 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
2x Amal carburetors

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
185 km/h (115 mph)
¼ Mile
—

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
175 kg (386 lbs)
Wet Weight
188 kg (414 lbs)
Seat Height
790 mm
Wheelbase
1400 mm
Ground Clearance
—
Fuel Capacity
14.0 L

History & Story

When Norton unveiled the 1964 Norton 650SS in 1964, it signaled the company's commitment to the sport bike segment. Built in United Kingdom, this sport bike embodied the spirit of 1960s motorcycling.

At the heart of the 1964 Norton 650SS sits a 646cc OHV twin engine producing 49 horsepower at 6800 rpm. The twin-cylinder powerplant features a twin-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by 2x Amal carburetors. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 4-speed transmission and chain final drive.

Weighing 175 kg (386 lbs) dry, the 1964 Norton 650SS uses a steel featherbed frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises drum front and drum rear units.

Performance-wise, the 1964 Norton 650SS achieves a claimed top speed of 185 km/h (115 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for sport bike duties. The seat height of 790 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Today, the 1964 Norton 650SS is considered a respected classic that attracts serious collector interest and continues to appreciate. Parts availability is rated as moderate, 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

  • The 1964 Norton 650SS was produced in Norton's United Kingdom facilities
  • The 1964 Norton 650SS featured a steel featherbed frame typical of 1960s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Moderate
Collector Rating
7/10

Resources & Parts

🔧 Find 1964 Norton 650SS Parts on eBay Search eBay Motors for parts, accessories and restoration supplies 📖 Haynes Manual for Norton Workshop manuals, service guides and technical references 🛡 Insure Your Classic Norton Specialist classic motorcycle insurance from Hagerty

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