c.1953 Norton 498cc Manx Racing Motorcycle
Frame no. see text
Engine no. H11M200 49580

Dubbed 'Manx Grand Prix' in 1939, what would become the best-known racing motorcycle of all time had become simply 'Manx' when production resumed in 1946, though only the presence of Roadholder telescopic front forks distinguished the post-war bike from the '39 version. The first significant change in engine specification occurred in 1949 when a works-type double-overhead-camshaft cylinder head was adopted, but the major development was the arrival for 1951 of the Featherbed frame. Manx engine development continued steadily until production ceased at the end of '62, the most significant design change being the adoption of 'square' bore and stroke dimensions for 1954. This late long-stroke Manx was exported new to Sweden and raced in Scandinavia by the Swedish rider Sven 'Furtan' Andersson, who sold it in the paddock at Eläintarhanajot, Finland circa 1955/56. The machine was raced subsequently by the vendor's late father, a skilled mechanic, and is fitted with his own cylinder, camshaft and cast and machined piston. Its late owner used this Manx to win the Finnish National Classic Championship in 1995 and last rode it in 2003, since when it has been kept in storage. Re-commissioning and the customary safety checks will be mandatory before it returns to the racetrack. It should be noted that the frame number has been over-stamped. There are no documents with this Lot.