The Norton ES2 is road-tested by the good lads at "The Motor Cycle". According to Paul Bevins it was found to have "...a mean top speed of 82 mph."
First produced in 1927 the ES2 was the longest running Norton design of all time. Originally introduced as a sports bike, the long stroke, single-cylinder design was continuously developed throughout its long life (it was produced until 1964). The designation ES2 comes from the original design where "E" was for extra cost, "S" for sports and "2" was reference to the 79mm x 100mm 490cc engine. It remained popular over the years due mainly to its reliability and ease of maintenance. Though, it's reliability did depend on who was doing the maintenance. Backyard mechanic with the wrong tools take note.
The ES2 received its last and perhaps most significant update in 1959 when the famous Rex McCandless designed "Featherbed" frame became standard. Additional improvements included; a much improved AMC tranny, revised cylinder head, up-graded Lucas 60-watt alternator and an 8-inch front brake with full width hubs.
Today in motorcycle history proudly supports the National Association for Bikers with a Disability (NABD). www.nabd.org.uk
Today in motorcycle history proudly supports the National Association for Bikers with a Disability (NABD). www.nabd.org.uk
