1955 Norton Manx 350

KEY FACTS This Norton Manx 350 is a collector-quality ‘numbers-matching’ example of the highly sought-after classic British racing motorcycle, which benefits from a previous high-quality comprehensive restoration. It is powered by a 350cc OHC single-cylinder engine, producing around 35bhp, coupled to a four-speed transmission. This example is recorded as having left the factory in August 1955, and was acquired by the seller in December 2022. EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES The Norton Manx is renowned as being one of the greatest classic British racing motorcycles of all time, and was introduced in 1947 as a lightly redesigned variant of the pre-war racing Norton International, which featured an overhead camshaft single-cylinder engine available in 350cc or 500cc variants. Fitted with the iconic McCandless brothers’ ‘Featherbed’ frame in 1951, the Manx gained further acclaim for its fine steering, necessary for the bumpy and high-speed racing circuits of the time. This example is finished in a timeless shade of silver with gloss-black and red pinstriping, gloss-black fenders, and a black vinyl-trimmed seat pad with red piping. It rides on a pair of 19-inch wire wheels, shod in Avon tyres. As standard, the bike features Ceriani ‘Roadholder’ front forks, twin rear shock absorbers, front and rear drum brakes, a Smiths rev-counter, and a low-level front screen. The bike is accompanied by photos of the restoration, various pieces of literature and magazine clippings, and an extensive history file with numerous receipts and correspondence. CONDITION Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior condition. The seller is not aware of any mechanical or electrical faults, though they do note that the bike will need a recommissioning service before returning to the road. SERVICE HISTORY A comprehensive restoration was carried out over six years by Peter Sprot in the early 2000s. SUMMARY This Norton Manx 350 is a collector-quality ‘numbers-matching’ example of the highly sough