An early years Norton and later years Norton Commando Fastback

James Norton was very respected for his superb engineering ability and his integrity. An entrepreneur at the beginning of the motorized transportation era he began the Norton Manufacturing Company in 1898 to produce bicycle parts. In 1902, the first Norton Motorcycle was built.

Five years later a Norton ridden by Rembrandt Fowler won the first Tourist Trophy (TT). The Norton dominated the Isle of Man races from 1947-54. Known for performance, the motorcycle enjoyed worldwide demand. In the 1960's and 70's the company produced the popular Norton Commando. The era of the vintage Norton motorcycle ended about 1977 with the demise of the British motorcycle industry. There have been attempts at revival and currently a motorcycle is being made under the marquee Norton.

Now days the Norton motorcycle is familiar to many motorcyclists. Motorcycle restoration enthusiasts world wide seek vintage Nortons. They bring a respectable price in antique motorcycle trading circles. Many of the owners are members of local Norton Owner Clubs. The clubs provide a place to discuss the Norton with fellow enthusiasts. However for technical issues many times more help is needed than is available locally. And since people have many opinions, there are many different opinions for solving the same problem.

This web site started mainly for Norton enthusiasts to discuss issues with knowledgeable people around the world. We have hosted the free forum since 1998. Many of our regular visitors have been members for many years. Some of them are recognized experts in motorcycle restoration and maintenance and freely share their knowledge in the discussions. Since Nortons are part of the same basic technology that was used on many British motorcyles of the era we have expanded our discussion to include them. Some of our members own several different vinatge British motorcycles. And they tinker on them as much as they ride them. It's in their blood.

"Most motorcyclists love to spend their Sunday mornings taking off the cylinder head and re-seating the valves." Donald Heather, director of Norton, 1957.