Norton International Model 30 Clubman's

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The name International was first coined by Norton for it's top-of-the-range 490cc over-head camshaft model in 1932.

Although it retained the bore and stroke dimensions of 79mm x 100mm and camshaft and bevels of the previous years machines, it differed from the CS1 OHC machine. Based firmly on the works Norton racing bikes and the experiences learned in the heat of battle, the International was entirely new and was made specifically for racing, although the discerning sporting motorcyclist could order it with such refinements as kick starter gearbox and full lighting kit. Subsequent models were built up to the outbreak of the Second World War and by this time were equipped with four-speed foot change gearbox and plunger rear suspension.

Production of this sporting machine halted with the outbreak of hostilities as the production of more mundane models for the war effort became a priority. However the model reappeared after the war when it was updated with the legendary ‘Road Holder’ front fork, eventually being fitted into the Rex McCandless-designed featherbed frame at the end of 1953.

The Model 30 International Norton here is a matching frame and engine numbers machine in full road trim although accompanying paperwork shows it to have been supplied for racing and used in the Isle of Man races when new.

It was supplied by Norton on 23rd May 1952 to the Isle of Man office of Horseman of Manchester, shop number OS317. The customer was J Belcher of Douglas, Isle of Man, who was to use it straight from the crate in the 1952 Senior Clubman TT, being registered as Rider No. 81. Belcher finished the race in 28th place with a time of 2hr 1min 43 sec at an average speed of 74.40mph, some 11 minutes behind the time of the race winner. Not bad for a stock bike on its first outing!

It comes with various black and white pictures showing Belcher in action aboard the machine at the 1952 TT, some old MOT certificates, an old buff log book, old V5 and current V5C plus some period Isle of Man memorabilia.

In the current ownership since 1998, the bike has had little recent use, but a careful check over and it should be ready to go. Altogether a rare opportunity to own an iconic piece of motorcycling history.

AMENDMENT: This is a 1952 model, not 1951 as stated in the printed catalogue. We have also added frame and engine numbers plus some additional information about the bike in the description above and some extra b/w photos, none of this detail being available at the time of cataloguing. It is also taxed until next year.