Norton Manx 500

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The legendary Rex McCandless featherbed frame was introduced in 1951 for the 1952 season, and by 1954 was established as the frame for the other manufacturers to aspire to, remaining little altered or improved upon during a production run that was to last until the 1960s.

The engine dimensions of the racing Manx Norton were altered from the longer stroke 79.6mm bore to dimensions of 86mm x 85.8m to produce the almost square dimensions of the 500cc engine. It had larger valves, shorted con rod, and externally the cam drive tube was housed within the cylinder head which was enlarged with extra finning to aid cooling.

Ridden to victory by Geoff Duke in the 1951 World Championship, the Featherbed Manx went on to become the mainstay of the Grand Prix circuit and to dominate National and Club level competition.

Being offered here from a deceased estate, this 1960 Manx 30M was purchased by the late-owner at auction in 2009 when it was offered for sale from a Dorset collection (catalogue on file).

When first photographed for this catalogue, the petrol tank, head and cam box were missing, these items being subsequently tracked down to Andy Savage's premises in Bristol where the head and cam box had been overhauled ready for fitment. These items have now been refitted to the machine, the cam box timing has been set to the marks that were made on the bevel gears when dis-assembled, but it is advised that everything is re-checked and set prior to attempting to run up the engine.

This machine has been used sparingly in the last few years at parades both in this country and on the continent (Montlhery etc). The remedial work to the top end and the recent re-lining of the rear brake drum were in preparation for continued attendance at such events until poor health overtook the owner.

Not intended for road use, this Manx does not come with V5, MOT etc, but the file contains some interesting documents including the 2009 auction catalogue, bill of sale, list of valve timing settings, VMCC search document showing it to be a 1960 model, and photographic evidence and billing for the top end overhaul. A box of running spares and a bike stand are also included with this machine.

This 30M would complement any collection and offers a great opportunity to purchase an iconic machine that will be much admired, either as a static exhibit, but even more so if used for its intended purpose.