Manx Norton Daytona Racer

By Alan Cathcart
Published on April 8, 2013
article image
Photo By Kyoichi Nakamura
The extra power and weight of the Manx double-knocker engine was really more than the plunger-sprung Garden Gate frame could handle, but the later Featherbed frame was much improved.

1952 Manx Norton
Claimed power:
45hp @ 5,750rpm
Top speed: 108mph
Engine: 499cc air-cooled DOHC single, 79mm x 100mm bore and stroke, 12:1 compression ratio (8:1 stock)
Weight (dry): 330lb (150kg)
Fuel capacity/MPG: 4 gal/15ltr (est.)

In 1952, this Manx Norton took then 22-year-old Dick
Klamfoth — and Norton — to history at Daytona Beach
as the first three-time winner of the most famous race in America.
Sixty-one years later, it’s still racing, thanks to the tireless efforts of

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