- Norton 650SS
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Norton 650SS 
Manufacturer Norton Motorcycles Production 1962 – 1967 Engine 646cc overhead valve, air-cooled parallel twin Top speed 110–115 mph (180–185 km/h)[1][2] Power 49hp @ 6,800rpm[2] Transmission Four-speed, chain final drive Brakes Drum brakes Weight 198kg (434lb) (wet)
The 650SS was a Norton motorcycle made by between 1962 and 1967 at Norton’s Bracebridge Street works in Birmingham. Developed from the Norton Dominator, the Featherbed frame was altered so that the top rails were closer together to create what became known as the 'slimline featherbed'. A 650cc twin carburettor engine was installed which was capable of 110–115 mph (180–185 km/h).[1][2] The 'SS' stood for Super Sports and the 600cc models were discontinued to concentrate on production of the 650SS, which quickly earned a reputation as the best of the Dommies.[3]Development
Norton produced a touring 650 in 1961 for export, sold in the US as the Manxman.[4] In 1962 the 650SS was developed for the home market and in the same year Norton launched the 745cc Norton Atlas as the main export model.[5]
The 650SS was developed from the model 99SS, with the stroke increased from 82 to 89mm. Fitted as standard with twin Amal Monobloc carburettors with the intakes angled downwards. Twin exhausts replaced the 99SS two-into-one and the headlight nacelle was replaced with a modernised speedometer and tachometer. The 650SS was finished in a black frame with silver fuel tank and optional chrome fenders.[5]
In February 1962 Motor Cycling magazine achieved a best one-way speed of 119.5mph at MIRA with a 650SS, more than 10mph faster than the rival Triumph Bonneville tested the previous summer.
References
- ^ a b Reynolds, Jim (1990) (in English). Best of British Bikes. Patrick Stephens Ltd. ISBN 1-85260-033-0.
- ^ a b c Brown, Roland (2006), The Ultimate History of Fast Motorcycles, Bath, UK: Parragon, pp. 214–215, ISBN 1405473037
- ^ Kemp, Andrew; De Cet (2004). Classic British Bikes. Mirco. Bookmart Ltd. ISBN 1-86147-136-X.
- ^ Robert Smith (January/February 2007). "Norton 650SS". Motorcycle Classics. http://www.motorcycleclassics.com/motorcycle-reviews/2007-01-01/norton-650ss-super-sexy.aspx. Retrieved 2009-08-13.
- ^ a b "Norton 650SS: Super Sexy". http://www.motorcycleclassics.com/motorcycle-reviews/2007-01-01/norton-650ss-super-sexy.aspx. Retrieved 2008-12-24.
External links
- Picture of Norton 650SS[[Category:Sport bikes]
Categories:- Norton motorcycles
- Standard motorcycles
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