Here’s something you don’t come across every day: Eleven brand new, 1975, electric-start Norton Interstate motorcycles, still in the crate and awaiting final assembly, reports Alastair Walker.
The 1975 Commando models had a range of detail improvements to them, including better isolastic frame mounts, electric starter, more efficient engine oil feed and and self-adjusting primary chain. The `75 Commando was the last of a line stretching back to the 60s and the heyday of big, beefy British twins. Production stopped in 1978 for the original Commando.
The horde of classic Nortons came to light recently following the death of the owner of Motoshop Podevyn in Aalst, Belgium. Incredibly, the British bikes are just a small part of an even larger collection which will be auctioned soon. Interest is expected from Norton collectors around the world for these time-warp motorcycles.
Almost 400 lots are being offered in the sale. In addition to the eleven new Norton Commandos there’s also an ex-Peter Williams trick-framed racer, a Rotax-powered 1989 Matchless G80 still in its crate, numerous standard and customized Nortons, a Triumph T160 Trident, Triumph Bonnevilles, piles of wheels and seats, and racks of used and new-old-stock gas tanks. There are also some MZ two-strokes from the communist era, once almost given away for as little as £50 in classified adverts, but now getting increasingly rare.
The sale is being held online on the 26th April by Troostwijk auctions in Belgium, here is a link to their site;
http://www.troostwijkauctions.com/uk/motorshop-podevyn/01-13018/
