Draft:Norton N15

Norton N15

The Norton N15 is a British motorcycle model produced by the Norton Motorcycle Company between 1964 and 1968. Known for its versatility and rugged design, the N15 was primarily aimed at the North American market and was popular among riders who needed a bike capable of both road and off-road performance.

History

The Norton N15 was part of a collaborative effort by the Associated Motor Cycles (AMC) to produce a motorcycle that combined the robust engine characteristics of the Matchless G12 with the superior handling of the Norton Featherbed frame.^[1] First introduced in 1964, the N15CS (Competition Scrambler) was designed for the American desert racing and scrambler scene, where riders demanded a powerful and durable motorcycle.^[2]

Design and Features

The Norton N15 was equipped with a 745cc parallel-twin engine, which was originally used in the Matchless G12. This engine was known for its reliability and torque, making it a good match for the demands of off-road riding.^[3] The bike featured high pipes, a scrambler-style exhaust system, and a reinforced frame, all tailored to withstand the rigors of rough terrain.

One of the key design aspects of the N15 was its Featherbed frame, renowned for providing excellent handling and stability.^[1] The bike also had a high ground clearance and long-travel suspension, which were crucial for its intended off-road use.^[2] The N15CS version came with knobby tires and a stripped-down appearance to reduce weight and improve performance.^[3]

Production and Legacy

Production of the Norton N15 continued until 1968, after which it was replaced by other models as Norton and AMC sought to streamline their offerings.^[1] Although it was not as commercially successful as some other Norton models, the N15 left a lasting impression in the niche market of off-road and scrambler motorcycles.^[3] Today, the Norton N15 is considered a collectible, valued by enthusiasts for its historical significance and unique design.

References

^ ^a ^b ^c Bacon, Roy. Norton Twins: All Models, 1955-88. Niton Publishing, 1988. ISBN 978-0-947981-39-2.
^ ^a ^b Wilson, Hugo. The Encyclopedia of the Motorcycle. Dorling Kindersley, 1995. ISBN 978-0-7894-0195-0.
^ ^a ^b ^c Kemp, Andrew. Classic British Bikes. Abbeydale Press, 2002. ISBN 978-1-86147-107-2.

[Bacon-1] Bacon, Roy. Norton Twins: All Models, 1955-88. Niton Publishing, 1988. ISBN 978-0-947981-39-2.

[Wilson-2] Wilson, Hugo. The Encyclopedia of the Motorcycle. Dorling Kindersley, 1995. ISBN 978-0-7894-0195-0.

[Kemp-3] Kemp, Andrew. Classic British Bikes. Abbeydale Press, 2002. ISBN 978-1-86147-107-2.

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