Norton Motorcycles 1950s

Today in Motorcycle History

Norton Model 19

Production Years: 1926-1939, and post-war until 1958.

OHV 588cc, increased to 596cc in 1933

The OHV Model 19 was a larger capacity long-stroke version of Norton's first overhead-valve model, the Model 18. Ideal for sidecar work, their popularity was enhanced by a win in the IOM sidecar TT.

The 1928 model was fitted with a dual silencer with spiral baffles, and in 1929 received a saddle tank, as did the rest of the Norton range for that year. The gear-change was changed to foot control on the Sturmey-Archer gearbox, and a twist-grip throttle was another new feature.

The Sports version of the Model 19 remained in production from 1926 until 1939.

The Model 19 re-appeared after WWII in two versions, the 19R with a rigid rear end, and the 19S with rear suspension.

Model 19 596cc 1938/1939 Specification

Engine: Norton single-port, push-rod-operated overhead valves fully enclosed. 82 mm. bore by 113 mm. stroke = 596 c.c. Compression ratio 5.75 to 1. Coil valve springs. Dry-sump lubrication. Amal carburetter. Magneto ignition.

Wheels: Chromium rated and painted rims fitted with 28 x 3.25 Speed Universal Dunlops front and rear. Front and rear wheels quickly detachable and interchangeable. Brakes 7 ins. by 1¼ in.

Transmission : Renolds chains. Primary in oil bath, ½ in. by .305in., rear 5/8in. by ¼ in. Four-speed gearbox ratios 5.16 6.25, 9.14 and 15.35 to 1. Multi-piate clutch with Ferodo inserts. Vane-type rubber shock absorber included m the clutch.

Frame: Diamond frame with patent front forks incorporating rebound springs and a friction damper.

Dimensions: Saddle height, 27½ins. Wheelbase, 54¾ ins Overall length 85 ins. Overall width, 58 ins. Ground clearance, 4½ ins.

Sidecar: Streamlined Model J. Cut-away sides. Metal-framed windscreen. Norton double triangulated chassis. Price £24 10s.

Price: Motorcycle £73 10s. Whole outfit £98. Extras: Speedometer, Smith's 80 m.p.h. Trip, 10s.

Makers: Norton Motors, Ltd., Bracebridge Street, Birmingham. Tax: £3 per annum.

Motor Cycling, November 23rd 1938.

Sources: Motomania, NZ Classic Motorcycles, NOC, vintagenorton.com