The other, other bike that started it all for me: '63 Model 50

[SneakyDingo]

I recently went back to see my parents and snapped a photo of the other, other motorcycle that made me think, "I want the CT125, not something else like the CT110."

Dad got this running in 2008 after it was in long storage back, a long stroke 350cc Norton '63 Model 50. It would probably rival the Trail 125 for capabilities, maybe be slightly more capable, but it was the bike he met my mum on. There's a lot of things that need to be replaced on it to get it roadworthy, but it was a running joke 20 years ago that I'd turn up to do my "big bike" license test on this bike since it was more than 250cc, and was about as difficult to ride as the CT125.

It might look like it's in a bit of a sorry state, but considering it's been stored near the ocean without substantial protection I think it's doing pretty well. The engine runs too, with a very spooky sounding 4 stroke that idles incredibly slowly, something like 120 RPM or thereabouts: enough that you can hear the individual ignition and exhaust crankshaft rotations if you're paying attention. Truly a bike you'd ride on The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride.

 

[Gene56]

That is a special motorcycle, thank you for sharing. I do remember the Norton 750 Commando in the 70's, first time seeing a Norton like this!

 

[Shoot870p]

Outstanding!

 

[m in sc]

sweet. i have a friend with a survivor norton atlas i'll pry off him one of these days.

 

[SneakyDingo]

That is a special motorcycle, thank you for sharing. I do remember the Norton 750 Commando in the 70's, first time seeing a Norton like this!

Dad's dream bike. He has a 500 Commando in parts, but I have my suspicions that it will not run. This one was stored assembled, the other was not, and when I took a squiz at what was hiding under the table in the back of the house, it didn't look in good shape.