1949 Norton 490cc Model 30 International
Registration no. JOL 169
Frame no. D11 21771
Engine no. D11 21771

• Top of the range Sports Roadster
• Restored in 1995 to a very high standard
• Generally excellent condition

One of the most charismatic model names in motorcycling history, 'International' was first used by Norton for its top-of-the-range sports roadster in 1932. The Inter's overhead-camshaft engine had been developed in the works racers for the preceding two years, and although it retained the classic 79x100mm bore/stroke dimensions and shaft-and-bevels cam drive of the existing CS1, was entirely new. Based on the works bikes and intended for racing, the International could nevertheless be ordered with refinements such as lights and a kick-starter equipped gearbox. By the time production halted in 1939 it was being built with a four-speed foot-change 'box and plunger rear suspension (the 'Garden Gate' frame), reappearing after the war in similar guise save for the adoption of the hydraulically-damped Roadholder front fork, which replaced the pre-war girder. The Inter remained fundamentally unchanged until 1953 when it gained the Featherbed frame, all-alloy engine and 'laid down' gearbox.

We are advised that this plunger-framed International was restored in 1995 to a very high standard by well respected engineer David Osborne of South Wales, who has shown and ridden on many occasions. Described as in generally excellent condition, 'running like clockwork', the machine is offered with instruction manuals, an old-style logbook, current MoT, V5C document, and a file of restoration invoices.