1940 Norton 500 16H
1940 Norton 500 16H
Lots of bikes for the war
During World War II, Norton produced over 100,000 military motorcycles – 16H and Big Four models – destined chiefly for the British and Canadian Armies. The model shown, the 16H, was a simple and robust 500cc side valve single. It was used both as a solo mount and with a sidecar.
A Brilliant Career
Norton developed a special 633cc version of this design which was used in conjunction with a sidecar. It took the name of, and had the same displacement as the first Norton with an own-make engine, the 1907 Big Four, so-called because it was a 4 hp model. The 3hp 500 appeared soon after, followed during the 1910s by the Model 16 in versions which included Colonial and Brooklands Special models. Then, in 1920, came the first 16H (”H” was said to stand for “Home,” because the 16H was destined for the domestic market). It was a designation which didn’t disappear from the catalog until 1955.
Constant Dimensions
While it underwent many changes, the 16H kept the same engine dimensions C73mm bore, 100mm stroke) throughout its long life. Reconditioned army-surplus 16H Nortons were available long after the end of hostilities: Garreau, the French importer, was still selling them in 1975! The 16H was most commonly used as a dispatch rider’s bike, and was sometimes used to transport carrier pigeons. England shared with Russia the rare distinction of having a battalion of female motorcyclists.
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 490cc air-cooled single-cylinder four stroke; magneto ignition; dry-sump lubrication Power Rating: 14 hp @ 4800 rpm
Valves: side
Fuel System: carburetor
Transmission: 4-speed
Suspension: girder fork (front); rigid (rear)
Brakes: offset drum (front & rear)
Wheels: 19 inch
Maximum Speed: 73 mph
The military version was very similar to the civilian 16H of 1937. It lacked the chrome plate and pretty paint job, but had gained a strong baggage carrier and headlamp blackout mask.
This and many other Atlas Editions Classic Motorcycle cards are available for purchase.
