1974 Norton 750 Space Frame | John Player Special

1974 John Player special Norton 750 Space Frame

With Phil Aynsley


A few columns ago I featured the Norton 750 Monocoque (link). The bike that replaced it was the last of the John Player Specials from Norton – the 1974 750 Space Frame.

1974 Norton 750 Space Frame 'John Player Special'
1974 Norton 750 Space Frame ‘John Player Special’

The multi-tube trellis frame still surrounded the motor but was a lighter, more mechanic-friendly design. The engine used was the short-stroke Commando unit fitted with a dry clutch and modified primary drive that featured an extra outrigger bearing.

PA NortonSF
1974 Norton 750 Space Frame ‘John Player Special’

Four race bikes were constructed (also a prototype that had a differently designed frame). This bike was raced by both Peter Williams and Dave Croxford. Williams used it to win his last race, at Spa, before it was passed on to the Benelux Norton agent, Podevyn, to compete in local F750 events.

PA NortonSF
1974 Norton 750 Space Frame ‘John Player Special’

It has since been restored by P & M Motorcycles in Middlesex.

PA NortonSF
1974 Norton 750 Space Frame ‘John Player Special’

Power was 78hp at 7800rpm, with a wet weight of 150kg. Top speed was 265km/h.

PA NortonSF
1974 Norton 750 Space Frame ‘John Player Special’
PA NortonSF
1974 Norton 750 Space Frame ‘John Player Special’
PA NortonSF
1974 Norton 750 Space Frame ‘John Player Special’
PA NortonSF
1974 Norton 750 Space Frame ‘John Player Special’
PA NortonSF
1974 Norton 750 Space Frame ‘John Player Special’
PA NortonSF
1974 Norton 750 Space Frame ‘John Player Special’
PA NortonSF
1974 Norton 750 Space Frame ‘John Player Special’
PA NortonSF
1974 Norton 750 Space Frame ‘John Player Special’
PA NortonSF
1974 Norton 750 Space Frame ‘John Player Special’
PA NortonSF
1974 Norton 750 Space Frame ‘John Player Special’
PA NortonSF
1974 Norton 750 Space Frame ‘John Player Special’

Source: MCNews.com.au

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