1960 NORTON MODEL 88 DOMINATOR

This 1960 Norton Model 88 Dominator is an excellent example of the motorcycle that combined the power of a twin-cylinder engine with the incredible handing of the famed Featherbed frame. The original engine has been replaced with a 1961 Model 99 600cc engine producing approximately 31bhp and mated to a four-speed transmission. The odometer shows 6,535miles.

The legendary Featherbed frame was first designed and raced by the McCandless brothers in Ireland with the design bought by the Norton Motorcycle company who had the frames made by the Reynolds company. With superb geometry, exceptional rigidity and of lightweight construction, the Featherbed motorcycles were among the best handling two-wheeled vehicles of their time. With excellent brakes and a powerful twin-cylinder engine originally developed by the legendary Bert Hopwood, the Model 88 outshone its rivals.

The exterior of this bike presents in good overall condition, in the smart British Racing Green and Cream colour combination. The owner notes a 4cm scratch on the left-hand side of the tank, a small paint chip on the left side of the headlight, and a 2cm dent in the front guard. The saddle is in very good condition with no rips or marks, and there are no faults with the instrumentation or switches.

Mechanically, this bike has been enhanced with a raft of sought-after upgrades. The original engine has been replaced with the larger and more powerful 600cc twin from a 1961 Model 99. In addition, the motorcycle has been converted to a 12v electrical system and features Rita ignition and a high-output alternator. A previous owner converted the motorcycle to use a Commando clutch and belt drive system. To improve braking performance, a Commando twin leading shoe front brake has also been adapted to the motorcycle.

The Norton last underwent a technical inspection on 10 December 2020 and no advisories or warnings were issued. The most recent routine maintenance was performed by Machine Shed during January 2021 who treated the engine to a full service, engine and gearbox oil change and carburettor overhaul. Prior to this, the same mechanic performed a full service in late 2018. The owner reports that there is a very minor oil leak from the kick start seal.

Accompanying the Norton with the sale is the British dispatch records for both the original motorcycle and the motorcycle that donated its engine. In addition, there is a full BMS illustrated parts list and Haynes service manual. The owner reports that the motorcycle has been converted to an electronic tachometer and that the tyres retain 90% of their tread.

This Norton Dominator Model 88 is a wonderful British classic and has been treated to some sought-after upgrades to improve both the reliability and performance. Having been recently treated to a full service it is ready to ride and in excellent overall condition. With a classic British twin-cylinder engine and legendary Featherbed frame, this Dominator would make a fine addition to any collection of classic bikes. 

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This vehicle’s VIN has been checked against the Australian Personal Property Securities Register, and there is no security interest or other registration kind logged against the serial number. This vehicle has been checked through the Austroads NEVDIS system, and there are no markers under the written-off or stolen databases.