1961 Norton Navigator, 350cc. Registration number 721 XUT (n...

Hammer

£1,600

1961 Norton Navigator, 350cc. Registration number 721 XUT (non transferrable). Frame number not found. Engine number 96341.
The Navigator was the first derivative of the all-new Jubilee 250 twin that had been introduced in 1958. Designer Bert Hopwood's original conception had called for integral cylinder barrels and 'heads but convention won the day and separate components were used in production. Built in unit with the four-speed gearbox, the Jubilee engine was very 'over-square' by the standards of the day (bore/stroke measurements were 60x44mm) and could be buzzed to 8,500rpm, a quite exceptional figure for a British motorcycle. This modern-looking engine was installed in a Francis-Barnett derived frame with fabricated 'down-tube'. Towards the end of 1960 the 350cc Navigator was announced. The motor was bore and stroked, while the cylinder block became a one-piece casting. Otherwise changes were few, although the cycle parts were up-rated with the Roadholder front fork and 8" diameter brake from Norton's 'heavyweight' models, and the overall gearing raised to exploit the larger engine's increased power. Motor Cycling achieved a top speed of 89mph with a Navigator Deluxe, which also returned a commendable 56mpg during the high-speed test.
XUT has had a recent new 12 volt electronic ignition fitted along with crank oil seals and tyres. The MOT history goes back to 2008 at 32,124, MOTed most years until 2014 it is now at 32,549 miles.
Sold with the V5C, MOT history and a magazine article.