Norton 1930 ES 2 490cc 1 cyl OHV 3510

Norton 1930 ES 2 490cc OHV single frame # 38791 engine # 43580
The ES 2 is Norton’s second OHV model; the Model 18 was brought out in 1923 and for the 1928 season a new model OHV is presented, based on the successful new OHC racer that will be marketed as the CS 1. The new OHV basically uses the Model 18’s overhead-valve engine with its pushrod return springs enclosed in the cradle frame of the CS 1, and from then onwards the ‘Enclosed Springs2’ designation is always applied to Norton’s top-of-the-range overhead-valve single. We may wonder if there also was a ES 1 design; possibly the ES 1 model name would resemble the CS 1 too much and therefore the ES 2 was more discriminate, but that is just a guess. At its introduction the ES 2 is the most expensive of the 500 cc OHV models. The design is improved step –by-step through the thirties: it gets a four speed foot-change gearbox, rubber-mounted handlebars, fully enclosed and positively-lubricated valve gear and new cams with flat followers for quieter running. For 1939 plunger rear suspension becomes available as an optional extra. After WW2 the model gets the new Roadholder telescopic forks and plunger rear suspension as standard. In 1953 ( the year of the AMC merger) swinging arm rear suspension enters the scene and the ES 2 gets a featherbed frame in 1959. In 1963 the last ES 2 leaves the production line – at Plumstead, not Bracebridge Street – after a development history of 35 years.
This 1930 ES 2 is highly original, has been checked against the works records and has matching numbers for the frame and engine. She was despatched on January 15, 1930 to dealer Julians in Reading, the first owner being a Mr. Blake from Calcot, near Reading. With the bike comes a continuation logbook issued in 1949 showing the machine spent quite some time in the Reading area. It was owned in the 1950s by a Mr. Mace, who corresponded with the Works about his Norton and appeared to be quite pleased with it.
Recently the ES 2 underwent a thorough mechanical restoration with the original or old paintwork having been left intact as much as possible. The engine has been fully rebuilt with and got new bearings, piston, valves and guides. Gearbox, clutch, magneto, carb, wheels and brakes have been refurbished. A recent copy of the works records as provided by the VMCC is available.
Lucas front and rear lamps, dynamo, battery and Bosch claxon have been fitted, but are not wired. A notable feature is the eye-catching polished alu primary cover, that also shields the magneto and dynamo chains.

Video: https://youtu.be/_loKcB8V4Uw