16H, Model 18, or ES2

Andy, my 5 cents (pence) worth.

I think your RE model G is a 350 OHV, in which case it will likely outperform a 16H, and get better fuel economy at the same time. I have a WD16H which i am just getting aquainted with and love it, but you have to be prepared to accept its modest performance. 65MPH top speed maybe.

As far as i know the rigid model 18 and 16H's shared the same cycle parts and bottom end, just the OHV/SV engine variations. ES2's of the same era were a higher spec, getting upgrades which only later filtered down to its more modest cousins. I read something on the RapidHare blogspot suggesting the ES2's had different cams as well, don't know whether that is a performance difference or just quieter running.

I haven't ridden a plunger so can't comment on relative handling vs a rigid, but have heard that cracking of the rear subframe is not uncommon.

If you are on a tight budget and want rigid then a 16H will likely be the cheapest, unless you get lucky.

best of luck in your search.

iain

heres another go...

Previously wrote:

Hi, I am a new new member and although I do not yet own a Norton I am hoping to change that in the near future. I already own a 1951 Royal Enfield Model G but am looking to get another classic bike. I've looked at several different makes but keep coming back to wanting a Norton. I've done a fair bit of research on the internet, in books and by reeding this forum. I particularly like the single cylinder models with girder forks. However, there are still a number of questions that I have.

From what I can see from my research so far, the model 18 and the 16H are very similar bikes with the main difference being the OHV on the 18 and the side valve on the 16H. Are there any other differences I should be aware of that may effect my decision? I appreciate that the OHV will give better performance but are there any 16H riders out there that can comment on the performance of these? Im not sure if the 16H will give the sort of performance I want.

I have also looked at the ES2, I've seen a later one for sale with the roadholder forks and plunger rear suspension. This also looked very nice but I would prefer an earlier one with rigid frame and girders. Are these noticeably better or worse than the model 18?

Finally, are there any models that I may have overlooked or missed? I'm on a budget but am willing to consider most models.

Any help or advice would be much apreciated and I look forward to using the forum, learning about the bikes and hopefully in time sharing my experiences as a Norton owner!!

Thanks in advance

Andy

Hello Andy Have you looked at The Model 20 500cc, And model 22 600cc twin port cylinder head models these machine where built in the 1930s and are a very nice looking motorcycle with good performance !

Andy, ebay always has a number of Nortons for sale, but you could also try classic bike dealers, a simple enquiry on Google should find some matches.

You might have to wait a while, or be prepared to pay top price if your in a rush. The models you have decided to go for are pretty sought after and don't come up for sale very often. Although the're not overhead camshaft money (£20K), a really good one would still fetch upwards of £9K. You are unlikely to find a one requiring restoration, or a bargain.

Of course I have no idea what you plan to spend, or the depth of your pockets, but it won't be cheap. Even a good 16H with girders would cost you £4K -£5K, and these are the budget end, due to the lack of performance.

Good luck, if you find one post a photo.

Paul

Andy, I agree with the previous, the OHV 500's are the best based on their performance and there's a reason why they're expensive. It's because they are ACE. While speed is of course relative, I would not describe my ES2 as having dull performance. And being the plunger framed model, it FEELS fast due to its eeerm... interesting cornering capability. It is not a bike, it's a motorcycle.

In summary, get the machine you really want and the best you can afford. I bought mine as a resto. for £2800 and spent another £2000 I reckon those two figures added together are what it's worth now, so not a profit or a loss but loads of stupid grin inducing fun. You will not be disappointed.

Adam

See pic!