Alton electric start

Hi Neil,

Andover show them as being in stock, under their technical accessories page.

I would have a look at the CNW one before buying and work out the costs first. Also talk to Andover Norton about there reliability and of spares parts. I have heard of failures on other bikes and difficulty obtaining spares.

I got mine from Hawkshaw motorcycles Liverpool a couple of years ago, haven`t had to kickstart since. Cheers, Al.

I have had an Alton system on my Commando for quite a few years (it was one of the first to be fitted to a belt-drive primary machine). It works well although I did have an issue with the alternator failing, Alton were aware of an issue with early models and supplied me a modified later version FOC. Looking at the latest pricing the CNW starter is actually marginally cheaper than the Alton system (allowing for VAT on the Andover Norton price for the Alton system) - I'm unsure as to whether any form of tax would be payable on the CNW system - if it is at 20% then this makes the price considerably higher. I've been following the developments of these starters for some time. The Alton system is pretty well established now and has a reasonable reputation. The CNW system was originally intended to not use a sprag clutch design and to use a 'Bendix' type motor (as per the US Brit-Cycle design at circa $4,500!) but they have finalised on a sprag system - they claim that it is very tough! The CNW system includes a new belt drive primary system with a narrow belt which enables the retention of the standard Lucas alternator (thus even three-phase if needed or already fitted). The starter reduction gear is all-gear (rather than via chain in the Alton system). In many other respects I imagine that both systems are quite similar. CNW do have a good reputation but I don't know about spares/support/ import issues.