Tag Archives: Norton

Brian Gillen Joins Norton Motorcycles As Chief Technology Officer

Norton Motorcycles has been making headlines lately due to its now-parent firm TVS Motor Company, one of many largest motorbike producers in India. We lately talked about TVS’ plans of bolstering Norton’s motorbike lineup with contemporary new fashions. While these new fashions aren’t anticipated for launch till 2026, it’s clear that Norton’s been taking some steps in the proper route.

On February 6, 2024, it was introduced that Norton Motorcycles had appointed Brian Gillen as its new Chief Technology Officer. For reference, Gillen beforehand served because the R&D director of MV Agusta, and was liable for among the model’s most groundbreaking fashions. These embrace the MV Agusta LXP Orioli and even the rumored Superveloce 1000 we talked about not too way back. With such achievements beneath his belt, it’s clear that Gillen has his work lower out for him, as Norton Motorcycles enters its growth section.

MV Agusta Superveloce 1000 - Front, Left

Brian Gillen was reponsible for the likes of the MV Agusta Superveloce 1000. 

As we mentioned beforehand, Norton will likely be taking a three-pronged strategy in relation to its revitalized marketing strategy: repair, construct, and fly. The first step will likely be fixing the problems with the model’s present lineup, adopted by increasing its dealership community. In whole, it was estimated that the initiative would take between 24 to 40 months, as defined by Norton CEO Dr. Robert Hentschel. Clearly, Brian Gillen performs a pivotal position in all of this, as his job will contain the event of the model’s next-generation fashions, which can greater than possible embrace each electrical and internal-combustion fashions.

Apart from increasing its current mannequin vary, Norton Motorcycles can also be eyeing international growth. This implies that its fashions should conform to the various laws and security requirements current in a number of markets – a accountability that seems to suit Brian Gillen’s new job description. With all that being stated, Dr. Hentschel has utmost confidence in Gillen’s talents. ““Brian comes with very rich experience and expertise in engine and vehicle design, emerging technologies, and connectivity,” he acknowledged.

Norton Commando 961

Norton is hoping to increase its mannequin vary by 2026.

Commenting on his new position at Norton Motorcycles, Gillen stated that he appears ahead to creating premium bikes bearing the enduring Norton badge. “I am looking forward to work with the talented team of engineers and develop cutting-edge, premium motorcycles, with quality at the forefront of everything we do.”

It’s clear that the administration of Norton Motorcycles is taking huge steps to make sure that the corporate is ready to construct a stronger presence and launch higher fashions out there. As for what precisely Norton has in retailer, nicely, your guess is pretty much as good as ours. That being stated, Norton presently has three bikes in its repertoire – all of which occupying the premium phase. These encompass the Commando 961, V4SV, and V4CR.

Take A Look At Norton’s 125th Anniversary Limited Edition Range

Norton Motorcycles may have faced challenges recently, but as one of the few OEMs around since 1898, they have announced the release of six new limited edition bikes to celebrate their 125th anniversary. Only a total of 125 of these bikes will be produced, each featuring a special design in tribute to a past Norton model.

The limited edition 125th-anniversary bikes will be based on the modern Norton Commando 961 SP, Norton Commando 961 CR, Norton V4SV, and Norton V4CR. Let’s take a closer look at each of the six Limited Editions.

Norton Commando 961 LE ‘Energette’

Norton Commando 961 LE Energette

The original Energette was Norton’s first motorcycle produced from 1902 to 1906. It was a bicycle with an engine, and the 125th Anniversary bike draws styling cues from the original bike, including its deep yellow colorway and brown saddle.

Norton Commando 961 LE ‘Manx’

Norton Commando 961 LE Manx

Produced from 1937 to 1962, the Manx was a notable contender at the Isle of Man TT. The 125th Anniversary bike echoes the silver and black color scheme of the original, with modern features such as Öhlins suspension and carbon fiber elements.

Norton Commando 961 LE ‘Transatlantic’

Norton Commando 961 LE Transatlantic

Created in 1972 for racing in the Formula 750 category, the original Transatlantic has been honored in the 125th Anniversary interpretation’s red, white, and blue livery on a Commando 961.

Norton Commando 961 LE ‘588’

Norton Commando 961 LE 588

Inspired by the Norton F1, this bike incorporates the original 588’s livery in a modern context.

Norton V4SV ‘588’

Norton V4SV 588

The Norton F1’s 588cc engine no longer powers the LE Norton V4SV, but it retains the iconic look of the original 588.

Norton V4CR ‘588’

Norton V4CR 588

With a nod to the ‘588’, the LE V4CR also embodies modern features such as gold anodized OZ Racing wheels.

Pricing and Availability

The Norton 125th Anniversary Limited Edition Commando 961s (the Energette, Manx, Transatlantic, or 588) are priced at £18,999 (approximately $23,719) each. The price for the Norton V4SV ‘588’ is £51,999 (around $64,917), and for the Norton V4CR ‘588’, it is £49,999 (about $62,420). Both V4 models offer the option to add a race exhaust as an additional accessory.

These limited edition bikes are limited to 125 units, and interested buyers in the UK can register their interest on the official Norton webpage. Orders are currently being accepted from UK residents as of November 22, 2023.