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NORTON
850 john Player Norton Replica· 1975
Road bike, track style
Rider/tuner Peter Williams joined Norton in 1969 and began developing a 750cc production racer using a power unit developed from the Commando twin. It first appeared in the 1972 Tourist Trophy, but was eliminated because of gearbox failure. For 1973, an entirely new machine with a monocoque frame/ tank was developed, which gave Williams a well-deserved TT win.
From Reality to Replica
Flushed with its racing success, Norton launched an exclusive run of 750 Production Racers, replicas of the works john Player Norton team bikes, to be sold to private entrants. The next move was far more commercial; late in 1974, Norton unveiled a production John Player replica intended to add sparkle to an aging model line-up.
Aerodynamic Style
The dolphin fairing, whose style was as stunning as it was aerodynamic (its drag coefficient was just 0.39), was a faithful copy of the racer. It incorporated, as on the 1973 Bol d'Or machine, dual headlamps in the blisters that shrouded the drop handlebars. The effect was magnificent. That year, Norton abandoned the racing 750, which developed 80 hp at 8000 rpm, in favor of a 60 hp, 828cc, bored-out version of its standard engine. It
was this unit that was fitted in the ]PN replica. There were further compromises: the replica had neither the light-alloy rims nor the rear disc brake of the racing machine. But did it really matter? The JPN replica was reasonably priced and a delight to ride.
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 828cc (77x89mm) air-cooled twincylinder four-stroke; "Isolastic" engine mounting
Power Rating: 61 hp @ 5900 rpm
Valves: overhead-camshafts
Fuel System: two Amal carburetors
Transmission: 4-speed, chain final drive
Suspension: relescopic forks (front); swing arm (rear)
Brakes: disc (front); drum (rear)
Wheels: 4.10x19 inch (front & rear)
Weight: 437 lb
Maximum Speed: 121 mph
Seen here at the famed Montlhery banked circuit south of Paris, the Norton John Player Replica is today a valued collector's piece.