NORTON

Double 750 Record-Breaker -1974

The flying cigar

In a desperate effort to improve its sales, Norton - already in serious financial difficulties - let itself get carried away in 1974 by a project devised by Dennis Manning. The American, who in 1970 had built a "flying cigar" for Harley-Davidson with which Cal Rayborn had set a record of 265.5 mph, promised Norton that he would establish a new world two-wheeler speed record in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Tandem Power Unit

Knowing how powerful the Harleys were, Manning was convinced that he could get more power output by coupling two tuned Norton Commando 750 engines in tandem.

Aerodynamic Expertise

Having convinced the factory, he recruited the aid of dragster ace Tom Christenson, whose "Hogslayer" (also powered by two Commando engines) was then the dominant force on American drag strips. While "TC" built the running gear (which operated on a secret alcohol-based mixture), Manning constructed a new cigar-shaped shell in which the rider sat ahead of the engines, keeping frontal area to a minimum. Unable to master his bike, he turned to veteran dragster Don Murray - who also had trouble controlling the machine at speeds of 300 mph. Don Murray tried again after a highspeed accident, reaching 271 mph in one direction. Engine problems prevented him from making the return run that would have secured the record.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine: two 750cc Norton Commando aircooled twin-cylinder four-strokes in tandem

Power Rating: 200-225 hp@ 7000 rpm

Valves: overhead

Fuel System: fuel injection, using alcoholbased fuel

Transmission: chain primary and final drives

Frame: tubular trellis girder

Brakes: disc (rear only) and twin parachutes

Wheels: 18 inch alloy with Goodyear tires (front & rear)

Maximum Speed: 280 mph

Still bearing the scars of Don MurrayÂ’s high-speed accident, the Norton streamliner is shown being readied for its final attempt on the world twowheeler speed record.