The 1964 Norton Atlas was a 750CC and mainly an export version of the domestic Dominator. This bike handled very well for 1964 with the renowned “Featherbed” frame and “Roadholder” front forks. Not a weak performer in its day as it was designed for doing “the ton” (100mph) with other period performance bikes.
Key Features and Specifications
- Manufacturer: Norton Motorcycle Company
- Model: Atlas
- Year: 1964
- Engine:
- Type: Air-cooled, parallel-twin, four-stroke
- Displacement: 745 cc (45 cubic inches)
- Bore x Stroke: 73 mm x 89 mm
- Compression Ratio: Approximately 8.5:1
- Power Output: Around 55 horsepower at 6,500 rpm
- Top Speed: Approximately 110 mph (177 km/h)
- Transmission: 4-speed manual, with optional 5-speed gearbox available later
- Frame: Featherbed frame (dual downtube cradle frame)
- Suspension:
- Front: Telescopic fork
- Rear: Swingarm with twin shock absorbers
- Brakes:
- Front: Drum brake (later models equipped with a single disc brake)
- Rear: Drum brake
- Weight: Approximately 185 kg (407 lbs)
- Fuel Capacity: Around 4 gallons (15 liters)
- Design: Classic British motorcycle design with a focus on performance and handling.
Historical Context
The Norton Atlas was introduced in 1962 as an evolution of the Norton Dominator model, aimed at providing increased power and performance for riders. It was part of Norton's lineup during a period when British motorcycles were highly regarded for their engineering excellence and competitive performance in racing.
Design and Features
- Parallel-Twin Engine: The Atlas featured a robust parallel-twin engine known for its smooth power delivery and reliability, making it suitable for both everyday riding and competitive use.
- Featherbed Frame: Renowned for its exceptional handling characteristics, the Featherbed frame provided stability and agility, setting Norton motorcycles apart from their competitors.
- Performance: With approximately 55 horsepower, the Atlas offered strong acceleration and a top speed that made it competitive in its class during the 1960s.
- Optional Upgrades: Over its production run, the Atlas saw improvements such as the introduction of a 5-speed gearbox and upgrades to the braking system for enhanced performance and safety.
You may purchase a print of the 1964 Norton Atlas in our Riding Into History d'Elegance 2016 online gallery.
