This 1967 Norton Matchless N15CS is one of a family of hybrids built by AMC from 1963 through 1968, using a chassis developed for the AMC large singles and heavy twins and the engine forks and wheels of the Norton Atlas. The series had its origin with the release of the 1962-3 Matchless G15/45, a bike with a Matchless designed 750. The engine had a design flaw that made it prone to failure. Matchless had hoped to market the bike as a desert racer in the open class. Norton, also had a brand of AMC at the time, tried to race its new Atlas in the same series but the featherbed frame was not robust enough to handle the rigors of cross country racing. Someone in California had the thought to place the Atlas motor in the Matchless frame and came up with a winning combination. The factory initially built 200 of these G15N’s for 1963.
They were popular enough to market this combination as 7 different models over the following 5 years and in all roughly 5,000 machines were built.
This bike G15CS/123594 was dispatched for Matchless of New York in September 1967 but was titled as a 1968 model. At this time, they were also shipped with 2 sets of badges and could be sold as either a Norton or Matchless regardless of the “G” or “N” stamped on the case.
Background
- Manufacturer: Norton Motorcycles (also known as Norton-Villiers) and Matchless (part of the AMC group)
- Year: 1967
- Model: N15CS
Specifications
- Engine: The N15CS is powered by a 750cc (0.75L) single-cylinder, four-stroke engine. This engine, developed from Matchless’s G85CS design, is known for its reliability and performance, producing around 55-60 horsepower.
- Transmission: The motorcycle features a four-speed manual transmission, providing smooth gear shifts and efficient power delivery.
- Chassis: The N15CS is built on a robust frame designed to handle off-road and racing conditions. The frame's design emphasizes durability and stability.
- Suspension: The front suspension consists of telescopic forks, while the rear uses a swingarm with twin shock absorbers. This setup offers a good balance of ride comfort and handling performance, suitable for both on-road and off-road riding.
Design and Features
- Body Style: The N15CS has a distinctive and rugged design, reflecting its off-road and racing heritage. The bike features a streamlined fuel tank, wide fenders, and a durable frame.
- Design Elements: The design includes elements from both Norton and Matchless, such as the distinctive tank shape and classic British styling. The bike’s design emphasizes functionality and performance.
- Instrumentation: The N15CS includes basic instrumentation such as a speedometer and tachometer, providing essential information for the rider during races and off-road rides.
Performance
- Speed: The N15CS is capable of reaching speeds of around 90-100 mph (145-160 km/h), making it competitive in its class.
- Acceleration: The bike’s engine and transmission provide responsive acceleration, suitable for both off-road conditions and competitive racing.
- Handling: The N15CS offers excellent handling characteristics, with its well-designed frame and suspension contributing to a stable and agile riding experience on various terrains.
Historical Significance
- British Collaboration: The N15CS represents a significant collaboration between Norton and Matchless, combining the strengths of both brands in a single motorcycle. This partnership highlights the innovative approach taken by British motorcycle manufacturers during the 1960s.
- Off-Road Heritage: The N15CS was designed with off-road and racing in mind, reflecting the era’s focus on producing high-performance machines for various racing disciplines.
- Cultural Impact: While not as widely known as some other British models, the N15CS has a place in motorcycle history for its unique design and performance characteristics.
Legacy
- Collector's Item: Today, the 1967 Norton Matchless N15CS is a sought-after collectible among vintage motorcycle enthusiasts. Its rarity, historical significance, and distinctive design make it a valuable addition to any collection.
- Cultural Appreciation: The N15CS is appreciated for its role in the history of British motorcycles and its contribution to off-road and racing motorcycle design.
- Enduring Appeal: The bike’s combination of performance, design, and historical importance ensures its continued interest among collectors and motorcycle enthusiasts.
You may purchase a print of the 1967 Norton Matchless N15CS in our online gallery.
