As a result of its strategic partnership with TVS Motor Company, Norton’s prospects are finally looking up in a bright light. Following the acquisition of the Norton brand, TVS has focused on ensuring its long-term success by injecting significant funds into the business. To commemorate its milestone anniversary, TVS has pledged to uphold the legacy of Norton alongside substantial financial support, already demonstrating its commitment by grandly marking Norton’s 125th birthday.
Since its inception in 1898, Norton Bikes has accomplished a legacy worth cherishing. Norton’s advertising team succinctly captures its heritage: “You don’t win eight World Championships, 94 TTs, and numerous ‘Bike of the Year’ awards without pushing boundaries.” Norton’s storied past is marked by influential manufacturing achievements and a string of iconic models that revolutionized the global motorcycling industry.
To commemorate this milestone, TVS is set to pay tribute to Norton’s most notable achievements by releasing a limited-edition series of 125th Anniversary models in 2024, marking a significant chapter in the brand’s rich history. Discovering alongside these other iconic motorcycles, you’ll come across the Norton V4CR 588 bike.
The V4CR 588 is based on Norton’s newly introduced V4 Cafe Racer, a naked version of their highly acclaimed V4SV superbike with full fairings.
The V4CR embodies the perfect blend of classic flair and modern sophistication, harmoniously marrying timeless design elements with cutting-edge performance components and innovative technology features.
Crafted at Norton’s state-of-the-art facility in Solihull, each bespoke V4CR model boasts a potent 1200cc V4 powerplant delivering a substantial 185bhp and 125Nm of torque. The energy delivery to the rear end is facilitated through a 6-speed transmission and features a standard quick-shifting mechanism. Air is sucked in through uncovered air intakes flanking the gas tank’s entrance, while spent gases escape via a durable titanium exhaust system. The weight is claimed to be 204 kg, achieved through the strategic application of aerospace-grade aluminum and carbon fiber in generous quantities.
The sleek, high-definition 6-inch digital dashboard seamlessly conveys crucial ride metrics, including performance indicators, navigation details, and essential operational information back to the rider. Here is the rewritten text:
Three distinct engine modes – moist, highway, and sport – offer a range of options for varying riding conditions. Additionally, features such as lean-angle sensitive traction control, front and rear anti-lock braking systems (ABS), and wheelie management provide enhanced stability and control.
To further elevate the performance of its engine, Norton has incorporated a high-end brake and suspension package. Equipped with Brembo’s premium stopping power, the motorcycle features twin 330mm floating discs and radially mounted calipers at the front, paired with a single 245mm disc on the rear for enhanced braking performance. The suspension setup comprises Öhlins NIX30 forks with a generous 43mm diameter and a specially designed Öhlins TTXGP monoshock at the rear, carefully tuned to provide exceptional handling and stability. The pièce de résistance of this comprehensive offering is a duplicate Öhlins steering stabilizer, ensuring the front end stays firmly in check throughout various driving conditions.
Crafted in collaboration with the prestigious Isle of Man TT course, the V4CR tubular featured a machine-aluminium hand-welded body that exemplified its manufacturer’s commitment to excellence. The swingarm and yokes, crafted from robust aluminum, showcase a seamless marriage of form and function. Topping everything off, the chassis boasts an impressive range of adjustments, including rake, steering offset, and swingarm pivot settings.
With its sleek, aerodynamic design, the V4CR’s entire body is crafted from lightweight yet incredibly durable carbon fiber. The entire undercarriage, spanning from the gas tank to the rear unit, features carbon components including faceted covers, fenders, and a sleek bellypan – all meticulously engineered to minimize weight while maintaining the distinctive design aesthetic of the V4CR compact.
The 558th version of the V4CR pays homage to Norton’s racing triumphs in the 1980s and 1990s, both on highways and at the legendary Isle of Man TT course. Built around the iconic RCW588 Works Racing Livery, this bike boasts a sleek black finish, punctuated by bold, vibrant blue pace stripes that command attention. The 125-unit Norton V4CR 588, adorned with gold pinstriping and OZ Racing’s distinctive cast wheels in a gleaming anodized finish, pays tribute to John Gamers’ influential sponsorship of the RCW588 in 1989. What’s more, each vintage bicycle proudly sports a commemorative 125-year anniversary plaque on its saddle.
While apart from these variations, this restricted version mannequin is essentially identical in performance and capabilities to the standard model. Each of the 125 Norton V4CR 588 motorcycles will be available for purchase at an approximate price point of $62,500 USD, allowing customers the option to upgrade their ride by adding a racing exhaust for an additional fee. As Norton begins accepting orders, it’s likely that demand won’t be overwhelming given the competitive pricing; however, I’m confident they’ll sell out before year-end.
