Well, I had a dozen other things I wanted to get done today but top of the list was having a read through Inside the Norton 961. What a terrific combination of workshop manual, history and pictorial. So detailed and the picture quality is fantastic. I may have to order another so I have one for the shop and one to keep away from greasy hands. Very nice job Richard! Must have been a ton of work.
My favorite picture is on page 173 of the completely disassembled bike. That’s one way to get to know it! Don’t think I’ll attempt that. My bike, according to the table on page 303, is the only red one sold in Canada in 2014, built in May but yes registered as a 2013, and to be honest, aside from regular checks, fluid changes, head torque checks, clutch basket checks, a battery, etc, I have had no issues with it. Starts every time, no breakdowns and I chalk that up to it being one of the ones Peter Howes had Dave go through and do the PDI. Admittedly I don’t ride it a ton, still under 6000 total miles but I figure that’s like a round trip ride from Vancouver to New York City so not too bad. I like the journey you documented on the last page. Like you I visited the local dealer when Peter was touring the country with the demo but only got to sit on it and then wait a few years before they got approved. Certainly no better person than Dave to take his on a cross country haul that first year to figure out where improvements were needed. Dave was the main test rider and QA for Norton. Too bad Garner didn’t hire him before they released the bikes. I was aware of some of the improvements you guys did but didn’t know about all the engine mods and John Favill’s involvement, and I remember how frustrating that was for you dealing with Donington. Wow.
Thanks for producing this book, detailing the tips and tricks to watch out for, and for all the research and improvements you and Dave have developed over the years, including the 961 specific tools. As I have said before on this forum, I would not have bought mine if not for you guys. Totally agree with your shout out to thank Peter Howes as well. Yes he was instrumental in getting the bikes here and his efforts to deal with the issues are to be commended. It was great to visit you guys a few years back, page 299, and go for a ride. Even got to hear the Domi fired up. Most of your neighbors from there to Niagara Falls also must have heard it. It was great to have Colorado Norton Works support you as well. I visited Matt’s shop a few years back. Great guy. Something about the Norton brand sure attracts the good ones. Please stay connected to the forum Richard. Yours and Dave’s insights are truly appreciated. For anyone who was undecided about whether to buy this book, just do it. You won't regret it. Perfect accessory for the bike you own or the one you dream of.
