Please tell me this is a JOKE!

I'm not disputing the Bobbers comfort since it isn't a hardtail and they are touting the suspension as massively upgraded. Still sounds a little weird to me. Yea, I'm retired. I'm also the shopper and chef for the working family. :rolleyes: I've done up to 250 on the Norton a few times. Not a problem. Don't forget, myNorton spent over 2 of 4 years at the shop waiting for parts. Also, since my leg was broken and I'm still recovering (just got the hardware yanked out) I'm keeping my rides to 50 to 100 miles. Anyway, we're still going to disagree on some of the fit and finish issues. Never said I didn't like either.
 
I'm not disputing the Bobbers comfort since it isn't a hardtail and they are touting the suspension as massively upgraded. Still sounds a little weird to me. Yea, I'm retired. I'm also the shopper and chef for the working family. :rolleyes: I've done up to 250 on the Norton a few times. Not a problem. Don't forget, myNorton spent over 2 of 4 years at the shop waiting for parts. Also, since my leg was broken and I'm still recovering (just got the hardware yanked out) I'm keeping my rides to 50 to 100 miles. Anyway, we're still going to disagree on some of the fit and finish issues. Never said I didn't like either.

You mention parts, and getting back on topic that is exactly my point. The 961 in its present form is not going to be legal for sale in our part of the world and Europe much longer! Anything that keeps it in production is a plus in my book!
 
You mention parts, and getting back on topic that is exactly my point. The 961 in its present form is not going to be legal for sale in our part of the world and Europe much longer! Anything that keeps it in production is a plus in my book!
 
I've thought of that, as long as they are tooled to the exact size and specs of what we own now. I don't have a problem with more production if the quality control is there. Royal Enfield has had its problems here too. Waiting forever for parts and some quality control issues. Its a nice little bike but also quite troublesome. Wonder if we'll see their new 47hp 650s on US soil.
 
Been away at the Motogp so come into this late. Is this the same India owned media group that said Masertati were transferring to India as well a coupe of years ago. Will have to catch up but just cos its written somewhere on the internet doesn't mean its true.
 
Hi - spoke with Stuart on Sunday and he is fully aware that some may accuse him of shifting manufacturing abroad but he is totally committed to manufacturing remaining in Britain and is insistent that Indian manufactured bikes are only for local consumption. The revenue these Asia/India deals bring in will help to fund this commitment to UK manufacturing.

Yes - the 961 will be legislated out of existence, no surprises there, so buy yours now! There are interesting new bikes in the pipeline and of course the new 650 engine.
 
I think Stuart is doing the right thing. It will help keep the company afloat. Any Norton's are better than no Norton's IMHO. Based upon what I read they were suffering a little bit financially (cant believe the internet though, like you said). I hope this will help them. I think it will.
 
I wouldn't doubt if they bail out of the US market. They aren't selling. Maybe one dealership keeps one or two in stock?

I remember reading (circa 2010) that Norton planned to have a dealer in each of the fifty states. There are only four US Dealers listed on nortonmotorcyes.com now. :(
 
Why aren’t they selling stateside? Of course, a lack of dealer network is part of the answer, but is that all? Are they over priced? Is Norton as a brand too little known? Or what...?

It’s a huge market at the end of the day...
 
I think the 961's appeal is to a very niche market.
It is over priced to the general motorcycling public, and even those who may have a small passing interest in classic styling.
Associating the Norton name to an air cooled/pushrod motorcycle will not have much draw for the young craving technology and performance.
Garner knows that to grow the company he has to offer a more diverse product line with some high performance specs.
So far he hasn't really put a foot wrong in his business vision.
 
Why aren’t they selling stateside? Of course, a lack of dealer network is part of the answer, but is that all? Are they over priced? Is Norton as a brand too little known? Or what...?

It’s a huge market at the end of the day...
not enuff models/options/choices
 
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/news/new-bikes/2017/october/triumph-speedmaster-bobber-t120-2018/
"Inspire me

With over 130 custom accessories available you can change pretty much anything you like, but Triumph have created two ‘inspiration’ kits if you want a one-stop custom option. The ‘Highway’ kit includes a full waxed cotton and leather pannier set, adjustable touring screen, comfort rider seat, matching wider pillion seat, and a host of chrome features including engine bars, passenger back rest, luggage rack and a polished machined oil filler cap."

http://www.motorcyclenews.com/news/new-bikes/2017/july/indian-motorcycle-2018/
 
Good point. I would wager also that companies like Triumph and, even more so, Harley, probably make almost as much revenue through accessories as bike sales! So it does seem like Norton are missing a trick here somewhat.
 
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/news/new-bikes/2015/october/new-triumph-street-twin-launched/

"Meet the all-new Bonneville Street Twin, a bike aimed at appealing to the widest possible selection of riders ranging from those who are new to big machines, to those who want something to customise or who just want a simple – but modern – classically-styled roadster.



Make it your own

Triumph are pitching the Street Twin as a bike that owners can easily customise and there’s an extensive list of Triumph accessories.

Triumph said: “With the launch of the new Bonneville accessories range, which has over 160 new stylish dealer-fit accessories for the Street Twin, it’s never been easier to create your own custom. This includes a garage full of custom inspired parts, including: bench seats, fly screens, new exhausts from Vance & Hines, Ace style handlebars and bullet indicators.”

Three pre-formed special kits allow owners to create a certain look in one go, without having to select individual parts."
 
I've never thought the 961 ridiculously expensive considering the components used. Ohlin, Brembo, rear cowl built to perfection instead of some cheap plastic cover, billet, carbon fiber. You check the prices on these Thaiumph accessories? By the time your done, its quite the expensive bike. I've been eyeing the T120 though. I need to test ride one. Reviews of the suspension and handling aren't favorable and there have been complaints of the front brakes sounding like a freight train.
 
I've never thought the 961 ridiculously expensive considering the components used. Ohlin, Brembo, rear cowl built to perfection instead of some cheap plastic cover, billet, carbon fiber. You check the prices on these Thaiumph accessories? By the time your done, its quite the expensive bike. I've been eyeing the T120 though. I need to test ride one. Reviews of the suspension and handling aren't favorable and there have been complaints of the front brakes sounding like a freight train.
The front brakes were fixed in 2017 throughout the line.
 
The front brakes were fixed in 2017 throughout the line.
Good news. It just seems like a nice easy going bike with adequate power. I'm still interested. Considering it wouldn't be the bike of choice to beat on, I can forgive the heavy handling.
 
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