The story of Norton Motorcycles gains momentum with the release of the new V4SV. Still using the in-house V4 motor, it's been detuned to 'only' 185bhp!

Is This The Most Beautiful Motorcycle In The World?

The story of Norton has had more ups and downs than a roller coaster but here we still are, talking about a new model.

And what a debut. Could this be the most beautiful motorcycle in production today?

Of course, the Norton V4, a 1200cc superbike, was first unveiled five years ago and it certainly turned heads, until the first bikes were delivered (or not delivered, as was the case) and were found to be less than well-developed.

Fast forward to 2020 and Norton Motorcycles (UK) was officially declared dead by the receiver, while CEO Stuart Garner was under investigation for fraud involving the Norton pension scheme. Indian manufacturer TVS then stepped in and bought the name and intellectual property and announced big plans for newly-named Norton Motorcycle Co. Ltd. With deep pockets, it was hoped by all that this signalled a proper return for the iconic brand.

At first, the plan was to fix the problems with the original V4 but it seems the problems were, if not insurmountable, then far too ingrained to bother trying to repair. So it was that the engineers got their heads down for a year and completely re-worked the V4, coming up with what is no known as the V4SV. And doesn't it look stunning? What's more, the new bike marks the return of the famous Manx name, with the lower spec version called the Manx and the full-fat model called the Carbon.

Visually, little has changed and that can only be a good thing. The chassis is still a handmade, TIG-welded tubular affair, while the engine is a 1200cc, V4, detuned from 200bhp to 185bhp.

There are two reasons for this reduction. Firstly, it will address some of the reliability problems. Secondly, it signals Norton's intent to make the V4 a fully-fledged road bike. The previous model V4 was available to buy as a 'kit bike', taking advantage of British laws that allow such vehicles to have less stringent emission rules. This meant no catalytic converters and race exhaust systems. For the new V4SV, Norton will fit larger, quieter and cleaner exhaust systems, which explains the hike in weight from 395lb to 426lb (dry).

Suspension is carried over from the old model, being top-shelf Ohlins NIX 30 forks and TTX GP rear shock. Brembo handles the braking, there's lean sensitive traction control, a rear view camera, quickshifter and keyless ignition.

Both bikes have carbon fibre bodywork, but the Manx version is painted silver while the Carbon version has the weave exposed. The Manx gets OZ Racing forged alloy wheels and the Carbon gets BST carbon rims.

No word on pricing but don't expect this beauty to come cheap. Do expect, however, to lust after it like you used to lust after Farah Fawcett!