Yup, that works...
IMAGES: NORTON
After years of development, five race bikes and the odd 131mph TT lap, Norton has finally pulled the covers off its drop-dead gorgeous V4 superbike. Created, crafted and assembled at its factory in Donington Hall, the new V4 comes in two variations; the £44,000 V4 SS, which has already sold out of its exclusive run of 200 models, and the £28,000 V4 RR which will be released for sale in 2017. But, alluring looks aside, what makes these things so special?
Well, perhaps the most exciting part is the 1,200cc V4 power plant hidden underneath that shiny chassis, which is identical on both the SS and RR. The engine has been meticulously designed to be as small as possible, meaning that the 72-degree V-angle of the engine has allowed the bike’s length to be reduced massively; making it a visually petite looking machine – almost 600cc sized. It's so dainty that the starter motor and oil are slung on one side while the exhausts are tucked in on the opposite, giving the V4 potential to be an absolute brute in the twisties. A lot of the engine is hand fabricated using 'expensive' materials to keep the weight both down and forward in the chassis; ultimately helping out with the geometry.