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Norton Dominator 99 SS
1962
1962
The 1962 Norton Dominator 99 SS represents a pinnacle in Norton's twin-cylinder motorcycle development. Building upon the legacy of the Dominator series, the 99 SS aimed to offer a sportier experience. In a market crowded with British twins, the Dominator 99 SS faced stiff competition from machines like the Triumph Bonneville T120, each vying for the attention of performance-minded riders.
At the heart of the Norton Dominator 99 SS lies its 596.0 ccm (36.37 cubic inches) parallel-twin engine. This displacement provided ample power for the era, enabling a top speed of 163.0 km/h (101.3 mph). With a fuel capacity of 16.00 litres (4.23 US gallons), riders could enjoy reasonable range for touring or spirited riding. The engine's responsiveness and overall reliability were key selling points.
Riding the Dominator 99 SS offers a classic British motorcycle experience. The riding position is sporty, but not overly aggressive, making it suitable for longer journeys. Handling is precise and predictable, allowing riders to confidently navigate winding roads. While not plush, the suspension provides adequate comfort for most riding conditions.
The 1962 Norton Dominator 99 SS appealed to riders seeking a stylish and capable machine with sporting intentions. It was aimed at individuals who appreciated classic British engineering and were looking for a motorcycle that offered a balance of performance and usability. Today, the Dominator 99 SS is a highly sought-after classic, prized for its historical significance and enjoyable riding experience.
✅ Why buy this bike?
• Exceptional handling due to the legendary Featherbed frame, providing confidence-inspiring cornering abilities. • Strong, torquey 600cc parallel-twin engine delivers ample power for both city riding and open road touring. • Stylish and iconic design with the 'SS' designation indicating performance upgrades and sporty aesthetics. • Relatively lightweight compared to other bikes of its era, improving maneuverability and overall riding experience. • Good braking performance for its time, offering adequate stopping power for confident road use. • Simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to maintain and repair, appealing to home mechanics.⚠️ Things to consider
• Vibration can be significant at higher engine speeds, potentially causing discomfort on longer rides. • Lucas electrics are notoriously unreliable, leading to potential starting and running issues. • Original Amal carburetors can be finicky and require careful tuning for optimal performance. • Spare parts availability can be challenging and expensive, requiring patience and resourcefulness to source. • Drum brakes, while good for the era, lack the stopping power of modern disc brakes, demanding greater rider skill.Rule of thumb: under 125cc / 15HP → A1, under 47HP → A2, above → A.
Estimated average for 596cc class: 45-60 mpg (4.0-5.5 L/100km)
⛽ Tank: 16.00 litres (4.23 US gallons)
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