Norton has announced two versions of its off-road-oriented Atlas for release in 2019.
It has promised to produce 500 for the next model year, split between the Nomad, priced at just under $18,000 and the Ranger at nearly $21,000.
This will make them Norton’s most affordable models and also takes the UK niche manufacturer into the adventure-bike market segment.
Both models are based around a tubular steel chassis bearing an all-new parallel twin engine that’s been developed as a spin-off from Norton’s forthcoming 1200cc RR superbike V4.
Norton is promising full Euro4 emissions compliance and an impressive 84bhp at 11,000rpm. Those are high revs for a twin like this, and a lofty power figure. For comparison, Kawasaki’s Ninja 650 – with a roughly similar bore, stroke and capacity – makes 67bhp at 8000rpm.
Look out for the comprehensive assessment of the Atlas range at www.amcn.com.au.
By BEN PURVIS