Engine and design
Let’s look at the Norton V4CR: originally a prototype, it has now reached production readiness and is going into production. Equipped with a 72-degree liquid-cooled 1200cc V4 engine with chain-controlled camshafts and a diverter gearbox for reduced engine height, it delivers an impressive 185 bhp (188 hp / 183 hp) at 12,500 rpm and 125 Nm of torque at 9,000 rpm. The engine has a bore and stroke of 82mm x 56.8mm and is equipped with a 6-speed transmission and a slipper clutch.
The Norton V4CR features a slim, under-seat carbon fiber fuel tank with Kevlar reinforcement, which lowers the center of gravity and improves handling. This tank holds 15 liters of fuel. The entire bodywork of the Norton V4CR is made of carbon fiber, giving the motorcycle a modern and sleek look.
Driving technology and electronic aids
Technically, the Norton V4CR is excellently equipped and offers various riding modes: wet, road and sport. It also has a full LED light package, a TFT instrument and electronic riding aids. There is a quickshifter with blipper (i.e. for upshifting and downshifting without clutch actuation), and it has a keyless ignition system with electronic steering wheel lockout. It also offers electronic aids linked to the driving mode: Lean-angle sensitive traction control with a 6-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU), ABS, and wheelie control (all lean-sensitive).
Suspension, brakes and tires
The Norton V4CR’s chassis consists of a fully adjustable Öhlins suspension with a NIX30 fork up front and a TTXGP monoshock in the rear. For the deceleration components, they chose Brembo Stylema monoblock brakes with 330mm discs up front and a 245mm disc in the rear. The Norton V4CR is offered in two versions: the Carbon model, with Carbon Fibre BST wheels, and the Manx model, with Oz Racing Forged Aluminum wheels. For the initial tires, Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tires were chosen, and the wheelbase is 1,435 mm.
An optional aftermarket racing exhaust is available (not street legal).
Eye-catching details
What gives the Norton V4CR its unique and eye-catching look is the polished billet aluminum swingarm and matching frame. With billet footpegs as well as a compact frame and shortened tail, the Norton V4CR presents a sporty look.
The Norton V4CR as the future of the motorcycle industry
The Norton V4CR is more than just another motorcycle on the market. It is meant to be a sign of the future of the motorcycle industry. With its combination of performance, style and innovation, it sets a new standard for what a café racer can be.
Price
Priced at £41,999, which equates to around €49,500 or $59,500, the Norton V4CR will have to compete against some of the best bikes on the market, including models from Ducati, BMW and KTM.
Conclusion
The Norton V4CR is an impressive example of combining racing technology with the charm of a café racer. With its powerful 1200cc liquid-cooled V4 engine delivering an impressive 185 bhp (188 hp / 183 hp) and 125 Nm of torque, and its unique design with carbon fiber fuel tank and body panels, it sets new standards in the motorcycle industry. The Norton V4CR already shows what is possible in the future of the motorcycle industry, as long as the wallet also plays along.
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