Norton Superlight SS: a supercharged, carbon-framed, 170bhp version of 650 twin

Norton have supercharged their 650 Superlight super-twin and thrown in a carbon-fibre frame, subframe and swingarm to create a genuine lightweight sportsbike. The new chassis weighs 47% less than the aluminium item on the standard machine and with claimed figures of 170bhp and 160kg the SS looks like a serious bit of kit.

Visitors to Motorcycle Live at the NEC have been checking out the latest arrival from the Donington Hall-based outfit, but only 50 will be made and you’ll only get a fiver change from £50k.

Norton’s Head of Design Simon Skinner said: “The dimensions and feel of the frame will be identical to the aluminium version. We want to create the same feel and feedback and not make it too stiff.

“We’ve used the same gearbox and running gear as the V4 so we always knew it could cope with the extra power of a supercharger. This bike is about showing what we can do technically. It’s a work of art.”

While the Superlight SS is a limited-edition model, Skinner would not rule out putting the non-supercharged engine into the carbon-fibre frame or putting the supercharged motor into the aluminium frame. “It’s all interchangeable and we have options down the road,” he added.

Norton Superlight SS highlights:

• Supercharged 650cc twin 
• 170bhp / 55ftlb torque 
• 160kg (claimed) 
• Price £49,995

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