Description
This motorcycle is Lot 50 to be auctioned by Bonhams at the Timed-Online June Sale, please see the Bonhams website for full details. The timed online auction runs between June 6th through June 16th, with lots closing from midday June 16th 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 11th & 12th June 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, by appointment only at Bonhams Milton Keynes.
Lot 50
Norton Racing Motorcycle Combination
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. none visible
Engine no. 200019
• Raced by the late Stan Nightingale
• Offered directly from the Nightingale family
• Norton Commando engine (believed 750cc)
• History unknown
• Offered for restoration
This Norton-powered 'kneeler' racing outfit has come from the family of the late Stanley Nightingale. Stan Nightingale was a commercial vehicle builder from Heaton Norris, Stockport; he raced at most short circuits in England and also at the Isle of Man TT. Bonhams sold most of Stan's collection of motorcycles some eight years ago leaving only this outfit, which is now offered for sale following the death of Stan's widow.
The 1959 Sidecar race was Stan's first TT and he came home in 17th place at 61. 54mph, gaining a Finisher's Award. Soon after the TT he collected a couple of 3rd places in sidecar races at Catterick and Aintree, and in April 1960 won two sidecar races at Rhydymwyn. He went on to secure podium finishes at various short circuits and in April 1961 won the sidecar race at Rhydymwyn.
Then as now, the Isle of Man TT represented a stern test of both man and machine, and Stan's debut result would turn out to be his best; in his subsequent nine sidecar TTs he finished only once: in 1965, coming home in 26th place. He rode a Norton in the two 1969 Sidecar TT races (his last) but it is not known if this was the machine used.
The engine number suggests it came from a 1972 Commando (750), but the engine's top end looks like the later (850) type. It is not known when the outfit last ran or when it was last raced by Stan Nightingale. Offered for restoration, its condition, capacity and completeness unknown, the machine is sold strictly as viewed. There are no documents with this Lot.
A large quantity of related racing spares offered from Stan's estate may be found in the Spares and Memorabilia section of this sale. Key not required.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
