Motorcycle Classics Magazine – January/February 1998 – Issue No. 21

Norton 652 SM Test | Norton Revival | Dresda Triton | Moto Guzzi Centauro | Vincent Motorcycles | Daytona | Classic British Motorcycles

An original January/February 1998 edition of Motorcycle Classics Magazine, Issue No. 21, published by Myatt McFarlane plc.

This vintage motorcycle publication features a major exclusive examination of the Norton 652 SM, an intriguing modern interpretation of the famous British Norton motorcycle marque.

The magazine combines classic motorcycle history, unusual engineering projects, contemporary road testing, British motorcycle heritage and enthusiast commentary.

It is particularly interesting for collectors of Norton memorabilia, Vincent motorcycles, Triumph-based specials, Moto Guzzi machines and British motorcycle publications from the late 1990s.

Front Cover – Norton 652 SM

The front cover features a large action photograph of a motorcycle rider aboard the Norton 652 SM.

The rider wears a distinctive black full-face helmet decorated with a Union Jack design, grey and black racing leathers featuring Kushitani branding, and black motorcycle gloves.

The motorcycle has a silver and black finish with a visibly exposed engine, black frame, sporting bodywork and compact styling.

The Norton name is visible on the fuel tank, together with the wording "Made in England".

The main headline reads:

"652 SM Test – Norton Back From The Dead?"

The cover also advertises:

• Daytona V Daytona

• Moto Guzzi Centauro – A Personal View

• Dresda Triton

A particularly attractive cover for enthusiasts of the Norton marque and the attempted revival of British motorcycle manufacturing during the 1990s.

Inside the Magazine – Main Features

The supplied photographs include the original contents pages, allowing several articles and subjects to be identified.

Norton 652 SM – Page 14

One of the principal features of this issue examines the Norton 652 SM.

The article discusses the new Norton motorcycle displayed at the NEC Show and explores its design, development and place within the Norton name's continuing history.

The contents identify motorcycle journalist Alan Cathcart as the writer investigating the project.

The accompanying contents photograph shows the complete motorcycle in side profile, displaying its silver and black styling, exposed engine, distinctive frame and sporting road-bike appearance.

An interesting period feature documenting efforts to revive one of Britain's best-known historic motorcycle manufacturers.

Dresda Triton – Page 34

An article exploring a motorcycle combining a Triumph engine with Norton chassis engineering.

The contents discuss the historic Triton concept and investigate a comparatively unusual Dresda-built example.

This feature is especially relevant to enthusiasts of British motorcycle specials, Triumph engines, Norton frames and traditional cafe racer engineering.

Living With The Cardinal – Page 40

A feature about the Triumph Cardinal, a relatively unusual British motorcycle project.

The contents refer to the last of the Triumph pushrod three-cylinder T160 machines and the Cardinal's complicated background.

The article discusses an example connected with Steve Wilson and the motorcycle's unusual history.

An appealing subject for collectors interested in Triumph triples and less familiar British motorcycle developments.

We've Come A Long Way – Page 48

A comparative feature examining the development of Triumph motorcycles.

The contents describe a comparison between a 1955 Daytona and a Daytona 1000 from the 1990s.

The article considers the different generations of Triumph engineering and the considerable changes in design and performance over time.

What's So Great About Vincent? – Page 60

An examination of the enduring reputation of Vincent motorcycles.

The article considers what makes the marque so highly regarded among classic motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors.

Particularly interesting for readers interested in Vincent engineering, motorcycle history and classic British motorcycle ownership.

Bold Venture – Page 64

A feature by Alan Cathcart exploring an unusual motorcycle project developed through an enthusiasm for motorcycle engineering and design.

The contents reference a distinctive machine associated with Augusta and its creator.

An example of the magazine's coverage of individual builders, unusual machines and specialist motorcycle design.

Moto Guzzi Centauro – Page 72

A personal examination of the Moto Guzzi Centauro.

The contents describe different reactions to the motorcycle's unconventional appearance and riding characteristics.

This article offers a period perspective on one of Moto Guzzi's distinctive 1990s motorcycles.

Of interest to collectors and enthusiasts of Italian motorcycles, unusual road-bike styling and the Moto Guzzi marque.

Additional Features and Articles

The magazine also contains or advertises:

Classics in Japan – Page 86

Frank Le Boucher explores classic motorcycle culture in Japan, finding a variety of unusual machines and enthusiast interests.

Van Veen Reunion – Page 86

Coverage of Tony Page's recreation of a rare motorcycle gathering involving Van Veen owners and enthusiasts.

The Biased Guide – Page 91

A light-hearted motorcycle buying guide discussing machines that inspire strong opinions, both positive and negative.

What We Ride – Page 102

An introduction to motorcycles owned by contributors to Motorcycle Classics.

The contents mention Dave Minton and Rowena Hoseason presenting their own machines.

Regular Columns

The photographed contents pages identify several regular columns:

• Bend Swingin' – Page 106: Dave Minton.

• Point of View – Page 108: Tim Holmes.

• Air-Cooled – Page 110: Julian Ryder.

These columns provide additional period commentary and enthusiast perspectives on motorcycle ownership, design and classic motorcycling.

Original Publication Details

Magazine: Motorcycle Classics

Date: January/February 1998

Issue Number: 21

Publisher: Myatt McFarlane plc

Language: English

Format: Printed motorcycle magazine

Main Cover Feature: Norton 652 SM

Additional Subjects: Dresda Triton, Vincent, Triumph Daytona, Moto Guzzi Centauro and British motorcycle engineering

Condition: Pre-owned / Vintage

SKU: 1585

Condition – Important Information

This is a genuine pre-owned motorcycle magazine from 1998 and shows signs of previous handling, reading and storage.

The following observations are based on the actual photographs supplied.

Front Cover

• Visible rubbing and general surface wear across the printed cover.

• Fine scratches and scuff marks, particularly noticeable over darker areas of the motorcycle photograph.

• Some light creasing and handling impressions across the cover.

• Wear around the lower edge and corners.

• The original cover price area has a retailer's price sticker or label attached at the upper right, partially obscuring the original printed cover information.

• The cover design, main photograph and principal headlines remain clearly visible.

Spine and Edges

• Visible rubbing and handling wear along the spine.

• Light stress and creasing around the bound edge.

• Some corner softening and minor edge wear.

• Slight irregularity around the outer edges consistent with an older magazine.

Interior Pages

• The photographed contents pages retain clear text and photographs.

• Some mild age-related discolouration and handling wear can be seen.

• The pages show light waviness or curvature when opened.

• The photographed binding appears intact, although every page has not been individually inspected.

Overall Condition

A readable and collectible vintage magazine showing expected signs of age and use.

It is not in pristine or mint condition, and buyers should expect some cosmetic imperfections associated with an original publication from 1998.

Please examine all photographs carefully before purchasing. They form an important part of the condition description and show the actual magazine being sold.

Important – Original Extras

This listing is for the magazine shown in the photographs only.

Any original free gifts, promotional items, detachable inserts, additional supplements or other loose materials that may once have accompanied the magazine are **no longer included unle