Norton branches out | New South Downs showroom opens its doors to customers

Winchester Motor Group have recently opened South Downs Motorcycles, marking the automotive retailer’s first steps into the world of bikes. The new dealership will solely be a Norton Motorcycles stockist, offering the brand’s full line-up, including the Norton Commando 961 retro roadster, V4SV superbike and V4CR café racer as well as a host of official apparel. 

The Hampshire based site will cater to sales, parts, servicing and repair, making it a one-stop shop for Norton owners in the area. To celebrate the opening, Norton have extended their ongoing ‘Limited Edition Road show’, visiting the South Downs store on 21 February. The event will showcase several special run bikes built to commemorate the brand’s 125-year history. 

Commenting on the venture, Head of Sales for Norton Motorcycles, Chris Bexon, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Winchester Motor Group to open our first Norton-dedicated sales partner location [and] we look forward to celebrating our successes together”.

The motorcycle manufacturer saw its inception in 1898, going on to produce some of the most iconic bikes throughout history. A front runner of the British two-wheeled industry, Norton carries a strong motorsport success with 94 victories to its name at the Isle of Man TT, including Harry Fowler’s win at the inaugural event in 1907, achieving an average speed of 36.21mph. 

The iconic brand has maintained a checkered existence, going from souring highs to financial ruin multiple times over the years. In 2020 it was rescued from uncertainty by Indian automotive giant, TVS motor company and has since grown considerably in strength, erecting a cutting-edge manufacturing facility in Solihull with the help of a £100-million investment.  

Expressing his confidence in the partnership, Mark Mills-Goodlet, Managing Director of Winchester Motor Group, said: “We’re very excited to be joining Norton’s expanding network of sales partners”.