Biking legends: Norman Hyde

Published: 07 September 2023

Norman Hyde is one of those people whose name has become a brand in itself.

He’s virtually synonymous with Meriden Triumphs and worked alongside design guru Doug Hele at the factory near Coventry.

This man is most definitely a legend.

“My father was fascinated by machines,” says Norman.

“He got fascinated by a weaving machine, so he decided to have a go. He built his own and made a scarf which I still have, then broke the loom up as he’d proved he could do it!”

Norman passed the 11+ and wreaked havoc at school by putting potatoes in exhausts and setting off fireworks.

But then he landed an apprenticeship at W&T Avery, who made scales and weighbridges…

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By Saffron Wilson

MCN Reporter - Saffron's love for motorcycles began early, growing up surrounded by them and riding as soon as she turned 16. She pursued a BA in Creative Writing and Fine Art, followed by a Level 3 Diploma in Journalism from the NCTJ while gaining work experience at a local newspaper. Saffron's career includes various marketing roles in the automotive industry, but her passion for motorcycles led her to join MCN in April 2021. Since she joined, she has dabbled in off-road riding and track time, but touring remains her favourite hobby. Saffron, often seen traveling for features, rides a Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail when not working for MCN.