I have been looking at O&M today and been surprised just how few motorcycles had been ordered by the War Department before war broke out in September 1939. It appears that Norton had received orders for just under 10,000 machines but BSA, Triumph and Matchless had received orders of just a few hundred. Does annoy one know when Norton ceased production of civilian machines as I recall it may have been as early as 1938. I would also be interested in receiving any definitive figures of motorcycles ordered and supplied by all manufacturers prior to the outbreak of war. Thanks John T

Norton produced a range of 1939 civilian models as normal. Quite a number still survive, recognisable by the right hand front brake but with pre-war style headlamp brackets.

The last substantial (by Norton standards) deliveries to private customers were on 22nd August 1939. This probably represented the last despatches of the bikes built before the summer holiday.

Although a few machines were delivered in the week after 28th August, there is no mention of 1940 models which would normally be expected after the annual closure.

There were odd private sales into 1940 but probably of factory stock or delayed orders. There seems little doubt that from 1st September 1939, Norton had shifted to government only work.

BSA on the other hand were able to continue supplying customers (particularly overseas) for several months longer.

Norton had ceased works racing activity in 1938...perhaps because of WD contracts (the SWD Big 4s were built in the comp shop)....or perhaps because they knew they couldn't beat the blown BMWs.