And now for something completely different: 1972 Norton-Fiddeman racing sidecar

I know what you are thinking. You came to Rare to see what was new and exciting – perhaps expecting to see an imported smoker, homologation sportbike or even 80’s era survivor – to find this. What is this, and why should we post it? This, my friends, is a bicycle built for two. This is your solution for more trackdays AND spending more time with the family. Here is an opportunity to invovle the significant other deeper into your hobby. This is a rare and unique sidehacker racing rig.

This particular bike, although no longer running the original BSA motor, has a racing history in the UK – including the Isle of Man. Currently fitted with a Norton 750cc twin (both sounding and looking period correct) this offering is only the second sidecar we have posted on these pages (the BMW-Krauser Domani being the first). If you are among the vocal set who don’t give a hoot about rare Ducatis or hyper exclusive (and expensive) Bimotas, this English-built and raced three wheeler might be more your speed.

From the seller:
Norton powered sidecar racer

This amazing vintage sidecar racer is now ready to track test, race, parade or just show off. It’s a special way for 2 people, slightly crazy of course, to have a great time tearing up the tarmac. With fresh radial tires, handling is better than ever and the engine, gearbox and brakes are strong and willing.

Two good friends, with a lot of help from others, brought this project to good running order. One, a lifelong Norton enthusiast and the other a passionate motorcyclist, decided to collaborate on breathing new life into this worthy race contender. Its future now appears as bright as its past. The photos tell the story in somewhat chronological order.

Before there was billet alloy and cnc machining there were builders with great skill, cutting & welding high grade steel into very competent race worthy sidecar outfits Made professionally in the U.K in the early 70’s by MGF (Mike Fiddeman) racing sidecars, a highly respected constructor, this machine was campaigned in the U. K., including the Isle of Man. At that time it ran from new with a 3 cylinder BSA 750cc engine. It was then brought back to the US by its American husband and wife team, where it continued racing succesfully, mostly on the east coast & Canada. We are in touch with the original owner and he’s very excited and helpful about sharing his knowledge. But, this is where our history becomes a bit clouded. It was sold to another racer, taken out west then returned to Chicago. Somewhere along the line it was fitted with a Norton 750cc twin, probably when the BSA engine became too tired to carry on?

I’m hoping this listing will be seen by someone who may be able to share more history? It’s waited patiently these many years to come back to life with a mighty roar. Every attempt has been made to respect its originality, and there are now many venues that allow racing sidecars track time. We will be happy to share all that is known about this historic racer with the new owners.

Not for the faint of heart, but definitely for the young at heart.

So if you are finding some difficulty getting the significant other to write a check for that next bike, maybe this one will help. It is already nicely restored and ready for action. Throw in the incentive of matching leathers and helmets and a track day can become a special date outing.

Would your significant other climb aboard? Let us know in the comments. Mine certainly would, but she would need to ride in the driver’s seat because I would rather be the monkey on this rig (insert your own monkey joke here). Besides, who could turn down matching helmets and leathers?

So what does a racing kneeler with history run these days? I really don’t have a clue, but I can tell you that this very bike failed to sell at the famed Mid America motorcycle auction in Las Vegas earlier this year. Records show it was bid up to $6,500 without meeting reserve. Check out the pictures and videos, and then check out the auction here to see if this one will go the distance.

MI