The Norton RC 588 was a motorcycle produced in 1987-88. It had a twin rotor rotary engine with a capacity of 588cc and a compression ratio of 9.2:1. Its twin 34/36mm Amal smoothbores provided its induction while its ignition was triggered by Norton’s “hall effect” CDI. This motorcycle was capable of producing up to 101kW/135hp at 9500rpm. It had a 20-plate, wet clutch with a 5-speed transmission and a chain as its final drive. Its frame was made up of a Spondon twin spar aluminium which was complemented by a White Power upside-down fork in addition to a White Power single rear shock as its front and rear suspensions respectively. The Norton RC 588 was fitted with a twin Lockheed caliper, twin Spondon front disc and a single Brembo caliper, Spondon disc as its front and rear brakes respectively. It weighed 145kg/320lbs.
Technical specifications:
Make Model: Norton RC 588
| Year | 1987 – 88 |
|---|---|
| Engine | Twin rotor rotary engine |
| Capacity | 588 cc / 35.9 cu in |
| Cooling System | Air cooled |
| Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Induction | Twin 34/36 mm Amal smoothbores |
| Ignition | Norton “hall effect” triggered CDI |
| Max Power | 101 kW / 135 hp @ 9500 rpm |
| Clutch | 20-Plate, wet |
| Transmission | 5-Speed |
| Final Drive | Chain |
| Frame | Spondon twin spar aluminium |
| Front Suspension | White Power upside down forks |
| Rear Suspension | White Power single rear shock |
| Front Brakes | Twin Lockheed calipers and twin Spondon front discs |
| Rear Brakes | Single Brembo caliper and Spondon disc |
| Dry Weight | 145 kg / 320 lbs |
| Source | Bonhams |
