The world of adventure motorcycles just got a thrilling upgrade with the highly anticipated Norton Atlas and Atlas GT. These middleweight bikes, unveiled by Norton Motorcycles, promise an exciting blend of performance and versatility. In this article, we'll delve into the key features and my personal insights on these upcoming models.
The Norton Comeback
Norton's return to the spotlight began with a bang at EICMA last November, and now they're back with a bang. The Atlas and Atlas GT are the latest additions to their lineup, following the impressive launch of the Manx R. These adventure bikes offer a more accessible price point compared to the flagship sportbike, making them an attractive option for riders seeking an adventurous spirit without breaking the bank.
Design and Visual Appeal
Visually, the Atlas models exude a futuristic yet minimalist charm. Large, sleek bodywork panels create a modern aesthetic, enhanced by a simple yet effective color scheme. The Atlas stands out with its 7-inch travel suspension, front and back, providing a robust off-road capability. The Atlas GT, with its 5.5-inch travel, leans more towards road-focused adventures.
Powering the Adventure
At the heart of these bikes is a liquid-cooled 585cc DOHC parallel-twin engine with a 270° crankshaft. This powerhouse delivers an impressive 69 hp at 9,300 rpm and 42 ft-lb. of torque at 7,300 rpm. The engine is paired with a wet multiplate slipper clutch and a six-speed transmission, offering a smooth and responsive ride. A bidirectional quickshifter ensures seamless gear changes, making it a rider's dream.
Structural Integrity
The steel trellis frame, utilizing the engine as a structural element, is a masterpiece of engineering. It provides a perfect balance of rigidity and feedback, ensuring a stable and responsive ride. This innovative design also contributes to weight reduction, with the Apex model weighing in at a mere 414 pounds (wet weight, with an empty fuel tank).
Braking and Handling
The braking system, featuring ByBre calipers (a Brembo sub-brand), offers superior stopping power. The dual radial-mount front calipers and 310mm discs provide excellent control and precision. The Atlas's 19-inch front and 17-inch aluminum alloy wire-spoked wheels enhance its off-road capabilities, while the Atlas GT's 17-inch cast wheels open up a world of road-focused tire options.
Electronic Features
The Norton Atlas models are packed with electronic features, including a lean-sensitive anti-lock braking system, traction control, and cruise control, all controlled by a Bosch six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit. Selectable ride modes, rear wheel slide control, wheelie control, and hill hold assist further enhance the rider's experience. A 33.3-inch ride height and an 8-inch TFT display with navigation and Bluetooth connectivity complete the package.
Final Thoughts
The Norton Atlas and Atlas GT are a testament to Norton's commitment to innovation and performance. With their accessible price point, powerful engines, and advanced features, these bikes are set to make a significant impact on the adventure motorcycle market. Personally, I'm excited to see how these models perform and how they shape the future of adventure riding. It's an exciting time for riders, and I can't wait to see these bikes in action!
