Norton Motorcycles Ltd. announced today the appointment of industry veteran Dan Van Epps to head-up operations in the USA, and to guide the much anticipated return of the famous British brand of Norton to the U.S. shores.
Norton, the name synonymous with the British sport motorcycling culture, and affectionately known as the “Snortin’ Nortons” while dominating world road racing for decades, resumed production of the Norton Commando in 2009. The first Norton motorcycle, the ‘Engerette’, rolled out of its Birmingham England factory in 1902. It’s fitting that the new engineering facilities and factory for Norton are based at spiritual center of British motorsport, the world famous Donington Park racing circuit, and so near the traditional heart of the British motorcycle industry in Birmingham.
“We have been producing the new 961 Commandos for almost two years, and the orders have been well beyond our most enthusiastic expectations. We’ve had to ramp-up production much earlier than anticipated to grow on pace with our customer’s requests”, noted owner and CEO Stuart Garner. “The exciting news is that we are now ready to enter the important US market, and we’ve chosen Dan Van Epps be CEO of Norton Motorcycles USA. Dan’s depth of experience, and our policy here at Norton to add to the team only the best motorcycle industry professionals, makes him a perfect fit”.
Van Epps is a European motorcycle industry veteran, former CEO of Ducati North America, and while based in Bologna Italy, the Director of Overseas Markets and head of Product Marketing for Ducati. “This is really an exciting opportunity for us, and we are all confident about our future, however, I am keenly aware of the magnitude of the responsibility in the introduction of Norton to the USA”, said Van Epps. “We are fulfilling the dream and delivering the excitement of a truly iconic all British motorcycle. Partnering with dealers who likewise understand the significance of this brand and its rich heritage is critically important and will be the key to our success”.
Starting in May 2011, Norton will begin deliveries in the United States of the famed Norton Commando series of sport road bikes. Models include the traditional Commando 961 Sport, the striking 961 Café Racer and the ultimate performance 961 SE. Visually they retain the signature Norton sculpted lines, while being fully modernized with today’s engineering. Every model features an impressive 961cc computer controlled, fuel injected, counter balanced, parallel twin engine, complimented by the world’s finest components like Ohlins suspension and Brembo brakes.
See www.nortonmotorcycles.com for complete details.
Contact: infousa@nortonmotorcycles.com
Norton Motorcycles USA
P.O. Box 185
Beacon Falls, CT 06403
