IN
THE
WIND
P42
NORTON V4
TEASER
N
orton's long-awaited V4 will be unveiled
at the NEC Show in Birmingham, Eng-
land at the end of November, according to
latest teaser video released by the factory.
We already know the Norton V4 will be
outside the superbike capacity bounds
thanks to its 1200cc displacement,
something Norton CEO Stuart Garner
says came due to the fact the company
does not wish to race this particular model. This
is despite the fact that Australian David Johnson
finished a strong seventh on a 1000cc version of
the machine at this year's Superbike TT.
According to British publication MCN, the new
V4 will come in two models: a base model charg-
ing $34,671, and a higher spec race-replica addi-
tion available in two versions charging $49,528.
One of the race replicas will feature chrome
painted carbon with forged aluminum wheels, the
other with exposed carbon bodywork, a carbon
gas tank and BST carbon-fiber wheels.
"It will have the performance of a Ducati Pani-
gale, but be spec'd much higher, the electronics
will be cutting edge," Garner said to MCN.
We'll have more on this exciting new machine
as it's unveiled, no doubt in drips and drab videos,
as is the current flavor. CN
DAVID JOHNSON PASSES
O
ne of the three founding partners of Polaris, David Johnson, passed away at the age of 93 after a
long battle with illness.
Johnson helped to start the Polaris company in 1954 with his cousins Edgar and Allan Hetteen, and
focused his career on product engineering and manufacturing until his retirement in 1988. Since then
he remained one of the faces of the company, enjoyed visiting the Roseau manufacturing facility and
often gave tours at the Polaris Experience Center located near the plant.
"David Johnson embodied the Polaris culture and work ethic, and his positive impact on the company
continues to inspire us today," said Polaris Chairman and
CEO Scott Wine. "David valued hard work, passion for
the riding experience, and an unwavering spirit of innova-
tion. He set a tremendous example with his dedication
and commitment to the company and employees. We are
saddened by his passing and offer our sincere condo-
lences to Eleanor and David's family and friends." CN
Polaris founder David Johnson passed away at the age of 93.
Norton says its road
bike will closely
mimic the TT racer
of David Johnson,
seen here.
