http://www.apbt.online-pedigrees.com/public/printPedigree.php?dog_id=231401 recently picked this up, told its a 1937 norton. bike is complete and original, all numbers match. bike runs. was told its a WD500 and was used as some sort of mail/postal work. i have no idea as to the bikes value, any help would be appreciated. email me at [email protected]

It's certainly a late 1930s 16H. The front brake on the drive side rules out 1939 or 1946. The complicating factor is that War Department machines were built to 1937 specification as late as 1944 or 1945. Prior to late 1939 when frames and engines gained a "W" prefix, Norton numbers did not match. Bearing in mind that Nortons built less than 10,000 machines per year pre-war but over 100,000 for WD contracts then there is a good chance that at least some parts are ex-WD. Prior to 1942, I would have expected an 8" headlamp. It appears to have rigid handlebar mounts which again hint at WD origins. Has the bike spent some time in the Far East ? Knowing the numbers and seeing pictures of the timing side and of the rear chain stays would help in a more positive ID. Have you had a look at Rob van den Brink's WD16H website ? http://home.tiscali.nl/wd16h/ It contains much which you will find useful in sorting out what you have. Rich.

the engine numbers are w76466, with an additional numerical marking of 79 x 100. does this help?

The "W" prefix indicates WD (War Department) and the number suggests late 1941 / Early 1942.