Norton Motorcycles has officially unveiled its new Atlas and Atlas GT motorcycles, revealing complete specifications and pricing for the UK market. Interestingly, both models have been spotted testing extensively on Indian roads in recent months, further fueling expectations of an upcoming launch in India.
What Makes the Atlas and Atlas GT Different?
While the Atlas and Atlas GT share the same platform and powertrain, they are designed with different riding purposes in mind. The Atlas is built for adventure touring, whereas the Atlas GT is tailored for road-focused riding and long-distance comfort.
Powerful 585cc Parallel-Twin Engine
Both motorcycles are powered by a 585cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine featuring a 270-degree crankshaft. The engine produces 69hp and 57.5Nm of peak torque and is paired with a 6-speed gearbox. To enhance the riding experience, Norton equips both models with a bidirectional quickshifter and slipper clutch as standard.
Robust Chassis and Distinct Suspension Setups
The Atlas and Atlas GT are built around a high-strength steel trellis frame, with the engine acting as a stressed member. Both bikes also feature a cast aluminium swingarm.
The adventure-focused Atlas comes equipped with fully adjustable KYB suspension offering 180mm of travel at both ends. It rides on a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel combination and will be available with either cast-alloy or wire-spoke wheels. Ground clearance stands at 220mm, seat height is 845mm, and the bike weighs 188kg without fuel.
The Atlas GT, on the other hand, has been tuned for improved on-road handling. It features 17-inch wheels at both ends and reduced suspension travel of 140mm front and rear. The seat height is lowered to a more accessible 815mm, making it suitable for a wider range of riders. Norton has yet to disclose the GT’s kerb weight.
Advanced Electronics and Safety Features
Braking duties are handled by twin 310mm front discs and a 270mm rear disc, paired with ByBre calipers on both motorcycles.
The bikes also feature an advanced electronics suite managed by a Bosch six-axis IMU, including:
- Lean-sensitive ABS
- Traction Control
- Drag Torque Control
- Cornering Cruise Control
- Wheelie Control
- Rear Lift Control
- Rear Slide Control
Riders can choose from five riding modes: Urban, Rain, Sport, Tour, and Enduro.
Feature-Packed TFT Display
Both motorcycles come equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen TFT display similar to the unit found on the Norton Manx R. Key features include turn-by-turn navigation, GoPro connectivity, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi integration, over-the-air (OTA) software updates, keyless ignition, electronic locking systems, and keyless fuel cap access.
Apex Variant Adds Premium Equipment
Norton will also offer a premium Apex trim for both models. Additional features include:
- Electronic Combined Braking System (eCBS)
- Vehicle Hold Assist
- Heated Grips
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- LED Cornering Lights
- Adjustable Windscreen
UK Pricing and India Prospects
In the UK, the Norton Atlas range starts at £8,250 (approximately ₹10.56 lakh).
Although Indian pricing has not yet been announced, both motorcycles will be manufactured at TVS Motor Company’s facility in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. Local production is expected to help Norton position the Atlas range more competitively in the Indian market.
Once launched, the Atlas and Atlas GT are likely to compete against popular adventure motorcycles such as the KTM 390 Adventure R, BMW F 450 GS, Honda NX500, and Kawasaki Versys 650.
With a powerful engine, advanced electronics, premium features, and the advantage of local manufacturing, the Norton Atlas and Atlas GT have the potential to emerge as strong contenders in India’s growing mid-size adventure and touring motorcycle segment.