The upcoming Norton V4 Superbike has been caught during testing ahead of its formal unveiling at EICMA 2025 (scheduled for 4 November), offering perhaps the clearest look yet at Norton’s next flagship.
Under the stewardship of TVS Motor, Norton is signaling a bold shift—not just in styling but in engineering ambition.
What the Spies Reveal
Styling & Form
The spy images show a radical departure from Norton’s previous retro-modern language. The new V4 shuns the “rounder” shapes of its predecessor for sharper, more aggressive bodywork. Prominent dual LED headlights lead the charge at the front, flanked by possibly ram-air ducts integrated into the fairing edges. The fairings sweep aggressively, and the tail section looks compact and stubby, favoring a single-seat or solo-style tail over passenger comfort.
Also visible are twin underslung or underbelly exhaust outlets rather than side-mounted cans, which give the bike a cleaner side profile and potentially better mass centralization. The frame appears matte black, and there are hints of a new structural layout (possibly with the engine as a stressed member) to sharpen handling.
Hardware & Components
Though disguised, several premium components stand out:
- Brakes: The mule features top-tier Brembo Hypure monobloc calipers—an upgrade over previous setups.
- Suspension: Rumors suggest semi-active or electronically adjustable front forks, likely paired with a fully adjustable rear shock (possibly Öhlins).
- Wheels & Swingarm: The bike is spotted with forged wheels and a single-sided swingarm—traits that reinforce its performance ambitions.
- Electronics Suite: As expected for a modern superbike, Norton is likely to equip the V4 with a full suite of rider aids: multiple ride modes, cornering ABS, traction control, ride-by-wire, and an IMU (inertial measurement unit).
Powertrain & Performance Expectations
The engine will likely evolve from Norton’s existing 1,199 cc 72° liquid-cooled V4 platform. In its current form (as used in the V4SV), that engine makes about 185 PS and 125 Nm. For the new V4, Norton is reportedly working on revisions to meet Euro 5+ (or equivalent) regulations, and there is speculation the output could rise—perhaps even nudging into the 200 PS class. Whether the displacement remains 1,199 cc or is bumped remains unconfirmed.
Given the stiffer frame, improved electronics, and refined aerodynamics, the new Norton V4 is likely to deliver sharper handling, stronger braking, and more usable power across the rev range compared to the outgoing model.
Strategic & Market Context
This bike represents Norton’s first ground-up project under TVS ownership. The company has teased that there are three new engine platforms in development, delivering six new models globally by 2027. Among them, the V4 superbike is positioned as the brand’s technological flagship.
In India, Norton is expected to re-enter the market (likely via CBUs initially). The V4 superbike could serve as a halo product, aiming to take on other litre-class superbikes such as the Ducati Panigale V4, Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory, and BMW’s M 1000 RR. Price expectations in India hover in the ₹30–35 lakh bracket, though final pricing will depend heavily on taxation, import duties, and positioning.
By debuting such an advanced superbike, Norton under TVS is sending a strong message: the brand intends to compete at the highest level, not merely as a boutique relic, but as a modern performance house.
What to Watch for at EICMA
When Norton officially unveils the V4 at EICMA, the details to look out for include:
- Exact displacement and peak figures (PS / Nm)
- The full electronics package and rider-assist features
- Weight (dry and wet) and chassis numbers
- Aerodynamic elements (wings, ducts, fairing design)
- Variant structure (track-oriented version, homologation models)
- India-spec details (if shown) and localization plans