220bhp Crighton CR700W needs a new home

A spiritual image of the iconic Norton RCW588, this Crighton CR700W is one of the very few motorcycles that still produces its power from a rotary engine.

And this Christmas you could get your hands on one; number 15 of 25 that were built, to be specific. It has been ridden for less than 200 km (around 124 miles) and is dressed from head to toe in carbon fibre. The ultimate track weapon you could say!

The CR700W produces an eye-watering 220bhp, combined with a dry weight of just 129.5 kg. The bike has had just one owner from new and three hours of total use, which includes two track days at the Donington Park circuit. Add those numbers to the bike’s low mileage, and you’re looking at a machine that remains very new, and seemingly in very good condition. 

The reference to Norton shouldn’t come as a surprise as the Crighton CR700W was designed by Brian Crighton, who was also the brains behind the rotary-powered RCW588 that was often seen racing at the Isle of Man TT.

The Crighton CR700W delivers its 220bhp at 10,500rpm, courtesy of a 690cc twin motor, which also produces 105 Ib-ft of torque at 9,500rpm. That equates to a breathtaking 319hp per litre, according to Crighton, which is more potent than a lot of MotoGP bikes from over the years and even the Ferrari F2004 F1 car.

As well as the impressive power and torque figures, and its carbon fibre appearance, the CR700W bolsters a spec sheet that’s equally fitting. 

Upgrades in the form of Ohlins FGR 300 front race forks, Brembo GP4-MS 108mm calipers, a brand-new top yoke to allow for the FGR 300 forks, and new Bridgestone slicks have been made.

According to Crighton, the bike’s titanium and inconel exhaust ejector “utilises the rotaries’ exhaust system to generate a high energy vacuum through the core of the engine.” What this means is that the vacuum generates a quicker flow of air through the “finned apex of each rotor tip”. 

Now, to get your hands on the specific CR700W mentioned above, head over to the MSG Racing Suzuki Facebook page for more information. That includes details such as the price which is listed at a whopping £154,495.

Photo credit - MSG Racing Suzuki

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