Serial Number on Norman Bicycle

Hello

Does anyone know if is possible to determine the date of manufacture from the serial number on the bike frame? The one I am interested in is B61565 and I would be grateful for any advice.

Many thanks
AD

Hi Ashley, have you been able to date your bicycle? I have an original Norman I believe to be 1940 but there are no #'s on the frame. Other than 1 photo on the web I can't even find a visual reference. Any information or references would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Duane

Hello Duane
Unfortunately I have not been able to date my Norman bicycle but from delving around on this site and the web generally I have examined various possible clues on the bike and estimate it probably dates from the 1940s.
The factors leading to this estimation of date are:
1. The frame.  Bolted (not welded) saddle stay.  Brazed on lugs for 15 in pump on down tube. Original black paintwork (untouched and unfaded) under the head tube badge.  The badge itself was the red and white version and refers to “Norman Cycles Ltd Ashford England”.  The frame number is on the junction of the head tube with the down tube.
2. The brakes.  Rod brakes but not Raleigh type.  Supports for rod brakes on handlebar which is stamped “NORMAN  MADE IN ENGLAND”.
3. Wheels.  Woods rims and hubs stamped “PHILLIPS MADE IN ENGLAND”.  Unfortunately the is no date stamped hub gear.
4. The saddle.  At first sight I thought it was Brookes but cleaning revealed  the maker’s name as Bates and the more worn parts still show discernible traces of the words “DUNLOP”, “PLASTIC” and “Patent”.
5. He crank arms is stamped “UTILITY”.
Unfortunately I have not been able to use any of these features to give an accurate date of manufacture and would be grateful for any information anyone can provide.  I suppose it is too much to hope that there still exists some way of dating the serial numbers.
Happy hunting!
AD