Trading as Barton Engineering, Barry Hart had a background in developing Suzuki triples for road racing.
In 1975, Barton joined up with Spondon frames to produce the Sparton, which was modelled on the Suzuki RG500, with a square-four disc-valve two-stroke engine. However, it differed greatly in construction and detail. Following on came the Phoenix 500 and 750 fours which performed well and became famous in the eponymous film Silver Dream Racer starring David Essex. The company was then involved, together with CCM, with Armstrong Competition Motorcycles and worked on their engines. Eventually the progressive research and design tactics of Suzuki and Yamaha outstripped the Barton fours.
Source: Graces Guide
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