This custom Norton features a 1973 Commando 850 engine and AMC gearbox hard mounted inside of a 1962 “slimline” Featherbed that’s bene powdercoated red for a fantastic combination of classic Norton style with extra oomph. The engine was balanced to help minimize vibrations.
Per a helpful previous owner: “The bike was built in the 90’s by a doctor in Santa Barbara. He was big into the cafe scene and wanted to build the bike he felt Norton should have back in the day. He sourced several components from England such as the Unity Equipe mounting plates for the motor. He suffered from cancer and after passing the bike went up for sale through Bator International. It sold to one gentleman who owned it for a few years then sold it to the guy I bought it from out in Rapid City, South Dakota in September of 2020.
Other highlights of the build include:
Ceriani 4LS front brake with magnesium backing plates and twin cables, Akront shouldered alloy rims with stainless steel spokes.
Norton “Roadholder” forks.
Lyta alloy fuel tank and fenders.
Unity Equipe motor plates, exhaust, and rear sets.
Amal carbs, K&N air filters.
Tomaselli alloy levers.
Norton Atlas oil tank and tool box.
Custom seat.
New old stock speedometer, oil pressure gauge.
Pingel fuel valves and filters.
FIAMM horns.
This example is VIN: 18101202, Engine #: 306214.
The odometer shows two miles – the owner who installed the NOS speedo notes that “the build had 2,800 miles on it when I changed speedometers.”
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection, change the engine oil/filter, and clean/sync the carbs. Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Ok
Engine Oil Level: Ok
Engine Oil Quality: New
2T Oil Level: N/A
Coolant Level: N/A
Coolant Quality: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Final Drive Condition: Outside of spec; worn out and stretched
Headlight High Beam: Ok
Headlight Low Beam: Ok
Passing Light: N/A
Parking Light: N/A
Turn Signals: N/A
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light (Front Switch): N/A
Brake Light (Rear Switch): Ok
Plate Light: TAIL LIGHT
Horn: Ok
Kill Switch: N/A
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: DRUM
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: DRUM
Forks: Ok
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: 11/21
Tire Date Code Rear: 02/21
Tire % Remaining Front: 98%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 95%
Tire Press. Front: 37 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 50 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: 12.25V
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: 13.8V
Running Condition: Runs Well on Bench
Test Ride Completed: None Taken
Test Ride Distance: N/A
Notes:
-No test ride taken due to mileage
-If the bike sits for long periods of time it is possible that the bottom end will fill with oil and on excessive kickstarts with no fire it will push oil through the overflow hose out the back fender.
-Bike is kickstart only, no electric start
Modifications:
In addition to the modifications listed above, this bike also features some upgrades that are not pictured:
– Colorado Norton Works belt drive kit (allows primary to run dry instead of wet).
– Barnett clutch plates
– Boyer 12V electronic ignition.
– NYC Norton sump reed valve to help prevent wet sump as well as engine pressure.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Avon Roadrider Mk II tires with date codes of 0221 and 1121.
The sale includes two keys.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Panorama City, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this Norton is offered on a clean Colorado title.
Have any questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
