Upon its introduction at the 1967 Earls Court Show, the Norton Commando was an instant classic; Motor Cycle News named it Motorcycle of the Year in 1968… and continued to do so for the next four years in a row. Though the bike borrowed much of its componentry from the Atlas and Dominator that had come before it, it finally remedied one issue that had plagued British motorcycles for years: vibration.
In order to accomplish such a feat, Norton ditched its trademark Featherbed chassis — a daring move considering its reputation for its low weight and impressive handling — in favor of an all-new design. Rather than mounting the engine directly into the frame, the Commando instead canted it forward between a pair of cross-frame tubes and some rubber buffers. On the road, this kept the swingarm true to the engine, effectively isolating the rest of the bike from vibrations produced at higher rpms.
As Cycle World put in its retrospective review: “Norton Commandos are a joy to ride. They blitz the chicanes and squiggle through gridlock with equal finesse—and return 50 mpg. Whether 750 or 850, the Commando is one British classic meant not to be babied or paraded—but used.”
Manufactured October 1973, this example is VIN: 309414. The seller purchased the bike from a private party five years ago.
During his ownership the seller has covered approximately 300 miles. The seller states the odometer currently shows 15,348 miles.
Maintenance:
The seller states, “Complete rebuild in the pages of Cafe Racer magazine including fresh alloy bodywork, front brakes, Avon Roadrider tires, Alton electric starter, wiring harness, and battery. Andover Norton peashooter mufflers, Tab II Classics extra aluminum cowl seat. The 850cc engine was completely rebuilt by Raask Cycle of Pittsburgh in 2018 with new pistons and rings. The bike has traveled approximately 2,700 miles since. The motorcycle has a 34mm Mikuni carburetor and fresh oil lines and a NYC Norton anti-sumping valve fitted.”
Modifications:
Brembo front brake caliper, steel braided brake line.
Alton electric starter.
Andover Norton peashooter mufflers.
Mikuni carburetor.
Tab II Classics extra aluminum cowl seat.
Custom rear tail and brake light, license plate relocation.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Avon Roadrider tires with date codes of 3617 and 3221.
The sale includes one key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Ambridge, Pennsylvania, this Norton is offered on a clean Pennsylvania title. Have any Commando 850 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
