Description
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
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.
Better still, such changes meant that Norton could bump the displacement without fear of rattling the rider to pieces. Thus, in 1973, the brand introduced its 850 engine to the Commando line. Thanks to its 8:5:1 compression ratio and 32mm Amal carbs, the 828cc parallel twin put down 60hp at 6,200rpm and boasted much more low-end torque. In order to provide adequate stopping power for that extra giddyup, Norton also replaced the front twin leading-shoe drum with a hydraulic disc brake.
Cycle World put it best here in its Norton Commando 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 in September 1973, this example is VIN: 308130, engine #: 308130. The seller acquired the bike one year ago from a private party in California.
During his ownership, the seller has covered less than 1,000 miles. The odometer shows 2,921 miles. However, the odometer was replaced as part of the restoration, so true mileage is unknown.
Maintenance:
Per the seller: the bike has “$15k plus in restoration and upgrades from Colorado Norton Works.” He provided documentation to show some of the work performed.
After receiving some inquiries regarding the extent of the rebuild, we reached out to Colorado Norton Works for further clarity. They confirmed that this bike (build #035) was delivered 07/11/2003. Additionally, they note that it was a “full rebuild… that would have included a complete engine and gearbox rebuild” and that it was “built up on a bare frame.”
The seller reports that the bike has been “well maintained and it was recently cleaned, polished, and mechanically inspected by a multiple championship-winning AMA and Motoamerica mechanic” throughout his ownership.
Modifications:
Custom paint.
Brembo brake caliper, rotor, braided stainless steel brake line.
Mikuni carburetor, aftermarket air filter.
Custom billet triples, headlight brackets.
Modified front and rear hubs.
Corbin seat.
Smiths electronic speedometer, voltmeter, and tachometer.
Magura levers.
NGK spark plugs.
Turn signal and mirror delete.
Guardian bell.
Not pictured is a high-output alternator, tri-spark electronic ignition, single coil setup, and belt-drive primary.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Avon Roadrider tires with date codes of 2815 and 3915.
The sale includes one key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Norton is offered on a clean California title with registration current through November 2023.
Have any Commando 750 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
