Walking into a Norton dealership in 1974, you would have been presented with a wide lineup of offerings with “Commando” on the sidecovers: the John Player Norton, the Hi-Rider, the Street Scrambler, and the Interstate. But the most common was the standard model, otherwise known as the Roadster. The Commando got a 850 motor (actually 828cc) in 1973, but 1974 was a tough time for Norton Villiers Triumph as England’s government withdrew a subsidy early in the year and they suffered through a sit-in at Meriden.
By the end of the year, the company had lost over 3 million pounds. Despite that, the Commando was as beautiful as ever, and the recent 850cc motor was a pleasant upgrade. This was from the last year of production where Norton had the shifter on the right before they had to switch it for US legal requirements.
This example is VIN: 310335, Engine #: 310335.
The odometer shows 15,011 miles.
It was restored a few years ago by Big D Cycle in Dallas, Texas on behalf of James Morlandt. As Keith Martin of Big D told us, “James was a good customer and a dirt track fan. He sponsored quite a few racers and was a real motorcycle guy.” The current owner acquired it from his collection after James passed away.
Modifications:
Corbin seat.
Solo chrome rectangular right side mirror.
Cosmetic Blemishes:
Inside of the fuel tank:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us recently change the oil/filter and clean/sync the carbs.
It is equipped with Avon RoadRider tires from 2014.
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Commando is offered on a clean Texas title.
Have any Commando stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
Continental US: Haul Bikes will ship anything sold through Iconic for a starting rate of $750 in the Continental US (prices may increase in rural markets), and Iconic will handle the paperwork on your behalf. You do not need to crate your bike or drain the gas/disconnect the battery if you go with Haul Bikes. We are glad to work with the shipper of your choice as well, but you will have to arrange it.
Please note:
spares/extras will have to be shipped separately via FedEx or similar.
the fee includes $15,000 of insurance with a $500 deductible. Additional insurance can be purchased at a cost of $50 per additional $5,000 of value.
$5,000 for US to Europe/Asia is a VERY ROUGH ballpark which includes transport as well as customs fees and duties. Please contact Shippio for an exact quote.
