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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.
This example is VIN: 327929, engine #327929 . The seller acquired the bike 10 years ago from British Import Motorcycles.
During his ownership, the seller has covered less than 1,000 miles. The odometer shows 14,379 miles.
Maintenance:
The seller states that this Norton under went “$17,000 CDN in reputed restoration work over a period of several years. Replaced tires, installed a clutch kit, replaced the battery.”
He states that “the steering neck bearings are a shade loose” and that “the clock does not currently work” but that “it has electric start and a left-hand shifter making it a very nice bike to be a daily rider.”
Modifications:
Aftermarket fairing.
Hagon shocks.
Center stand.
Upgraded 4-pole starter motor with electronic ignition.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Avon Roadrider tires from 2012.
The sale includes a selection of spares and take-off parts, some workshop manuals, and documentation for restoration work.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“Chips in paint on leading edge of gas tank left side.”
“Slight dent above the N on the right side.”
Currently located in Sorrento, British Columbia, Canada, this Norton is offered on a clean Canadian title. Have any 850 Commando stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
