Help the Noob Out

I think I am channeling my late father except in a modern way. I am considering the purchase of a Norton 961 which I do not need since I have enough bikes but no Brit bikes yet... :mrgreen:

I have found a few at Gold Coast which they have an SF and Cafe both in Silver and a Sport in Black. This is where the problem lies. I want black SF.

OK Question: Can you really tell the difference between the SF vs the Sport. My understanding is the front shocks and brakes are better but if I am not racing this bike why do I need the added performance other than to say "yea I have the SF"

So again can you tell the difference between the SF vs Sport?

Another question... what color do you prefer? Black or Silver

PS. I could live with Silver and actually kinda of like it better but the wife likes the black. I know I should grow a set of B#!!&

Welcome potratz

The Sport has right side up forms, the SF and CR have upside down forks and the headlight ears are different on the Sport and the SF because of this. The forks are both Olins units and excellent.

The SF and CR have radially mounted Brembos up front.The Sport has standard style Brembos. You can argue that the radially mounted Brembos provide better feedback and control at the margin of controllability. Most users will never approach that point. As you said, you will not be racing the bike.

I believe the SF has black chrome pipes and mufflers. The Sport, and CR have regular chrome.

As far as the engine, and EFI system are concerned there is no difference.

The Sport with right side up forks is actually a more faithful representation of the original Commando.
Also, black and gold is the classic Commando color.

You said your wife likes the black and gold, does she intend to ride with you?
If so, make sure that the Sport is a dual seat version.
Whether you get the Sport or SF, the bike is beautiful. And great fun to ride.
Regards.

BritWit summed it up well.

I have a 2013 Sport/SF but it has USD Forks and Radial Brakes (it's a long story)

I don't think most riders can tell the difference between Conventional and USD forks and Radial and Conventional Brakes, I know I can't.

You will save bit of money buying the Sport too!

You can always add the carbon fibre bling later making it look like an SF

I have the black sport. Bought it from Gold Coast. The silver is nice, but I think too tame. Black is tre elegante. Also, needs more wiping down, but, its a bike, not an SUV. Performance on the Sport.....never rode the SF, but, at 80HP, the standard mounted Brembos are way more than adequate unless your doing 120 in traffic. I have no issues with the Ohlins. I go pretty far over at a good clip and get no shakes or warbling. Nice and steady. Good luck with the decision. AND....if you've already got more than enough bikes without argument, your lovely bride has earned her say. LOL :wink:

Gentlemen thank you. That was a big help and pushed me closer to the slippery slope of adding another bike to the garage.