From a Ride magazine this month.
NORTON COMMANDO 961
They may never build any more, so is buying one now a good investment?
DREAM OR NIGHTMARE?
WHY YOU WANT ONEJust look at it — Commandos are stunning machines, with high-class suspension components that sound amazing and are as ‘Made in Britain’ as any machine gets this century. Expect sharp handling, a proper ‘classic’ riding experience and loads of torque
Pictures Chippy Wood
The Commando is one of the most iconic names in British biking
It’s part of Norton’s fraught past, present and future
Founded in 1898, Norton stopped producing its ever-decreasing range of bikes in the 1990s, though there were attempts to revive it. US Norton tuner Kenny Dreer acquired the brand and ended up making his own Commandos but the business wasn’t successful and the rights were bought by Brit Stuart Garner. Since 2010 Garner’s team has been producing re-engineered versions of the original concept from Donington. Sadly, as RiDE went to press, the firm had fallen into administration.
Don’t expect it to feel modern
Dreer’s pushrod air-cooled parallel twin can trace its lineage back to Norton’s post-war designs and although modernised by Garner’s Norton, it feels like a ‘classic’ and about at its limit producing 80bhp. Slow to rev, it’s happier thudding along at 4000rpm and feels strained as you near the redline. It’s vibey and the gearbox doesn’t like shifting gears quickly. 2015-on MkII versions are a bit better, though.
Better chassis than engine
Commandos come with varying levels of suspension, brakes and wheels, but all share decent geometry with sweet steering and feel lighter than their 188kg dry weight. All are more taut, sportier and more responsive than latter-day Bonnies when it comes to the twisties.
Taking a test ride is essential
There is a reputuion for oil leaks and engine trouble. Check all gaskets and breather pipes for leaks. A longish test ride will expose this. Some owners upgrade plugs and coils for better running so check for misfires. On early bikes also check for snatchy fuelling.
It’s a second or third bike
You’ll never find a Commando with mega mileage but there are lots of bikes with low miles on offer. Depreciation is now a big question, so go in low. If you treat is as a bike for sunny days and nonessential trips, there’s more charm than most modern retros. But more risk, too.
You’ll need to be brave — there were problems when the company was fully functioning but from now on, spares and support could be an issue. However, they will always have a value for wealthy Brit bikers.