get into these fabulous bikes 20 years ago? I've ridden jap 4's since I started biking. Last year I got a loan of the commando (with the option to buy it - which I did) which had been laid up in a barn since the early nineties, took it for a spin & had probably the best fun i've ever had on two wheels. Now I know that the Z's & GSXR's are much faster etc, but what is it about these Nortons? I think it's the tourque thats so addictive, maybae the sound. Much more fun with bags of real character. I also love being able to work on the bike (minor jobs , although I am rebuilding the head myself), something that I probably could never have done with the multis. I could kick myself for not at least trying one instead of reguarding them as prehistoric or 'uncool 'in the early eighties. Thats another plus; they're probably now the 'coolest' bike in the world (apart perhaps for the P11/G15). Can't wait to get mine back on the road!
Why didn't I?
- Thread starter chiefdeal
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I have always said you cant beat a well sorted Commando. I had a Commando in the late seventies/eighties and I have had my current one for about 10 years and out of all the bikes I currently own a ride on the Commando always results in the widest grin. I have actually started to sell some of my other bikes as they don't get ridden as they can't compete against a Commando. A friend of mine who is a bit younger than me and brought up on Jap multi's loves his Commando and its his favourite bike now. Hard to say exactly what it is about them, a combination of torque, sound, smoothness, rideabilty drop dead good looks especially in roadster trim but altogether and outstanding bike. Glad to hear you are enjoying yours.
Best
Colin
Best
Colin
Hi Snakehips
Your statement about Commando ownership will ring true to many readers, they are a great bike and I also should have got one years ago.
I am sure we will all have a wry smile about getting it back on the road again as well...
I also have a 650 Triumph in a wideline Norton frame thats pretty good too...but not the same pull low down as the Commando.
How did you get the nickname? Or shouldn't I ask...
Stu
Your statement about Commando ownership will ring true to many readers, they are a great bike and I also should have got one years ago.
I am sure we will all have a wry smile about getting it back on the road again as well...
I also have a 650 Triumph in a wideline Norton frame thats pretty good too...but not the same pull low down as the Commando.
How did you get the nickname? Or shouldn't I ask...
Stu
maylar
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I did...
I bought my 850 MK II Roadster in May of 1975. It's the only motorcycle I've owned since.
It's strange how the Norton has kept up with my needs over the years. I bought it because it was one of the fastest things on the road at the time (the priority of a 23 year old). As time passed I began to appreciate its handling more than its power. Now that it's a classic I appreciate the clean styling and the attention it draws, and the simple design that makes it relatively easy to maintain.
The Commando does everything well. Not perfect, but much more than respectable. It handles well, looks great and makes such a lovely sound. And the big twin still steps out right smartly when called upon.
It's been a 34 year love affair for me. Make no mistake, she's a Ho' with a mind of her own. When she's bad I think "eBay for you Biatch". But when she's good it's soooo good.
I bought my 850 MK II Roadster in May of 1975. It's the only motorcycle I've owned since.
It's strange how the Norton has kept up with my needs over the years. I bought it because it was one of the fastest things on the road at the time (the priority of a 23 year old). As time passed I began to appreciate its handling more than its power. Now that it's a classic I appreciate the clean styling and the attention it draws, and the simple design that makes it relatively easy to maintain.
The Commando does everything well. Not perfect, but much more than respectable. It handles well, looks great and makes such a lovely sound. And the big twin still steps out right smartly when called upon.
It's been a 34 year love affair for me. Make no mistake, she's a Ho' with a mind of her own. When she's bad I think "eBay for you Biatch". But when she's good it's soooo good.
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