Norton Commando 850 Introduction
Download the complete PDF version using the green download button at the top right of this page for an illustrated introductory article on the Norton Commando 850. This opening feature places the 850 Commando in context, reviewing its short but highly significant production life, its strong sales success and the reputation it earned as one of the most admired British motorcycles of its era.
The article explains that the 850 was directly derived from the earlier 750 model and arrived in 1973 with a larger 828cc engine. It highlights the Commando’s distinctive Isolastic mounting system, which was designed to reduce vibration by isolating the engine and transmission from the rest of the motorcycle, while also noting that correct Isolastic adjustment was important to maintaining good handling.
The introduction also discusses the 850 Commando’s strengths and weaknesses, including its handsome appearance, strong power delivery, claimed 65 bhp at 7,000 rpm and claimed 120 mph top speed, alongside the oil leaks, electrical issues and crankshaft concerns that affected its reputation. The second page provides a contents preview for the wider Commando 850 feature series, covering studio photography, speed claims, road testing, model evolution, owner impressions, chassis and engine sections.
Contents Include
- Introduction to the Norton Commando 850
- Relationship between the 750 and 850 models
- 828cc engine development overview
- Isolastic vibration isolation system discussion
- Handling considerations and Isolastic adjustment notes
- Period reputation, strengths and known weaknesses
- Claimed horsepower and top speed figures
- Sales success and production context
- Preview of the full Commando 850 feature series
- Studio, road test, evolution, chassis and engine sections
