It’s official. The Norton Commando- in all its beautiful, imperfect glory- is dead. And with no real funeral to speak of. Just a quiet fading away, in line with the total overhaul of both Norton’s branding and range.
I’ve been eager to ride this bike since my Dad added the SP to his own stable in 2024. With its days numbered, I couldn’t pass up the chance to take out one of the last bikes at Macpherson Motorcycles for an afternoon. Even if it was in some of the worst weather conditions we’ve seen in months!
History
Originally released way back in 1967, the Commando was a 745cc parallel-twin machine that was popular all over the world. It won the MCN ‘Machine of the Year’ for 5 successive years from 1968 to 1972, and over sixty thousand units were made. Some say it was the swan song of British motorcycle engineering, before the industry collapsed in the late 1970’s.
Since then, it’s safe to say that Norton and the Commando have had their fair share of controversy. Several attempts were made to revive the Commando model- including the company’s notorious era with Stuart Garner at the helm. But I’m not here to talk business, so let’s move swiftly on!
In 2020, TVS bought Norton and invested heavily, releasing the latest iteration of the Commando in 2023. There are two variants- the Sport (SP) and Cafe Racer (CR). Today I’m riding the SP.
Specs
The SP is the roadster version of the Commando- with upright bars, and more relaxed ergonomics than the CR. Both are available in either ‘Matrix Black’ or ‘Manx Platinum’.
The air/oil cooled engine is a 961cc parallel twin, making slightly less power than older models with 77bhp on tap. However, improvements have been made- including upgraded camshafts and valve train, better gear linkage and strengthening of the frame.
Suspension is courtesy of Öhlins, with full adjustability front and rear. Braking comes in the form of all-round Brembos, with the safety of simple ABS there if needed.
Components and finish do feel premium- you get a handmade frame and exhausts. A hand stitched logo on the seat. The paintwork is absolutely beautiful. It truly is a stunning machine.
But the ignition barrel and key? These felt flimsy- like something out of a Christmas cracker. I was genuinely concerned the key might snap when starting the bike.
| Engine | 961cc, air cooled parallel twin | Weight | 230kg |
| Power | 77 bhp | Seat Height | 810mm |
| Gearbox | 5-speed | Fuel Tank | 15 litres |
| Suspension | Front- Ohlins USD 43mm forks, fully adjustable Rear- Ohlins twin shocks, fully adjustable | Brakes | Front- 2 x 320mm discs with four piston calipers. Rear- 240mm disc, one piston caliper |
Ride
As earlier mentioned, this ride was in what you’d call ‘less than ideal conditions’. And by that, I mean gale force winds, greasy roads (on brand new Dunlop Sportmax tyres, no less) and constant pissing rain. I wasn’t going to risk chucking a 16 grand press bike down the Devonshire tarmac. So you can expect a rather sedate review and pace.
Hopping on, the weight is low, and it feels manageable off the stand. With a narrow tank, I can reach the floor with the balls of both feet (for reference, I’m 5’4, with a 30.5 inch inseam). Reaching the sidestand proves to be tricky- an issue I’ve found with quite a few current modern classics.
The rider triangle feels sporty, with a slight lean forward to reach the handlebars. Engaging, but comfortable.
Starting the SP, I was instantly reminded of why I have wanted to get out on one for so long.
That noise.
Man, it’s addictive. So few Commandos were made, that Norton have bypassed strict Euro 5 emissions regulations by registering them through Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA). And you can tell. It sounds naughty. It wants to be revved. Hitting 7500 rpm, the bike positively sings. It’s a beautiful thing to hear, even with earplugs in.
Pulling in the clutch, it feels old-school heavy. You won’t find a slipper clutch or any assistance here. On longer trips with miles of open roads, you probably wouldn’t notice. But my stint in city traffic left me with hand-cramp so severe that I had to keep knocking the bike into neutral.
Handling
Finally escaping the city chaos, I headed out to my favourite stretch of open bends. And here was where the bike excelled. These are the roads this bike was made for, albeit in better riding conditions. On a warm, dry, summer evening, it really would come into its own.
With that sporty geometry and the adjustable Öhlins suspension, it handles brilliantly for a modern classic. The 230kg weight disappears, and the steering is light and agile.
Braking from the twin Brembos works very well. I have been riding my Voge 300 Rally a lot recently. If you know, you know. I had to be really careful to not grab an unnecessary handful of the front, especially in the wet!
Overall, it’s a very predictable and stable ride. I can see myself bimbling the lanes of Dartmoor quite happily on one of these.
Halfway through my outing, the weather took a real turn for the worse. So I headed back to the dealership, before I ended up being blown off the road by the gale-force winds.
If I get the opportunity to take a Commando out again on a decent and dry day, I will be grabbing it with both hands.
Pros
- Characterful engine and strong mid-range torque. That engine noise is like nothing I’ve ever experienced on a stock bike.
- Looks. I mean, have you seen one in the metal? It’s beautiful, and instantly recognisable.
- Premium suspension and brakes.
- Simplicity. This bike is old-school, and that’s appeals to me. You get ABS, and that’s it. It feels like a true classic.
Cons
- That clutch is heavy. I’ve seen other reviews state that the bike has a ‘light clutch action.’ Maybe they were riding a different bike altogether? Or do I have the grip strength of an 80-year-old?
- The side-stand is difficult to reach.
- I have a few minor gripes with quality, including that cheapo ignition. But they don’t detract from the overall package.
- Variable reliability and a smaller dealer network than the bigger manufacturers
Summary
My afternoon out on the Commando left me with a massive grin on my face- I just wish I could’ve stayed out for longer. It was every part as characterful and raw as I’d hoped. And I believe that is what this bike is really about.
Is it practical? Arguably, no. Although I have had conversations with owners who have taken them on longer tours. Are there better bikes out there for the job? Yes. A second hand Triumph Thruxton 1200R can be picked up with change from £8,000. But the experience you’ll get is not the same. This is a bike you buy with your heart, not your head- for how it looks, how it makes you feel. And if you treat it that way, no other modern bike compares.
R.I.P, dear Commando. You will be missed.
Maybe now my Dad will finally let me out on his. I’ll need to get my fix of this incredible somewhere!
Thanks again to Macpherson Motorcycles for the afternoon loan.
And if you’re tempted, you can currently pick up a Commando SP on PCP for a £3000 deposit and £45 a month. For those out there looking to relive their youth, that’s a steal.
Until next time,
Leave a Reply