LOT 575
1978 Norton 828cc Commando 850 Registration no. UJP 2S Frame no. 336089 Engine no. 336089
Estimate: £14,000 - £16,000
Lot 575
1978 Norton 828cc Commando 850Registration no. UJP 2S Frame no. 336089 Engine no. 336089
1978 Norton 828cc Commando 850
Registration no. UJP 2S
Frame no. 336089
Engine no. 336089
Registration no. UJP 2S
Frame no. 336089
Engine no. 336089
• Single family ownership from new
• Only 780 miles from new
• Recently re-commissioned following long-term storage
Launched in 1967, the Commando deployed the preceding Featherbed-framed Atlas model's 750cc engine in the new vibration-beating Isolastic chassis and was an instant hit, being voted Motor Cycle News 'Machine of the Year' for five consecutive years. It might have been a little down in top speed compared to rivals such as BSA-Triumph's 750cc triples and Honda's CB750 four, but the Commando more than made up for this minor deficiency with superior mid-range torque and steadier handling. Introduced in 1973, the 850 (actually 828cc) featured a larger bore, through-bolted cylinder block, stronger gearbox casting and all-metal clutch among a host of other, more minor improvements. The extra capacity provided the 850 with even more mid-range urge, and the model would continue as the sole Commando after 1975 when the electric-start Mark III was introduced.
One of the very last made, this Commando 850 has a most unusual history. It was purchased new in February 1978 by the present owner's brother, who rode away with the sidestand still down, dropped the bike and never rode it again! The machine has been kept garaged since then and has covered only 780 miles from new. In 2014/2015 the vendor re-commissioned the Commando, replacing the wheel rims, spokes, shock absorbers, and an exhaust. The original rims are with it, as is the exhaust, both of which were changed because the chroming company refused to put them in its tanks to clean them and suggested they were replaced instead.
Run recently and described by the private vendor as in generally very good condition, this quite exceptional Norton Commando is offered with its original Rider's Manual and service booklet (unstamped); the original purchase invoice and V5 registration document of 1978; sundry bills for parts and services relating to the recent re-commissioning; some MoTs (most recent expires June 2019); a Haynes workshop manual; and a V5C Registration Certificate. It should be noted that 'UJP 2S' is still registered in the deceased original owner's name.
• Only 780 miles from new
• Recently re-commissioned following long-term storage
Launched in 1967, the Commando deployed the preceding Featherbed-framed Atlas model's 750cc engine in the new vibration-beating Isolastic chassis and was an instant hit, being voted Motor Cycle News 'Machine of the Year' for five consecutive years. It might have been a little down in top speed compared to rivals such as BSA-Triumph's 750cc triples and Honda's CB750 four, but the Commando more than made up for this minor deficiency with superior mid-range torque and steadier handling. Introduced in 1973, the 850 (actually 828cc) featured a larger bore, through-bolted cylinder block, stronger gearbox casting and all-metal clutch among a host of other, more minor improvements. The extra capacity provided the 850 with even more mid-range urge, and the model would continue as the sole Commando after 1975 when the electric-start Mark III was introduced.
One of the very last made, this Commando 850 has a most unusual history. It was purchased new in February 1978 by the present owner's brother, who rode away with the sidestand still down, dropped the bike and never rode it again! The machine has been kept garaged since then and has covered only 780 miles from new. In 2014/2015 the vendor re-commissioned the Commando, replacing the wheel rims, spokes, shock absorbers, and an exhaust. The original rims are with it, as is the exhaust, both of which were changed because the chroming company refused to put them in its tanks to clean them and suggested they were replaced instead.
Run recently and described by the private vendor as in generally very good condition, this quite exceptional Norton Commando is offered with its original Rider's Manual and service booklet (unstamped); the original purchase invoice and V5 registration document of 1978; sundry bills for parts and services relating to the recent re-commissioning; some MoTs (most recent expires June 2019); a Haynes workshop manual; and a V5C Registration Certificate. It should be noted that 'UJP 2S' is still registered in the deceased original owner's name.
Footnotes
As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.
Saleroom notices
The frame number is 850 336089. The engine number is 850 336089.
Additional information
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- 28 April 2001, 09:00 - 17:00 BST
- 27 April 2019, 09:00 - 18:00 BST
