1974 Norton Commando 850 Roadster

Registration no. RAX 714M Frame no. 850 F104803 and 310307 Engine no. 310307

• Believed one previous owner from new
• Present ownership since 2020
• Not run since acquisition
• Requires re-commissioning

The Commando's vibration-beating Isolastic frame enabled Norton Villiers successfully to prolong the life of their ageing parallel twin. Launched in 1967, the Commando used the preceding Featherbed-framed Atlas model's 750cc engine and AMC gearbox, and was an instant hit with the motorcycling public, 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. The sole model available initially became known as the 'Fastback', so called because of its streamlined seat cowl, when the range was extended by the addition of a more sporting, though conventionally styled, 'S' version in 1969.

Introduced in 1973, the '850' (actually 829cc) version featured a larger-bore, through-bolted cylinder block, stronger gearbox casting and an 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 MkIII was introduced. When the Wolverhampton factory closed in 1977 it meant the end of the line for the Commando, although a couple of batches of machines were assembled and sold later under the liquidator's control. Remarkably, the Norton twin had been in production for some 30 years. The Norton Commando's passing effectively brought down the curtain on this once great British motorcycle manufacturer, and as its last-of-the-line model the Commando is held in high regard today.

Believed a one previous owner example, this 850 Commando Roadster was purchased locally by the current vendor in October 2020. Although running when purchased, the Norton has not been run since. Re-commissioning will be required before the machine returns to the road. Accompanying documentation consists of an expired MoT (2018) and a V5C Registration Certificate.
Offered with key