LOT 134

1974 Norton 829cc John Player Commando Registration no. GSU 850N Frame no. 10 74 318042 Engine no. 318042

Sold for £8,050 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve

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Lot 134

1974 Norton 829cc John Player Commando

Motorcycles Online - The February Sale|26 February 2024, 12:47 GMT|Online, Milton Keynes

1974 Norton 829cc John Player Commando
Registration no. GSU 850N
Frame no. 10 74 318042
Engine no. 318042

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 was an instant hit with the motorcycling public, being voted '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 750 triples and Honda's 750 four, but the Commando more than made up for this minor deficiency with superior mid-range torque and steadier handling. Reflecting the Norton racing team's sponsorship by the John Player tobacco company, a new Commando model – the 'John Player Norton' or 'JPN' for short – was announced for the 1974 season. Boasting a streamlined half-fairing and matching tank/seat unit in John Player livery, the café racer-styled JPN came with a choice of engines: the standard 829cc motor or a short-stroke 749cc unit intended for production racing. A top-of-the-range, limited edition model produced for only a couple of seasons (1,000 were envisaged but only around 200 made), it is now one of the most sought-after members of the Commando family.

This wonderful 'time warp' example of the iconic John Player Norton was purchased by the vendor in 2008, since when it has been dry stored as part of his collection. Its prior history is not known, although some previous owners are identified on the documents listed below. Currently displaying a total of 6,907 miles on the odometer, the machine will require recommissioning to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed (it should be noted that the engine does not turn over). Offered with an original Riders Manual, expired MoT (2007) and V5/V5C documents.
Offered without key

Footnotes

All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

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Saleroom notices

It should be noted two additional factory frame numbers have been located on the headstock which are 00128 and 850 F112532 with the latter being recorded on the V5C as the frame number.

Additional information

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