1977 Norton 828cc Commando Interstate Mk III Electric Start

• Only 13 delivery miles
• Single owner from new
• Unused and unregistered
• Kept inside the owner's house in a heated environment


Norton were best known for single cylinder machines until the advent of the model 7, which made its debut in 1948. It was later to become the Dominator, still a 500, in 1951. From the initial capacity of 500cc the parallel twin engines were enlarged steadily, benefiting from the Featherbed frame from 1954, ultimately becoming a 750 when the Atlas appeared.

Norton's owners, AMC, were acquired by Manganese Bronze Holdings in 1966, and the new motorcycle division became Norton Villiers under chairman Dennis Poore. The Norton Commando 750 was announced in 1967 and became available in 1968. With an engine derived from the Atlas, it featured a new type of frame dubbed 'Isolastic', which effectively insulated the rider from vibration by means of rubber-mounting the engine, gearbox, and rear wheel. The model proved to be a hit with the public, who bought it in good numbers. The Commando was voted Motor Cycle News 'Machine of the year' for five years running from 1968 to 1972. With the increase in power of the Commando, problems with main bearings had occurred, and led to the development of the 'Superblend' main bearings adopted from 1972 onward. Much retro-fitting, and warranty work did not help company finances, and from this period on, Norton suffered a range of financial difficulties. After the end of 1973 the 750 was discontinued in favour of the new 850 variant which had emerged earlier in the year, running alongside the 750. Progressing through several versions, eventually the 850 incorporated an electric start on the Mark III models released in late 1974 / early 1975.

This Mark III was purchased new by the present owner, from Charles Freeman Motorcycles of High Street, Eckington, Sheffield, where he collected it in person. Transported to the vendor's home, the Commando was drained of hydraulic fluid and petrol, before being placed on display at his home in climate-controlled conditions, where it has remained ever since. Should a new owner wish to use the machine, it will require fresh fluids, basic safety checks, and commissioning / re-commissioning prior to use.

Documentation comprises the original book pack containing the owner's handbook, a V55/3 form to apply for registration, service booklet, and other associated papers. Also present is the original tool kit and an original sales brochure for the machine. An amazing opportunity to acquire a Norton Commando 850 Interstate Mk III in totally original and as-new condition. Offered with key.