Norton Reboot: 961 Commando

Often motorcycles are an overly emotional object.  They are not just for point A to B transportation, they are for enjoyment.  As time marches on many find themselves enjoying experiences from the past.  Be that vintage bike that eluded them in period, or a retro styled bike that harkens back to the legends of the past.  At this point many of the main stream manufactures have entire lines of retro bikes to appeal to those looking for a vintage aesthetics, but demand modern build quality and performance.  The market for such bikes is extremely hot right now.

One example of these types of bikes that is not as widely known as it should is the modern Norton Commando 961.  Right as the world economy was in dire straights, Norton Motorcycles was attempting to make a comeback.  In 2008 they purchased a Donington Park facility to manufacture the Commando once again.  Bikes started to be delivered about two years latter.

The 961 is instantly recognizable as a Norton Commando as the engine side covers could be nothing else.  80hp is tasked with moving just over 400 pounds.  Not going to set any local lap records, but more then enough performance for its intended use.  Ohlins front and rear, Brembo calipers, modern rubber and fuel injection mean this is not your fathers Norton.  This was designed to give the owner all of the positives of a vintage bike, the look, the feel, the fun with none of the downsides like leaking oil, carbs that need to be “tickled” before starting or poor braking.

From the Seller’s eBay listing:

I’m proud to offer for sale an iconic British motorcycle that has all the modern technologies but retains the look, feel, vibration, and thundering sound of the old English cafe racers. If you are someone who treats motorcycles like museum art, and you appreciate the finest things in life, and don’t mind being the center of attention at the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, and find yourself taking pics of your motorcycle all the time from every angle…… this is the bike for you. You only live once. This is not a bike that comes on the market very often, and certainly with the extras included here, this is a rare opportunity. Bike is used and I still occasionally ride it so it does have signs of use and miles may increase.

Opening bid is $13k and there is no reserve. So, if you’re the first bidder, you’re guaranteed a great bike to add to your collection unless someone outbids you. Good luck!

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Excellent Condition. Just over 2k very responsible miles.
Recently serviced with fluid changes and heads re-torqued to spec as recommended.

Extras:
Carbon flyscreen from the Dominator
Carbon rear wheel hugger
Carbon chain guard
Zard 2:1 titanium black ceramic coated exhaust
Lithium Shorai battery
Transmission vent installed
Upgraded spark plug wires
Airbox oil drain installed
Hex head magnetic oil drain plug installed
Domino hand grips installed
Cortech tank bag fits well and is included if you want it.

IF the final selling price reaches $16,000.00, I will throw in an almost unused (worn twice) Ruby Castel St. Germain XL helmet with Equilibrialist burgundy leather smoked visor. Helmet will not be included if final price is less than $16k. Price of helmet new with accessory visor if you are able to find these beautiful helmets for sale is ~$2k.

Bike runs well, looks beautiful, and it sounds incredible!

Please view my feedback and bid with confidence.

Cash at time of pick up or direct bank transfer prior to shipping arrangements being made.

Sorry, but out of consideration for the future owner I am not offering test rides.

You are welcome to contact me and come see the bike in person before purchasing.

Bike is located on the central coast of California near Pismo Beach.

Good Luck and thanks for viewing this ad!

When new these were rather expensive motorcycles, and entered the market as many were unable to continue indulging themselves with machines like this.  Currently the Ducati Sport Classic range is super desirable, and for good reason.  Buyers of the Ducati are probably cross shopping with some of the brand new Triumph offerings, but a case can be made to include these Norton 961s on the shopping list as well.  Arguably a better spec then all but the super expensive Paul Smart versions, and a much more rare motorcycle.

It is safe to assume that many overlook the Norton due to lack of dealer support and concerns over small batch British manufacturing.  These are not things to be taken lightly, but to those willing to put in the effort and work though some obstacles there should be a very rewarding experience waiting.