The Norton Commando Arrives

The Norton Commando arrives!
I take collection of this British made, 961cc and 77hp bike, and have a first ride and walk around.
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The bike: 2023 Norton Commando 961
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Falmouth, Cornwall
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Music:
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[@clydedettor7080]

There is a 1973, 750 Commando sitting in my Dads garage. He rode it at least once a week until about a month before he passed at the age of 92. My brother-in-law rides it now and smirks when he sends me pictures. He's 71.

[@Hipporider]

That's so great to hear your dad rode his bike to that age. Inspiring indeed 🇦🇺

[@kaisersoze5236]

amazing 🤟

[@G58]

You’re in a waiting game bro.

[@Pk223-r1t]

Why? did your dad leave it to your brother instead of you?

[@borderlands6606]

You showed the Norton in its natural environment. Round the block for a coffee and a pose.

[@superleggenda]

What do you expect from a bike that costs 17k and only has 77HP?

[@theislerider9513]

​ 78..brought me from Germany.. trough Canada and USA and back in 1988..with a cb 750 HONDA..!!

[@jeffmullinix7916]

No not Coffee but a danty cup of tea with your pinky sticking out in the wind as your riding the bike .

[@4Kandlez]

@@jeffmullinix7916 You aren't British are you?

[@Fernando90054]

It’s not only a motorcycle. It’s a piece of history. The aluminum parts that are becoming tainted or signed with corrosion can be protected, better, they must get some protection, silicone spray or something like that. The problem is that in general people don’t want an old bike. People want a retro style bike but with all the modern features inside, so, this is a product only for the collectors or for the big spenders that want to show off this specialty. Looking forward to your in deep review of the bike. Thanks 👌🏻

[@artistonamotorbike]

Its not even got an led headlight but my goodness its utterly beautiful.

[@chrishart8548]

I can't bring myself to buy anything that hasn't got led lighting now car or bike. Headlights that are not led in 2024 is ridiculous. Besides most cars now you can't even get to change the Headlight bulbs without removing the entire front bumper

[@hgm8337]

@@chrishart8548 This is the one area I wouldn't criticise Norton for. LED headlights are damn dangerous as they frequently blind oncoming traffic, especially older drivers, I have an H4 yellow bulb in my RnineT.

[@chrishart8548]

@@hgm8337 I do agree with the yellow it helps stand out now 99% of cars have DRL's now

[@robertknight6383]

I love that they didn’t go LED! I think the old yellow ones have a charming look.

[@4Kandlez]

@@chrishart8548 I don't think it has cup holders either, count me out

[@kajnatok]

Everyone forgets about the Triumph Thruxton, another great modern classic bike

[@jamesschneider3828]

And they quit making them because there is no reasonable market for an uncomfortable bike.

[@andrewhayes4246]

@@jamesschneider3828 yes, the main market for retro cafe racers is people who now struggle to ride them for more than a few miles.👍

[@Irfan87]

@@jamesschneider3828 I just checked Triumph's website. They still sell em?

[@Sinshiro917]

The Thruxton really isn't that uncomfortable with it's raised clip-ons. In my opinion it's more a rider issue than a bike issue, as you do need some level of fitness and willingness to adapt the proper riding style for any sports bike. If you're a healthy individual with no conditions or injuries, there is no reason you couldn't live comfortably with a sports bike/cafe racer as your daily machine.

[@RorySeanWainer]

@@andrewhayes4246 Many people say that but I have no problem riding the Thruxton R for several hours at a time ... guess I must be one of the lucky 5'9" 64-year-olds it was designed for :)

[@I-Libertine]

I'm sorry: that thing is simply gorgeous. Gorgeous looking. Gorgeous sounding. Screw the flashers. Glorious.

[@wetpaint46]

I was thinking the same thing…so beautiful 😮

[@TheBikerFormerlyKnownAs]

I knew you would be grinning ear to ear with this one, Freddie. The exhaust note is superb. Real character.

[@sallhame]

But does it sound better that the original Commando with peashooters? I've got a MKIII 850 Roadster, and it looks and sounds like nothing else. And rides pretty well too, if I may add. I hope this new Norton will be a success. And, I wish I had those brakes, and those Öhlin parts on my old bike, that would have been something... 😊

[@heleti0000]

Another great video. One comment - (I grew up in London during the 50’s and 60’s and started riding bikes long before I was legally allowed to 🤫) - I never met anyone during that time who rode a Norton because of the comfort factor. They “suffered” riding a Norton because it was a Norton. 😁🇦🇺👍

[@FreddieDobbs]

Very interesting! So the new Commando’s stayed true to form from a comfort point

[@miketownsend927]

The roads were smoother in those days and the Norton Featherbed bikes were as comfortable as any others despite the short roadholders damping.

[@splodge57]

My 74 Commando 850 was as comfortable as most other bikes of the time.

[@packhams4]

@@splodge57 Bikes of the 70s up till the early 80s were made to be comfortable touring bikes.

[@TheLoathsomeCowboy]

Comfort?? I had a ‘71 750 Roadster. The seating could best be described as straddling a piece of thinly padded 3x2.

[@charlesedenfield8947]

I was blessed to own and enjoy 5 Nortons. An ES2 single made in 1955, an Atlas model from 1965, 3 Commandos -1970, ‘73 and a very short term stent with a ‘75 electric start. Overall, a wonderful experience that cemented my loyalty and fondness for this iconic marque. Memories are hinted on each ride on my substantially modified Royal Enfield Interceptor.

[@johnalleman1134]

Are they quirks - or are they faults? They are faults. I’ve always wanted to like the “new” Nortons, but I can’t help thinking the company is taking the “P” out of us! A great example Freddie…. Yes - they look like Ali Express indicators. £3 a pair! The bike definitely has flashes of beauty but….. we are constantly being reminded of the history of a completely different company that has long gone. I want to like it, but sadly I just can’t.

[@eddiegallagher1572]

I agree. You might as well put handlebars on the Mona Lisa. Looks great but unrideable

[@verlinswarey507]

Sad but true!

[@CharlesStettler-kp4ot]

c'est trop tard....les gars qui en revaient en 1970 sont morts ou ne peuvent plus rouler.....😂😂

[@Barrrt]

Dude, the way you talk is just a pleasure on its own, regardless of the content. (But we all know the way you talk is _because_ of the content)

[@colinhailey830]

Sorry, quality hand made should not have quirks. We were taught to make it right or don't make it. Even screw head slots had to align. A lock that is not centred is not a quirk it is bad workmanship. To be honest I find the bike less than impressive and certainly not up to the original's standard. A good way to start and argument would be to ask which bike ruled the road in the fifties and sixties, it wasn't the Norton Commando.

[@joedimaggio3146]

What was it then?

[@colinhailey830]

@@joedimaggio3146 Whatever bike I was riding at the time.🙂

[@colinhailey830]

@@Brink109 It is a joke, Everyone in the 50s and 60s considered their own machine the best. I was no exception to that. My Goldie was tops.

[@fidelio9301]

Hand made things are imperfect. That’s the point. Perfection is an illusion.

[@vichy7661]

Honda Cub outsold every bike ever made, started in the 50's.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Enjoyed that Freddie - the Norton does look lovely for sure and I agree it is a special ride and I know we Brit bikers really want Norton to succeed this time round.I just found the bike to "quirky" (I'm guessing code speak) for my liking...those indicators, the cheap feeling switchgear, the horrible brake & clutch fluid master cylinders not to mention the "characterful" ride....just really underwhelmed me - I know I'm in the minority though, I know most reviewers really love the machine. Give me a Triumph any day!!

[@PhilRounds]

That is quite likely the best sounding bike engine i've ever heard. The pegs are rearset because it's a cafe' racer. That also explains the seating position. It's a retro performance bike, that's all it's 'sposed to do. This one isn't for 2 up riding, or touring. It's for riding to work on nice days and going for a ride to the cafe' on warm, sunny Sunday mornings.

[@paulyflyer8154]

To me it looks like a home made parts bin special. My friend called it a "crashed satellite" 😂

[@gazzertrn]

Supposed to be harsh on longer journeys . Too many flaws for that price .

[@kevinmurtagh3434]

Homemade, never

[@bfarm44]

Now that’s accurate

[@NoToBigBro]

It's British made! What does that really mean? When workers are done assembling it, there are parts leftover. 😁

[@paulyflyer8154]

@NoToBigBro What I mean is, it looks like someone's made it out of parts from 5 written-off bikes. Gold forks, carbon mudguard, 1990's suzuki lights etc. The tank is a work of art though and it sounds amazing. Norton aren't the only manufacturer who's fallen into this trap though. Bmw and Triumph spring to mind straight away. They get so close very often and then make a schoolboy error with one detail like the wrong display or forks, and instantly lose 40% of people who may have otherwise pulled the trigger. My Triumph Speedmaster is a good example. Lovely bike to ride and look at but instead of using the same gorgeous clocks as the Bonneville, they go and put a cheap black plastic speedo on which looks like something from a 1990's 125. It's a first world problem I know but it's like they hit the post with the last kick of the match. I just wish they'd employ designers and engineers who had at least some knowledge and affection for the heritage of bikes.

[@norriemasson4080]

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, I think it’s a stunning looking bike

[@savingclassicmotorcycles]

Hi Freddie interesting video, always enjoy watching your videos, 97 years on my 1927 Norton 16h flat tanker is still here still being ridden I rode her through last winter an same for my 1967 Norton 650SS (one of the finest British twins ever made as Phil Reed said in the 1964 brochure handling from the featherbed frame as good as a Manx! when he won production races on the 650ss) I'm also restoring a ww2 Norton 16h and a 1968 Commando. I daily rode for 4 years n 4 winters the Norton 650SS through thunderstorms an winter's which outlasted alot of modern bikes, an provided total reliability until a nerve injury stopped me kickstarting for a while (none bike related). Just sticking a few videos up filmed on that over the past 7 years or so. I'm actually restoring one of the first 70 Norton Commando's at the moment from 1968 an it has to be said they are so so so smooth to ride when the Iso's are set right an that was with mine having an engine fault when I bought it due to a mistake by the previous owner. The original concept of the Norton Commando was to make it super smooth via the revolutionary Isolastic system, it actually won Motorcycle of the year for 5 years on the run by Motorcycle News in the 60s and 70s. A design that Harley went on to riff off with the Electra Glides, a former Norton employee was inoled with that. The First Norton Commando was actually made by Norton as Norton Villiers LTD an the later by Norton Villiers Triumph. Then they had amazing success with the F1 Rotaries later on which is often forgotten about. For something marketed at 17k it's a shame they are still fitting such low end bits like the indicators an still making the mistake with the infils, an seat it's a shame that they still are not thinking about those of us that use bikes regularly, the seat on the 650ss and Commando are all day comfortable something that's missing from alot of bikes, I think that's something that's really missing from the current Norton range proper all day comfort an bikes for being ridden year round not just looked at. I nearly bought a 961 in the SG era one of the sport models an luckily I didn't alot of people were absolutely exploited both on bikes that never turned up or bikes that were stripped for parts one of my friends only ended up with his frame back, and the pensions (which you got a details wrong on) an were then left high an dry by TVS one of the largest companies in the world to produce motorcycles. A company of there size although there was no obligation to could have been sorted out for me these things shouldn't be brushed under the carpet as I know who were truly left with no help. Luckily theres a great independent specialist in the 961's by Stu Motorvated who got left with no support. Leaves a bitter taste in alot of peoples mouths and would stop me from buying one as it stands. I do hope they make a go of it, One worry recently was a V4SS that was a current build bike delivered 23/24 that went at a well known auction house for 22k an hadn't been ridden. For me it's hard to move away from the original Commando's absolutely epic sound from a 360 degree engine and so so easy to work on with great parts availability. I really really hope as someone you cut in half would say Norton that they don't forget the ethos from Pa Norton, to paraphrase, from one of the 1920s brochures although we have the high performance ohv models these will remain a low production bike, The Norton although for the expert always had a bike like the Big4 in the range Pa Norton's favourite for the everyday rider as Norton termed it in the period, which people would use to take the family out on the weekend or go to work on. For me the core of the Norton Brand was a 360 degree twin an a good long stroke sporting single. I hope they don't forget that or the newer younger riders alot of my friends are riding Royal Enfields. I think it's important to capture the riders earlier on.

[@narayangauda1533]

I can't belive this is a KZbin comment. You sir, are certainly passionate about motorcycles.

[@savingclassicmotorcycles]

@@narayangauda1533 thank you Narayan :) hope you are having a good weekend.

[@vincesacca5025]

That is what I like about you, Freddie. You tell it like it is... Cool looking bike.

[@TheJWC56RSA]

Reading between the lines: A 17000 B/pound bike made from all the remaining bits and pieces that are left over from "other" bikes, that should be halve the price made in a country that is as far from British as you can get with a seat made of stone, has 1$ indicators, home made light fittings, a tank sculptured for a very short legged person and about zero turning circle with an engine that sounds like it needs an overall. Great Bike!! Remember to take your phone with when you go on that trip... and make sure the tow truck's number is stored... And when you get back... just buy a Triumph - also not made in Britten!

[@IanMacLeansnv]

But tell me about the power! It's expensive and a new engine, so it's got to be a peppy, spirited ride, yes?

[@josephdonzanti7966]

Thanks!

[@os6219]

I grew up in a small village in a small western european country. At the far end of this village, on the edge of everything, almost in the fields, was a little bike shop. The small and most simple showroom was full of beautiful bikes. I cannot count how many times we stopped in front of the showroom or the open repair shop to spend time there with the other boys. At age 8, I fell in love with Norton. The most beautiful mechanic constructions there are. The shop still exists today and has not changed a bit for the last 40 years. It is not in England. I cannot afford one of this old beauties. Maybe I should try and get one of those?

[@RobWhittlestone]

Sounds like you're describing Fritz Egli's place in Bettwiil, Canton Aargau, Switzerland! His place is still full of desirable bikes and he has a museum that's worth a visit. All the best, Rob in Switzerland

[@os6219]

@@RobWhittlestone​​⁠Good country, wrong village. Isn’t Fritz’s place in the heart of the village? Other guess? 😉

[@ballaservices9275]

I rode pillion on a Norton 650 (not sure what the model name was now), back in the 1970's. At that stage I'd only ever ridden 250's so it was a extraordinarily exhilarating. I was determined to get one when I passed my test, but I stopped riding altogether for quite a while afterwards. Thenj decided to go back to biking in the '90's and Norton was no more. But I've always been very happy with Trumpy's.

[@lfoggy3061]

I toured the factory, test rode a bike and purchased a Cafe Racer. Its brilliant. After careful running in, it runs really well, better than the test bikes i tried. Vibrations are not that big a deal and are part of the charm. Braking and handling are modern, and the 80 odd horsepower is enough to get around quite briskly. With bar end mirrors, the Cafe Racer looks really cool. I rarely go out for a ride without someone commenting on it. Off to IoM TT on it in a few weeks.

[@mchauhan4]

The Norton looks like an absolute piece of art. A gorgeous machine.

[@knottytoob]

Thank you TVS for steadying the reins, but letting the ride be and the rider exalt.

[@TheArchmage100]

Indeed.

[@brucewalker5890]

Looks beautiful. British made - excellent. Nortons ruled in the 20s and 30s. A lot of fuss was made of the Commando in the 70s ans 80s. Triumphs ruled in the 50s and 60s. Lot of money for a name.

[@beannyrlh]

I´ve watched, since yesterday about 20 videos of you. You make a normal bike review feel like im in a movie. Outstanding work, both presenter and camera work. Im a true made fan now of Freddie Dobbs !

[@baricho4771]

Love your delivery Freddie, and your enthusiasm for quality bikes.. this is a fantastic video and for sure Norton are back and will make a huge impression

[@bankruptpensioner]

Very special bike, you are very lucky to get your hands on such a machine. Well done ❤

[@FreddieDobbs]

I feel extremely lucky, thank you😀🙌🏻

[@Bob-xc2us]

That's a beautiful bike but it is a far cry from my 1968 750 Commando fast back. The 820th production Commando ever made. She's still in bits in the garage but it will come back to running condition and sit proudly beside my 2022 Kawasaki W800. Cheers form Canada.

[@mrbxv]

This bike looks and sounds so good.

[@kevindown1592]

My brother owns a fully restored Norton Commander. He is also rebuilding another one into a cafe racer. The bike is still amazing to ride.

[@sallhame]

Commander or Commando?

[@kevindown1592]

@@sallhame Sorry for not being specific enough. The bike is a Red 850 Commando. He has another one partially restored to a cafe racer. Has all the part but hasn’t finished the work. Last time I counted he had part of 19 motorcycles in his garage.

[@sallhame]

@@kevindown1592 You know, there is also a Norton Commander, that's why I asked. But nothing beats a Commando :-)

[@kevindown1592]

@@sallhame Yes, I was using my faulty memory in my first post. I looked at a picture I took of the bike and discovered my error. I had a Kawasaki Mach III during the Norton’s heyday. They were always wanting me to race.

[@andeanrider6355]

A proper bike. I would have one. Thanks Freddie.

[@MentatOfDune]

Would be great to see a Norton history deep-dive like your BSA one

[@hughmac7423]

Oh there are quirks with my 2022 HD Pan Am and a lot of character since I fitted the V&H muffler. I've had it for just over 1 year and I love it. I ride practically everyday. I do wish Norton would sell the Commando in Australia again.

[@SheepDogNumber6]

Norton styling is so amazing.

[@verlinswarey507]

Very cool shot of you starting the bike,circling around and riding out of the garage. Good editing!

[@dontuno]

It's been almost to the day 50 years since I last rode a bike daily, but that looks stunning, and I almost feel I should go out and buy one! One of my pals had the 750 and chopped it in for the 850 and both those (as I recall) were stunners with performance to match. I love your passion for bikes and it's great to see we can still produce something of real merit.

[@jd6549]

Its a nice bike, I too found that tank shape strange and not too comfortable. You should try an original Commando, I think you would be pleasantly surprised. I bought one 42 years ago and still ride it regularly. I used to commute to work on it as did another colleague of mine and somebody a friend was talking to didn't believe they could be used as commuter bikes as he believed they were too unreliable. Mine now has a 100,000 miles on it😂

[@OFallons]

The foot pegs are the same as the Beautiful Red Commando 850 I rode back in the day, 1969.

[@Labgorilla]

British made horsepower. It is a stunning bike. Looks perfect for you. You need a different helmet though. The seating position will hurt. The price is too high. Just needs a British Indian flag perhaps on the plastic indicators or on the off centre key slot.

[@adnanlatif9007]

Monica is 100% right it certainly is the most beautiful bike EVER

[@R-Tap]

I remember my Uncle Brian had a die cast model of the original on his mantle piece back in the early 80's. I loved the model, this reissue hits the spot. Beautiful.

[@billellis6538]

For a warm bike it seemed remarkably reluctant to start immediately. Given you can smell fuel I would suggest it is not set up very well. A tune would probably be of immense benefit.

[@luckyluc03]

I'd take a Triumph Thruxton over this. But, that Norton is gorgeous!

[@DISTINGUISHED.GENTLEMAN.]

There is no beauty without flaws

[@ahermens]

Such a beautiful piece of machinery. Wish I owed one!

[@stevenjonestriumpht1207]

I borrowed one from Krazy Horse BSE last year. Best looking Retro and the sound of. So uncomfortable though. Loved every second riding it.

[@andyaptc2907]

The leg on tank fit is no small issue regarding your comfort; only! my shorter leg would fit this beauty no problem!

[@medler2110]

I sort of get garage special build vibes from that, looks beautiful, sounds great, not quite finished, but when you're riding it none of that matters.

[@doitall5745]

I waited and waited for the Norton in Singapore. Finally I put money down on my all time fav. Thruxton FE. Norton indeed is a handsome devil. The commando and V4CR shall remain on my radar. In the meantime , I am completely thrilled and in love with my Thruxton FE.

[@05gt99]

I saw one at the Norton stand at London Excel show and thought it looked stunning .

[@murraeblair-park4344]

Hi Freddie I think the channel is top class. The Norton company is a fire sale company where the previous owner used the staff pension pot to keep the company afloat and then manage to sell of the bike and it's manufacturing to a new organisation. There are exNorton staff who have lost all their pension pots due to the incompetence of the previous owner. The fact the bike is on sale today tells you all you need to know about the previous and current owners. The fact that is a new company does not help those people who lost their pensions. This bike should not be available for sake in the UK

[@tejasborse2643]

Norton is now owned by TVS which is an Indian two wheeler brand who manufactures fuel efficient bikes , mopeds , auto rickshaws ,also they make some performance bikes like TVS RTR 310 . TVS motors have collaboration with BMW also and now they have Norton as one of the feather in the Hat

[@Amory98]

Ah look a tvs salesman. 😂 bhai take it easy you're looking cringe here. BMW is a partnership, and BMW DESIGNED that 310 engine that tvs is using in their "performance" bikes like the rr310 and now the rtr 310 (both of those bikes I can smoke on my gen 1 Duke 390 though, very easily 😂). So stop with your natinalisatic vomit here and just enjoy bikes man.

[@pritamchakraborty4951]

Yes smoke with chaprified Duke 🤣🤣🤣​@@Amory98

[@apacherider7110]

The bike isn't type approved like all vehicles for CE [UKCA] approval but individually approved, I think its called, hence why its loud and you smell fumes from the exhaust

[@mikes_channel]

Absolutely filmmaking art. What I love about your videos Freddie is that you never fail to capture the ethos of the bike itself! Lovely.

[@z471]

Beautiful looking bike. I broke out in complete tears of laughter when you mentioned the price then pointed out the turn signals... excellent delivery, lol.

[@Amory98]

I know it's beautiful, has an aura, and impeccable British craftsmanship..... but as soon as I realise that it's basically almost the same price as the mighty Hayabusa, I start to lose it. That is Japanese engineered one godly impeccable piece of machinery, without any quirks, which, charming as they might be, I don't think many would be too keen to find them on their 17k bike. And I KNOW it's not about the tech or the screaming in line 4, it's about the aura and the pure motorcycling.... but trust me, and I belive you feel so too, that ANY bike that's thoughtfully made would have a characteristic aura about that you'd always feel. And trust me, Hayabusa is one of those highly engineered bikes in which a LOT of thought went into its making, more than this for sure. I mean a sculpted tank you cannot even tuck your knees in? That's getting in the way of actually enjoying a ride. A bike might have quirks but as soon as a flaw gets in the way actually riding a motorcycle in delight, that's a bit far. I suggest you get a Busa after this, and feel the difference, and let it be known to your viewers too, two similarly priced from different corners of the world. They'd be VERY keen for your impressions.

[@IanMacLeansnv]

Agree. This bike is beautiful but I'm 6'5 and it would probably look like a children's toy under me. And I would not trade my gen 3 Busa for any bike in the world right now. (With raising links and carbon wheels you will feel like you are riding a 600 with the torque of a nuclear submarine. The Norton would feel like a scooter in comparison).

[@marcverdi665]

My goodness, that bike sounds incredible! I think it looks a lot like a Thruxton, but even more handsome. I hope the quirks can get worked out and the consistency in quality parts (i.e., the indicators, seat). Norton could be a serious market contender if they listen to you, Freddie! :-) Also, excellent editing,Monika! Especially the audio, noting at 11:31, synching the pause in the musical piece as Freddie came to a stop, resuming as he accelerated off. Exquisite!

[@chillrider33]

Looks great - like a love child between a thruxton and nine T. And this is its competing market, which presents an opportunity with the thruxton discontinued and the nine T losing its DNA and becoming cheaper. Also, you are sitting on the bike wrong. Once you slide your butt back and assume a sports bike position, the knees will likely fit. You don’t ride this like a cruiser.

[@fabienponchard2220]

the sound is just stunning

[@TTrider2024]

I grew up riding bikes in the 60’s , we did not buy Norton Commandos (maybe the 650 SS), we bought Triumph T120 Bonneville, BSA Gold Star, BSA Rocket Gold Star .

[@thadlogan51]

Great review... beautiful bike! I'm scratching my head on those mirrors though... my 2008 thruxon had those same mirrors and I replaced them immediately... but everyone has different taste. I've never ridden a Norton moto... I'd live too...

[@paulstokes393]

Cheers Freddie. Thanks for helping me decide......I'm definately sticking with my '02 Guzzi California 😂

[@larrywade9041]

I'm right there with you pal. I feel the same about my 2 Guzzi's. Cheers!!

[@peterfong1556]

I had a 1972 commando,at the time love of my life . We went coast to coast living in North Carolina

[@rickd955]

Greetings from Germany Freddie, stumbled upon this video and utterly loved your Britishness (new word) way of presenting this great looking bike 😃

[@jannerfox9292]

Lovely bike but comfort is so important, enjoy the bike.

[@JB-up4pm]

Awesome bike. Great perspective.

[@Ian-bq7gp]

Kawasaki w800 and W650, yamaha XS650 and royal enfield mk2A interceptor are great bikes. Norton commando and BSA A10 650 pre unit are wonderful machines. Even the single carb BSA A65 is a great bike and rolling chassis. Only the timing side bush was a weakness but with todays superb oil tech theyre far more reliable crankshafts.

[@freedomfighter8614]

I'd like to Norton and Triumph get together and make a modern Triton.

[@neilurquhart8622]

This post certainly generated a lot of comments….Marmite bike obviously! Personally I liked the overall looks….apart from the indicators, reservoirs, gold forks, alum alloy beginning to corrode (easy to resolve with decent anodising). A bit of history: I had two Nortons in the 60’s, a 350cc Navigator (lot of noise but not much go!). I changed it in ‘63 for a 650ss (£343!), loved that bike (fast, comfortable & stunning looker). They won several 24 hour races beating Bonnevilles. I was never able to fix oil leaks though! Also had to return it to the factory (Bracebridge Street Birmingham) as the tappets went out of adjustment constantly; the complete cylinder head was replaced. STILL LOVED IT THOUGH). Freddie…..would be great to see you do a review on a 650ss!

[@hughmac7423]

Surely it needs clip-on bars to make it more uncomfortable.

[@tarragonadreamin]

Morning Freddie! Beautiful tank and crank case, and sounds great. But the forks and rear fork gas cylinders... should be silver or black imho.

[@TheWanderingGeezer]

These are the most beautiful motorcycles ever made.

[@robertbercht9875]

Is it leaking oil yet?

[@adityyuh]

What a beautiful (or should I say handsome) motorcycle! I'm excited to see what Norton does now with finally having the resources they'd been deprived of for years, although I didn't expect them use indicators that look like they're borrowed right from the TVS XL100 hahah

[@alantrott871]

A couple of people in these comments have said it’s a café racer - but this is not correct. This particular bike Freddie is testing/reviewing is a ‘961 SP’ ie a Sport, as can be seen in the video on the side covers. The cafe racer variant with the lower handlebars is marked ‘961 CR’ on the side covers. I had long admired Nortons since the 1970s and thought I might buy a 961 SP at some point to upgrade from my (excellent) 2020 Triumph T100. I have seen a few 961s at the Ace Cafe in recent years and overall like them a lot. However I sat on a brand new SP at the Excel (London) motorcycle show in early 2023 and immediately noticed how it was not as comfortable as my T100. I had somehow thought it would be better at nearly double the price. So, I agree with others who say you just have to accept it for what it is if you want to ride a 961 (and I have not totally given up getting one but do not think it would be as suitable as a Triumph Bonneville if you live, and mostly ride, in a big city like London). Definitely more noticeable and impressive looking and sounding than a Bonny but big bucks to buy one. And they don’t even have a fuel gauge

[@joshuabahirvani2488]

Freddie checking the fume aroma like a master chef

[@Ayresy_83]

It looks how a motorcycle should look, great video Freddie 👌🏻

[@jasonwright9555]

I'm a Norton guy. I have a 1958 Dominator that is styled as a slightly more useable Manx racer. I'm super happy that Norton has been resurrected once again but I think they have missed the point with this new modern Commando. It is beautiful and sounds mega but for 17k they have to be doing better than that. They have some way to go to be competing with the Thruxton, Speed Twin and Bonneville! I'm really interested to see how the next couple of weeks unfold and whether these quirks become reasons not to buy one. Cheers Freddie, another cool video!

[@Mark-fx9jh]

I love the bike! The look is appealing from a favorite past era. I’m in my 60’s so I can relate

[@dennismccarthy7032]

Cracking review Freddie! Norton is back and tugging at the heartstrings ❤

[@louisgara8754]

Norton Commando - now you’re talking, Freddie. I’ll be very interested in your videos on this bike. Unfortunately, they’re not available in the USA.

[@BronsonBronson-x2r]

Then what am I watching?

[@stevehunt7044]

There's even an orchestra that plays as you go along, so you can't hear what it sounds like!

[@peterjones2845]

The key looks like my motorhome water tank lock.

[@kutsbothways]

Nice. Those of us, older riders, who have waited decades for Norton to return to the arena might get on with the weight on the bars riding position, but many won't. Should a Commando come my way from the past though, and HeartIand hasn't raised the value to crazy...it wiII be mine.

[@Trapper50cal]

The 961 Transatlantic 125th Limited might be the most beautiful motorcycle I've ever seen.

[@ruiseartalcorn]

What a marvelous bike!!!

[@michaelkruck-weimuller31]

Quote: “it accentuates the pain of the seat” Freddie makes it sound as if it was the best one could hope for.

[@darkoflight4938]

As many with me, I have sort of followed this "reborn Norton saga" thru all the financial hassle and various money troubles to where they are now with, for example this product here. It´s been a rocky ride and far from perfect (but then... what ever is? Maaaaybe your videos). This just demonstrates that big talk and promises of "made using the best possible materials" just don´t cut it if the end result is less that satisfactory. This one look the business but as you demonstrate, the devil is in the details. No "mid control" foot peg option here? It makes great noice though and it looks amazing! Thank you for this video Freddie!!!!

[@simonlangmead7]

In Canada it’s 3 times more expensive then a current Triumph Bonnie 900. The Triumph will likely be far more reliable despite him emphasizing it being made in England. Wasn’t that the reason past British bikes left countess riders on the side of the road. Triumph unlike Norton, has learned its lesson and isn’t living in the past with a one trick pony bike. They have a nice lineup of classic bikes, but also make modern looking and high functional abilities to appeal to other riders. Oh, and Triumph has realistic price tags as well, and Japanese levels of reliability. Hinckley Triumph waited over 10 years to bring back the Bonnie bike, because they wanted to show they can build sophisticated 3 and 4 cylinder bikes with Japanese reliability and functionality. It would have been a disaster if the Bonnie came back first even with great reliability, because people would have said, just the same old same old. They’re stuck in the past, will they ever learn anything. Are you listening Norton?

[@atish4523]

I think Norton has or are still working on v2/v4 engines?

[@the_cafe_racer_project]

Love the tool roll on the front.

[@falconreconeight]

That is absolutely gorgeous

[@officialwildcardadventures]

Snorton Norton. I've loved these since I was three years old. Sounds soooooo good.

[@TheOutdoorFun]

Thanks for the video. What gorgeous bike. Amazing craftsmanship. Bravo ❤

[@mum-0217]

What an elegant looking bike. The detail on the tank and around that lower engine cover is second to none! When I was a kid, I used to long to own one of these and I am sure I had one that looks quite similar. Only issue was that it was matchbox size. 😂👍

[@fishmaster1960]

Definitely agree the looks need refining with regard to the indicators, carbon front mudguard and the colour of the olin suspension they just don't gel with the rest of the bike.

[@johnmacmillan2721]

I had a 1972 Norton commando 750 back in the 80's . Norton have the best sounding parallel twins ever.I was 20 years old at the time and the bike went everywhere but it also needed a lot of maintenance to keep it running properly. This is a beautiful looking bike but nothing compared to the originals. I thought comfort was just for us old ones never gave it a thought back in the day.

[@nockianlifter661]

360 twin. Not popular today due to vibration ? I believe the W800 retains a 360 engine.

[@larrywade9041]

@@nockianlifter661 You are correct about the W800 as I own one. HOWEVER; I always wear a padded pair of riding gloves & don't notice the vibration at all. I simply love the bike & it will be with me for a long time.

[@nockianlifter661]

@@larrywade9041 I think they are the most authentic of the retro bikes and if they have that 360 engine, they will sound correct - that typical Brit bike roar that’s missing from 180/270 cranks.

[@markwilliamson2795]

That tank is Fantastic no stamped out lips and the curve is made for looks , speed and fit... when your tail is way back in the seat and your head is way low your knees are tucked in and pressing hard on the tank and your hauling a$$ you will say the fit is perfect as are the foot peg placement ... Devilishly handsome are the perfect words to describe it....This refined Brut needs a few changes here and there but they are onto it with this one....Thanks Freddie & Monica

[@kikoy08]

If a classic bike has traction and abs, then it is it!

[@ukvamp]

I had the same issue with the tank, my legs are really long and i just don't fit on one. The cost and fit and finish really put me off these. Also, a lot of reviewers have said the vibration of these is bad and annoying.