Norton Commando 961 SP: Riding the Legend of British Motorcycling Excellence

Welcome back to the channel, folks! Today, I had the exhilarating opportunity to hop on the saddle of the highly anticipated 2024 Norton Commando 961 SP. If you're a fan of classic motorcycles with a modern twist, this ride is right up your alley.
In this video, join me as I take you through every twist and turn of my test ride experience aboard the Commando 961 SP. From its iconic design cues to its powerhouse performance, this bike is a true testament to Norton's legacy of crafting exceptional machines.
As I hit the road, I'll share my thoughts on the Commando's handling, power delivery, and overall ride feel. Trust me, the moment you twist that throttle, you'll feel the rush of adrenaline coursing through your veins.
But it's not just about the performance; the Commando 961 SP boasts a timeless aesthetic that pays homage to Norton's heritage while embracing modern engineering advancements. From its sleek lines to its premium finishes, every detail is meticulously crafted to turn heads wherever you go.
Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the world of motorcycles, this video offers an in-depth look at what makes the 2024 Norton Commando 961 SP a standout choice in today's market.
So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as we explore the thrilling capabilities of this iconic machine. Don't forget to hit that like button, subscribe to the channel for more motorcycle content, and leave a comment sharing your thoughts on the Norton Commando 961 SP. Until next time, ride safe and stay tuned for more adventures on two wheels!
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2024 Norton Commando 961 SP... Is It Worth The Money?
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Title: Norton Commando 961 SP: Riding the Legend of British Motorcycling Excellence
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[@seanheadley7090]

Nice review, hit the nail on the head, all the reasons i bought one, love it and feel special every time.

[@thatbikersimon]

Now that’s what im taking about!! Most people that review these bikes totally miss the point on them, picking little faults and not actually appreciating the ride. It’s the best bike I’ve riden in a long time. 1960s bike built in 2024 👍🏍️💨💨💨💨

[@cams2575]

Totally agree. Same reasons I bought one 👌👍

[@mikerider58]

I rode a Norton commando back in the 80s and words fail to describe the feeling l had to be riding such a beautiful Iconic machine. Sadly it didn't belong to me, it was my mates 😮 Growing up in the 60s 70s my dad worked on British bikes and our house was like meeting place for Triumph, Norton, BSA , AJS and others. With the money we spend on hotel fees on illegal immigration, we could lead the world in motorcycle building again.

[@thatbikersimon]

I get where you coming from. 🏍️💨💨💨💨

[@mikerider58]

@@thatbikersimon Vote Reform UK 🇬🇧 and STOP LABOUR AND TORIES

[@mikerider58]

Norton is now owned by the Indian company TVS Motor and l thought this classic Norton would have been made in India and priced at 9k instead of 19k 😅 Norton made motorcycles to be rode but this model appears to be a collectors item . The Norton Commando looks nice but compared to a Kawasaki Z 900 which is half the price and twice the imo id be buying the Kawasaki in a heartbeat.

[@thatbikersimon]

I appreciate that if it was built in India the cost of production would be cheaper but for me I like the idea it’s made in England, thats something you don’t see anywhere else, but it obviously comes at a premium.

[@mikerider58]

@thatbikersimon 😆 Nothing more Premium than Japanese bikes. Freddie Dobbs was extremely disappointed with the so called Premium build. Triumph done well at Oulton Park yesterday Simon , and I'd love British bikes to be made in England again, But We need an elected government who'll put money into our motorcycle industry and not into putting immigrants into hotels.

[@thatbikersimon]

@@mikerider58 this is very true Mike 👍

[@skymningforelsket1302]

I don't see any comparison between this Kawasaki and the Norton, other than they are both motorcycles. LOL. One is modernized 1970s Universal Japanese Motorcycle, and the other is a modernized 1970s British Twin. 2 different kettles of fish. If you think they are similar but for the price, I think you're missing the point of the Norton.

[@michaelarchangel1163]

An extremely handsome bike that deserves to have a longer front mudguard to keep it looking as immaculate as possible for years to come.

[@thatbikersimon]

Yes this bike is only dry weather use only. It’s like you said amazing handsome and it stand out from the other bike in its class.

[@Adventurebikerdave.01]

Nice bike Simon sounds awesome

[@thatbikersimon]

I love it

[@simonstaley1866]

Cracking review pal.. Don't live far away from the dealer in Nottingham will certainly call in and give it a look

[@thatbikersimon]

Glad you enjoyed it matey 👍it’s certainly a nice dealership and the staff there are really good 🏍️💨💨💨

[@jfro5867]

Back in the early 90’s when Triumph re-launched they put out bikes like the Trident 750 & 900 and built up the range steadily to become what it is today. The water cooled triple engine was modular and a damn good product that was universally praised, build quality was strong, prices keen. Now Triumph can ask £25k for their flagship Rocket and it will sell because people trust the brand. However, Norton have dived straight in the deep end with an expensive and confused bike that has zero reliability record and fundamental design flaws that can only be excused away as ‘quirks’ or ‘character’. Don’t want to sound mean but your video just came across as an advert for Judd to help shift some stock. Some Norton dealers have bailed already.

[@thatbikersimon]

It sounds like you have a deep appreciation for Triumph's journey and product evolution. Norton's recent challenges seem to contrast sharply with that, reflecting concerns about reliability and design. Your critique highlights the importance of trust and brand reputation in the motorcycle industry. Only time will tell I’m confident Norton will do well especially with 100 million on the table as backing.😎

[@nayonkhan-ym2kc]

Impressive

[@thatbikersimon]

Thanks 🏍️💨💨💨💨💨

[@elitescores]

For such a premium brand and price it still has halogen lights and indicators! Also the indicators look so cheap straight off a 1999 bandit, poor really

[@thatbikersimon]

You need it ride it. I know there’s improvements to be made but this is a premium bike. It’s doesn’t need a lcd screen and led indicators. It’s a 1960s bike in a modern world 🌎 super fun to ride

[@motorvatedltd8048]

Domino switch gear. The indicators are the same as what some Aprilia models used to come with.

[@motorvatedltd8048]

You could have dropped round, Simon....I'm only down the road in Derby. Cheers, Stu (961 "The Duke" owner-builder)

[@thatbikersimon]

Hey Stu, yes I’ve not forgotten you buddy. You are my inspiration for the Norton. I promise I will call in at some point matey and hopefully shoot some video with you. 👍🏍️💨💨💨

[@motorvatedltd8048]

@@thatbikersimon oh wow, that is a compliment! Maybe I should offer some training and tips to the marketing guys at Norton then 🤔🤣

[@Bikegirl2022]

I do like the British made aspect but is that all the price tag is for? Seems expensive? 🏍️

[@thatbikersimon]

It’s worth every penny now I’ve riden it. I can see me getting one in the near future

[@mick998r]

I love the Norton brand and the sound and feel is just amazing. I'd opt for the Domiracer if I chose just one Norton.

[@thatbikersimon]

I understand where your coming from Mick, I very nearly bought a dominator SS in 2016 I had a look today on eBay and there now 30K I could of bought it for 19k in 2016

[@mick998r]

@@thatbikersimon and the Domiracer prices are all over 40k. I too missed the boat on buying when brand new 😭

[@motorvatedltd8048]

I sent a Dominator SS back to it's owner today, and took another SS in for work. The most I've had in at once has been 4 SS's....but oddly only ever one Domiracer. Not many Domiracers were converted for road use though tbh.

[@thomasbaudant8653]

Hello, that is a very nice bike! Very good video, thank you!

[@thatbikersimon]

Glad you like it! It’s one of those bikes people need to ride first to appreciate it

[@jfro5867]

Just noticed. The LHS handlebar grip has about a 1 inch gap between it and the indicator pod? What’s that about. Every bike seems to be thrown together, Freddie Dobbs pointed out build issues with his loan bike, Captain Rambunctious had a right mare with faults. Not convinced on this premium quality line they push out.

[@thatbikersimon]

It’s not perfect but I would sooner see them progress on what they have, most people seem to keep mentioning price and comparing to a mass production bike. Its hand built is not supposed to be perfect. I’m still waiting for Dobbies real review. 🤔

[@jfro5867]

@@thatbikersimon Trouble is Simon I think it’s reasonable to expect a hand built bike to be closer to perfection, precisely because it’s hand built. But that assumes that whoever builds is motivated enough and capable of delivering the desired quality. If I was in charge of the QC department at final inspection I would reject that, no question. It’s not difficult. It’s sloppy.

[@thatbikersimon]

@@jfro5867 I don’t think your wrong in what your saying but me personally I would still pick the Norton over anyone other modern classic.

[@yahoodlums]

Hope its more reliable than the old model.

[@thatbikersimon]

lol only time will tell. It’s definitely got some good brakes on it

[@hgm8337]

Is 5 gears and 77-bhp sufficient? You can thank Ohlins for those milled fork ends, of cuz

[@thatbikersimon]

Totally sufficient. Still plenty to break the uk speed limit. Its a very enjoyable ride.

[@koshtie]

Is a 5 speed box enough ? no LED lights & i would change those indictors out straight away for some chrome looking numbers, other than that what a peach, ATB Wayne.....

[@thatbikersimon]

I think what Norton have created here is amazing, a 5 speed box seem to be fine or though I kept going for another gear, as for the indicators I think LED would spoil the look they are trying to create. After watching other reviews I can’t say the little things they were complaining about is important the main thing is the ride. It’s a quality bike and has more character than anything I’ve ever experienced

[@skymningforelsket1302]

May I inquire what is wrong with halogen bulbs? The color of the light of halogen is superior to that harsh artificial looking light from LED. May I add, I had a Toyota with halogen headlights that went for 21 years before one of the headlight bulbs burned out.

[@koshtie]

@@skymningforelsket1302 I get what you say, but you can get warm white led bulbs that look almost the same & they save a lot of drain on a motorcycle's stator/charging system, They also won't drain the battery so fast as most lights are auto on with the key nowadays, hope that helps, ATB Wayne UK.......😀

[@skymningforelsket1302]

@@koshtie Thanks Wayne, interesting perspective. Well, methinks unless the bike has a Battery Management System (which most don't), (those are units that dump electrical current to ground, instead of trying to send the current into a fully charged battery)-- so unless your bike has that, one problem is the rectifiers on many motorcycles burn out because the bike is always making TOO MUCH electric. Not too little. So actually having a good draw on the electric all the time is actually good for the electrical system's rectifier and prevents battery overcharging, too. LED's might be nice for turn signals and stop light, but I've always been happy with a halogen headlight

[@tonyciriello6872]

Having had a 1973 as my first "legal" road bike, (at 15.5 years old) I would want one despite the price. Everything about it is as close to the original look as you could hope for. It does sound great as you point out but not close to the 360 degree crank the original had. Its a Ducati sound, not a Norton sound. Not that there is anything wrong with that but if your going thru all the effort to make it look like the original the sound is just as important in my opinion. A proper balance shaft would fix the vibrations of the 360 degree design. Triumph has done the same thing and I think its a missing element of the "retro" theme. Having said all that they are both great modern "retro" bikes and I am happy they exist. Want them both.

[@thatbikersimon]

Interesting information I don’t know much about the original bikes but now you mention a Ducati sound, maybe that’s why I drank to it. To me the bike was great fun to ride and feels special so I probably will buy a second hand one it time.

[@skymningforelsket1302]

100% agree. The last real Triumph Twin , for me, was the 2008. Air cooled with a proper 360 crank and carburettors. It really puzzles me why so many riders don't know the difference. It's not just the sound (although that's important). The engines literally run differently than a 270 , and feel different.

[@tonyciriello6872]

@@skymningforelsket1302 Finally!! Someone else gets it. You must be old like me. If not I'm sorry for suggesting it.

[@iancameron5536]

Over all a very smart looking machine I know it is going for the retro feel but I don’t think it would be letting the side down to have a fuel gauge and if you want to use it as an all rounder in towns as well as trips that turning circle has to be fixed, what were they thinking?

[@thatbikersimon]

Hey Ian, the fuel light is no different to many bikes. When the light comes on you fuel up. The turning circle I can understand will annoy some people but again i thought it just just added to the character of the bike. It’s certainly not a bike I would want to use on a daily basis but, I like I said in the video, you stand out from the crowd. 🏍️💨💨💨💨💨

[@iancameron5536]

@@thatbikersimon If I could afford a Norton I don’t think you’d be able to keep me off it, most bikes nowadays have fuel indicators of some sort, I have a Himalayan that does and it’s not the most tech savvy machine but it’s awfully handy off grid to know how much fuel you have left and if you should perhaps bale and head back to civilisation. In England on main roads with fuel pumps every few miles maybe not so critical. Think it could be hidden inside something like a traditional amp metre that would look good! After all I didn’t hear you grizzly about the” Brembo”I disc brakes saying they should have been drum!

[@flatcapcaferacer]

It's a shame that a beautiful bike vibrates so badly....I know Harley calls it character too. I pretty sure if you took ten people and let them ride this Norton and then let them ride a Thruxton R or RS eight of them would choose the Triumph. The other two would only go to a bike show or coffee shop. The looks of the Norton doesn't equal the ride or cost in my opinion. It doesn't mean I wouldn't own one but realistically it needs to be better.

[@thatbikersimon]

Norton have only just got started in my opinion and they do create something different to every other manufacturer which gets my vote. Il probably get one in a few years I’ve never been one for buying new because of depreciation but I did enjoy the ride even with all the vibration.

[@getheroutofthetruck]

is it uncomfortable after a while?

[@thatbikersimon]

I didn’t think so, I’m not sure I would want to ride the cafe racer version. It’s only a problem for really tall people. I wouldn’t use it for long distances just shorter rides.

[@grahamtricker4103]

I rode one last week for about an hour and the comfort was fine to me... Maybe if you rode it for 8-9 hours like Freddie Dobbs did in his last video of the 961 then I am sure you might feel a little uncomfortable. I ride a Harley Softail Deluxe and a Triumph Speedmaster which are both very comfortable bikes, however I need to get off and stretch my legs after about 2 hours of riding...

[@jfro5867]

@@grahamtricker4103 buying?

[@paulcooper5610]

Nice bike but too expensive, I'd rather buy a classic Norton Commando 850 for half the price and enjoy the real classic experience. Although for me I'd actually buy a Moto Guzzi 1000s or a Laverda 1200 mirage and have a bike that is probably going to go up in value rather than down. I accept that none of my choices are new bikes so if you want a new one then buy a Moto Guzzi V7 850 special and save yourself half the money and enjoy the classic feeling with modern tech.

[@thatbikersimon]

I do appreciate it’s expensive and I guess because it’s made in England it comes at a cost, I’ve never riden any real older classics so it would be interesting for a comparison.

[@paulcooper5610]

@@thatbikersimon Yes I know it's made in England, A Moto Guzzi is made in Italy by Italians, in the same factory where they have been making bikes for the last 100 yrs. I'm sure they get paid a similar wages to English workers. I'm not trying to say the V7 is the same as the Commando they are different type of bikes but I know which one offers the best value for money.

[@TommieTrumper-TFC1200]

I don’t know if its special enough, I think to properly differentiate itself from the Triumph range they should have gone with the dominator model, improving it with some nice subtle modern touches, improved its reliability and more power as it was way more visually appealing. If they had I would have chopped in all my bikes and considered trading a kidney too for one 😂

[@thatbikersimon]

I nearly bought a Dominator SS back im 2016 but it was going to be 19k but it would of been a limited edition bike. I’ve seen one for sale for 30K so it would of been a good investment if you didn’t ride it.

[@TommieTrumper-TFC1200]

@@thatbikersimon yes, it was a much prettier model and lets be honest Harley’s are mass produced, averagely engineered, big money style and marketing exercises and they still sell….

[@seanreeves3503]

The switchgear looks cheap and tacky, and the indicators are laughable, the sort of money they are asking for I’m afraid you need to have some better quality.

[@thatbikersimon]

I’m sure the little bits can and will be improved o er time but generally the bike rides great.

[@garyyoung9956]

Sounds like you work for Norton, no mention of the tank pushing your legs out when sitting on the bike. The bike looks great, but don't think it will sell well its over priced.

[@thatbikersimon]

I didn’t find it pushed my legs out but this is why I do make a point of mentioning my height. I don’t think 17k is expensive in todays world but I guess it depends on how much money you earn

[@Treker-yv7nz]

Is it fast enough and is only 5 gears too much of a compromise

[@thatbikersimon]

I kept on trying for a 6th gear thought. Habbit I guess

[@grahamtricker4103]

Don't forget most of the original Norton's and Triumph's only had 4 gears...

[@bikefever3569]

I have a 2015 model and I would not class it as modern performance.

[@thatbikersimon]

I’ve riden a 2014 model and there’s a big difference on the new models

[@bikefever3569]

@thatbikersimon go on then explain?

[@thatbikersimon]

@@bikefever3569 sorry I thought I. Was commenting on my S1000XR video. 😔

[@nickneale1]

Not for me…over priced, dubious build, under powered, vibrations…firm seat!…but a triumph.

[@thatbikersimon]

I nearly bought the triumph a few years ago but now I’ve riden the Norton it would have to be this one.

[@japfourme381]

The price they’re asking for bikes these days is laughable!! Can’t see how they can justify such high prices!!

[@thatbikersimon]

Made in England I recon 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

[@AlanRambler]

Still has an old school push rod engine, should have been a modern tec overhead cam unit.

[@thatbikersimon]

Its add to the character. Norton has created a old school bike in a modern world

[@michaelarchangel1163]

@@thatbikersimon In some ways, it's good in that there are no camchain worries, and the hydraulic tappets make it low maintenance. I can recall only a couple of Hondas which had overhead cams with hydraulic adjusters, the CBX750 and the Nighthawk 750, which wasn't sold in the UK.

[@iancraig6070]

An expensive bike which appears to have a design mindset of cost cutting. Lights,indicators,mirrors,five gears? BMW 1250r better value and better concept.

[@thatbikersimon]

But the BMW doesn’t have a Norton badge 👍

[@iancraig6070]

@@thatbikersimon never buy a bike because of a badge,it guarantees nothing.

[@thatbikersimon]

@@iancraig6070 I know but to me it’s all about the fun factor and I think the Norton is fun. If I bought a moden classic retro triumph/bmw/ I would probably get bored of it after a while.

[@h2allan]

@@thatbikersimon absolutely correct Simon... the last minute of your video says it all !

[@maskedavenger2578]

That’s no legend or proper Norton Commando, it’s an overpriced fake ,built to appeal to farty latte posh boy set ,with more money than sense . Those wrong way up tacky gold forks & carbon fibre mudguard & cheap nasty brake reservoirs have no place on a classic styled bike . The engine at tick over sounds like construction site dumper truck . 17 grand they are taking the pi55 .

[@thatbikersimon]

You’ve probably just described me, but far from posh lol. For me it’s got to be about the fun factor not about money I’ve wasted thousands of pounds on bikes over the year but never regretted it. I realy enjoyed the ride and feel but I can never compare it to the old classics but I have very little experience with the old Norton, but I will still probably end up buying one at some point.

[@maskedavenger2578]

@@thatbikersimon If I was you I would not allow my self to be ripped off for 17 grand , & get yourself a proper Norton . But a fool & his money is soon parted they say. 👍

[@cams2575]

And the jealous bots keep a coming..... Keep taking the bus son!

[@maskedavenger2578]

@@cams2575 That’s where you are wrong blurt , I have nowt to be jealous off , I could afford several of the crocks cash on the nail .

[@maskedavenger2578]

@@cams2575 Nowt to be jealous of sunshine .

[@Achilles22]

Overpriced, underpowered and dubious build quality. I would never buy one.

[@thatbikersimon]

The price does seem to be a big issue for people but I’ve come to the conclusion all bikes are expensive. I liked the Norton. I would love to have one in the garage if I had a spare 17K to spend

[@cams2575]

Why do all these bot fannies keep bleating they'd never buy one or want one but can't shut the fook up and post on all Norton review blogs? Mmmmm... 🤥🤭🤣

[@PNH63]

Nice idea but not special enough and way overpriced.

[@thatbikersimon]

Thanks for watching. 👍