1977 Norton Commando 850 MkIII
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Highlights
• A very special and unique Norton Commando
• Low mileage example with just over 600 miles on the clock
• Accompanied by an extensive history file
• Sporting many original or new old stock Norton parts
• Excellent mechanical and aesthetic order
The Appeal
One of the British engineering giants, Norton will always be a name synonymous with truly remarkable motorcycles, a model no stranger to this notion is the Commando 850 MK3.
First dreamt up in order to steal a share of the 750cc and Japanese bike market the Commando stuck to simple engineering and design principles and as a result the mighty Norton held a place in the hearts of many motorcycle enthusiasts, not just because of that name on the tank, but because it was a truly excellent motorcycle.
Even winning MotorCycle News’ “machine of the year” award for 5 consecutive years.
First dreamt up in order to steal a share of the 750cc and Japanese bike market the Commando stuck to simple engineering and design principles and as a result the mighty Norton held a place in the hearts of many motorcycle enthusiasts, not just because of that name on the tank, but because it was a truly excellent motorcycle.
Even winning MotorCycle News’ “machine of the year” award for 5 consecutive years.
The final iteration of the Commando, the MK3, which is what we are presented with here, still stuck to the same simple principles but now boasted upgraded brakes and importantly an electric start.
TJA 563R, a final year 1977 model presents in remarkable condition, having been subject to an extensive rebuild using only the best quality Norton parts available and with just over 500 miles on the clock, it exhibits a unique opportunity to acquire what must surely be one of the most exciting classic bikes on the market at present.
The History and Paperwork
• Collection of invoices from Mick Hemings motorcycles and Andover Norton
• The Vintage Motorcycle Club manufacture certificate
• Norton Commando workshop manual and parts catalogue
• Letter from Andover Norton confirming the chassis and build date of the bike
• Correct V5 registration document present with the bike
The story that follows this bike is certainly one to be called interesting.
Allocated to Mick Hemmings when new, this machine remained unregistered and unused; eventually being loaned to the National Motorcycle Museum Birmingham. While on loan the Museum suffered from a well documented catastrophic fire on 16 September 2003. Many of the bikes were totally lost, but some were salvaged. This is one of the salvaged, rebuilt by Mr Marsh who rebuilt the machine over a number of years back to its former glory and first registered it in 2015. There was a question around the ownership when the bike reappeared as it was believed to have been a total loss due to the fire, however this was resolved amicably.
Please note the machine was marked as an import with the DVLA when first registered in 2015. However, given the Norton factory records it is understood this is a UK from new machine.
Allocated to Mick Hemmings when new, this machine remained unregistered and unused; eventually being loaned to the National Motorcycle Museum Birmingham. While on loan the Museum suffered from a well documented catastrophic fire on 16 September 2003. Many of the bikes were totally lost, but some were salvaged. This is one of the salvaged, rebuilt by Mr Marsh who rebuilt the machine over a number of years back to its former glory and first registered it in 2015. There was a question around the ownership when the bike reappeared as it was believed to have been a total loss due to the fire, however this was resolved amicably.
Please note the machine was marked as an import with the DVLA when first registered in 2015. However, given the Norton factory records it is understood this is a UK from new machine.
The Exterior
• Rebuilt using genuine Norton parts
• Great chrome trim and accessories
• Chrome wire wheels
Having amassed such minimal mileage in its lifetime, it comes as no surprise to report that the exterior of the Norton is in utterly exquisite condition.
With sleek silver paintwork and smart chrome mudguards and embellishments, the Commando is undoubtedly a handsome bike.
With sleek silver paintwork and smart chrome mudguards and embellishments, the Commando is undoubtedly a handsome bike.
The Paintwork itself is of a great standard, as are the contrasting black and red pinstripes and Norton graphics on the tank and the lashings of chrome trim dotted so neatly around the bike are of a wonderful standard, exhibiting very little if anything in the way of wear.
Focusing on the front of the bike we are presented with a great quality set of bars, grips and levers, with a smart set of good quality gauges and switchgear nestled in just behind this, all of which presents in great shape.
At the top end sits the simple and rather comfortable Norton black leather seat, with high quality and neat stitching the seat is one of a great standard and is distinctly lacking in wear.
At the top end sits the simple and rather comfortable Norton black leather seat, with high quality and neat stitching the seat is one of a great standard and is distinctly lacking in wear.
At ground level, we find two excellent chrome wire wheels, both of which are, much like the rest of the bike, in excellent order. As are the tyres on which they sit.
The Mechanics
• Excellent 828cc twin cylinder engine
• Great mechanical order
• Maintained to the highest standard
“The greatest of the twin bikes” certainly no mean feat, but a quote often used to describe the Commando 850.
As shown by the extensive list stowed within the history file, the Norton has undergone an incredibly extensive refurbishment and presents as such. The engine, gearbox and ancillaries are of a great standard and look exactly as one would expect of a bike that has amassed such minimal mileage.
On the road the Commando is reported to provide a brilliant and rewarding ride, and is ready for many more miles of enjoyment throughout the upcoming summer months.
A real statement piece from a mechanical standpoint are the chrome “peashooter” exhausts. Often replaced or substituted out for inferior reproductions, it's great to see genuine Norton examples being used here.
Denoted by the Norton engraving on the end of the piece.
Denoted by the Norton engraving on the end of the piece.
Summary
A British icon, rebuilt to the best of standard, the Norton Commando is an undoubtedly special bike.
This particular Commando produces a very exciting opportunity to acquire what must be one of the finest examples of the legendary bike.
In near factory fresh condition, the new owner can be transported back to glorious 1977 in an instant.
This particular Commando produces a very exciting opportunity to acquire what must be one of the finest examples of the legendary bike.
In near factory fresh condition, the new owner can be transported back to glorious 1977 in an instant.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1977
- Make Norton
- Model Commando 850 MkIII
- Colour Silver
- Odometer 675 Miles
- Engine size 828
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town East Harling
- Location Norfolk
- Country United Kingdom
18
bids
- jo•••• £13,500 22/06/22
- Si•••• £13,250 22/06/22
- jo•••• £13,000 22/06/22
- Si•••• £12,750 22/06/22
- jo•••• £12,500 22/06/22
- de•••• £12,000 22/06/22
- Po•••• £11,750 22/06/22
- de•••• £11,500 22/06/22
- be•••• £10,500 22/06/22
- jl•••• £10,000 22/06/22
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