There are iconic British bikes and then there is the Norton Commando. Under pressure in the mid 1960s from the influx of Japanese manufacturers, Norton made one final roll of the dice and within a remarkably short timeframe created arguably the best big British twin of them all.
Where its rivals tried to out-perform those overseas upstarts with cubic capacity and horsepower, Norton wisely chose a different path. The firm played to the strengths of British bikes, namely handling and frame design. Norton’s new boss had just moved from Rolls Royce, where smooth, fuss-free ride ruled. He therefore tasked Norton with eliminating the vibration typical of this type of bike.
The firm created the ground-breaking rubber mounted Isolastic ‘GlideRide’ frame that limited movement to the vertical plane and kept the wheels in line with the frame. The new bike had a smooth, tight and taut feel that was lacking in its Japanese and British rivals.
Buyers and journalists loved it. Norton sold 60,000 during 10 years of production and the bike accrued multiple awards. Track success at the Isle of Man TT and Thruxton helped seal its status.
The Commando was one of the last great British bikes of the 1960s. Its ability and style have made it an icon and it is highly sought after on the classic scene.
This gorgeous 1969 Norton Commando 750 is a timewarp survivor. With just one owner from new and only 25,000 miles showing on the clock, it appears to have never been restored, although it does benefit from a recent engine rebuild. It carries a beautiful patina and character that only age can create. The bike has been little used in recent months but the Seller says it would only need fresh fuel and an oil change before hitting the road. XVcnFjySJR8LgZes8PegqikuioDZwa1LAKqh9NAY.jpg2.12 MB
The original Commando did not just have a clever frame, it was designed to stand out too. Later models may have edged towards more traditional styling, but the fastback design of the early models like this one, with its canted forward Atlas parallel twin, ensured the new bike really stood out from its competitors. Even 50 years on it looks purposeful and stylish, in a simple and unfussy way.
As an early 1969 model this bike retains the original 750cc engine and distinctive styling of those first Commandos. Its condition looks like the definition of ‘time warp’ and reflects its one owner, low mileage life. The green paintwork looks to be original and the fibreglass is in very good condition. The decals also look to be original: although Norton changed the design on the tank during 1969, the script on this one appears correct for an early 1969 model. A restoration would likely look much fresher, while these decals appear to have a gentle age to them.
The metal and chrome work are also in good condition and appear to be original. Only heat soak on the exhaust downpipes indicates age. There are two small dents on the speedometer’s chrome bezel and the glass of the amp gauge is cracked. Had the bike been restored it seems likely that these issues would have been resolved. The dials retain the iconic Norton ‘green dot’ used in the firm’s advertising of the time. These clues and the general condition seem to indicate it is as it left the factory.dsYP9ULyqHQB1ISrZ1FR7TqfjoIHE7OLnrxCG3J5.jpg2.08 MB
The Mechanics
Rebuilt engine with photographic record
Believed 25,000 miles from new
750cc OHV parallel twin
58bhp
Runs and drives as it should
This Commando uses the 745cc OHV parallel twin ‘Atlas’ engine with hemispherical type head. Norton decided to use this engine at the last minute due to problems with the new motor that it was developing for the bike. Although it dates back to the 1940s, it was a proven, dependable design and in the Commando is canted forward to give the bike a very different look to previous Nortons. It was also powerful for the time, generating 58bhp via a 4 speed gearbox and a top speed of 115mph.
The engine in this bike is original but was recently professionally rebuilt as photographs in the history file show. The mileage of just over 25,000 by the single owner is believed by the Seller to be genuine. The bike’s general condition does seem to back this up.
The Commando’s party trick was its Isolastic frame, a clever design that put the engine on rubber mounts to isolate vibration. Dubbed GlideRide by Norton’s marketing team, it provided a smooth, connected riding experience far removed from that of contemporary big British twin bikes. This feature was also one of the bike’s aces in its battle with the influx of Japanese machines at the tail end of the 1960s. The Isolastic frame and rubber bushes all appear to be in good, original condition on this 53 year old bike.
There is little history with the bike, although the Seller tells us that there are photographs of the engine rebuild. He states that it starts, runs and rides as it should but that it would benefit from an oil change and fresh fuel due to the lack of recent use. sysUWhAYxa6B5kkrv2FZLG2wpq8VK3OZ5lrGsLWV.jpg2.17 MB
Summary
The Norton Commando was a gamechanger for the company and for the British motorcycle industry. In the face of an overseas onslaught it delivered something that those cheaper foreign bikes lacked: a distinctly British biking experience characterised by brilliant, smooth handling and that lovely Norton exhaust note. The 1960s original is recognised as an icon of the scene and a sought-after classic.
Survivors like this are rare. A one owner, low mileage bike in time warp original condition, it is an early Commando so retains the ‘fastback’ styling that made these first bikes so distinctive. It will take little to put this beautiful classic British bike back on the road, ready to enjoy as the days lengthen and the weather warms.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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