History

The Norton Commando 750/850 series, introduced in 1967, is, without question, one of Britain’s most successful 2-wheeled machines, enduring through numerous corporate bankruptcies, mergers, and overall instability. It all began in 1966 when Associated Motor Cycles, Norton’s parent company,  went bankrupt and reformed as Norton-Villiers after being purchased by Manganese Bronze Holdings, a holding company of London Taxis International. By 1972, Norton-Villiers and the British motorcycle industry as a whole were in a steep decline.  In an effort to save one of their staple industries, the British government offered Norton-Villiers financial support on the condition that they merge with fellow motorcycle maker Triumph, resulting in the Norton-Villiers-Triumph group. Despite a turbulent decade for the company, the Norton Commando itself remained a top choice for riders and enthusiasts around the world, with roughly 60,000 units produced during its lifespan. In the UK, it even won the Motor Cycle News “Machine of the Year” award for 5 consecutive years.

The larger 850cc variant of the Norton Commando debuted in 1973 and was produced in three versions: Mk1, Mk2, and Mk3. Introduced in 1974, the Mk2 variant came in 5 trims: Interstate, Roadster, Hi Rider, Interpol, and a special limited-edition run of 200 units featuring bodywork meant to replicate the Formula 750 works racers sponsored by the cigarette manufacturer John Player & Sons. For the regular variants, the barrels reverted to being silver painted, and the gas tank on the Interstate was reduced to 5.4 US gallons. Most Mk2 examples were manufactured before the final bankruptcy of the Norton-Villiers-Triumph group in late 1975.

This Motorcycle

This particular example, Frame # 319280, is a 1974 Norton 850 Commando MKII Roadster built in August 1974. It was delivered to its first owner, a Mr. Drewry on October 21, 1975, by Suzuki of Columbus in Grove City, Ohio. Mr. Drewry moved to Florida shortly after, taking the bike with him. There he continued to use it regularly but in the 1990’s at around 10,800 miles decided to upgrade the bike mechanically.  The work completed is documented and every major mechanical issue known to plague the Norton 750/850 series has been addressed by either being remachined or outright replaced/upgraded including upgrading the cam. A detailed list of the work completed during the first ownership can be seen in the old eBay listing in the “View Documents” section above. 

By 2006 this 850 Commando was listed on eBay, and the current and second owner acquired it as a fully turn-key example. Shortly after the new owner and bike participated in the Kyle Petty Charity Ride in 2006, completing over 3,000 miles of the 4,500 mile journey. It was used here or there but remained in a climate controlled collection for many years after until it was entrusted to us for sale. Upon doing so the bike was given an open check book service and will once again be running and riding at the time of purchase by the new owner. 

Considering that this example is cosmetically well preserved and original combined with mechanically sorted. This offers a unique opportunity to acquire an 850 Commando that is a stout performer presenting with concours worthy aesthetics, the ultimate combo. 

Upon purchase, the new owner will receive the original owner’s and workshop manuals, tools, a copy of the old eBay listing notating the work completed, and any other accessories as photographed or documented.