Starting your ride of a journey to find a motorcycle that gives you both a traditional bike experience combined with modern engineering is not a new one - however, the new Norton Commando 961 Sport and new Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer clearly stand out. 

As a result, this guide aims to help you through the offerings of this iconic brand, focusing on its two distinct models - the Commando Sport and the Café Racer.

So, let's find out the features of this motorbike and what makes it suitable for you.

Top Features of the Norton Commando

☑ Perhaps the most revolutionary feature of the Norton Commando is its Isolastic frame system. This effectively isolates the engine and swingarm from the frame using a series of rubber mounts, drastically reducing the vibration of the bike and improving your ride comfort at the same time.  

☑ At the heart of the Commando is its air-cooled, parallel-twin engine. Early models boasted a 745cc displacement, which has been increased to 961cc to improve both torque and power.

☑ The Commando is known for its impressive torque output, making it exceptionally responsive and powerful at low to mid-range speeds.

☑ The Commando's styling, including its sleek tank, side panels, and distinctive "Peashooter" exhausts, make it visually appealing and instantly recognisable as a British classic motorbike.

☑ To improve handling and rider comfort, the Commando comes with an adjustable rear suspension, allowing you to customise your ride according to your weight and riding conditions.

☑ The Commando comes equipped with a front disc brake, offering superior stopping power compared to the drum brakes found on other motorbike models.

Table of Contents

• The History
• How is the Commando 961 Different From Other Motorbikes?
• Norton Commando Exterior Looks
• Comfort Features
• Handling
• Speed and Acceleration
• Performance
• Engine & Stats
• Exterior Paint Colours
• Models
• Model Features Overview
• Can the Commando 961 be Used for Track Days?
• Is the Commando 961 a Good Motorcycle for Beginners?
• How Much Does it Cost and What Warranty Does the Commando 961 Come With?
• Norton Commando 961 Final Thoughts
• Book a Test Drive

The History

The Norton Commando 961 traces its lineage right back to the original Norton Commando. This name first emerged in the 1960s and became synonymous with British motorcycle excellence. 

The revival of the Norton brand in the 21st Century saw the introduction of the Commando 961. This modern classic gives a nod to its fantastic predecessor while incorporating both contemporary engineering and modern technology into its fresh design.

Current Commando 961

The current Commando 961 has been conceived as a combination of the timeless British design and modern motorcycle technology. 

Consequently, it represents a careful balance, maintaining the iconic style and what everybody knows as the spirit Norton while ensuring you get a motorbike that has high performance and reliability standards - meeting your current expectations of what a bike should deliver you. 

The introduction of the 961 model has also marked a significant milestone in Norton's history, re-establishing the brand as a critical player in the motorcycle industry both here and abroad.

Commando 961 Sport

The Commando 961 Sport features a classic design with an upright riding position, designed for both comfort and ease of riding. 

The Commando 961 Café Racer

The Commando 961 Café Racer, on the other hand, offers the spirit of speed and freedom with its distinctive styling and more aggressive riding position.

Continuing Legacy

Today, the Commando 961 showcases Norton's legacy combined with its ability to innovate with its latest designs, all while respecting its long-lasting heritage as well.

How is the Commando 961 Different From Other Motorbikes?

The Norton Commando 961 stands as a very distinctive bike in the world of motorcycles, offering you a combination of characteristics that clearly differentiates it from other bikes on the market.

For instance, at its core, the Commando 961 gives you a very beautiful-looking bike that has a clear aesthetic appeal that classic motorcycle enthusiasts will admire, yet with the advancements of modern engineering that modern enthusiasts crave. 

All of these elements create a riding experience that is simultaneously nostalgic and contemporary.

Norton Commando Exterior Looks

When it comes to its exterior, the Norton Commando 961 merges classic design elements with a contemporary look, clearly giving you a motorcycle that appeals to a broad range of riders.

 Its exterior design, characterised by clean lines and an unmistakable silhouette, pays attention to Norton's rich history while embracing modern aesthetics. 

Sport Model Exterior

The Commando 961 Sport model features a more traditional upright riding stance, supported by its classic round headlamp and a minimalist front cowl.

The polished chrome and brushed metal surfaces also complement the bike's overall design, offering you a look that's both refined and understated simultaneously. 

The tank, which is well shaped to the frame - and available in various colour schemes - acts as the centrepiece. At the same time, the leather seat adds a touch of class and comfort, which clearly enhances the bike's appeal.

Café Racer Model Exterior

In contrast, the Commando 961 Café Racer model leans into the spirit of speed and that rebellious feeling which characterised the Café Racer culture.

 Its exterior features differ a little with a more aggressive stance, with a lower handlebar position and a cowl at the rear - which gives the impression of motion even when stationary.

 The use of blacked-out components alongside the traditional Norton silver and black paint scheme also gives the Café Racer a more distinct edge than the Sport model does.

 The model is further distinguished by its sleek lines and sporty aesthetics, designed around Café Racing history.

Attention to Detail

Both models of the Commando 961 give you bikes that are clearly well-designed.

From the engraved Norton logos on the engine casings to the intricate spoke wheels, every aspect of the exterior design has been thoughtfully considered, and this is clear to see.

 The use of high-quality materials - such as aluminium for the engine covers and Fenders - not only contributes to the bike's overall visual appeal but also its durability and performance simultaneously.

Exterior Lighting and Instrumentation

The exterior lighting of the Commando 961 incorporates more modern LED technology, ensuring you get visibility and safety without compromising on the bike's classic look. 

Instruments

The instrumentation available also gives you that analogue charm combined with the precision of digital displays, featuring a main dial that houses both a Speedometer and a Tachometer - while a small digital display provides you with all the essential information you need on the road at a glance.

This combination of traditional and modern elements further underscores the Commando 961's unique position in the motorcycle market, which is more than clear when you get on.

Comfort Features

When it comes to comfort, this is an area that the Norton Commando 961 distinguishes itself well with, with a suite of features designed to give you absolute comfort.

 Its layout is at the forefront, designed and engineered to ensure a relaxed riding posture, which is especially useful for longer rides.

Is the Commando 961 Suitable for Long Rides?

Yes, it is. The 961 is designed to be comfortable for longer journeys, especially in the Sport model - which features an upright riding position and ergonomically designed seats.

 The bike's balanced performance and adjustable suspension also contribute to its long-ride capability as well.

Handling

With its handling, the Norton Commando 961 not only captivates with its looks and comfort, as you can see but also shines in its handling capabilities.

Being a motorbike that has been engineered for precision and control, the bike offers you an engaging riding experience that is both very intuitive and exhilarating at the same time.

Brembo Brakes

The addition of high-quality Brembo brakes also helps the Commando 961's handling, delivering you powerful and progressive stopping power. 

This, combined with the bike’s nimble character, makes for a riding experience that is as safe as it is enjoyable.

How Does the Braking System Perform?

As you can see, it is equipped with high-performance Brembo brakes, and the Commando 961 offers you excellent stopping power and control. 

At the front, the Commando is equipped with a twin-disc, 320mm, 4-pot setup for effective braking. On the other hand, at the back, the braking system is enhanced by a 240mm disc paired with a 2-piston configuration.

Al-in-all, this braking system enhances your safety and confidence across a variety of riding conditions, ensuring you get a reliable and responsive braking response from your bike when you need it the most on the road.

How Does the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on the 961 Enhance Your Safety?

The ABS on the Commando 961 prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking situations - maintaining traction and allowing you to steer effectively while doing so.

This system also significantly reduces the risk of skidding, further enhancing your safety - especially on slippery or unpredictable surfaces.

How Does the Commando 961's Weight Affect its Performance?

The 961's weight of only 188 Kg, or 414 pounds, is carefully balanced very well to ensure you get a bike that is both agile and stable at the same time.

This relatively lightweight design enhances handling and acceleration, making the bike more enjoyable to ride and more accessible to manoeuvre, whether on twisty roads or weaving through city traffic.

Overall

With its great combination of responsive dynamics, fine-tuned suspension, and robust braking, the Norton Commando 961 offers superior handling to many other motorbikes available today. 

Speed and Acceleration

The Norton Commando 961 isn’t just about classic looks or comfortable rides; it's a machine that thrives on performance, particularly in terms of speed and acceleration. Built with a more spirited rider in mind, it delivers you that rush that is both immediate and exhilarating.

If you want to know what engine powers the Commando 961, this section is for you. At the heart of its performance lies the 961CC parallel twin engine. This powerhouse is tuned to deliver a robust output of up to 77 BHP at 7250 RPM. All of which can give you a top speed of around 120 MPH.

With this power, you can ensure that your 961 leaps forward with spirit at every twist of the throttle.

Acceleration

As you can see, its acceleration is brisk. It propels you with an urgency that respects the bike’s heritage while firmly rooting it in the present.

Gearbox

The Commando 961’s gearbox has also been engineered to give you smooth, precise shifts, allowing you to harness the engine’s power as you need it.

These quick Geer shifts give you quick acceleration and the ability to sustain high speeds with ease. 

Bike’s Aerodynamic Design

The bike’s aerodynamic design also contributes to this, minimising drag and allowing it to seem like it literally slices through the air as well.

Consequently, whether it is a quick sprint from a standstill or overtaking on the motorway, the Commando 961 handles all with a prowess that inspires confidence in you to do so.

Its speed capabilities are also matched in a classic-style bike of its type by an equally impressive acceleration curve, making every ride an invigorating experience.

What is the Fuel Efficiency of the Commando 961?

While the Commando 961 prioritises performance and riding experience, it also offers you a very reasonable fuel efficiency for its class.

With around 45 MPG and a on the road range of around 205 miles, you get a bike that not only delivers on speed but also ranges simultaneously.

Performance

The Norton Commando 961 delivers you a riding experience that beautifully balances both power and poise - setting it apart in the realm of modern classic motorcycles.

961CC Air-cooled, Parallel-twin Engine

At the heart of this performance is its 961CC Air-cooled, Parallel-twin engine, which has been engineered to offer you both immediate response to your input combined with a smooth power curve across a broad RPM range.

This engine configuration has the torque and horsepower needed for both spirited riding and comfortable cruising.

Engine & Stats

Exterior Paint Colours

The Commando 961 is available in 2 main colours, offering you personalisation to suit your individual style. 

The colour options, for instance, include:

• Matrix Black
    
• Manx Platinum

Models

The Commando 961 is also available in 2 main models, both offering you a unique blend of features and styling. 

The main models include:

• Norton Commando 961 Café Racer
    
• Norton Commando Sport

Sport

The Sport model is tailored for riders who appreciate a more classic aesthetic coupled with more modern, comfortable ergonomics.

 Its upright riding position and what can only be seen as its timeless design cues give you the spirit of traditional motorcycling, making it a superb choice for those seeking a combination of both comfort and style. 

Café Race

On the other hand, the Café Racer model, with its lean, mean stance, is designed for those who favour a more aggressive look and feel while on the road.

 Its lower handlebars and sportier seating position capture the essence of the Café Racing culture, appealing to riders looking for a spirited ride without compromising on the style of their bikes.

Model Features Overview

So, let's find out what makes these 2 models different from each other. 

Apart from the looks, a lot of these differences are in the features, such as:

Commando 961 Sport Model Features

• 961cc Air-Cooled Parallel Twin Engine
    
• Classic Round Headlamp and Minimalist Front Cowl
    
• Upright Riding Position for Enhanced Comfort
    
• Polished Chrome and Brushed Metal Surfaces
    
• Elegantly Shaped Tank with Multiple Color Options
    
• High-Quality Leather Seats
    
• Adjustable Öhlins Suspension
    
• Brembo Braking System
    
• Hand-Built in England
    
• Euro 4 Emission Compliance

Commando 961 Café Racer Model Features  

• 961cc Air-Cooled Parallel Twin Engine
    
• Aggressive Riding Position with Lowered Handlebars
    
• Rear Cowl and Sporty Aesthetics
    
• Blacked-Out Components and Signature Paint Scheme
    
• Sleek Lines and Café Racer Styling
    
• Adjustable Öhlins Suspension
    
• Brembo Braking System
    
• Hand-Built in England
    
• Euro 4 Emission Compliance
    
• Customizable Options for Personalization

Can the Commando 961 be Used for Track Days?

While primarily designed for road use, the Commando 961 - particularly the Café Racer model with its sportier stance - can be enjoyed on track days with ease. 

Its more performance-oriented features, like the adjustable Öhlins suspension and Brembo brakes, support spirited riding on the track.

Is the Commando 961 a Good Motorcycle for Beginners?

The Commando 961, with its powerful engine and performance characteristics, is generally recommended for more experienced riders. 

Consequently, beginners may find motorcycles with lower power outputs more suitable as they hone their riding skills and build up to this level of bike.

How Much Does it Cost and What Warranty Does the Commando 961 Come With?

In terms of pricing, please see our dedicated Norton Commando 961 Sport pricing page and Norton Commando 961 Cafe racer pricing page for the most up-to-date costs for these bikes.

Warranty

New bikes typically come with a two-year manufacturer's warranty, which also covers parts and labour for any manufacturing defects. 

Norton Commando 961 Final Thoughts

The Norton Commando 961 offers you a very unique proposition in the modern classic motorcycle market. 

With its blend of heritage design and contemporary engineering, it appeals to those who value the legacy of the Norton brand and classic biking while desiring the reliability and performance of modern technology on their bikes.

Each Commando 961 model is built with a focus on quality and craftsmanship, and that is clear when you get on it. It offers a level of exclusivity and personalisation through various customisation and paint options, to name a few.

Book a Test Drive

So, whether it's the allure of the open roads and track days or the vibrancy of city landscapes, the Commando 961 stands ready to deliver an engaging and enjoyable riding experience for you for years to come.

So the biggest question you have now is choosing between the Sport and Café Racer models, and which one is right for your needs and riding style?

So don't guess, why not book a test drive at our official Norton dealership today and experience getting on the Norton first hand yourself.