India’s TVS Motor Company-owned iconic British motorcycle brand Norton Motorcycles has unveiled the new Commando after more than 50 years. The newest version of the Commando is available in two variants: the SP and the CR, i.e. Sports and Cafe Race, and it will become the first motorcycle to be made at the motorcycle maker’s new factory in Solihull.
The 961 is the second Commando model to be refreshed under TVS Motor Company since taking over in April 2020. Billed as “the best Commando ever produced”, both versions are powered by an air-oil-cooled 961cc parallel-twin engine developing 76.8 BHP at 7,250 RPM and 81 Nm at 6,300RPM, mated to a five-speed constant mesh type gearbox using a single plate wet clutch.
The Commando 961 rides on 43 mm Öhlins USD forks at the front – adjustable for preload, compression, and rebound damping and has a twin shock setup at the rear – also fully adjustable by Öhlins.
A few other notables include a Brembo brake setup, a Norton electronic analog speedometer and tachometer, a 300W high-output charging system, a handcrafted frame and exhaust system, and a forward-angle engine mount. The new Commando models are available in Matrix Black and Manx Platinum with the former complimented by a Duke Gold Norton logo and pinstripe combination while the latter has an additional fine Mercury Red detailing.
As for the differences, the SP has a more conventional upright handlebar while the CR has a lower cafe racer-style handlebar. The headlamps of the two are a little different too. The new Norton Commando 961 SP and CR are available with a starting price of £16,499 and £16,999.
All images courtesy of Norton Motorcycles.
