People may like modern classics...but your jerky videography is very annoying...I like the parking brake...spokes and rims look good, not a fan of the fluid reservoirs, and you rev it too high, you know...the Norton should have grunt...
As a Yank who has had a 1974 850 since 1980, I always had a forlorn tear in my eyes thinking it was one of the last of a beautiful breed. I am so happy to see Norton come to life. They did a perfect job on these new models.
A gorgeous looking bike and a proper British icon. So glad Norton now have the leadership and resources they deserve and I'm looking forward to seeing what emerges over the coming years.
@@mostlymotorbikes I just hope TVS allow them to remain a premium brand without them becoming crazily expensive and unobtainable for the normal enthusiast. This iteration is a properly engineered version of the previous Commando, but I'm excited to see what they do with the next generation.
@@AJSpinDrift i think a more basic bare bones commando with cheaper basic forks, nissin brake calipers, a kickstart and a sort of adventure, or scramber look with a light 2 into 1 exhaust and less expensive paint job making it come in at £13k would make it far more cometitive. A old workhorse norton like the old interstate would be good with lower compression, with midrange and reliability like honda making the engine last 200000 miles would mean it would be better than suzuki 650 v strom.
Watched this again, drrrrrrrooooollllllliiiiiinnnnnnnggggggggggg now. At 5' 10" and 14st this bike was built for me!!!!! must have a toddle down to Sheffield from Stringa Beads and have a test. I've bought a couple of very hopeful tickets for one acquired from Via Moto, up for grabs on Rev Comps. Only things I'd change/do would be swap the reservoirs to something more pleasing and perhaps a bikini fairing to protect the clocks.
Crackin review. Best, honest content i've seen on the new commando. I've just bought one. Can't wait to get it. Not for everyone i know, but my gooodness, the best lookin retro in today's market by a mile. I couldn't resist. No test ride. Cash down... boom.
I thourougly enjoyed your comments. The Norton back when I was a kid was not something I could afford , but it remained something of a dream for most of my life. Today I’m 66 , maybe I’ll get one!
Its really beautiful. I rode the commando in the early 1980s and even the old ones handled and braked great and have a addictive nature. My favourite bike to ride.
Im sure it will sell well and i prefer it to the bonny or enfield 650. Hou wont get a more basic modern classic with the beautiful finish. Well done TVS.
Bought a black and gold Norton in London when I was 19, (I'm American), Kept 40 years. just turned 70. This Looks Kinda Nice, wonder about more weight and smaller wheels.
I rode. A norton 750 commando fastback years ago and remember it was steady as a rock on a fast sweeping bend i took at 70mph and the torque was amazing. Its the nicest bike ive ever ridden and they were better handling, braking and more powerful and torquey than the old 650 yam. I had a pre unit BSA A10 i loved. The frame was amazing, great design and far better than the triumph bonneville frames. A mate put a bonny front end on it with lockheed disc brakes which massively improved it. This new 961 will now have far better crankshaft design and balancing with ohc, and the main bearings, big ends, the top end and the gearbox and clutch seem to have been redesigned and the engine oil feed and cooling will now have had any gremlins from the 1960s and 1970s well sorted out. They would blow up especially the late 1960s Atlas motor but they was quick for those days. Im so glad TVS seems to be rebuilding confidence in Norton by properly sorting out the quality without ripping off the customers on price or cutting corners on build quality. Machining properly to ISO9001 standards for conformability to the drawings, dimensions etc and stuff like building the parts with proper treatments of hardening tempering and good painting and surface finishing and electrics too without over design with Rider aids, computers and chips etc that overcomplicate, can go wrong and cost over a thousand to sort out unlike analogue instruments and simple basic switchgear which is far cheaper to run, buy and service. Well done TVS. If your basic indian small simple bikes are a benchmark then i can see them really catching on and even being sold out months in advance if they are really smart with their decisions
It would look better if the put a chrome shield around the clutch and brake resivours. They look cheap. The fir and finish of the rest of the bike is great
This is beautiful ! I'm almost 70, quit riding years ago, but would buy one tomorrow if I started riding again (and it would make a grand excuse). I started out on British bikes back in the 1970's, owned a couple of Triumph Daytonas. Couple of questions on the engine. Is it overhead valve like the original, or overhead cam? Is the crank a 360 degree like the original, or has it been changed to a 270 degree like the Triumphs? It sounds great, and I like that it has none of the modern stuff like traction control; let the rider do that.
A really great review and a good watch. I’ve watched a lot of your vids over the last few years and still get my kicks from Sportsbikes. I love Panigale’s and RSV4’s but I’m so warming to these modern retro’s. Like you say it’s not all about 195 BHP and getting your knee down. I so need to ride one of these Nortons after watching your vid. What a gorgeous bike. Next year I’ll sure be looking at buying a modern retro. A Commando, Thruxton or even a Kwacker Z900RS. How about doing a vid reviewing those 3 for a retro road test? 👍🏻
Don’t write off the cafe racer option just from a comfort perspective, yes more weight on wrists, but I found it’s more than offset by having your body tipped forward into the wind which makes a big improvement
Yeah it’s a decent point. Certainly looks a bit better. I just like the chilled out riding position of the sport. Fits how I would use the bike. Will give the CR a try though. Thank you.
an iconic bike which unfortunately is hard to find depending on where you live. I can't wait to be lucky enough to ride one, in the meantime I'm going for a "cheaper" Guzzi V7 stone special edition next Thursday. Ride In Peace 🙏
Well done TVS for buying Norton and giving top quality finish and for a quality bike for the money unlike Triumph which is not as nice on the rolling chassis..i do however question how robust the Norton is. I remember a 750 fastback blowing up around David Bowie lets dance tour in Milton Keynes i think on 1981? The engine was lovely and was torquey handling was great especially compared to honda kawasaki and they handled like a tesco shopping trolley. The new 961 is really beautiful. Norton should make a stripped down, bare bones and basic, easy to service bike for us working Jo. Im glad theres no waste on garbage stuff and good suspension, brakes and wheels
Its a bit like BSA A10 twin with much more power and has low down grunt. I love the handling and stable, not heavy. Its how a bike should be. A bespoke hand built bike with great frame and welding. A real motorbike that TVS and the great staff there have true pride in their work.
Its cheaper and nicer than BMW gs1250 by £3k and TVS arent anything to do with Stuart Garner, that scummy ex owner who was the guy who should have been stripped of everything.
Elephant in the room though mate…. Thruxton RS, Still beautifully finished, more modern engine with more power and torque, lighter weight, great equipment, eg brembo mnoblc brakes, ohlins rear shocks. I’ve had two thruxton r’s and they are stunning, and always turn heads
As a Thruxton R owner I can attest to their greatness, however the Norton does have a specific charm. The Thruxton is the better bike, but as odd as it sounds, with bikes like these, better isn't always the winning consideration. It's how the bike makes you feel. Let's face it, most modern style bikes are faster, lighter, more nimble and more economical than either of these, but that's not the point. Bikes like the Commando and Thruxton are bought by people wanting something special and that's more subjective than just the numbers and statistics alone. A digital watch with solar charging and atomic time synchronisation is far 'better' than an automatic mechanical watch, but everyone wants a special watch. It's hard to beat the quintessential British 'specialness' of the Commando!
@@AJSpinDrift completely agree with all of this. I also just bought a Panigale 899 when the 959’s are cheaper and technically better. Because the 899 just has that extra something, so I totally agree. I do think the Thruxton is a very strong option as it’s still got soul, but agree you don’t wanna get to the bike meet and see 10 of them which you might with the triumph!
Very nice. My type of bike. If I wasn't waiting for my new Bonneville to be delivered in a couple of weeks I would be looking seriously at this or the Guzzi Mandello V100.
Great review on a stunning looking and sounding bike back to basics bike with the analogue clocks and no crap TFT dash like most modern bikes has this bike got ABS if so that's OK but you just don't need all that modern crap that most modern bikes have got that's why I also love the new BSA as it too is back to basics biking with no modern crap on it that you really don't need, this new NORTON really does it for me its STUNNING
These new Norton's would really rock if TTS Performance made supercharger kits for them. There's Triumph Thruxton cafe racers running 150 to 200 plus HP using these supercharger kits.
I added Brembo racing RCS radials, a full titanium 2:1 exhaust and carbon wheels. Mines really lively, very fun and a somewhat unusual track day bike. I don’t think I’ll ever sell it.
One of the best reviews i have seen on this bike so mendy different opinions i no we all different but the other ones say it lacks power what a load of crap i am going to test ride one my self after this review
A couple of questions . How much do you weigh ? Have tou ever ridden a MKlll 850 ? If so, how does this compare ? I like your riding style and positioning on the road . I saw another test rider who seemed to stay right in the ' crud ' line the whole test ! . I'm looking for a modern version of the MKlll , a poor mans Vincent . £17 k is not prohibitive to me, but no doubt it will be higher when it reaches Australia. I've owned two 850's and a handfuls of 750 Bonnevilles plus Harley 1340 , Ducati GT 750, and many more smaller bikes.
It's interesting the very different schools of thought on this bike some lukewarm ,TMF of Norton Christmas card list. Have arranged a demo ride with new dealership locally, will see. Love a classic bike for chill cruising to accompany my Pan to cover that side of things on the other end of the scale even considering the RE 350 classic for simple back to basics. Have owned a Bonnieville for five years great bike just fancy something different :)))))
Give it a try mate. I think some people are still sour over the previous company owners (understandably). I just kept an open mind and it made me smile. Simple as that.
Sorry guys I didn’t Pursue in the end as couldn’t justify the money as lost garage and a lot of money to sit out on the driveway. Bought a royal Enfield instead which makes me smile also especially for what it cost no finance with what I sold my other bike for. The dealership near Gatwick crawley are running a Demo. Give it a go if your seriously interested and let us know. The riding position on it didn’t feel particularly comfortable before I’d even turned a wheel so not a good start tbh.
@@sussexbikerpillion Thanks for the update. I reckon there’s a lot of us out there of a certain age (kids grown up and all that) that really do like the idea of a Norton, obviously how it looks, and can accept the relatively modest performance (by todays standards anyway) BUT when it comes down to it, that leap of faith into a £17k bike with the concerns we all have surrounding it, I just don’t know. Via Moto is about 45 miles from me, not far so I may go and look at one over winter, see it in person. I really like the bike I have now and don’t want to make a bad decision doing the p/x plus cash into something I regret. Completely understand the RE purchase. Great bikes, great value, huge dealer network. You really can’t go wrong.
Think the 5 speeds and (let’s be honest) mediocre performance is a deal breaker. Looks great but so does the Thruxton and that’s more like what I would expect. Looked quite flat when you rolled the throttle, not a lot happened.
@@mostlymotorbikes 67bhp with a weight of 230kg + rider on top says mediocre to me, especially for £17k. I think people will get fed up of having to ‘tootle’ about all the time. Anyway, it’s not all about high performance so who knows, I hope it does well.
@@jfro5867 this is my point. Personally, I wouldn’t buy this for high performance. I’d buy it for the nostalgia, the experience, the noise etc. it just happens to also have some nice modern bits that make it a pleasure to live with too. I will be seeking out a go on the Thruxton though. You’re the second person to mention it.
JON B i respect your opinion but its a functional bike where you aint gonna have to thrash it to enjoy it and youd keep your licence clean. Some of us older bikers rode shopping trolley type frames with leaks from the engines of oil back in the day. Simple bikes you could easily work on.
@@Ian-bq7gp No denying it’s a real looker and I appreciate high performance isn’t everything but there are so many cheaper and (importantly) mechanically proven alternatives are out there now. That’s the trouble. An aging handful of nostalgic chaps who lament the loss of Norton and love it won’t be enough to keep the business going. It failed spectacularly last time so any interested horses are already spooked. We all know you can’t trust motorcycle journo’s or magazines to say exactly what they think anymore so until real people take the plunge and buy one it’s an expensive leap of faith into the brand. But what do I know? 🤷♂Caveat emptor.
Good to see Norton back and sorted,after the poor (and criminal) Stuart Garner attempt. Would love a 961,but the gold anodised finish of the Ohlins components would have to go......
@@mostlymotorbikes I can’t think of a bike with a tank like that, they are either smooth contour or wrap round, the shape is too pronounced to get a comfortable grip, (for me) only me knees grip the tank, the rest of my leg is in free air. It would be better with a smoother contoured tank for me.
At the end of the day we are only one opinion, as is he. He is a slightly older gent who has different perspectives of what good looks like, which is totally cool. I always say, go and test any bike for yourself. Don’t get too wrapped up on specs and reviews. Does it make you smile? If so, buy it.
@@mostlymotorbikes It's one hell of a boon actually. My own bike, a Suzuki V twin hasn't needed shimming in over 30,000 miles but when it is outside of specification, the cams have to come out ! I haven't got the shims, or the brains !
I'm sorry, I have no wish to offend but this looks like a parts bin special to me. The exhaust pipes should be tucked in; the side panel should fill the space; and what's the point of that blade front mudguard? There are stylists in the US (I'm not American btw) who would give this motorcycle a coherent look.. I know there are people out there who will pay the money just because it's a Norton - but this looks a sorry mess to me.
We all agree that the failed Norton Motorcycles, run by Stuart Garner and Simon Skinner, designed and manufactured the #V4SS. From a strict legal standing, all product liabilities rest with the now NUML business in administration. But, when you look at the morally and ethically right thing to do as the brand's new owner when it comes to mitigating a clear risk to life, should TVS Motor Company / Norton Motorcycles seek to monetise mitigating the risk to life? The #V4SS is a highly defective motorcycle, with over 35 identified defects, many of which could lead to a fatal accident in a worst-case situation. Charging a small group of #V4SS owners £10,000 and asking them to hand back the #V4SS in return for a #V4SV, is nothing short of Norton Motorcycles seizing on a monetisation opportunity for this specific group of owners. When those who paid in full or have #V4SS machines stripped for parts are not asked to pay an additional £10,000, why is it acceptable to ask those still possessing #V4SS machines for £10,000? A motorcycle by design is inherently dangerous; a bike with 35 defects is at least 35 times more hazardous, so why would a brand seek to combine a plan to derisk with a monetisation event. Especially when the cost of mitigation is so low as to give #V4SS owner a new #V4SV equate to 0.0344% of the sums invested so far. Would that not be the right thing to do? Dr. Robert Hentschel as the CEO of Norton Motorcycles will not show empathy and compassion and act to mitigate the risk and revise your position before a life is lost?
@@mostlymotorbikes Completely agree the new Commando is a significant step forward, and a bike I would purchase. But how can any motorcyclist buy from a brand when it’s knowing leaving defective motorcycles in the hands of owners and refusing to help them.
TVS is a multi billion dollar company who, among other things, supply critical components like brakes to Mercedes. They don't give a monkeys about the 10k. But they have to draw a firm line under the mistakes of the previous incarnation. Giving away a free bike is kind of an admission of guilt, and can open the floodgates. And remember the defective model is not their bike. It's a different product made by a different company in a different facility. Also the old Norton customers still have the right to claim against the old company.
TVS have hurt themselves as the commercial reality of the V4 platform is a story of utter failure. They allowed the negative comments from V4SS owners to gain momentum and this has undermined customer confidence in the V4 platform. If they had handled this differently they would a successful product, total own goal and missed opportunity.
Craig from the Doghouse would be a great designer and critic. You just know he would suss out the bike as far as engine, gearbox, electrics and simplicity is concerned. Im going on a bit, sorry but i havent felt this excited about a bike since the rotary Norton. I dont drive so id have it as a daily commuter using it all year round. The suzuki 650 v strom is similar in many ways as its basic, simple and built to last many miles with reliability. The only concern is passing euro 5 so that we dont have ulez charge of £12.50 or more a day from that idiot mayor mr Khan!
Let me know your thoughts in the comments. Are modern classics for you?
People may like modern classics...but your jerky videography is very annoying...I like the parking brake...spokes and rims look good, not a fan of the fluid reservoirs, and you rev it too high, you know...the Norton should have grunt...
@@kenkayiii I bet you’re fun at parties.
if you are in Montana, come on by...we have dinner parties quite frequently, it's good do know you@@mostlymotorbikes
Hopefully Norton starts shipping over to the U.S. I'd love to have a Commando in my garage!
Fingers crossed for you
As a Yank who has had a 1974 850 since 1980, I always had a forlorn tear in my eyes thinking it was one of the last of a beautiful breed. I am so happy to see Norton come to life. They did a perfect job on these new models.
Couldn’t agree more 🙏
Can’t deny that’s a cool sounding and looking machine 🫡
Couldn’t agree more Jacob.
Bought mine from Via Moto first class service and the bike is just simply awesome
Excellent. Great to her pal.
Wow , sure is a beautiful motorbike, if only my numbers would come up 😂
Is that not one of the most beautiful bikes in production?? I think so............Beautiful, thank you.
Lovely isn’t it? Thanks.
ABSOLUTELY AGREE 👍
A gorgeous looking bike and a proper British icon. So glad Norton now have the leadership and resources they deserve and I'm looking forward to seeing what emerges over the coming years.
Totally. Hoping it’s a bright future.
@@mostlymotorbikes I just hope TVS allow them to remain a premium brand without them becoming crazily expensive and unobtainable for the normal enthusiast. This iteration is a properly engineered version of the previous Commando, but I'm excited to see what they do with the next generation.
@@AJSpinDrift couldn’t agree more
@@AJSpinDrift i think a more basic bare bones commando with cheaper basic forks, nissin brake calipers, a kickstart and a sort of adventure, or scramber look with a light 2 into 1 exhaust and less expensive paint job making it come in at £13k would make it far more cometitive. A old workhorse norton like the old interstate would be good with lower compression, with midrange and reliability like honda making the engine last 200000 miles would mean it would be better than suzuki 650 v strom.
Watched this again, drrrrrrrooooollllllliiiiiinnnnnnnggggggggggg now. At 5' 10" and 14st this bike was built for me!!!!! must have a toddle down to Sheffield from Stringa Beads and have a test. I've bought a couple of very hopeful tickets for one acquired from Via Moto, up for grabs on Rev Comps. Only things I'd change/do would be swap the reservoirs to something more pleasing and perhaps a bikini fairing to protect the clocks.
Good luck mate 🤞
What a great review ! I've watched this a number of times now and at last someone who UNDERSTANDS what the bike is all about.....halleluja !
Thanks mate. Made my day 🥰
Thanks for this wonderful ride! The best on youtube! Greetings from the Netherlands
Crackin review. Best, honest content i've seen on the new commando. I've just bought one. Can't wait to get it. Not for everyone i know, but my gooodness, the best lookin retro in today's market by a mile. I couldn't resist. No test ride. Cash down... boom.
Thanks mate. Really appreciate that ❤️
Haha, cash down! excellent bloke! 😂
I thourougly enjoyed your comments. The Norton back when I was a kid was not something I could afford , but it remained something of a dream for most of my life. Today I’m 66 , maybe I’ll get one!
Thanks mate. Appreciate it
Its really beautiful. I rode the commando in the early 1980s and even the old ones handled and braked great and have a addictive nature. My favourite bike to ride.
Im sure it will sell well and i prefer it to the bonny or enfield 650. Hou wont get a more basic modern classic with the beautiful finish. Well done TVS.
I'm a Triumph man but I WANT THAT NORTON!
It’s a great bike
Bought a black and gold Norton in London when I was 19, (I'm American), Kept 40 years. just turned 70. This Looks Kinda Nice, wonder about more weight and smaller wheels.
So cool and congratulations on the big birthday!
Suffice to say, I do get modern classics. And this is one of the best of them.
Good to hear. Couldn’t agree more with.
I rode. A norton 750 commando fastback years ago and remember it was steady as a rock on a fast sweeping bend i took at 70mph and the torque was amazing. Its the nicest bike ive ever ridden and they were better handling, braking and more powerful and torquey than the old 650 yam. I had a pre unit BSA A10 i loved. The frame was amazing, great design and far better than the triumph bonneville frames. A mate put a bonny front end on it with lockheed disc brakes which massively improved it. This new 961 will now have far better crankshaft design and balancing with ohc, and the main bearings, big ends, the top end and the gearbox and clutch seem to have been redesigned and the engine oil feed and cooling will now have had any gremlins from the 1960s and 1970s well sorted out. They would blow up especially the late 1960s Atlas motor but they was quick for those days. Im so glad TVS seems to be rebuilding confidence in Norton by properly sorting out the quality without ripping off the customers on price or cutting corners on build quality. Machining properly to ISO9001 standards for conformability to the drawings, dimensions etc and stuff like building the parts with proper treatments of hardening tempering and good painting and surface finishing and electrics too without over design with Rider aids, computers and chips etc that overcomplicate, can go wrong and cost over a thousand to sort out unlike analogue instruments and simple basic switchgear which is far cheaper to run, buy and service. Well done TVS. If your basic indian small simple bikes are a benchmark then i can see them really catching on and even being sold out months in advance if they are really smart with their decisions
It would look better if the put a chrome shield around the clutch and brake resivours. They look cheap. The fir and finish of the rest of the bike is great
Agree.y Panigale was a bit like that. Lovely qualities but cheap flappy brake reservoir
Got a love a floppy mirror.. great in depth review buddy 👍
Thank you my man 👍
This is beautiful ! I'm almost 70, quit riding years ago, but would buy one tomorrow if I started riding again (and it would make a grand excuse). I started out on British bikes back in the 1970's, owned a couple of Triumph Daytonas. Couple of questions on the engine. Is it overhead valve like the original, or overhead cam? Is the crank a 360 degree like the original, or has it been changed to a 270 degree like the Triumphs? It sounds great, and I like that it has none of the modern stuff like traction control; let the rider do that.
You should do it mate! Never to old.
It’s real head turner ,stunning
Very much agree
A really great review and a good watch. I’ve watched a lot of your vids over the last few years and still get my kicks from Sportsbikes. I love Panigale’s and RSV4’s but I’m so warming to these modern retro’s. Like you say it’s not all about 195 BHP and getting your knee down. I so need to ride one of these Nortons after watching your vid. What a gorgeous bike. Next year I’ll sure be looking at buying a modern retro. A Commando, Thruxton or even a Kwacker Z900RS.
How about doing a vid reviewing those 3 for a retro road test? 👍🏻
Thanks mate. Much appreciated.
Don’t write off the cafe racer option just from a comfort perspective, yes more weight on wrists, but I found it’s more than offset by having your body tipped forward into the wind which makes a big improvement
Yeah it’s a decent point. Certainly looks a bit better. I just like the chilled out riding position of the sport. Fits how I would use the bike. Will give the CR a try though. Thank you.
Excellent review chum. Want one of those 😊
Thanks my man
So good, I’ve watched it twice 👍
Haha thanks pal
an iconic bike which unfortunately is hard to find depending on where you live. I can't wait to be lucky enough to ride one, in the meantime I'm going for a "cheaper" Guzzi V7 stone special edition next Thursday. Ride In Peace 🙏
Appreciate it
What a fantastic looking bike and great sounding. Well done!
Couldn’t agree more. It’s lovely. Ta.
Well done TVS for buying Norton and giving top quality finish and for a quality bike for the money unlike Triumph which is not as nice on the rolling chassis..i do however question how robust the Norton is. I remember a 750 fastback blowing up around David Bowie lets dance tour in Milton Keynes i think on 1981? The engine was lovely and was torquey handling was great especially compared to honda kawasaki and they handled like a tesco shopping trolley. The new 961 is really beautiful. Norton should make a stripped down, bare bones and basic, easy to service bike for us working Jo. Im glad theres no waste on garbage stuff and good suspension, brakes and wheels
They need kick start. 5 speed is great.
A great engine for an adventure tourer.
Its a bit like BSA A10 twin with much more power and has low down grunt. I love the handling and stable, not heavy. Its how a bike should be. A bespoke hand built bike with great frame and welding. A real motorbike that TVS and the great staff there have true pride in their work.
Its cheaper and nicer than BMW gs1250 by £3k and TVS arent anything to do with Stuart Garner, that scummy ex owner who was the guy who should have been stripped of everything.
Elephant in the room though mate…. Thruxton RS, Still beautifully finished, more modern engine with more power and torque, lighter weight, great equipment, eg brembo mnoblc brakes, ohlins rear shocks. I’ve had two thruxton r’s and they are stunning, and always turn heads
Need a go on one to comment but it’s a good shout!
@@mostlymotorbikes please do mate, you won’t be disappointed.
As a Thruxton R owner I can attest to their greatness, however the Norton does have a specific charm. The Thruxton is the better bike, but as odd as it sounds, with bikes like these, better isn't always the winning consideration. It's how the bike makes you feel. Let's face it, most modern style bikes are faster, lighter, more nimble and more economical than either of these, but that's not the point. Bikes like the Commando and Thruxton are bought by people wanting something special and that's more subjective than just the numbers and statistics alone. A digital watch with solar charging and atomic time synchronisation is far 'better' than an automatic mechanical watch, but everyone wants a special watch. It's hard to beat the quintessential British 'specialness' of the Commando!
@@AJSpinDrift perfectly worded sir 👏👏👏
@@AJSpinDrift completely agree with all of this. I also just bought a Panigale 899 when the 959’s are cheaper and technically better. Because the 899 just has that extra something, so I totally agree. I do think the Thruxton is a very strong option as it’s still got soul, but agree you don’t wanna get to the bike meet and see 10 of them which you might with the triumph!
I hope Norton got it right this time,and gets markets open worlwide.
Very nice. My type of bike. If I wasn't waiting for my new Bonneville to be delivered in a couple of weeks I would be looking seriously at this or the Guzzi Mandello V100.
Thanks Peter, and congratulations on the Bonneville!
Great review on a stunning looking and sounding bike back to basics bike with the analogue clocks and no crap TFT dash like most modern bikes has this bike got ABS if so that's OK but you just don't need all that modern crap that most modern bikes have got that's why I also love the new BSA as it too is back to basics biking with no modern crap on it that you really don't need, this new NORTON really does it for me its STUNNING
Thanks my friend
These new Norton's would really rock if TTS Performance made supercharger kits for them. There's Triumph Thruxton cafe racers running 150 to 200 plus HP
using these supercharger kits.
lol fuck that.
Love that bike!
Couldn’t agree more
I added Brembo racing RCS radials, a full titanium 2:1 exhaust and carbon wheels. Mines really lively, very fun and a somewhat unusual track day bike. I don’t think I’ll ever sell it.
That’s so cool. Love this!!!
One of the best reviews i have seen on this bike so mendy different opinions i no we all different but the other ones say it lacks power what a load of crap i am going to test ride one my self after this review
Thanks mate. I’m just a normal bloke who says it like it is. Hope you like it. Deffo worth a test ride.
Looks nice that David, great vid mate, sometimes less is more.
Thanks mate. Couldn’t agree more
So.... have you ridden the 1200 Thruxton? If so, which bike do you prefer since they are about the same price?
Not ridden it yet but aim to
A couple of questions . How much do you weigh ? Have tou ever ridden a MKlll 850 ? If so, how does this compare ? I like your riding style and positioning on the road . I saw another test rider who seemed to stay right in the ' crud ' line the whole test ! . I'm looking for a modern version of the MKlll , a poor mans Vincent . £17 k is not prohibitive to me, but no doubt it will be higher when it reaches Australia. I've owned two 850's and a handfuls of 750 Bonnevilles plus Harley 1340 , Ducati GT 750, and many more smaller bikes.
I haven’t ridden the 850 (yet) and I weigh 16 stone mate. Thank you.
I like the way the 961 sounds a lot more than Triumph. I find the Speed Twin's 1200 to be boomy and blappy and lack of mechanical noises.
Yes me too mate. Agree
I bought a Triumph Thruxon RS and i will probably get A Norton and keep them on my garage and ride whenever I want
Good for you my man
dream bike
Go for it mate. Only live once.
Being an owner of a 76 - 850, I would have been looking for an oil stain on the pavement and not the gold colored trim.
Haha old school
Looks lovely
It’s a proper thing
Fair to say you like it then ( don't blame you)
Yes mate it’s a little gem.
At a hifhway at 80 mph or more does it make your hands numb from vibrations when driving it more then 20 minutes?
What could be better? err 6th gear and 35-bph more?
It's interesting the very different schools of thought on this bike some lukewarm ,TMF of Norton Christmas card list. Have arranged a demo ride with new dealership locally, will see. Love a classic bike for chill cruising to accompany my Pan to cover that side of things on the other end of the scale even considering the RE 350 classic for simple back to basics. Have owned a Bonnieville for five years great bike just fancy something different :)))))
Give it a try mate. I think some people are still sour over the previous company owners (understandably). I just kept an open mind and it made me smile. Simple as that.
Did you get that test ride? If so what did you think. There’s so little info on this bike from ANYONE who’s actually bought one.
@@jfro5867 also interested…
Sorry guys I didn’t Pursue in the end as couldn’t justify the money as lost garage and a lot of money to sit out on the driveway. Bought a royal Enfield instead which makes me smile also especially for what it cost no finance with what I sold my other bike for. The dealership near Gatwick crawley are running a Demo. Give it a go if your seriously interested and let us know. The riding position on it didn’t feel particularly comfortable before I’d even turned a wheel so not a good start tbh.
@@sussexbikerpillion Thanks for the update. I reckon there’s a lot of us out there of a certain age (kids grown up and all that) that really do like the idea of a Norton, obviously how it looks, and can accept the relatively modest performance (by todays standards anyway) BUT when it comes down to it, that leap of faith into a £17k bike with the concerns we all have surrounding it, I just don’t know. Via Moto is about 45 miles from me, not far so I may go and look at one over winter, see it in person. I really like the bike I have now and don’t want to make a bad decision doing the p/x plus cash into something I regret. Completely understand the RE purchase. Great bikes, great value, huge dealer network. You really can’t go wrong.
The best of british and lots of racing history also hand built the best
Think the 5 speeds and (let’s be honest) mediocre performance is a deal breaker. Looks great but so does the Thruxton and that’s more like what I would expect. Looked quite flat when you rolled the throttle, not a lot happened.
Not ridden the Thuruxton so hard to disagree but what I will say is it certainly doesn’t feel flat. Lovely low down surge from the engine.
@@mostlymotorbikes 67bhp with a weight of 230kg + rider on top says mediocre to me, especially for £17k. I think people will get fed up of having to ‘tootle’ about all the time. Anyway, it’s not all about high performance so who knows, I hope it does well.
@@jfro5867 this is my point. Personally, I wouldn’t buy this for high performance. I’d buy it for the nostalgia, the experience, the noise etc. it just happens to also have some nice modern bits that make it a pleasure to live with too. I will be seeking out a go on the Thruxton though. You’re the second person to mention it.
JON B i respect your opinion but its a functional bike where you aint gonna have to thrash it to enjoy it and youd keep your licence clean. Some of us older bikers rode shopping trolley type frames with leaks from the engines of oil back in the day. Simple bikes you could easily work on.
@@Ian-bq7gp No denying it’s a real looker and I appreciate high performance isn’t everything but there are so many cheaper and (importantly) mechanically proven alternatives are out there now. That’s the trouble. An aging handful of nostalgic chaps who lament the loss of Norton and love it won’t be enough to keep the business going. It failed spectacularly last time so any interested horses are already spooked. We all know you can’t trust motorcycle journo’s or magazines to say exactly what they think anymore so until real people take the plunge and buy one it’s an expensive leap of faith into the brand. But what do I know? 🤷♂Caveat emptor.
Good to see Norton back and sorted,after the poor (and criminal) Stuart Garner attempt. Would love a 961,but the gold anodised finish of the Ohlins components would have to go......
They feel awesome to ride on though.
Gold or pink as long onlins work that’s all that matters
@@paulharris3149 No Thanks! Black always works....
Why are the oil hoses just in rubber instead of braided for a quality bike as you say?
Spent the cash on the shiny things
Nice bike £16000 new,built in uk but Norton I believe was bought by TVS of India,massive motor company,but designed by Brits.
Thanks mate
👌❤️👌❤️👌❤️👌
Thanks for commenting
Is the engine British ?
Built in Solihull
These are nice looking bikes, but it’s that fuel tank, so uncomfortable as it doesn’t fit your legs unless you are 4’ tall.
I don’t find that tbh 🤷🏼♂️
@@mostlymotorbikes I can’t think of a bike with a tank like that, they are either smooth contour or wrap round, the shape is too pronounced to get a comfortable grip, (for me) only me knees grip the tank, the rest of my leg is in free air. It would be better with a smoother contoured tank for me.
gorgeous bike. but ihate those reservoirs on the handlebars they look cheap and out of place.
I had a Panigale that was similar. Felt like an afterthought
I see lots of good reviews and then the missiden flyer tears it apart, its weird
At the end of the day we are only one opinion, as is he. He is a slightly older gent who has different perspectives of what good looks like, which is totally cool. I always say, go and test any bike for yourself. Don’t get too wrapped up on specs and reviews. Does it make you smile? If so, buy it.
Hydraulic tappets, no valve adjustment malarkey.
That may as well be in Spanish to me 😂🤪🤪
@@mostlymotorbikes It's one hell of a boon actually. My own bike, a Suzuki V twin hasn't needed shimming in over 30,000 miles but when it is outside of specification, the cams have to come out ! I haven't got the shims, or the brains !
the petrol tank looks just plonked on top
and its too high it will affect cronering
when the tank has fuel in
Doesn’t seem noticeable while riding.
Lovely bike, except for those hideous brake/clutch fluid reservoirs.
Yeah, they are a bit off
I'm sorry, I have no wish to offend but this looks like a parts bin special to me. The exhaust pipes should be tucked in; the side panel should fill the space; and what's the point of that blade front mudguard?
There are stylists in the US (I'm not American btw) who would give this motorcycle a coherent look.. I know there are people out there who will pay the money just because it's a Norton - but this looks a sorry mess to me.
Rode one mate. It just works. Value your opinion though :)
In depth road test?
Thank you. Much appreciated ❤️
A great test and great comments by Norton fans mainly who know the old commando quirks.
@@Ian-bq7gp thank you very much
We all agree that the failed Norton Motorcycles, run by Stuart Garner and Simon Skinner, designed and manufactured the #V4SS. From a strict legal standing, all product liabilities rest with the now NUML business in administration.
But, when you look at the morally and ethically right thing to do as the brand's new owner when it comes to mitigating a clear risk to life, should TVS Motor Company / Norton Motorcycles seek to monetise mitigating the risk to life?
The #V4SS is a highly defective motorcycle, with over 35 identified defects, many of which could lead to a fatal accident in a worst-case situation. Charging a small group of #V4SS owners £10,000 and asking them to hand back the #V4SS in return for a #V4SV, is nothing short of Norton Motorcycles seizing on a monetisation opportunity for this specific group of owners. When those who paid in full or have #V4SS machines stripped for parts are not asked to pay an additional £10,000, why is it acceptable to ask those still possessing #V4SS machines for £10,000?
A motorcycle by design is inherently dangerous; a bike with 35 defects is at least 35 times more hazardous, so why would a brand seek to combine a plan to derisk with a monetisation event. Especially when the cost of mitigation is so low as to give #V4SS owner a new #V4SV equate to 0.0344% of the sums invested so far. Would that not be the right thing to do?
Dr. Robert Hentschel as the CEO of Norton Motorcycles will not show empathy and compassion and act to mitigate the risk and revise your position before a life is lost?
It’s certainly been a difficult history. This bike rides lovely though.
@@mostlymotorbikes Completely agree the new Commando is a significant step forward, and a bike I would purchase. But how can any motorcyclist buy from a brand when it’s knowing leaving defective motorcycles in the hands of owners and refusing to help them.
@@shauntaylor4912 can’t argue with you to be honest.
TVS is a multi billion dollar company who, among other things, supply critical components like brakes to Mercedes. They don't give a monkeys about the 10k. But they have to draw a firm line under the mistakes of the previous incarnation. Giving away a free bike is kind of an admission of guilt, and can open the floodgates. And remember the defective model is not their bike. It's a different product made by a different company in a different facility. Also the old Norton customers still have the right to claim against the old company.
TVS have hurt themselves as the commercial reality of the V4 platform is a story of utter failure. They allowed the negative comments from V4SS owners to gain momentum and this has undermined customer confidence in the V4 platform. If they had handled this differently they would a successful product, total own goal and missed opportunity.
Craig from the Doghouse would be a great designer and critic. You just know he would suss out the bike as far as engine, gearbox, electrics and simplicity is concerned. Im going on a bit, sorry but i havent felt this excited about a bike since the rotary Norton. I dont drive so id have it as a daily commuter using it all year round. The suzuki 650 v strom is similar in many ways as its basic, simple and built to last many miles with reliability. The only concern is passing euro 5 so that we dont have ulez charge of £12.50 or more a day from that idiot mayor mr Khan!
Appreciate your comments. Thanks.
Please, never ever fuel your bike while sitting on it. One little spill and you’ll set fire to yourself. It happens!
This is a new one to me but thanks for caring 🙌
Thought the hydraulics reservoirs look like a trip to the urologist with 2 specimens, LOL - but who cares :) ?
Thanks for the demo, mate!
Looks like the bike has an anti-lock brake sensor F&R.
😂😂😂🤒
For the price of the bike, 5 speed, no stylema's, 2 urine samples on the handle bars, come on Norton you can do better than that!!!
Not a fan I take it 😂
@mostlymotorbikes absolutely love it, some parts could be more consistent with the price though 😊👍
2 urine samples on the handle bars 😀😀😀😀Dam right ugly. I test rode 2 motor cycles with that piss poor cheap design and it just pissed me off
@@robvanduren761 haha not a fan then?
16k FAIL
It’s not cheap
a lot of dollars for something that looks like its thrown together. i will stick with the kawasaki Z900rs se
Always loved Kawasaki. My first ever bike brand.