Thank you very much. Yes, I’m really lucky to have such a well preserved bike. The more time I spend with it, the more I appreciate the quality and originality of the bike. Best wishes, Mike
First time seeing a metal flake in person, blue, I could not stop drooling. Wonderful machine. Looking forward to your refresh. Your Commandos now straddle my early '74 MKII bike.
Terrific, thank you! Yes, we have a couple of blue flake bikes in the club and they are lovely. It’s a really nice color. We don’t have any purple ones yet… Best wishes, Mike
What a great find Mike, like winning the lottery ! - it's always great to have a provenance / history from new with these classics. The 'fireflake' commandos really reflect the spirit of the early 1970's. Get a matching open face lid & some flared trousers & you'll be good to go ! 😊
In 1973, one of the professors on my college campus in Texas rode his new Black Norton 850 to campus and parked in the same motorcycle parking area as me on my 1972 Honda CB350. I was very envious. I have not owned a Norton, but I bought my friend’s 1986 BMW R80 (800cc) RT, which I am making more road worthy. It’s running and looking good, but the headlight and tail lights decided to quit just before the Wyoming snow and cold arrived. So when I get a warm and dry day (in March or April) I will take off the tank and look for shorts. I ordered a new relay which fits under the tank to try also. Love your Cul D Sac reviews. I have a 2001 Harley Electraglide which I just finished rebuilding the cam chain tensioners on, and I really enjoyed your friend’s older blue Electraglide review. The reviews help me get through our long Wyoming winters and of course, Covid. Ride safe and keep the shiny side up!😎👍
Mike, watching you unpack those extra bits/pieces is like discovering a gold mine. A real treasure trove and I think a testament to the care and effort the previous own took to maintain his bike. You scored a winner I think and I like that color. Cheers, Dan 👍👍🏍🇨🇦
Many thanks Dan. Yes, I completely agree. The more I get to know the spike, the more I appreciate how well Andre and his friend have cared for this bike over the decades! Best wishes, Mike
That looks great! What a find! Everyone dreams of coming into possession of a bike in the condition, AND you have all the manuals and the kit that goes with it. Score! BTW, that toolkit looks to be original, or at least as complete as you will ever need if you really do have to do any roadside repairs. Looking forward to seeing the rest of this series. I'm currently in possession of a 1971 High-Rider 750, a 1972 Combat 750, and a 1973 850. Only the High Rider is currently running, but warmer days are coming! Cheers!
We always enjoy your films. I have a 1971Norton Commando which started life as a Highrider in the US. But it came without the nice paperwork which your Commando came with. It was imported to GB. So little history from England came with the bike. But it is now in the near condition, I wanna have it. Greetings from North Germany Uwe and Conny
I test rode a red 1974 Norton 850 Commando in the Bay area. The most amazing motorcycle I have ever ridden. Cornering was incredible.. One of my favorite motorcycles. It seemed to become a part of you as you rode it.
Thank you very much Thomas. I'm loving the bike. I'm really grateful to Andre and his friend for taking such great care of this amazing bike over the decades! Cheers, Mike
That's a good tip to get bikes the same color so the wife doesn't know when you get a new one. : ) This is the first time I've seen that color. I dig it. There's a 74 850 Commando in that same color on BaT right now.
Hi Julius, thank you very much for your note. I appreciate it. It has been a really enjoyable bike so far. Yes, I can’t wait to ride it hopefully soon! Best wishes, Mike
Blimey what a great looking bike! As winter settles in I've been looking forward to a new series. This one is so promising that I'm not even going to bring up poor Shep. 😉
Thanks for the great videos, Mike! I just brought home my first Norton. A 1974 850. I'll be following a long and trying to learn as much as I can. Cheers!
Many thanks John. Congratulations on your Commando! I hope everything goes well and please keep in touch regarding progress on your new bike. Great news!
Nice score, sir! My son’s is a ‘73 850, only in the metal flake blue. We’re sending the frame, cradle and swing arm out to be painted later this month, then starting reassembly. I’ll be watching your channel closely. 👍
That really is the most gorgeous color. I'm glad it found a good new home. It was very kind of the previous owner to hand off those lovely Britool sockets and Snap-On Whitworth tools. Hell, I paid less for my Norton than those tools alone probably cost.
Such a gorgeous bike, Mike. Congrats! I actually own a 1974 850 that is STILL wearing it's original Fireflake Royal Blue paint, and hand pin-striping, on the fuel tank as well as both side covers. It still holds up/is amazing to look at to this day. I also have the original tool kit that came with the bike, missing only one tem. I can send you a photo so you can compare it to yours if you'd like?..Enjoy your new toy and have a happy and safe new year. Cheers!
Lovely bike . Color is just eye popping . Would be great to do a video on a dent specialist getting that small crease out of the tank through a paintless dent process for eveyone to see.
Thanks a lot Henry. Yes, it’s amazing how good the paint is as you get close up. It must’ve been stored really well to preserve the quality and the luster of the paint. Best wishes, Mike
Great pick-up Mike, looks great and original along with all the extras(paperwork, tools and parts etc), Your a man after my own heart, always painted my harleys black and gold with chrome and now my 73 Norton 850 Commando.
Hope you bought Jane something really great for Christmas, she deserves it, for putting up with those wonderful bikes you keep collecting 🏍😀 Looks even more stunning close up, the paint looks beautiful, bet you can’t believe your luck! Have tea and calm down, see ya later Mike ☕️😎
Ha ha, thanks David. Yes, I didn’t get much chance to spend time with the bike after I got it. I got so busy with work and other projects that will be coming up soon. But finally got to spend some quality time working on the bike over the Christmas holidays and thoroughly enjoyed it. Once I got started, I couldn’t stop and it is looking great. Hope you have a terrific 2022. Best wishes, Mike
Thanks very much David. Yes I’m really enjoying spending time with this amazing bike. I’ve made no progress since this video and everything seems to be going very well so far. Best wishes, Mike
Wow that a very nice bike Mike, you must feel like you have won the lottery😃. I can’t remember ever seeing another one in the beautiful colour. You will definitely attract a lot of attention when you go out on it that’s for sure. Enjoy and I look forward to your next video
Many thanks. Yes, I’m loving the bike. I didn’t actually get much chance to spend time on the bike after I got it as I was so busy with work and other projects. But the more time I spend with it, the more I appreciate it and the amazing job that Andre and his friend did to preserve this bike. Best wishes, Mike
Great looking bike, Mike. All the metal flake colors were so nice to look at. The first Norton I ever saw was out of the math class window in high school, and it was an emerald green metal flake. Even to this day, I remember the guy's name who owned it. That's what made me want to get one of my own.
Thanks a lot John for sharing the story. That was so enjoyable to read. There are a couple of the green metallic Nortons in the club and they look amazing. So 70s! Best wishes, Mike
Thanks a lot Brian. Does your tank have the black lettering? I understand the difference between the earlier fire flake bikes and the later bikes is that the later ones had silver/gray lettering versus black lettering on the older bikes. Cheers, Mike
Hi Mike, there are companies here in the UK that come round with a 'Wobble stick' and remove small dents (and creases like the one in your tank) through the filler cap. There must be similar in the US. It would be a shame to lose such amazing paint but you can certainly remove the dent.
Hi Nick, I really appreciate your help with this. I’m going to mention that crease to my friend who is a professional painter to ask him what he thinks. Best wishes, Mike
Glad to see a bike that awesome ended up in the right hands someone who appreciates it for what it really is and isn't going to butcher it it really is hard to find a beautiful original bike great videos thanks
Mike, love all your videos. FYI, I had a 74 Mk II, which I loved. Regarding your tool kit. The following tool kit items are original: wrenches [aka spanners], spark plug socket & bar, feeler gauges, tire spoons, Rear Spring Adjusting Wrench [also used for adjusting valves and removing primary cover caps] & the Pouch are all original tool kit tools. The two box wrenches [aka ring spanners] made from flat steel plate appear to be factory tools but were not in the original kit. It appears that the previous owner purchased them and added them to the kit. The screwdriver is not original. I have an original. It's smaller in length and has a black plastic handle [smaller diameter too]. The pliers are not original. They are larger and have nice, polished chrome. The originals are smaller, not polished and are either cadmium or bright Zinc plated. I don't remember getting the "cut down" Allen key either. I believe you are directed to modify a standard one, in the Workshop Manual. I found the tire spoons adequate for changing a tire by the side of the road. Need to carry a patch kit and 2 or 3 CO2 cartridges [to re-inflate the tire]. Always loved the metalflake bikes. I had a 72 Combat that same color back in the 80s. I bought it off the original owner. It looked nearly as nice as your Mk II. I've got a 71 basket case which is missing a lot of parts. Previous owner spray can painted over the metalflake blue. Now it's black. It did come with a Dunstall Dual Disc front end. Both wheels have Borrani rims & there's a Dunstall 810 barrel. No gearbox, crank, rods or pistons though. 🙁
Thank you very much. Yes I am thrilled to bits with this bike. I’ve spent a lot of time on it over the holidays and really enjoying it. Best wishes, Mike
Lucky you,thought it was Export 850cc Commando,Guy down rd had Black Gold striped one 16@time folks emigrated to S.A. Dec75'@ 17 Bought CB750k2 did many mods back then rode all over Western Province on ,Sold to return Sep 78' @ 20,only got KawaGPZ rx1000 left 18k on clock,but been looking to buy Mrk 2/3 Commando myself for1year now no luck so far ..I regard this model as the last of the BEST of UK Motorcycles..no doubts..
Thanks a lot for sharing, Mick. You’ll have to come on over to the US. There are still lots of Commandos for sale and prices seem to be going up at the moment! Best wishes, Mike
It certainly looks like the original tool kit if my memory serves. I am so envious of you having found a Commando in such nice shape. Most of them that I’ve seen up here in the Northeast come in milk crates or go for astronomical numbers.
Great find. I'll be interested in the optimum isolastic clearances with the adjustable units. For my 1970 Roadster the adjustment was with shims, and the optimum was quite a bit less than the 10thou spec.
Not sure if all the tools are original but the screwdriver certainly is. The black barrels suggest it is a Combat engine. When I bought mine (about a year earlier), the Combat option was the only way to get the disc brake.
Thanks a lot Alan. I appreciate your note. I think my tool kit might be missing a couple of items and I’ll hopefully find them to complete the cute one of these days. Best wishes, Mike
Thank you Steve. Everything seems to be going great so far. I’m struggling with the carburetors at the moment, but hopefully making some good progress. Best wishes, Mike
Memories ! , I have a mate in NZ who has the 750 Combat with the touring tank , but it has the same ' metal flake ' like this beautiful Bronze , but in dark , dark green , looks black in most light , but it's finish is like yours . This is the first time I have seen this finish since seeing his Combat , thank you . ps. the color of your Commando is similar to my RE 650 Interceptor , ' Orange Crush ' it's called
Did my 61 Norton Dominator SS in aftermarket Candy Apple Metalflake Apricot because Tangerine was too sparkly in southern sun. Very similar to this. I am actively looking to find a Commando to purchase & ride. Norton Rules!
Good evening, A comment for your rear brake cable connexion at the pedal. I prefer to have the clip on the pin for the yoke holding the brake cable on the outside thus the pin would remain captive in the event of the loss of the clip. Also there is less rubbing between parts. It is a pain to first install the pin this way but afterwards you remain safe. I highly recommend part number 06-4172S/S ie: in stainless which is a return spring for the brake pedal. It is an optional Norton part originally requested by police forces to prevent the pedal from dropping in the event of a cable break. I got mine from Walridge Motors in Lucan Ontario. I needed to tweek the end bends so the spring would remain more or less upright on my bike but may not be necessary on other bikes. Adding the spring also gives a more positive feel to the pedal. Gerardus
Great video, Mike, there's nothing I love more than the "discovery" phase with a new bike. I feel very strongly that Andre' is to be commended for maintaining this bike in such superb, original condition. Over time, too many if not most of these bikes fall victim to bad taste and/or bad judgement. Much respect to Andre' for having the good taste to select this bike, and the good judgment to keep it in such fine, original condition. (If he has another bike, I'll take it (haha)).
Many thanks Rod. I completely agree with you. I can’t tell you how grateful I am that Andre and his friend took such good care of this bike. The more I touch it, the more I appreciate how careful they were with it. It’s been a pleasure and I can’t wait to ride it. Best wishes, Mike
Beautiful bike! Looks to be in excellent condition and the paint is amazing. I'm still trying to talk a buddy of mine in selling me his 74 850 Commando he bought new. We did a trip for a number of weeks in 1974 when I had my 750 Tiger. Unfortunately I have no classic motorcycle at the moment. Just sold a BMW R100RT.
@@TheMightyGarage Hi Mike, sorry I've not been keeping up so well with your output recently (too many fascinating UA-cam channels to watch). I have a bit of a cardio problem to deal with but feeling good and super impressed with your rapidly growing collection. Looking forward to seeing an update on the Manxman. Happy New Year.
Hello Mike. Originality is where it’s at for me. The bike is in great hands, as I can tell, your all about preservation like myself. That being said, I carefully maintain and RIDE all my unrestored machines. If they are static then they are only a fraction of what they were meant to be. Cheers my friend. 😎
Many thanks Mick. Yes, I’m definitely planning on riding this bike. I’ve replaced the tires already and given the bike service. Everything seems to be looking good so far and I definitely plan on riding it a lot. Best wishes, Mike
hi mike day late watching your post very nice dont see many fire flake in GB dont remember seeing one always nice to get old receipt shows whats been done and tool kit looks nearly all there just looked on andover site regards ian
Terrific, thanks very much for your note. Yes, I think I’m just missing a few little items for the tool kit that I’m hoping to pick up in the future. I agree, I don’t think I have seen this color before and I’m certain that we don’t have any others in the club. It certainly grows on you! Best wishes, Mike
Terrific looking bike. I would have that paintwork protected with a clearcoat but im sure with your experience you will do just fine in bringing it back. Have fun with her Mike.
Hi Tom. Absolutely will keep the original air cleaner. I’ve already stripped it down and cleaned it and “recharged“ the filter. Everything came out great. It was actually an easy job to remove and clean the filter. It was just removing the carburetors that was a pain 😉cheers, Mike
Thank you Jim. The more I look at the bike and work on it, the more I appreciate it and how well Andre and his friend preserved the originality of this stunning bike. Best wishes, Mike
Stunning bike Mike! Love that you got all the history and parts with it! Looking forward to the updates as you progress the recomissioning of it. Also the One newsletter was a great read. 👍 all the best with the new bike regards Philip in Ireland 🇮🇪
Hi Philip, thank you very much for your note. I appreciate it. I’ve passed on your best wishes to Ronnie, our oNe newsletter editor extraordinaire 😉 I’m glad you enjoyed the videos and the newsletter. Best wishes for 2022. Cheers, Mike
I have used Mequiar’s 7 on the old lacquer paint on my ‘71 ‘vette, which by the way was Ontario Orange, a metal flake. Apply generously… leave sit overnight and repeat. Start w just the side panel first! Great bike!
Hi Mike, what a lovely bright color for your latest garage addition. I thoroughly agree you wearing sun glasses coming out of the shadows on this dazzling Commando. You might even attract groupies! ✌️
With your bikes all the same color you'll find that the 48 hour rule is much easier to utilize. The wife comes into the garage and says, "is that a new bike there, I've never noticed that before"? Oh that old thing, I've had it for a long time. If you've had it longer than 48 hours, that's considered a long time.
Really Beautiful! I would be great to know more about the bikes history, and how you found it. If you stole it on a dark rainy night, it's understandable to leave that part out. Thanks
Hehe, thanks Greg. Here's a little more info about getting the bike. The journey starts at 3mins into this video. ua-cam.com/video/ZCGmhggAfR4/v-deo.html Cheers, Mike
Hello There and happy new year. You may not know this but you probably do is that how do you tell an original gas tank as opposed to a Indian copy apart from the fact that they do not fit very well. The original tank has a baffle plate in it to stop the fuel surging. If you open the gas cap and put your fingers in, you should feel it or shine a flashlight in there and you will see it. Cheers.
At one point ( on the close up shot ) I thought we were onboard the satellite orbiting the sun 🌞 as we speak ! Beautiful bike Mike, maybe you’ll have to buy something shiny for the wife ? Cheers mate Ray 🇬🇧
Thanks very much. Yes, I have re-used a few of the old original parts already and was really grateful that he held onto them. Best wishes for 2022! Cheers, Mike
Hi Mike, that’s a beautiful colour man, I’d put about 4 coats x2 of a really good clear lacquer on the tins to bring out that beautiful colour making it really deep and lustrous imho lol 😝. Where on earth do you find these bikes, it’s a good thing you have deep pockets lol 😂. The tool kit certainly looks original, and you got some nice parts in the boxes, i love the Haynes Manual. Awesome video Mike. 😎👍👍👍🇬🇧
Hi Mike, thanks very much for your great note. Yes, I haven’t decided yet what to do about the paint. I’m hoping to take the tank and side panels over to a friend shortly to see what he thinks I should do with them. Hope all is well, best wishes, Mike
Hi Mike. I have a comment which you might not like. What happened to your Norton Manxman project? Here in Denmark we followed it eagerly, but we would like to see it finished before you start another project. (perhaps you would too) Best Regards Preben
😉 thank you Preben. You are so right. I was planning on starting the Manxman, honestly! But this came along and I couldn't resist it. As soon as this bike is running, I have a couple of smaller projects to work on and then it will be back to the Manxman. It's sitting on the bench behind the Commando. I'm working on trying to find a paint match and then will start preparing all the parts for paint. Best wishes, Mike
Hi Mike Happy new year . What a lovely bike you must be over the moon . Myself I am a honda man but i love your channel. Looking forward to see this Norton more .
Hi Mike what a great looking bike. I have my bike original owners information wallet, printed on it it states This wallet contains : Dealer Initial dealer set up procedure and 500 mile service instructions. Owner : Rider manual, World wide distributor dealer list, Tyre manual and other consumer information. So it would appear that the Avon booklet you have would have come with the bike in the info pack. If you like I can end you a picture of the wallet.
'Happy New Year' first of all Mike. The bike looks to be as you have said in 'basically' very good order, a great base line to work from. Looking forward to the progress on getting this 'roadworthy' & out on a 'ONE' club run. atvb t ..
Hi Jon, yes I am embarrassed to say that I still have both the Manxman and Shep, the Norton Atlas. That’s the Manxman on the bench behind the Commando. I’m making a little progress, but not much on the Manxman. The next big task is to start preparing the metal work for paint. I’ve had a bit of a tough time trying to find a paint match, but we are getting closer. Unfortunately Shep is sitting at the back of the garage wondering if it will ever be rebuilt. One of these days, for sure! Best wishes, Mike
@@TheMightyGarage ah i understand i have many projects too, i try to do a bit to each when i can so i know where you are coming from. Plus the manxman is pretty rare i hadn't even heard of one till i saw it on your channel which is why i really enjoy your channel getting an education on these bikes and seeing them. As for Shep the Atlas that was a huge project too take it from where it was to where you have got it too now, i know how hard and time consuming it can be i have just picked up a Norton N15 which someone tried to make it into a bobber so i'm doing my best to bring it back to standard as best i can. keep up the great video's and i cant wait to see more. Best Wishes Jon
I saw in a FB group they made a Purple Fireflake it really pops. I think only fiberglass tanks though? I wonder if you could get some matched up today?
The metallic purple on the '70/'71 Norton's is really quite something. The Plymouth and Dodge muscle cars,also offered a 'Plum Crazy','70/'71. US only spec
No worries Neil. It’s all good. Yes, I never thought I would own a bike this color but it’s surprising how it has grown on me :-) best wishes to you for 2022!
Thanks Billy. Yes there are several metallic colors that are totally 70s! We’re going to have to get a few of them together and wear our flares again 😎😎😉
As a former owner of a 69 Norton Commando I just can say that this bike looks astonishing good. Congrats!
Thank you very much. Yes, I’m really lucky to have such a well preserved bike. The more time I spend with it, the more I appreciate the quality and originality of the bike. Best wishes, Mike
First time seeing a metal flake in person, blue, I could not stop drooling. Wonderful machine. Looking forward to your refresh. Your Commandos now straddle my early '74 MKII bike.
Terrific, thank you! Yes, we have a couple of blue flake bikes in the club and they are lovely. It’s a really nice color. We don’t have any purple ones yet… Best wishes, Mike
What a great find Mike, like winning the lottery ! - it's always great to have a provenance / history from new with these classics. The 'fireflake' commandos really reflect the spirit of the early 1970's. Get a matching open face lid & some flared trousers & you'll be good to go ! 😊
Ha ha ha, thanks Dave. My friend Andy wants me to get a gold lame suit to match… but I really don’t want to lose any more subscribers 😉😉
In 1973, one of the professors on my college campus in Texas rode his new Black Norton 850 to campus and parked in the same motorcycle parking area as me on my 1972 Honda CB350. I was very envious.
I have not owned a Norton, but I bought my friend’s 1986 BMW R80 (800cc) RT, which I am making more road worthy. It’s running and looking good, but the headlight and tail lights decided to quit just before the Wyoming snow and cold arrived. So when I get a warm and dry day (in March or April) I will take off the tank and look for shorts. I ordered a new relay which fits under the tank to try also. Love your Cul D Sac reviews. I have a 2001 Harley Electraglide which I just finished rebuilding the cam chain tensioners on, and I really enjoyed your friend’s older blue Electraglide review. The reviews help me get through our long Wyoming winters and of course, Covid. Ride safe and keep the shiny side up!😎👍
Mike, watching you unpack those extra bits/pieces is like discovering a gold mine. A real treasure trove and I think a testament to the care and effort the previous own took to maintain his bike. You scored a winner I think and I like that color. Cheers, Dan 👍👍🏍🇨🇦
Many thanks Dan. Yes, I completely agree. The more I get to know the spike, the more I appreciate how well Andre and his friend have cared for this bike over the decades! Best wishes, Mike
For a bike that's nearly 50 years old the condition is amazing.
Thank you Geoff. I’ve spent some time since this video cleaning it up and it’s just getting better and better. Best wishes, Mike
Incredible machine! It's home now!
Many thanks Larry. I’m loving having the bike in the garage. It’s been a ton of fun already. Best wishes, Mike
That looks great! What a find! Everyone dreams of coming into possession of a bike in the condition, AND you have all the manuals and the kit that goes with it. Score! BTW, that toolkit looks to be original, or at least as complete as you will ever need if you really do have to do any roadside repairs. Looking forward to seeing the rest of this series. I'm currently in possession of a 1971 High-Rider 750, a 1972 Combat 750, and a 1973 850. Only the High Rider is currently running, but warmer days are coming! Cheers!
We always enjoy your films. I have a 1971Norton Commando which started life as a Highrider in the US. But it came without the nice paperwork which your Commando came with. It was imported to GB. So little history from England came with the bike. But it is now in the near condition, I wanna have it.
Greetings from North Germany
Uwe and Conny
Thank you very much Uwe and Conny. Best wishes, Mike
Tool kit looks like my old 1971 750 kit, even the owner's additional Snap-On sockets and wrenches that I still have. Nice survivor 🇬🇧🇺🇸✌️👍
Thanks a lot for your note. I appreciate it. Yes, those snap-on wrenches are fantastic!
I test rode a red 1974 Norton 850 Commando in the Bay area. The most amazing motorcycle I have ever ridden. Cornering was incredible.. One of my favorite motorcycles. It seemed to become a part of you as you rode it.
Thanks a lot Hank! I bet that was brilliant riding a Commando in the Bay area. So cool. Cheers, Mike
Fabulous, well done! The bike is in safe hands
Thank you very much Thomas. I'm loving the bike. I'm really grateful to Andre and his friend for taking such great care of this amazing bike over the decades! Cheers, Mike
I'm liking that color.👍
That's a good tip to get bikes the same color so the wife doesn't know when you get a new one. : ) This is the first time I've seen that color. I dig it. There's a 74 850 Commando in that same color on BaT right now.
Hehe. Thanks a lot Dave. Yes I was watching the Commando on BAT. It was a really nice example and had some very tasty mods. 😉
Bike in best hands now, what a gold find - gonna be nice to hear the beast when snow is gone.
Best regards from Denmark/Julius
Hi Julius, thank you very much for your note. I appreciate it. It has been a really enjoyable bike so far. Yes, I can’t wait to ride it hopefully soon! Best wishes, Mike
Blimey what a great looking bike! As winter settles in I've been looking forward to a new series. This one is so promising that I'm not even going to bring up poor Shep. 😉
😀😀 sorry Brendan, it just seems to be getting worse for Shep doesn’t it 😀 One of these days!!
Thanks for the great videos, Mike! I just brought home my first Norton.
A 1974 850. I'll be following a long and trying to learn as much as I can. Cheers!
Many thanks John. Congratulations on your Commando! I hope everything goes well and please keep in touch regarding progress on your new bike. Great news!
Nice score, sir! My son’s is a ‘73 850, only in the metal flake blue. We’re sending the frame, cradle and swing arm out to be painted later this month, then starting reassembly. I’ll be watching your channel closely. 👍
That really is the most gorgeous color. I'm glad it found a good new home. It was very kind of the previous owner to hand off those lovely Britool sockets and Snap-On Whitworth tools. Hell, I paid less for my Norton than those tools alone probably cost.
Such a gorgeous bike, Mike. Congrats! I actually own a 1974 850 that is STILL wearing it's original Fireflake Royal Blue paint, and hand pin-striping, on the fuel tank as well as both side covers. It still holds up/is amazing to look at to this day. I also have the original tool kit that came with the bike, missing only one tem. I can send you a photo so you can compare it to yours if you'd like?..Enjoy your new toy and have a happy and safe new year. Cheers!
Simply Awesome
Lovely bike . Color is just eye popping . Would be great to do a video on a dent specialist getting that small crease out of the tank through a paintless dent process for eveyone to see.
Great suggestion! Thanks Dianne. I'm going to get some advice on that crease. Cheers, Mike
The up close of the paint and the shape the paint is in just shows/speaks the quality. Vantastic piece you've acquired Mike.
Thanks a lot Henry. Yes, it’s amazing how good the paint is as you get close up. It must’ve been stored really well to preserve the quality and the luster of the paint. Best wishes, Mike
A beautiful bike and the colour too, something special. Thanks for sharing Mike I look forward to this project. Grtz Erwin
Thank you Erwin. Hope you are doing well and have a great 2022. Best wishes, Mike
Great pick-up Mike, looks great and original along with all the extras(paperwork, tools and parts etc), Your a man after my own heart, always painted my harleys black and gold with chrome and now my 73 Norton 850 Commando.
Hee hee, thanks a lot Bazza. Yes, this was a bit of a shock to the system, but a nice change with a splash of color. Best wishes, Mike
Hope you bought Jane something really great for Christmas, she deserves it, for putting up with those wonderful bikes you keep collecting 🏍😀
Looks even more stunning close up, the paint looks beautiful, bet you can’t believe your luck!
Have tea and calm down, see ya later Mike ☕️😎
Ha ha, thanks David. Yes, I didn’t get much chance to spend time with the bike after I got it. I got so busy with work and other projects that will be coming up soon. But finally got to spend some quality time working on the bike over the Christmas holidays and thoroughly enjoyed it. Once I got started, I couldn’t stop and it is looking great. Hope you have a terrific 2022. Best wishes, Mike
Love our old Norton’s & it warms my heart knowing another one is being brought back to its full wonderment.
Thanks very much David. Yes I’m really enjoying spending time with this amazing bike. I’ve made no progress since this video and everything seems to be going very well so far. Best wishes, Mike
Nice! Hope to see that bike in person someday. All the best in 2022!
I hope so too! Hope all is going well for 2022. Best wishes, Mike
Fantastic find! Excellent video!
Many thanks! Glad you enjoyed the video. I appreciate your note. Best wishes, Mike
Beautiful...
Wow that a very nice bike Mike, you must feel like you have won the lottery😃. I can’t remember ever seeing another one in the beautiful colour. You will definitely attract a lot of attention when you go out on it that’s for sure. Enjoy and I look forward to your next video
Many thanks. Yes, I’m loving the bike. I didn’t actually get much chance to spend time on the bike after I got it as I was so busy with work and other projects. But the more time I spend with it, the more I appreciate it and the amazing job that Andre and his friend did to preserve this bike. Best wishes, Mike
Great looking bike, Mike. All the metal flake colors were so nice to look at. The first Norton I ever saw was out of the math class window in high school, and it was an emerald green metal flake. Even to this day, I remember the guy's name who owned it. That's what made me want to get one of my own.
Thanks a lot John for sharing the story. That was so enjoyable to read. There are a couple of the green metallic Nortons in the club and they look amazing. So 70s! Best wishes, Mike
Lovely 850, Mike! My 750 is also in the fire flake bronze, and it is indeed a fiberglass tank.
Thanks a lot Brian. Does your tank have the black lettering? I understand the difference between the earlier fire flake bikes and the later bikes is that the later ones had silver/gray lettering versus black lettering on the older bikes. Cheers, Mike
What a treasure!
Thanks a lot Marty! Maybe I will be able to ride this one down to Silverton! Cheers, Mike
Hi Mike, there are companies here in the UK that come round with a 'Wobble stick' and remove small dents (and creases like the one in your tank) through the filler cap. There must be similar in the US. It would be a shame to lose such amazing paint but you can certainly remove the dent.
Hi Nick, I really appreciate your help with this. I’m going to mention that crease to my friend who is a professional painter to ask him what he thinks. Best wishes, Mike
You can really see the metalflake close up, great
Thanks a lot Kevin. Yes, that metal flake is so heavy, it’s unbelievable. Best wishes, Mike
Glad to see a bike that awesome ended up in the right hands someone who appreciates it for what it really is and isn't going to butcher it it really is hard to find a beautiful original bike great videos thanks
Many thanks Scott. Yes, I’m really enjoying this bike. It’s fascinating to see all the original components. Best wishes, Mike
Mike, love all your videos. FYI, I had a 74 Mk II, which I loved. Regarding your tool kit. The following tool kit items are original: wrenches [aka spanners], spark plug socket & bar, feeler gauges, tire spoons, Rear Spring Adjusting Wrench [also used for adjusting valves and removing primary cover caps] & the Pouch are all original tool kit tools. The two box wrenches [aka ring spanners] made from flat steel plate appear to be factory tools but were not in the original kit. It appears that the previous owner purchased them and added them to the kit. The screwdriver is not original. I have an original. It's smaller in length and has a black plastic handle [smaller diameter too]. The pliers are not original. They are larger and have nice, polished chrome. The originals are smaller, not polished and are either cadmium or bright Zinc plated. I don't remember getting the "cut down" Allen key either. I believe you are directed to modify a standard one, in the Workshop Manual. I found the tire spoons adequate for changing a tire by the side of the road. Need to carry a patch kit and 2 or 3 CO2 cartridges [to re-inflate the tire].
Always loved the metalflake bikes. I had a 72 Combat that same color back in the 80s. I bought it off the original owner. It looked nearly as nice as your Mk II. I've got a 71 basket case which is missing a lot of parts. Previous owner spray can painted over the metalflake blue. Now it's black. It did come with a Dunstall Dual Disc front end. Both wheels have Borrani rims & there's a Dunstall 810 barrel. No gearbox, crank, rods or pistons though. 🙁
Many thanks Charles for sharing this terrific information. I really appreciate it. That was very helpful. Best wishes, Mike
What a great acquisition, Mike! Congrats on adding that beauty to your collection!
Thank you very much Corey. Yes, I’m really excited about this bike. I’ve got a several more videos lined up already. Best wishes, Mike
Always interesting videos. Thanks for posting.
Thank you Gary, I appreciate it. Cheers, Mike
Looking forward to you tinkering with the new Norton Mike. I would kill for that bike , its a beaut!
dont kill Mike!
😃😃 No, please don’t😉😉👍
Thank you Bob. There are several more videos in the pipeline that I hope you enjoy. Once I started, I couldn’t stop! Best wishes, Mike
My word, that is a very special find; congratulations, Mike. This is going to be great!
Thank you very much. Yes I am thrilled to bits with this bike. I’ve spent a lot of time on it over the holidays and really enjoying it. Best wishes, Mike
Very nice find -- bike has a great patina.
Lucky you,thought it was Export 850cc Commando,Guy down rd had Black Gold striped one 16@time folks emigrated to S.A. Dec75'@ 17 Bought CB750k2 did many mods back then rode all over Western Province on ,Sold to return Sep 78' @ 20,only got KawaGPZ rx1000 left 18k on clock,but been looking to buy Mrk 2/3 Commando myself for1year now no luck so far ..I regard this model as the last of the BEST of UK Motorcycles..no doubts..
Thanks a lot for sharing, Mick. You’ll have to come on over to the US. There are still lots of Commandos for sale and prices seem to be going up at the moment! Best wishes, Mike
It certainly looks like the original tool kit if my memory serves. I am so envious of you having found a Commando in such nice shape. Most of them that I’ve seen up here in the Northeast come in milk crates or go for astronomical numbers.
Hi Robyn. Thanks a lot for your note. Yes, I struck gold (or should I say bronze“ on this one! Best wishes, Mike
Great find.
I'll be interested in the optimum isolastic clearances with the adjustable units.
For my 1970 Roadster the adjustment was with shims, and the optimum was quite a bit less than the 10thou spec.
Thanks a lot. I haven’t checked them yet, but will definitely try and capture the clearances when I do. Cheers, Mike
Not sure if all the tools are original but the screwdriver certainly is. The black barrels suggest it is a Combat engine. When I bought mine (about a year earlier), the Combat option was the only way to get the disc brake.
Thanks a lot Alan. I appreciate your note. I think my tool kit might be missing a couple of items and I’ll hopefully find them to complete the cute one of these days. Best wishes, Mike
Great looking bike, Mike. Looking forward to seeing your journey with it.
Thank you Steve. Everything seems to be going great so far. I’m struggling with the carburetors at the moment, but hopefully making some good progress. Best wishes, Mike
Looks very nice!
Many thanks. Yes, I’m really pleased with it. There are several more videos in the pipeline. Cheers, Mike
Memories ! , I have a mate in NZ who has the 750 Combat with the touring tank , but it has the same ' metal flake ' like this beautiful Bronze , but in dark , dark green , looks black in most light , but it's finish is like yours .
This is the first time I have seen this finish since seeing his Combat , thank you .
ps. the color of your Commando is similar to my RE 650 Interceptor , ' Orange Crush ' it's called
Did my 61 Norton Dominator SS in aftermarket Candy Apple Metalflake Apricot because Tangerine was too sparkly in southern sun. Very similar to this.
I am actively looking to find a Commando to purchase & ride. Norton Rules!
Good evening,
A comment for your rear brake cable connexion at the pedal. I prefer to have the clip on the pin for the yoke holding the brake cable on the outside thus the pin would remain captive in the event of the loss of the clip. Also there is less rubbing between parts. It is a pain to first install the pin this way but afterwards you remain safe. I highly recommend part number 06-4172S/S ie: in stainless which is a return spring for the brake pedal. It is an optional Norton part originally requested by police forces to prevent the pedal from dropping in the event of a cable break. I got mine from Walridge Motors in Lucan Ontario. I needed to tweek the end bends so the spring would remain more or less upright on my bike but may not be necessary on other bikes. Adding the spring also gives a more positive feel to the pedal.
Gerardus
Another secret I’ve discovered similar to your black bike one is the more tools you own the longer you’ll live.
Ha ha, I really appreciate that advice, Craig. I better buy some more tools right away 😉😉👍
gorgeous!
Thanks a lot Kevin. Best wishes for 2022!
Great video, Mike, there's nothing I love more than the "discovery" phase with a new bike. I feel very strongly that Andre' is to be commended for maintaining this bike in such superb, original condition. Over time, too many if not most of these bikes fall victim to bad taste and/or bad judgement. Much respect to Andre' for having the good taste to select this bike, and the good judgment to keep it in such fine, original condition. (If he has another bike, I'll take it (haha)).
Many thanks Rod. I completely agree with you. I can’t tell you how grateful I am that Andre and his friend took such good care of this bike. The more I touch it, the more I appreciate how careful they were with it. It’s been a pleasure and I can’t wait to ride it. Best wishes, Mike
Beautiful bike! Looks to be in excellent condition and the paint is amazing. I'm still trying to talk a buddy of mine in selling me his 74 850 Commando he bought new. We did a trip for a number of weeks in 1974 when I had my 750 Tiger. Unfortunately I have no classic motorcycle at the moment. Just sold a BMW R100RT.
Thanks a lot Mike. Good luck with the commando! I hope you get it. They are fantastic bikes. Best wishes, Mike
Happy new year from Down Under. Always considered myself a Triumph fan, but I must admit the 850 Commando could well be challenging that. Good video.
Thanks a lot Phil. I appreciate it. Cheers, Mike
Gorgeous bike Mike.
Thanks a lot John. I hope all is well. Best wishes for 2022. Cheers, Mike
@@TheMightyGarage Hi Mike, sorry I've not been keeping up so well with your output recently (too many fascinating UA-cam channels to watch). I have a bit of a cardio problem to deal with but feeling good and super impressed with your rapidly growing collection. Looking forward to seeing an update on the Manxman. Happy New Year.
Hello Mike. Originality is where it’s at for me. The bike is in great hands, as I can tell, your all about preservation like myself. That being said, I carefully maintain and RIDE all my unrestored machines. If they are static then they are only a fraction of what they were meant to be.
Cheers my friend. 😎
Many thanks Mick. Yes, I’m definitely planning on riding this bike. I’ve replaced the tires already and given the bike service. Everything seems to be looking good so far and I definitely plan on riding it a lot. Best wishes, Mike
Keep the videos coming👍
Thanks a lot Robert. Will do! There are several more videos ready to publish already. I couldn’t stop once I got started over the Christmas holiday 😉
Enjoy the honeymoon with the new Commando Mike!
Ha ha, thank you Eric. Yes, so far so good!
hi mike day late watching your post very nice dont see many fire flake in GB dont remember seeing one
always nice to get old receipt shows whats been done
and tool kit looks nearly all there just looked on andover site regards ian
Terrific, thanks very much for your note. Yes, I think I’m just missing a few little items for the tool kit that I’m hoping to pick up in the future. I agree, I don’t think I have seen this color before and I’m certain that we don’t have any others in the club. It certainly grows on you! Best wishes, Mike
LUCKY!!!!
Thanks a lot Roy. Yes I agree. It’s a terrific bike.
Terrific looking bike. I would have that paintwork protected with a clearcoat but im sure with your experience you will do just fine in bringing it back. Have fun with her Mike.
Many thanks. Yes I’m going to ask my friend for some professional advice about how best to deal with this paint work to protect it. Cheers, Mike
If that were my paint I would have another coat of clear added for protection.
Thanks a lot for the tip. Cheers, Mike
Wow, that is a beautiful find. Please keep the original air cleaner.
Hi Tom. Absolutely will keep the original air cleaner. I’ve already stripped it down and cleaned it and “recharged“ the filter. Everything came out great. It was actually an easy job to remove and clean the filter. It was just removing the carburetors that was a pain 😉cheers, Mike
This bike is stunning and its in good hands can't wait to see the progress.
Thank you Jim. The more I look at the bike and work on it, the more I appreciate it and how well Andre and his friend preserved the originality of this stunning bike. Best wishes, Mike
Stunning bike Mike! Love that you got all the history and parts with it! Looking forward to the updates as you progress the recomissioning of it. Also the One newsletter was a great read. 👍 all the best with the new bike regards Philip in Ireland 🇮🇪
Hi Philip, thank you very much for your note. I appreciate it. I’ve passed on your best wishes to Ronnie, our oNe newsletter editor extraordinaire 😉 I’m glad you enjoyed the videos and the newsletter. Best wishes for 2022. Cheers, Mike
Nice find Mike, this Norton is in good hands now. Wish you a happy new year from SW of France.
Salut Vince! Many thanks for your note. Best wishes for 2022.
What a beautiful Norton, such a great find, thanks for sharing 👍 🏴
Thank you Johnathan. I appreciate it. Cheers, Mike
What a beautiful bike you've ended up with there. The colour is brilliant, and all those extras... 👌
Thank you Phil. Yes I’m having a great time with the bike. There are several more videos in the pipeline that I hope you will enjoy. Cheers, Mike
What a starting project for 2022..!!! Wowwwwww
Many thanks, yes I’m really enjoying this bike so far. Cheers, Mike
I have used Mequiar’s 7 on the old lacquer paint on my ‘71 ‘vette, which by the way was Ontario Orange, a metal flake. Apply generously… leave sit overnight and repeat. Start w just the side panel first! Great bike!
Hi Chris, thank you very much for the tip. I really appreciate it. Cheers, Mike
Beautiful bike Mike , love the colour. Tool kit looks original to me .
Great start to the New year 👍
Thanks a lot Gregg. I’m glad you enjoyed the video. I’ve got several more videos lined up that I hope you will enjoy. Cheers, Mike
What a find! Love the tool kit! 👍
Thanks a lot Chris. Cheers, Mike
Hi Mike, what a lovely bright color for your latest garage addition. I thoroughly agree you wearing sun glasses coming out of the shadows on this dazzling Commando. You might even attract groupies! ✌️
Ha ha, that would be a first George 😉 Hope all is well and 2022 has got off to a good start for you. Best wishes, Mike
With your bikes all the same color you'll find that the 48 hour rule is much easier to utilize. The wife comes into the garage and says, "is that a new bike there, I've never noticed that before"? Oh that old thing, I've had it for a long time. If you've had it longer than 48 hours, that's considered a long time.
What a cracking time warp commando
Thank you Stephen. Yes, I have been amazed at how originally it is. I even think the air in the tires was from 1970s 😉😉 Best wishes, Mike
Thanks and all my wishes Mike !
Hi Nicolas, thank you very much for your best wishes. Have a great 2022. Cheers, Mike
Really Beautiful! I would be great to know more about the bikes history, and how you found it. If you stole it on a dark rainy night, it's understandable to leave that part out. Thanks
Hehe, thanks Greg. Here's a little more info about getting the bike. The journey starts at 3mins into this video. ua-cam.com/video/ZCGmhggAfR4/v-deo.html Cheers, Mike
Hello There and happy new year. You may not know this but you probably do is that how do you tell an original gas tank as opposed to a Indian copy apart from the fact that they do not fit very well. The original tank has a baffle plate in it to stop the fuel surging. If you open the gas cap and put your fingers in, you should feel it or shine a flashlight in there and you will see it. Cheers.
Many thanks for the tip. I will take a look inside. I’m pretty certain that it’s an original tank, but I’ll definitely check. Best wishes, Mike
i got my first norton in 1973 850 interstate £751 brand new from lloyds of whithave in cumbria
Outstanding.
Thanks a lot James. Really appreciate it. Cheers, Mike
Very nice bike. Looking forward to the updates.
Many thanks. There are several more videos in the pipeline that I hope you will enjoy. Best wishes, Mike
Lovely video Mike!
Many thanks! Same to you and very best wishes and I hope you have even more success in 2022. I really enjoy watching your videos. Best wishes, Mike
At one point ( on the close up shot ) I thought we were onboard the satellite orbiting the sun 🌞 as we speak ! Beautiful bike Mike, maybe you’ll have to buy something shiny for the wife ? Cheers mate Ray 🇬🇧
Ha ha, thank you very much Ray! Hope all is well and you have a great 2022. Cheers, Mike
Nice, nice Commando ! And with all the spare parts in Addidas boxe, you are secured for many years of rides ! 😉
Happy new year !🍾🥂
Thanks very much. Yes, I have re-used a few of the old original parts already and was really grateful that he held onto them. Best wishes for 2022! Cheers, Mike
Hi Mike, that’s a beautiful colour man, I’d put about 4 coats x2 of a really good clear lacquer on the tins to bring out that beautiful colour making it really deep and lustrous imho lol 😝. Where on earth do you find these bikes, it’s a good thing you have deep pockets lol 😂. The tool kit certainly looks original, and you got some nice parts in the boxes, i love the Haynes Manual. Awesome video Mike. 😎👍👍👍🇬🇧
Hi Mike, thanks very much for your great note. Yes, I haven’t decided yet what to do about the paint. I’m hoping to take the tank and side panels over to a friend shortly to see what he thinks I should do with them. Hope all is well, best wishes, Mike
Hi Mike. I have a comment which you might not like. What happened to your Norton Manxman project? Here in Denmark we followed it eagerly, but we would like to see it finished before you start another project. (perhaps you would too) Best Regards Preben
😉 thank you Preben. You are so right. I was planning on starting the Manxman, honestly! But this came along and I couldn't resist it. As soon as this bike is running, I have a couple of smaller projects to work on and then it will be back to the Manxman. It's sitting on the bench behind the Commando. I'm working on trying to find a paint match and then will start preparing all the parts for paint. Best wishes, Mike
Hi Mike
Happy new year . What a lovely bike you must be over the moon . Myself I am a honda man but i love your channel. Looking forward to see this Norton more .
Thank you very much Paul. I appreciate it. Hopefully we will see some more Hondas in 2022. Cheers, Mike
Hi Mike what a great looking bike. I have my bike original owners information wallet, printed on it it states This wallet contains : Dealer Initial dealer set up procedure and 500 mile service instructions.
Owner : Rider manual, World wide distributor dealer list, Tyre manual and other consumer information. So it would appear that the Avon booklet you have would have come with the bike in the info pack. If you like I can end you a picture of the wallet.
Hi Mark, oh yes please, that would be great to see. Thanks a lot for your help. My email is themightygarage@icloud.com. Best wishes, Mike
Thank you Mark for sending the information. I really appreciate it. Cheers, Mike
You must satisfy the basic equation, B=b+1 (Where B represents Required Bikes, let b represent Bikes Possessed) Great vid, thanks ;-)
Ha ha, thanks Charles. I love that equation 😉
Merry Christmas will do. That is a beautiful commando
Thanks a lot Alan. Best wishes for 2022! Cheers, Mike
Beautiful color mate looks almost orange?
Hi, yes you are right. If I didn’t know the official name was “Fireflake Golden bronze“ I would say that it is metallic orange 😉😉
'Happy New Year' first of all Mike.
The bike looks to be as you have said in 'basically' very good order, a great base line to work from.
Looking forward to the progress on getting this 'roadworthy' & out on a 'ONE' club run.
atvb t ..
Thanks a lot Terry. Hope you had a great Christmas and your new year has started off well. Cheers, Mike
Love the videos and a happy new year to you, I was wondering do you still have Shep and the Manxman?
Hi Jon, yes I am embarrassed to say that I still have both the Manxman and Shep, the Norton Atlas. That’s the Manxman on the bench behind the Commando. I’m making a little progress, but not much on the Manxman. The next big task is to start preparing the metal work for paint. I’ve had a bit of a tough time trying to find a paint match, but we are getting closer. Unfortunately Shep is sitting at the back of the garage wondering if it will ever be rebuilt. One of these days, for sure! Best wishes, Mike
@@TheMightyGarage ah i understand i have many projects too, i try to do a bit to each when i can so i know where you are coming from. Plus the manxman is pretty rare i hadn't even heard of one till i saw it on your channel which is why i really enjoy your channel getting an education on these bikes and seeing them. As for Shep the Atlas that was a huge project too take it from where it was to where you have got it too now, i know how hard and time consuming it can be i have just picked up a Norton N15 which someone tried to make it into a bobber so i'm doing my best to bring it back to standard as best i can. keep up the great video's and i cant wait to see more. Best Wishes Jon
Lovely Mike you wouldn't have sneaked that one past the wife , bet you can't wait to get that to the see see cafe 😀 best wishes for 2022.
Ha ha, yes I’m really looking forward to riding the bike in ever-increasing circles as I get acclimated to it 😉
I saw in a FB group they made a Purple Fireflake it really pops. I think only fiberglass tanks though? I wonder if you could get some matched up today?
Lovely bike Mike I personally don’t like the orange (was that a US only spec?). All the best for 2022🍷🇬🇧
The metallic purple on the '70/'71 Norton's is really quite something.
The Plymouth and Dodge muscle cars,also offered a 'Plum Crazy','70/'71.
US only spec
No worries Neil. It’s all good. Yes, I never thought I would own a bike this color but it’s surprising how it has grown on me :-) best wishes to you for 2022!
Thanks Billy. Yes there are several metallic colors that are totally 70s! We’re going to have to get a few of them together and wear our flares again 😎😎😉
Que colores hermosos..saludos Rafa de mardel plata Argentina...pd.feliz año mickel.
Hi Rafael, many thanks for all your comments. I hope you are doing well and have a great new year. Best wishes, Mike