1968 Norton Commando 750

1968 Norton Commando 750

standard60sUnited Kingdom

A standard motorcycle from 1968, the 1968 Norton Commando 750 delivers 58hp from its 745cc OHV twin engine.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV twin
Displacement
745 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
58 hp @ 6800 rpm
Torque
56.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
73.0 × 89.0 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
2x Amal carburetors

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel Isolastic
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock Isolastic
Front Brake
Drum
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
4-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
195 km/h (121 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
185 kg (408 lbs)
Wet Weight
198 kg (437 lbs)
Seat Height
790 mm
Wheelbase
1430 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
14.0 L

History & Story

The 1968 1968 Norton Commando 750 was introduced by Norton as a standard motorcycle aimed at riders seeking standard motorcycle performance and style. Manufactured in United Kingdom, it represented Norton's vision for the twin-cylinder standard motorcycle market during the 1960s.

At the heart of the 1968 Norton Commando 750 sits a 745cc OHV twin engine producing 58 horsepower at 6800 rpm. The twin-cylinder powerplant features a twin-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by 2x Amal carburetors. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 4-speed transmission and chain final drive.

The chassis employs a steel isolastic frame with telescopic fork up front and twin shock isolastic at the rear. Stopping power comes from drum front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 185 kg (408 lbs) dry, the 1968 Norton Commando 750 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1430 mm wheelbase.

Performance-wise, the 1968 Norton Commando 750 achieves a claimed top speed of 195 km/h (121 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 790 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Today, the 1968 Norton Commando 750 is considered a highly sought-after classic that commands strong prices among collectors worldwide. Parts availability is rated as good, making ownership relatively straightforward. It remains an icon of Norton motorcycling from 1960s.

Known Issues

  • Isolastic mounting rubber bushings wear
  • Oil leaks from numerous gasket surfaces
  • Lucas electrics need attention
  • Gearbox mainshaft bearing wear

Fun Facts

  • Pristine examples of the 1968 Norton Commando 750 can command six-figure prices at auction
  • The 1968 Norton Commando 750 is considered one of the most collectible motorcycles from Norton
  • The 1968 Norton Commando 750 is widely regarded as a milestone in motorcycle history
  • The Norton Commando won the MCN Machine of the Year award five consecutive times (1968-1972)

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Good
Collector Rating
9/10

Resources & Parts