1975 Norton Commando 850 Mk III
Born in 1975, the 1975 Norton Commando 850 Mk III is a 828cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 58hp from Norton.
Specifications
Engine
- Type
- OHV twin
- Displacement
- 828 cc
- Cylinders
- 2
- Power
- 58 hp @ 6000 rpm
- Torque
- 62.0 Nm
- Compression
- —
- Bore × Stroke
- 77.0 × 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
- Single disc
- Rear Brake
- Drum
- Front Tyre
- —
- Rear Tyre
- —
- Transmission
- 4-speed
- Final Drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top Speed
- 185 km/h (115 mph)
- ¼ Mile
- —
Dimensions & Weight
- Dry Weight
- 205 kg (452 lbs)
- Wet Weight
- 220 kg (485 lbs)
- Seat Height
- 800 mm
- Wheelbase
- 1440 mm
- Ground Clearance
- —
- Fuel Capacity
- 14.0 L
History & Story
In 1975, Norton launched the 1975 Norton Commando 850 Mk III — a standard motorcycle that would come to define an era of motorcycling. Hailing from United Kingdom, it combined United Kingdom engineering with standard motorcycle appeal.
At the heart of the 1975 Norton Commando 850 Mk III sits a 828cc OHV twin engine producing 58 horsepower at 6000 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 single disc front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 205 kg (452 lbs) dry, the 1975 Norton Commando 850 Mk III offers a manageable riding experience with a 1440 mm wheelbase.
Performance-wise, the 1975 Norton Commando 850 Mk III achieves a claimed top speed of 185 km/h (115 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 800 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
At the heart of the 1975 Norton Commando 850 Mk III sits a 828cc OHV twin engine producing 58 horsepower at 6000 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 single disc front and drum rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 205 kg (452 lbs) dry, the 1975 Norton Commando 850 Mk III offers a manageable riding experience with a 1440 mm wheelbase.
Performance-wise, the 1975 Norton Commando 850 Mk III achieves a claimed top speed of 185 km/h (115 mph). With a fuel capacity of 14.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 800 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
Known Issues
- Isolastic mounting rubber bushings wear
- Oil leaks from numerous gasket surfaces
- Lucas electrics need attention
- Gearbox mainshaft bearing wear
Fun Facts
- The Norton Commando won the MCN Machine of the Year award five consecutive times (1968-1972)
- The 1975 Norton Commando 850 Mk III was produced in Norton's United Kingdom facilities
- The 1975 Norton Commando 850 Mk III featured a steel isolastic frame typical of 1970s design philosophy
Collector Information
- Parts Availability
- Moderate
- Collector Rating
- 6/10
Resources & Parts
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