1970 Norton 750cc Commando

Frame no. 138508

Engine no. 20M35 138508

The Commando’s vibration-beating Isolastic frame enabled Norton Villiers successfully to prolong the life of their ageing parallel-twin engine that had been around since the late 1940s. Launched in 1967, the model was an instant hit with the motorcycling public, being voted Motor Cycle News ‘Machine of the Year’ for five consecutive years. It might have been a little down in top speed compared to rivals such as BSA-Triumph’s 750 triples and Honda’s 750 four, but the Commando more than made up for this minor deficiency with superior mid-range torque and steadier handling. Alongside the stock roadster, Norton Villiers offered a special competition version intended for production class racing. Introduced for 1971, the Commando Production Racer was developed by works rider/engineer Peter Williams and produced in very limited numbers for little more than one season, with a list price double that of other Commandos. The first Commando to be fitted with a disc front brake as standard, the Production Racer came with a tuned engine, clip-on handlebars, rear-set footrests and distinctive yellow fiberglass gas tank and bodywork. This matching-numbers Commando roadster has been restored twice: on the first occasion in 2002-2003 to stock specification and then again in 2004-2005 when it was rebuilt in production-racer style complete with long-distance gas tank and single racing seat.

Please call Richard with any questions: 415-307-9122