Norton Commando

The Norton Commando is a motorcycle with an ohv pre-unit parallel-twin engine, produced by the Norton Motorcycle Company from 1967 until 1977. With over 700 colour photographs, this book provides step-by-step guides to restoring every component of this classic bike. Topics covered include how to find a worthy restoration project; setting up a workshop with key tools and equipment; dismantling the motorcycle to restore the chassis, engine cradle and swing arm; restoring the isolastic suspension, forks and steering; tackling the engine, transmission, carburettors, electrics, ignition and instruments and, finally, overhauling wheels and brakes, and replacing tyres. There is also a chapter on the assembly of a restored 'Five Times Machine of the Year' motorcycle.

The Commando was the main bike in Norton's range from 1968, and was produced until the demise of Norton Villers Triumph in 1977. The bike featured the unique 'Isolastic' system that rubber-mounted the engine and protected the rider from the twin-cylinder's vibrations. The model range provided the rider with a choice of touring and sporting models, as well as offering special police machines and off-the-shelf production racers. Commandos feature strongly in today's classic scene, and offer excellent performance and spares availability, as well as a vast range of improvements and updated components. This book looks at the history and development of the Commando, gives the specifications and outlines the model changes, and also offers the riding experiences of past and present owners. In addition there is a blow-by-blow account of the author's restoration of a 1971 750cc model that had been re-imported into the UK from America needing a complete rebuild.

Launched in 1967, the Norton Commando, is arguably Britain's most well-developed twin-cylinder motorcycle. Here is the detailed history and owner's guide to this famous machine, including contemporary reaction to its launch, model changes and buying tips.

Motorcycles: general interest.

This How to Restore Norton Commando manual is aimed at owners and enthusiasts of the legendary Norton Commando, and covers all areas of restoration from the sourcing of the bike to its completion as a fully restored machine. Starting with advice on the different models, spares availability and where best to source a bike to restore, the book then covers the complete dismantling and restoration of the bike. Describing the engine, frame, gearbox, wheels, suspension and forks, brakes, ancillaries, bodywork, and electrics, the text is illustrated with hundreds of clear colour photos. What really sets this manual apart is the style in which it is written: not as some dull and distant workshop manual but in a friendly, humorous manner by an enthusiast of many years who is able to involve and entertain the reader, as well as providing a thorough and detailed restoration guide. This is the fourth restoration guide from an author whose previous works have been a massive hit with mechanics, enthusiasts and restorers throughout the world.

The popular Gold Portfolio on the Norton Commando is now out of print and has been replaced with this Ultimate Portfolio which has a further 36 pages with some in color. The Commando started life with 600cc, 650cc and then 750cc vertical twin engines which meant that vibration became a problem. A takeover of the AMC Group in 1966 by Manganese Bronze Holdings resulted in a new Norton development team which overcame the problem and, as a direct result, the new Commando made its debut in 1977 and became Britain's first superbike'. 49 reports on the Commando S, SS, Production Racer, Roadster, Fastback, Dunstall 810, 850, Interstate, Mk.2A, John Player Special and Mk.3. Included are road tests, new model introductions, specifications, history, technical & performance data plus an engine rebuild & buyers guide.