NORTON COMMANDO 961 SE (2009 - on) Review
At a glance
Owners' reliability rating: | |
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Annual servicing cost: | £230 |
Power: | 79 bhp |
Seat height: | Medium (32.0 in / 813 mm) |
Weight: | Medium (415 lbs / 188 kg) |
Prices
Overall rating
Next up: Ride & brakesRevived Norton’s new Commando 961 SE is a ‘feel good’ bike par excellence. It gives riding and owning pleasure by the skip-load and is a machine you’ll park up and spend hours admiring in the garage with a cuppa.
Yes, in this full-bling, limited edition, £16K, SE trim, the 961 is arguably more ornament than transport, but that’s’s arguably irrelevent now this version has sold out (but it bodes well for the future, cheaper Café Racer and Sport) and, besides, I can’t think of any bikes that fulfils both roles so well.
Ride quality & brakes
Next up: EngineThe Norton Commando 961’s chassis is simply ‘there’: Neutral-feeling yet with enough sporting prowess to have fun and scratch with; light, slim and sharp-steering flickable, plus, of course, incontrovertibly good suspension and brakes.
I doubt it needed any adjustment. If it did, it’s all there, available.
Engine
Next up: ReliabilityAlthough a beautiful lump of metal, this is NOT the best bit. That’s not a major criticism.
We rode the first production machine which is something of a development bike so there was bound to be a few teething troubles, most notably a flat-spot around 5000rpm. Even so there’s plenty to commend.
The Norton has plenty of low-down grunt from around 2000rpm, snicks though its gears happily enough and emits a quite addictive bark.
Eighty horses, or somewhere between a Bonnie and a Monster, feels about right and is enough to have fun with.
Reliability & build quality
Next up: ValueIt’s hand-built, in the UK, using some of the best components available anywhere in the world so quality, on face value at least, is top drawer.
It’s still too early to say about reliability, although any doubts should be assuaged by Norton’s commitment to customer service and determination to correct any problems that might crop up.
Value vs rivals
Next up: EquipmentWith the Norton Commando 961 SE more than most, value is difficult to assess objectively.
The cynics will argue that, on paper, the performance is hardly eart-shattering and it’s a fairly basic, unproven machine for your £16K.
On the other hand, it’s a mouth-watering return of a legendary name, an instant classic, beautifully specced and never likely to depreciate…
Equipment
As a straightforward, old style roadster, the Norton Commando 961 SE is fairly basic in terms of equipment – there’s obviously no luggage, fairing and so on.
But what it has is top-notch. Brakes, suspension, wheels, switchgear, instruments are all among the best there is, as befitting a ‘Special Edition’ model – and it’s price.
Specs |
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Engine size | 961cc |
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Engine type | Air-cooled, 2v parallel twin, 5 gears |
Frame type | Steel tube double cradle |
Fuel capacity | 17 litres |
Seat height | 813mm |
Bike weight | 188kg |
Front suspension | Ohlins 43mm, fully adjustable |
Rear suspension | Twin Ohlins shocks, fully adjustable |
Front brake | 2 x 320mm, four-piston calipers |
Rear brake | 220mm disc, two-piston caliper |
Front tyre size | 120/70 x 17 |
Rear tyre size | 180/55 x 17 |
Mpg, costs & insurance |
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Average fuel consumption | 45 mpg |
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Annual road tax | £117 |
Annual service cost | £230 |
New price | £15,995 |
Used price | £8,800 - £15,000 |
Insurance group |
17 of 17 How much to insure? |
Warranty term | Two year unlimited mileage |
Top speed & performance |
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Max power | 79 bhp |
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Max torque | 66 ft-lb |
Top speed | 130 mph |
1/4 mile acceleration | - |
Tank range | 205 miles |
Model history & versions
Model history
2009: Norton Commando 961 SE launched
Other versions
Commando Café Racer: Brief comments
Commando Sport:
Owners' reviews for the NORTON COMMANDO 961 (2009 - on)
6 owners have reviewed their NORTON COMMANDO 961 (2009 - on) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.
Review your NORTON COMMANDO 961 (2009 - on)
Summary of owners' reviews |
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Overall rating: | |
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Ride quality & brakes: | |
Engine: | |
Reliability & build quality: | |
Value vs rivals: | |
Equipment: | |
Annual servicing cost: | £230 |
Version: SP
Year: 2024
Annual servicing cost: £201
The Pipes went Blue very quick but maybe that's expected of this model. I have only had it a week so difficult to give it a proper review.Lovely looking bit of kit though.
Brakes are Brembo's so quality . Wouldn't say they have the same bite as my Triumph Speed but they seem ample. The bike feels good in the corners and handles well , but I'm still in the early days and running it in. The ride is an experience, and like nothing modern you ever ridden .
Proper thudding power. This is not an out and our power machine, but the torque is amazing. You just need to remember to keep the revs up as I did stall it quite easily on my first go. Favorite feature is the noise of the engine. This isn't a smooth Triumph , so be prepared for plenty of vibration , especially through the seat and the pegs, but it kind of adds to the character of the bike.
Looks a Quality bike Few things i would have changed like indicators that are very 70''s but again that is probably in keeping with the bike. The silver on the dash is also a bit bland but not a major issue.
Value : Not the cheapest bike considering the lack of equipment, but Its British Hand Built and Lovely to look at .Estimated Service £200-£250 not had service yet
Equipment There isn't any other than ABS , Its proper back to basics, so not even got a fuel gauge. I light does come on when 20 miles left :)
Buying experience: Bought through Macphersons (Plymouth) Great people to deal with and some very goods offers on these at the moment.
Version: SP Sport Variant
Year: 2023
I would recommend it as a fun and involving ride. It is Old School Brittish made and I love that. I would doubt that it is 100% British, given the switch gear and instruments. I don't need or want any more rider aids than ABS on a bike, unless it has more than 120BHP. I have a 1975 Mk2A Commando 850 and the experience of riding the 961SP is in essence a 21st-century version of that, with the benefit of being able to stop as fast as it can go! The design and weight distribution are excellent, as is the CRP composite fuel tank and airbox. While it is an expensive bike compared to modern Triumphs and other high volume bikes, Norton's were not cheap in their heyday, so comparatively, what you get is a very well made bike with the pedigree to match the price. Ducatis and MotoGuzzi's are higher volume products but they are not cheap either.If fast is the order of the day, I'd take my EBR 1190 for a spin. My Honda CBX occasionally gets a look-in but it is a huge lump of a bike by comparison. I also have a Triumph Thruxton 1200 RS, and the Norton is my go-to bike for a ride out. The Thruxton has more power and gizmo's, rider modes, etc. but the Norton handles better and is more enjoyable and involving to ride IMHO.Some are negligible but there are five things I don't like about the New 916SP:1. The rider footpegs are great quality bespoke items but they don't have return springs if you kick them up accidentally, so it is a distraction trying to get your boot back on top again if you flip them up accidentally.2. The side stand doesn't inspire confidence as the bike doesn't lean much on level ground, so it gives the feeling that it could be blown over easily. It hasn't happened but it is something I feel nervous about when parking it.3. The steering lock is too restrictive for maneuvering. It is fine while in motion but I'll be taking a file to the stops to maximise the lock-to-lock range once the warranty is up.4. The Gearbox is great once run in is completed but a tall sixth gear for motorway cruising should be something in development. As it is the transmission and engine are great but perhaps a belt drive would be an advantage over chain since it isn't a power monster. 5. The switchgear has no locator and relies solely on clamping force to stop rotation. I've used double sided tape to make sure it stays put, but these items should be mich better than the ones fitted.
The bike handles really well for the weight it carries. The standard Brembo brakes and Ohlins suspension are a reason for the high initial cost of the bike but they are second to none in inspiring confidence, and in creating such an involving ride. Some folks have complained about the seat but I think it depends on how heavy you are or whether you have piles! It is no armchair, nor is it a boneshaker, and in time, there will no doubt be aftermarket gel seats for those who need that for their hemorrhoids. In my opinion, the seat is well made and comfortable for around 70-100 mile stints. It isn't meant to be a touring bike, but if that's the intended use, then a pair of gel cycling shorts is the solution to a sore arse and saddle sores if that would be a problem for you! The bike is a fun all-rounder and the pillion seat is pretty good I am told. I like the sculpted tank, comfort and general ride quality.
In terms of intended use and fitness for purpose, the engine is great and power delivery is smooth across the rev range. It gets up to speed quickly when you need it to, and the torque delivery makes it very tractable, requiring minimal gear changes to accelerate in top. It isn't a crotch rocket and can't be looked at in those terms, so beyond the classic vibrations of a parallel twin, it is great and easy to live with.
Overall, the bike looks the part! It is without doubt a very handsome, well made quality item, and overall, there has been an impressive attention to detail in terms of the mechanicals, running gear and the fastners. On the contrary, while not ugly or unreliable, the lefthand switchgear looks like a cheap generic Chinese scooter item. Having looked at the manufacture and internals, this part is likely the weakest link in an otherwise excellent system. Reliability is excellent and it starts the first time as long as you've maintained the battery charge over winter.
The first 600-mile service was free and they picked it up from my house in Scotland, took it back to Solihull, and returned it serviced after a few days. Getting to a dealership is less of an issue now that we have one in Perth, about 75 miles away. The next service is at 6,000 miles so I may provide an update with costs when that is done. In cost terms, the fuel consumption probably suffers from the lack of a 6th cruising gear I think but it isn't a significant issue for my routes and driving style.
The general running gear and drive train components of the bike are all excellent, as are the standard tyres. I opted for the Black rims because I hate polishing brake dust off alloy, so those look great and are low maintenance. As earlier, just the left switch cluster quality irritates me. The mirrors are old-school retro but surprisingly clear throughout most of the useable rev range. I might opt for bar end mirrors at some point but for now I'm happy with the OEM items. Many folks don't like them buy I think that the indicators are OK too. Some factory-made and high-quality options would be good but I have no desire to change the standard indicators.
Buying experience: While there wasn't a dealership network at the time I bought the bike in July 2023 but it wasn't a big issue, as I expected reliability and it was delivered. The sales process was great and the benefit of having seen the heritage displays and the manufacturing process reinforced the history and quality ethos of the new Norton factory - backed by what is a considerable TVS investment. Now, with an expanding dealer network, the process will be a lot simpler for new customers but I can't fault the factory sales team or the attention to detail of the technicians and engineers who recreated this machine from the ashes of the last great pension robbery.
Year: 2023
Annual servicing cost: £250
Great for a Sunday blast but not the bike for any distance. Marmite of a bike, need to test ride before committing to buy. Fantastic looks.
For me the bars are too narrow, and they really need weights in the bars or rubber mountings to damp out the annoying / numbing vibrations which make your fingers tingle so bad after just 40mins riding. The steering lock is a joke, you would think with all the supposed testing someone would have said it's not good enough in this day and age. The tank cut-outs are too much for me too, you cant grip the tank properly. The engine is a lovely unit, almost too smooth as you don't get the raw feel which I associate with the old Norton, also it needs a higher top gear ratio to help cruising speed.
Lovely and smooth almost too smooth, needs higher top gear ratio, great for mid range overtaking though.
It is a beautiful bike with quality fittings and fixtures but I have not put enough miles on to say what the reliability is like yet.
Got everything you need for a Sunday blast.
Version: SF Mk 2
Year: 2015
Cool Retro
I never give top marks
Version: Sport
Year: 2014
It's a great looking bike with the performance from a bygone era,it takes time to get into its zone but given quiet country roads at 60-70mph in third and fourth it's a peach.
If you are an iron butt you can run the tank dry ,about 180 miles
1960s performance with to-days quality and reliability, and not a single drop of oil on the lounge floor.
The only slight issue I have had is with the gearbox ,when accelerating hard in fourth and changing up to fifth it does not always engage properly.
Bought the bike second hand in July 2015, I have only done 2000 miles on it (total mileage 3500).
Looks great ,I could spend all my time looking at it.
Buying experience: From a dealer £13495 price as advertised and paid
I ordered a new Commando as soon as I could. Having got the bike and put a few miles on it before the weather really struck, I am very pleased with it. It rides well and as an old diehard put it: "That's motorcycle porn that is". The negative comments here are purile, clearly from people who don't understand what the bike represents. You are not going to get a hand built motorcycle for £7-8k - wake up and smell the coffee. Oil leaks, nope, sorry to disappoint Mr 'Mark My Words'. The world is full of miserable negative people, unfortuatly some of them ride motorcycles and leave comments which are factually incorrect. I've been riding bikes since the 60s and have gone through British, Italian, Japanese, German and American bikes. I am seriously chuffed to be riding British Iron. What Bird1050 says is quite right, the moment someone does something good in this country, someone with a chip on his/her shoulder has to start slagging it off. What Garner and his team at doing at Norton is nothing short of fantastic. In the world of mass produced plastic bikes the new Norton stands out from the crowd, and no one who has seen the bike has had a bad thing to say about it or the Company. Good luck to the Norton Motorcycle Company, I would like to think that this is the start of a long successful celebrated business. As for the neggies, move on sonny - nothing to see here. Steve H