1975 Norton Commando 850 MkIII Electric Start

By the mid to late 1960s, Norton Villiers needed to compete with the onslaught of the Japanese and Triumphs increasingly successful Bonneville. Engineers Bernard Hooper and Bob Twigg were tasked to design a new frame, and they utilized a rubber bush mounting system for the inclined Atlas model’s twin 750 in a new frame. Called GlideRide in sales brochures, the vibration-beating Isolastic frame enabled Norton Villiers to successfully prolong the life of their hugely successful parallel twin. The futuristic, boldly styled 750 Commando Fastback was announced at that Earls Court London Show in 1967, it 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 on top speed compared to rivals such as BSA-Triumph’s 750cc triples and Honda’s CB750 four, but the Commando more than made up for this minor deficiency with superior mid-range torque and steadier handling.

Introduced in 1973, the 850 (actually 828cc) featured a larger bore, through-bolted cylinder block, stronger gearbox casting and an all-metal clutch among a host of other, minor improvements. The extra capacity provided the 850 with even more mid-range urge, and the model would continue as the sole Commando after 1975 when the electric-start Mark III was introduced.

The motorbike offered

The matching-numbers Norton Commando MkIII on offer here comes from a Southern California collector of British motorcycles. In excellent condition throughout, the bike was fully restored in the hands of British bike guru, Dean Collinson. Paint finish is superb with deep luster and shine, while all cycle parts were restored, refurbished or replaced. The engine and gearbox were fully rebuilt, and a single carb conversion was installed with Mikuni carb. The result is a truly excellent riding machine. With an upgraded starter, it fires immediately and idles smoothly. The engine is strong and taut with responsive power, while the gearbox shifts “butter” smooth. The bike is a joy to ride and will not disappoint.