Norton Commando 961 Sport
The Norton Commando 961 Sport has a top speed of 200 km/h (estimated; approximately 124 mph), produces 80 hp and weighs 198 kg. Motoryk rates it 7.8/10.
De Norton Commando 961 werd in 2010 geïntroduceerd als een herleving van de iconische naam Norton Commando, geproduceerd door de onlangs hervormde Norton Motorcycles in het VK. De klassieke parallel-twin-indeling werd overgenomen door een moderne 961 cc-motor, waarbij Britse retrostijl werd gecombineerd met hedendaagse techniek. De Sport-variant had een agressievere houding en afstelling vergeleken met de broer van Cafe Racer, waardoor hij een symbool was van de ambitieuze wedergeboorte van Norton als Britse motorfietsfabrikant.
80 hp
Kracht
90 Nm
Koppel
198 kg
Gewicht
200 km/h (estimated; approximately 124 mph)
Topsnelheid
6.5 L/100km (approx. 15.4 km/L) — estimated real-world average
Brandstof
Naakt
Lichaam
Video Review
Wat kopers moeten weten
Watch the Oil Leaks
Early 961 models are notorious for oil leaks around the rocker covers and primary chain case. Always inspect these areas carefully before buying, as repairs can be costly given the limited dealer network.
Strong Resale Value
As a low-volume British hand-built motorcycle, the 961 holds its value exceptionally well and is considered a modern collectible. Limited production numbers keep demand high among enthusiasts and collectors.
Unique Isolastic Frame
The 961 revives Norton's iconic Isolastic rubber-mounted engine system, which reduces vibration from the parallel-twin while preserving the classic riding feel. This makes it unusually smooth for a traditional British twin.
Generaties en specificaties per jaar
Originele luchtgekoelde parallelle twin van 961cc, Café- en Sport-varianten, herleving van de klassieke styling, introductie van brandstofinjectie.
Verfijnde brandstofinspuiting, verbeterde versnellingsbak, bijgewerkte ophangingscomponenten, Sport SE-varianten toegevoegd.
Updates voor Euro 4-conformiteit, herzien uitlaatsysteem, verbeterde elektronica, verbeterde afwerkingskwaliteit en betrouwbaarheid.
Beoordeling van gebruikte kopers
"Buy one with full history or walk away completely."
$9,500-$16,000 usedThe 961 Sport is genuinely one of the most emotionally compelling motorcycles you'll ever throw a leg over. That parallel twin sounds absolutely magnificent at idle and pulls cleanly through the midrange with a character modern bikes simply can't fake. Build quality from the Donington Park era is surprisingly solid when properly maintained, but that's the catch — maintenance history is everything here. Walk away from any 961 with patchy service records or evidence of DIY electrics. Spend serious time checking the fuel injection mapping, cam chain tensioners, and whether the previous owner fitted the updated clutch components. Early examples had some wet clutch gremlins that Norton addressed, but not every bike received the fix. Parts availability has improved since the ownership changes, but you're still not picking these up from your local dealer Tuesday morning. Budget a contingency fund. Ride one back-to-back with a Triumph Thruxton R and you'll understand exactly why people accept the compromises. The Norton feels handbuilt in a way that actually matters.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Norton Commando 961 Sport — owned, ridden, recommended.
Veel voorkomende problemen
🔥 1 CRITICALListen for rattling on cold start at idle
Inspect engine cases and rocker area for seepage
Test ride for surging or hesitation at low RPM
Check all lights, instruments, and starter function
✅Checklist vóór aankoop
High-maintenance boutique bike, rewarding but expensive upkeep
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Norton Commando 961 Sport
Triumph Thruxton Rs
Triumph Thruxton 1200
Triumph Thruxton 1200 R
Bmw R Ninet Racer
Norton Superlight 650
Compare Norton Commando 961 Sport Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Norton Commando 961 Sport vs Triumph Thruxton Rs
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Norton Commando 961 Sport vs Triumph Thruxton 1200
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Norton Commando 961 Sport vs Triumph Thruxton 1200 R
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Norton Commando 961 Sport vs Bmw R Ninet Racer
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Norton Commando 961 Sport vs Norton Superlight 650
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Norton Commando 961 Sport Guides
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Norton Commando 961 Sport? +
Primary chain tensioner wear and failure: Listen for rattling on cold start at idle (serious) | Oil leaks from pushrod tubes and rocker boxes: Inspect engine cases and rocker area for seepage (moderate) | Fuel injection map issues causing rough running: Test ride for surging or hesitation at low RPM (moderate)
Is the Norton Commando 961 Sport a good motorcycle? +
Buy one with full history or walk away completely. Rating: 7.8/10. Best for: Passionate riders who prioritize character over convenience. Avoid if: You need reliable daily transport without fuss.
What is the horsepower of the Norton Commando 961 Sport? +
The Norton Commando 961 Sport produces 80 hp @ 6,500 rpm, with 90 Nm @ 5,200 rpm of torque. Top speed: 200 km/h (estimated; approximately 124 mph).
Is the Norton Commando 961 Sport good for beginners? +
Not really — the Norton Commando 961 Sport is better for experienced riders. Passionate riders who prioritize character over convenience Avoid if: You need reliable daily transport without fuss
Is the Norton Commando 961 Sport reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Norton Commando 961 Sport, notably: Primary chain tensioner wear and failure (Listen for rattling on cold start at idle). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Norton Commando 961 Sport good for daily use? +
Passionate riders who prioritize character over convenience Fuel: 6.5 L/100km (approx. 15.4 km/L) — estimated real-world average.
How fast is the Norton Commando 961 Sport? +
The Norton Commando 961 Sport reaches a top speed of 200 km/h (estimated; approximately 124 mph), producing 80 hp at 198 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Norton Commando 961 Sport? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Norton Commando 961 Sport, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/norton/commando-961-sport/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
