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Pristine 1974 Norton Commando 850 With Overbored Engine Is Almost Fit for a Museum

Imagine a world where all two- and four-wheeled classics get taken care of like this breathtaking Commando.
1974 Norton Commando 850 30 photos
Photo: Tigerman1953 / Bring a Trailer
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Several years ago, this 1974 Norton Commando 850 saw its twin-cylinder engine overbored and blessed with a top-end refurbishment. The makeover consisted of servicing the valves and carbs, as well as replacing the guides, rings, and pistons with fresher componentry. Following the current owner’s acquisition in 2020, the bike was promptly given a dose of youthful motor oil and transmission fluid.

Furthermore, its wearied battery and air cleaner were deleted in favor of modern alternatives, while the valves, points, and ignition timing have all been adjusted for good measure. You most certainly wouldn’t be able to guess this creature’s total mileage based on how it looks, but a quick gander at its odometer will reveal that it has covered about 30k miles (48,000 km).

In stock form, the Commando 850’s four-stroke parallel-twin mill had a displacement of 828cc, and it could deliver up to 60 English thoroughbreds at 6,200 rpm. Unfortunately, we’re not aware to what capacity this specimen’s air-cooled power source has been enlarged, but we can tell you that it features two pushrod-actuated valves per cylinder and dual Amal inhalers.

The engine feeds its oomph to the rear wheel by means of a four-speed gearbox and a drive chain, thus giving Norton’s jewel the ability to hit a top speed of 118 mph (190 kph). Stopping power originates from a single brake disc and a Norton-Lockheed caliper at the front, along with a traditional drum unit at the rear end.

Weighing in at 414 pounds (188 kg) without fluids, the ‘74 MY icon is supported by telescopic forks and twin shocks. This well-maintained Commando is now up for grabs on Bring a Trailer, where it will remain listed until tomorrow (Wednesday, June 22). With just under 24 hours to go before the auctioning deadline, one would need approximately nine grand to surpass the current bid.
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About the author: Silvian Secara
Silvian Secara profile photo

A bit of an artist himself, Silvian sees two- and four-wheeled machines as a form of art, especially restomods and custom rides. Oh, and if you come across a cafe racer article on our website, it’s most likely his doing.
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