Lot details
Registration No: EJH 31K
Frame No: 200936
Engine No: 200936
cc: 750
MOT Expiry Date: None

Norton unveiled the Commando at the Earls Court Show in September 1967. The new model was powered by a revised version of the well regarded 750 Atlas with the cylinders slightly inclined to the front. Dr Stefan Bauer had joined Norton early in 1967 tasked with the design of the new twin and he, assisted by Bernard Hooper and Bob Trigg, sought to eliminate the major flaw inherent in the design of high performance parallel twins-vibration. Their solution involved isolating the engine and gearbox from the main frame assembly with three rubber mountings, known as the Isolastic system, thus allowing the engine to merrily shake away without the vibrations being transmitted to the rider. When production examples of the first "Fastback" machines became available to magazines for test in 1968 they were found to be endowed with exceptional performance and handling of the highest standard, the "Motor Cycle" stating that the "ingenious frame.did in fact , virtually eliminate the effects of high-frequency vibration". The "Fastback" model was quickly joined by a more traditionally styled version, the S with a high level exhaust system, followed by the Roadster with low pipes, the Hi-Rider, an unfortunate chopperesque machine with ape hanger bars and a high backed seat and the Interstate which introduced a new disc front brake.
The example offered, dating from 1972 was completely restored during 2007 both mechanically and cosmetically and has only covered 50 miles since. The engine, which is to the standard state of tune and not a "Combat example", will require running in prior to enthusiastic use.