c.2002 Norton Commando VR880
Part of the NMM collection

Registration No: CTV 380K
Frame No: 201214
MOT: Exempt

• The 'Transatlantic VR880 Commando'
• One of only 47 Kenny Dreer US built models
• Unique part of history, supplied with a V5C

Norton was founded by James Lansdowne Norton in Birmingham in 1898 and began building motorcycles with French and Swiss engines in 1902. In 1907 a Norton with a Peugeot engine won the first Isle of Man TT race starting a long tradition of sporting excellence. The Commando model launched in 1967 as a 750cc carried on this theme, culminating in Peter Williams victory in the 1973 Formula 750 TT. Like many other British motorcycle manufacturers, Norton closed in the 1970s, but almost a quarter of a century later it was announced that an American company was going to build up to 50 modernized versions of the classic big twin. Built from mainly new components sourced from around the world, the engine capacity was increased to 872cc with alloy cylinders and Nilasil bores, Keihan flat slide carbs, belt primary drive and a modern electric starter. The chassis featured a Commando style frame with extra Isolastic bushes below the engine, Brembo disc brakes all round, alloy rims, Italian front forks, Works Performance rear dampers and a sleek fuel tank keeping the classic look. Dreer acquired the Norton name in 2003 and began to develope a completely new 21st century 952cc model that, after a chequered past, has become the 961 model available today.

Bought new by a British customer in 2002, this bike is a rare and interesting part of British motorcycle history and must be one of the only ones in the UK. It has been part of the NMM collection for a few years and is now being offered to make space for a feature workshop in Hall 3. Stood for a while it will need recommissioning before use and comes supplied with a current V5C.

For more information, please contact:
Ian Cunningham
ian.cunningham@handh.co.uk
07415871189