Motorcycle specifications Norton961 Commando Sport MK III 2023 England's engagement.

Norton is gradually recovering. The arrival of TVS has set the record straight, and the catalog is regaining some of its color. The iconic Commando makes a new comeback, with the aim of perpetuating its image without altering its fundamentals.

The "3rd generation" 961 Commando hardly differs from its predecessor. Same look, same delicate lines, same waspish waistline, same chassis. The British are relaunching the production line, but have they called in the development workshops?!
Yes, although it doesn't show. The brand is announcing over 350 modifications to the bike, mainly to improve quality and eradicate the defects of the old Commando.

New materials will give the frame greater strength. The engine retains the same successful look, with a host of interior improvements. The 961 cm3 twin-cylinder gains new camshafts and valves, reworked injection and new layouts. While the staff have done their job to improve reliability, they have to suffer a slight drop in performance.

The engine now delivers 76.8 horsepower instead of 80, obtained at higher revs. Torque suffers the most, dropping from 9.2 mkg to 8.3 mkg. With the same sanction of getting its power from higher revs. OK, Norton 961 Commando enthusiasts praise this machine for more than just its performance. But there's always a touch of disappointment. For the record, the engine does not pass Euro5.

As attractive as ever, the Commando also knows how to please on the road. This Mark III features a new inverted fork, again from Öhlins. The shocks are from the same source. All are fully adjustable. The Brembo 4-piston monobloc brakes are now radially mounted.
Spoke rims are displayed in good taste, a few carbon parts add to the thrill, the simplicity and retro feel of the dashboard are timeless; and what can we say about the price, which we imagine to be rather dry.

Justified by the sick electronics? No way! The Commando makes do with ABS, and a small LCD window in the tachometer. No traction control, Bluetooth, printer or stomach tube. This is the way to enjoy it, without sweeteners, and with bits of nostalgia inside. Going British on the Norton will take a little less time than before, the fuel tank having lost two liters of capacity (15 L today).
A Café-Racer version is also available, the main difference being a pair of handlebars with wrist straps for more sporty riding.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos