1969 Norton Commando

1969 Norton Commando
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Review of 1969 Norton Commando

The Norton Commando 1969 stands as a significant milestone in the history of motorcycling, embodying the spirit of the British motorcycle industry during a transformative era. Renowned for its innovative design and engineering, the Commando featured a distinctive isolastic frame that effectively reduced vibrations, enhancing rider comfort and ride quality. Its 745cc parallel-twin engine delivered a commendable balance of power and torque, allowing for spirited performance and an exhilarating riding experience. With its classic styling, characterized by a sleek silhouette and chrome accents, the Commando captured the essence of 1960s motorcycling, appealing to enthusiasts and collectors alike. In terms of value, the Norton Commando 1969 has become a sought-after classic, revered not only for its performance and engineering but also for its cultural significance. As a symbol of British craftsmanship, it represents a bygone era of motorcycle manufacturing that many riders still hold dear. The combination of its historical importance, unique features, and aesthetic appeal ensures that the Commando remains a cherished model among vintage motorcycle aficionados. Today, it is celebrated not just as a motorcycle but as a piece of history that continues to inspire new generations of riders.
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Advantages

  • Classic Design: The Norton Commando features a timeless and iconic design that captures the essence of 1960s British motorcycles, appealing to vintage enthusiasts and collectors.
  • Performance: Known for its impressive performance, the Commando's 750cc parallel-twin engine provides a good balance of power and torque, delivering a thrilling riding experience.
  • Lightweight and Agile: With a relatively lightweight frame, the Commando is known for its agility and maneuverability, making it enjoyable to ride on both city streets and winding roads.
  • Innovative Isolastic Frame: The Commando introduced an isolastic frame system that reduced vibration, enhancing rider comfort and improving overall handling, a notable innovation for its time.
  • Strong Community and Support: As a classic motorcycle, the Norton Commando has a dedicated community of enthusiasts and ample aftermarket support, making it easier to find parts and resources for maintenance and restoration.

Disadvantages

  • Vibration: The Norton Commando is known for its strong vibrations, especially at higher RPMs, which can make long rides uncomfortable for some riders.
  • Limited Parts Availability: Being a vintage motorcycle, finding specific replacement parts can be challenging and sometimes expensive, leading to potential maintenance issues.
  • Electrical System Issues: The electrical system on the 1969 model can be somewhat unreliable, with components like the charging system being prone to failure, requiring frequent troubleshooting.
  • Weight: The Commando can feel heavy, especially for newer riders or those accustomed to lighter motorcycles, which might affect maneuverability and handling.
  • Less Powerful Compared to Modern Bikes: While it was a powerful bike for its time, the Commando's performance may feel lacking when compared to contemporary motorcycles, especially in terms of acceleration and top speed.

Alternatives

  • Triumph Bonneville T120 (1969): The Triumph Bonneville T120 is a classic British motorcycle known for its parallel-twin engine and distinctive styling. With its 650cc engine, it offers a perfect blend of performance and charm. The Bonneville is celebrated for its agility and comfortable riding position, making it a favorite among cafĂ© racers and classic bike enthusiasts.
  • BSA A65 Lightning (1969): The BSA A65 Lightning is a powerful and stylish motorcycle, featuring a 650cc parallel-twin engine that delivers impressive torque and speed. Its timeless design, with a chrome-plated gas tank and classic lines, makes it a standout in the vintage motorcycle scene. The A65 Lightning is known for its reliability and smooth ride, appealing to both collectors and riders alike.
  • Yamaha XS650 (1970): Introduced shortly after the Commando, the Yamaha XS650 is a versatile motorcycle featuring a 653cc parallel-twin engine. It offers a unique combination of American cruiser styling and reliable Japanese engineering. Known for its easy handling and strong performance, the XS650 has gained a cult following among custom builders and retro enthusiasts.
  • Honda CB750 (1969): The Honda CB750 is often credited with revolutionizing the motorcycle industry as one of the first superbikes. With its 736cc inline-four engine, it offers impressive power and advanced features for its time, including a front disc brake. The CB750's blend of performance, comfort, and reliability has made it a legendary model and a benchmark for future motorcycles.
  • Kawasaki W1 (1966): The Kawasaki W1 is a classic motorcycle that pays homage to the British styling of its era, featuring a 650cc parallel-twin engine. It combines retro aesthetics with solid performance, making it a unique option for riders seeking a vintage experience. With its comfortable seating and smooth ride, the W1 is a great alternative for those who appreciate classic designs and reliable engineering.

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