2019 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II
Review of 2019 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II
The Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II 2019 is a remarkable blend of classic design and modern engineering, embodying the spirit of café racers while delivering a performance that meets contemporary standards. With its iconic, retro-styled bodywork, the bike captures the essence of 1960s British motorcycling, appealing to both nostalgic enthusiasts and new riders alike. The 961cc parallel-twin engine produces a thrilling 80 horsepower, paired with a six-speed gearbox that ensures a smooth and engaging ride. The lightweight chassis, combined with premium components like Ohlins suspension and Brembo brakes, provides exceptional handling and performance, making it a joy to navigate through both city streets and winding roads. In terms of value, the Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II stands out in a crowded market of modern motorcycles. It not only offers a unique aesthetic appeal but also provides a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that is often hard to find. While it may come at a premium price point, the combination of heritage, performance, and exclusivity certainly justifies the investment for many riders. Overall, this motorcycle is not just a mode of transportation; it is a statement piece that celebrates the rich history of motorcycling while embracing the demands of today's riders.
Advantages
- Classic Styling: The Commando 961 Cafe Racer boasts a timeless design that pays homage to the classic cafe racer aesthetic, attracting enthusiasts who appreciate vintage styling combined with modern performance.
- Powerful Performance: Equipped with a 961cc parallel-twin engine, it delivers a robust power output and a thrilling riding experience, making it suitable for both city commuting and spirited rides on winding roads.
- Handcrafted Quality: Each Norton motorcycle is built with meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship, ensuring high-quality materials and finishes that enhance both durability and aesthetics.
- Lightweight Handling: The bike's lightweight chassis contributes to agile handling and responsiveness, allowing riders to maneuver easily through traffic and enjoy a sporty ride.
- Customization Options: Norton offers a range of customization options, enabling owners to tailor their bike to their personal preferences, from aesthetic choices to performance upgrades.
Disadvantages
- Limited Dealer Network: The availability of service and parts can be a challenge due to a limited number of dealerships, which may lead to longer wait times for maintenance and repairs.
- Weight: The Commando 961 can be heavier than some of its competitors in the cafe racer segment, which may affect handling and maneuverability, particularly for less experienced riders.
- Narrow Seat Comfort: The cafe racer style seat, while aesthetically pleasing, may not provide the best comfort for long rides, leading to discomfort for the rider over extended periods.
- Vibration: The characterful parallel-twin engine can produce noticeable vibrations at higher RPMs, which may be off-putting for riders seeking a smoother experience.
- Price Point: The Commando 961 is positioned at a premium price, which may not justify the features and performance for some riders compared to other motorcycles in its class. These factors are worth considering for anyone thinking about investing in this classic motorcycle.
Alternatives
- Triumph Thruxton RS: The Thruxton RS is a modern cafe racer that blends classic styling with contemporary performance. It features a 1200cc parallel-twin engine, advanced suspension, and a lightweight chassis, delivering a thrilling riding experience along with retro aesthetics.
- BMW R nineT Racer: The R nineT Racer is a stylish tribute to the classic cafe racers of the past, equipped with a powerful 1170cc boxer engine. Its minimalist design emphasizes a sporty riding position and features such as a retro fairing, making it perfect for those who appreciate both form and function.
- Ducati Scrambler Café Racer: Combining classic cafe racer elements with Ducati's iconic Scrambler appeal, this model features a 803cc L-twin engine and a lightweight frame. With its distinctive styling, including low handlebars and a cafe-style seat, it offers a fun and agile ride for urban environments.
- Moto Guzzi V7 III Racer: The V7 III Racer is a charming motorcycle that pays homage to the brand's racing heritage. Powered by a 744cc V-twin engine, it showcases a classic design with unique features like a cafe racer seat and sporty aesthetics, making it a great choice for riders who value tradition and performance.
- Royal Enfield Continental GT 650: The Continental GT 650 is a modern interpretation of the classic cafe racer, featuring a 648cc parallel-twin engine that provides a balance of performance and character. With its retro styling, lightweight chassis, and approachable price point, it's an excellent entry-level option for aspiring cafe racer enthusiasts. These motorcycles offer a mix of classic aesthetics and modern performance, making them excellent alternatives to the Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II.
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