Norton Commando 961

[azoomm]

http://www.nortonmotorcycles.com/bikes/norton-commando-961.php

Me thinks they should have gone with the right side GP Shift of old... just to make it a REAL Norton. Wonder if this one leaks oil like it's supposed to? No tickling carbs??

[Sean]

They've been shopping this thing around forever. It's like the Great Pumpkin, they keep saying it's coming but Linus can't show anything to prove it.

"Pricing available mid 2009"

[azoomm]

This Great Pumpkin is sexy....

[karl_1052]

This Great Pumpkin is sexy....

That is pure motorcycle porn.

[CasterTroy]

And this is strartup number HOW many now?

[marko138]

Wow. Me likes.

[Dave]

delicious, id still rather have a roadgoing version of that 588 racebike theyve been playing with :drool:

[Homeslice]

Good looking bike, but I'm not sure why they're bragging about "right-side-up" forks. Are there people out there who actually think they look better than upside-down forks? Just because cruiser/standard bikes traditionally have "right-side-up" forks doesn't mean they would suddenly look ugly if USD forks were used. :confused:

Sounds like Norton is just making an excuse for being cheap and not using USD forks.

[karl_1052]

Good looking bike, but I'm not sure why they're bragging about "right-side-up" forks. Are there people out there who actually think they look better than upside-down forks? Just because cruiser/standard bikes traditionally have "right-side-up" forks doesn't mean they would suddenly look ugly if USD forks were used. :confused:

Sounds like Norton is just making an excuse for being cheap and not using USD forks.

Considering they are Ohlins, and look to be custom built for the application, so I doubt they would be cheap.

[Homeslice]

Considering they are Ohlins, and look to be custom built for the application, so I doubt they would be cheap.
Correct, but they are most likely cheaper than USD Ohlins, and slightly lower-performing due to unsprung weight and all that.

[goof2]

While I do like the way it looks I can't imagine how much a limited production startup company has to pay for full Ohlins suspension, BST carbon fiber wheels, and full Brembo braking components.

For what I would imagine this bike will cost I'll take a 1198S and use the leftover money to buy a small car.

[askmrjesus]

While I do like the way it looks I can't imagine how much a limited production startup company has to pay for full Ohlins suspension, BST carbon fiber wheels, and full Brembo braking components.

For what I would imagine this bike will cost I'll take a 1198S and use the leftover money to buy a small car.

The article I read in Classic Bikes, hinted around 25K for the first 200 special edition models.

More here:
Questions and answers provided by CEO of Norton Motorcycles, Stuart Garner, on the Commando 961 SE
17/06/2009
How many SE bikes will be produced?
200, as the name suggests SE means Special Edition as these 200 bikes are produced and sold Norton will be producing a standard Commando bike.

When will the first bikes be produced?
Our first bike production is scheduled for September 2009.

If I place an order today when am I likely to get my bike?
Late 2009 / Early 2010 - It depends upon the receipt of deposit monies as bikes are scheduled in order of receipt of deposit.

Will the deposit be refundable if for any reason the bike does not make it into production?
Yes

Will you change the price or specification of the 961 SE?
No, the 961 SE price and quantity is fixed and WILL NOT be changed.

Will there be a finance option to purchase the bike?
Yes, we are meeting with providers of bike finance and we will have a package available in the coming weeks.

Will Norton be offering any insurance packages?
Norton Motorcycles is currently in negotiation with insurance providers and will be able to make customers aware of the packages at the time of bike sale.

What warranty will there be on the bike?
Details of the warranty will be released soon. As a bare minimum we will be giving industry standard warranties however these warranties will be operated directly by our own trained Norton mechanics at the factory based at Donington Park.

Where can I get the bike serviced?
All sales and servicing will take place at the Norton factory based at Donington Park. A free of charge collection and return service will be available to all UK Commando 961 SE purchasers, this enables us to directly look after our customers with a professional service centre whilst not inconveniencing our customers.

Where is my local dealer?
All sales and service will take place at the Norton factory based at Donington Park.

Can I come and view the bike?
Yes, you are very welcome to make an appointment to view the bike and talk to our team.

JC

[goof2]

The article I read in Classic Bikes, hinted around 25K for the first 200 special edition models.

If that is the case I guess I would need to make it a standard 1198 and a used small car.:lol

[Sean]

I'll believe it when I see it. I remember seeing that bike at the Long Beach bike show probably 5 years ago...

[askmrjesus]

I'll believe it when I see it. I remember seeing that bike at the Long Beach bike show probably 5 years ago...

No, you saw the Kenny Dreer version, (which was very similar).

Kenny is a great guy, (I've met him) but he didn't have the cash to pull off a Norton second coming. Garner has some serious backing, so it just might happen this time.

My first street bike was a Norton, so I'm hopeful for personal reasons, but this is the first time in years, that I think it has a chance.

Time will tell.

JC

[Gas Man]

Man I linked this bike like years ago... Thought they were already in production.

[Antwanny]

cool is the only word to use.