[daveforty]

If it is a 'pre Mk3' bike, not only will you have to get used to a right side gear lever, but also the one-up / three down pattern. And a very stiff, unpleasant feeling, not very effective front brake. But you will enjoy the low down 'grunt' and the sound of the thing. It will bring out the hooligan in you - it is not possible to ride the thing quietly. Brilliant bikes. Got off to a bad start, the early ones had a engine troubles, made worse by the factory releasing a tuned up version, the 'combat' engine. Unlikely there are any left now 'cos they went bang in a very short distance. Later 750s and 850s were much stronger. Roadster version with the 2 gallon tank is very pretty, but 85 mile range can be a nuisance.

edited to add that the Norton Owners Club have a booklet called 'Commando Service Notes' which is an excellent source of 'hands on' information. Well worth getting a copy.

[ This message was edited by: daveforty on 2007-01-01 07:06 ]

 

[steventhechef]

The old Commando's had a Norton part number for their oil leak, I have been told !!

Great bike though even with the mechanical and electrical problems. A real British icon.

 

[DaveM]

You will also want to get the starting sequence right if you don't want a giant bruise on your back calf.

Those Mothers packa mean kick and can spit you off if you don't start em right.

By best friend had one when I just started riding, They are very nice motors though.

They have a whistle note to the stock exhaust.



DaveM

 

[johnO]

kick start was the drunk proof switch ! 750 combat interstate
best of the lot.