Motorcycle specifications Norton 961 Commando L.E. '588' 2024 Proud to lance

The Norton range is not very extensive. Only three models, all aimed at a passionate public. Each of them is available in a limited edition to celebrate the brand's 125th anniversary, but it's the 961 Commando that receives the most honor. The vintage roadster comes in four special editions: Energette, Manx, Transatlantic and 588. All refer to a key moment in Norton's history, while the "588" focuses on the famous F1 and its rotary engine.

Only a handful of Norton cars were powered by a Wankel-type engine. The road-going Norton F1, with its 588 cm3 twin-rotor engine, was one such attempt. However, the RC588, RCW588 and NRS588 competition models were more successful. The 961 Commando is reminiscent of each of them, with its black coloring interspersed with grey-blue-pastel stripes; the same dress as the aforementioned sponsors.

The "588" limited edition is derived from the Commando Café Racer, with a dark treatment on various parts: the footrest plates and a large part of the Öhlins upside-down forks: bushes, tees and brake caliper supports. Spoke rims receive a treatment that hesitates between gold and bronze. Carbon is present via the chain guard and small windscreen. The final touch: the "125th Anniversary" commemorative badge on the seat cover.

This Commando will awaken curiosity about the "588" models, while ensuring a touch of rarity. Nortons from the 125th Anniversary Collection will only be sold in the UK. And not in large quantities. 125 in all, with no particular quota for one model or another. This will depend on orders.

Beyond the celebrations, the Norton 961 Commando is a deliciously retro and piquant design, with a tasting of an engine like few others. Not particularly powerful compared with a modern engine, the air-cooled parallel twin produces 77 hp and just over 8 mkg. No on-board electronics, but the kind of sensations that are becoming increasingly rare. The kind of motorcycles that we thought were condemned to exist only in our memories, and yet are still being enjoyed by enthusiasts of a different stripe.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos