Norton Commando Build
A lot of the Commando allure is it's performance. Everything about the bike was engineered for the sole purpose of going fast.
And no-one can deny it's a fine looking machine.
Unlike most 70's bikes, very few saw major customization. Other than performance upgrades, most have been left original. How many Norton choppers have you ever seen?
Another part of it's appeal is the company's historic racing history.
During the 1930's alone, Norton accrued dozens of Isle Of Man TT wins. And many more successes followed.
In the late 1960's and early 1970's, a Norton race bike wasn't that far removed from a road bike.
Many will argue that Commandos were responsible for the term "Super Bike".
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1974 Commando Project
After sitting non-running and partially disassembled for 20 years, this 1974 Roadster is getting a complete overhaul front to back.
This is a long term rebuild project.
Over a period of 15 months, the bike was completely stripped down, including the front end, rear swing arm, and engine.
Every nut and bolt was examined, every component was checked and then overhauled or replaced if needed.
Engine disassembly was fairly straightforward, but with a few surprises.
Cam Lobe Wear
One of camshaft lobes was completely worn off.
This may have been caused by lack of lubrication, lack of proper clearance, or poor quality control at the factory. Or it could have been any combination of the three.
Cylinder Head Removal
Timing Cover Removal and Installation
Clutch Removal
Primary Chain Removal
Engine Removal
Pinion Gear Removal
Remove Commando Gearbox
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Front and Rear Suspension
Both fork tubes were badly pitted and were replaced. Reassembly included replacing the neck bearings.
Remove Front End
Front Fork Disassembly
Front Forks Overhaul/Replace Seals
Swing Arm Removal
Swing Arm Overhaul
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Brake Caliper Overhaul
Since the bike had sat for so long, there was concern about the caliper pistons being stuck and corroded.
Before and After Caliper Overhaul
Brake Caliper Overhaul
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Notes and Misc
Restoring a Norton Commando has a nice advantage over other classic motorcycles. Not only are parts still available, they are available as factory pieces, due in large part to the existence of Andover Norton.
And there's plenty of modern upgrades as well.
Commando owners in general don't seem to be obsessed with originality as are most other marque's. Examples with sensible modifications often sell as much as 100% original machines.
I have learned from experience that restoring a Norton Commando properly isn't cheap or easy. But by doing most of the work yourself, you can (hopefully) stay even with the completed bike's value.
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Related Articles:
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What Are Whitworth Tools?
How To Polish Motorcycle Forks
Norton Commando Upgrades
