🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Norton Motorcycles

Model:

Commando 961

Variants Covered:

All variants

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Norton Commando 961 represents a modern interpretation of a classic British motorcycle icon, positioned in the premium retro-modern segment. It appeals to riders seeking heritage, character, and a hands-on riding experience.

Competitive Analysis:

Competes with other premium retro-styled motorcycles from brands like Triumph (Bonneville range), Ducati (Scrambler range), and potentially some offerings from BMW (R nineT series), emphasizing distinct British heritage and unique parallel-twin character.

Key Features:

Signature Norton parallel-twin engine, classic styling cues, premium componentry (e.g., Brembo brakes, Öhlins suspension on certain variants), and a focus on rider engagement and analogue feel.

📋 Manual Details

Page Count:

348

Manual Type:

Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print (assumed based on product description)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed breakdown of the 961cc parallel-twin engine, including cylinder head, valves, camshafts, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, and cooling system.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system components, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, and fuel tank.

Ignition System:

Ignition coils, spark plugs, ECU, and associated wiring.

Transmission:

Gearbox disassembly and assembly, clutch operation and adjustment, shifting mechanism.

Chassis Frame:

Frame construction, steering head bearings, swingarm, and pivot bearings.

Suspension:

Front fork (e.g., Öhlins) and rear shock absorber servicing, adjustment, and replacement. Includes oil types and levels.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, including master cylinders, brake calipers (e.g., Brembo), brake discs, brake pads, brake lines, and bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Battery, starter motor, alternator, lighting circuits (headlight, taillight, indicators), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, and ECU diagnostics.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable), mufflers, and mounting hardware.

Wheels Tires:

Wheel bearing maintenance, tire changing, and balancing.

Bodywork:

Fairings, tank, seat, fenders, and associated trim removal and installation.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, chain lubrication and adjustment, air filter replacement, spark plug inspection and replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant checks.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common starting issues, engine performance problems, electrical faults, and braking system irregularities.

Engine Overhaul:

Complete engine rebuild procedures, including torque specifications for critical fasteners, piston ring installation, valve clearance adjustment, and gasket replacement.

Transmission Repair:

Gearbox disassembly, inspection of gear sets, bearing replacement, and clutch component servicing.

Suspension Servicing:

Front fork seal replacement, fork oil change, and rear shock absorber servicing or replacement.

Brake System Maintenance:

Brake pad replacement, caliper servicing, brake line replacement, and bleeding procedures.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring harness inspection, troubleshooting electrical shorts and open circuits, charging system testing, and lighting system repair.

Clutch Adjustment:

Proper adjustment of the clutch cable and lever for optimal engagement.

Wheel Alignment:

Instructions for ensuring proper wheel alignment.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and gearbox rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Print

Print Quality:

Professional, high-resolution printing for clear diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

Durable binding suitable for workshop use (e.g., perfect binding or spiral binding).

Paper Type:

Durable, grease-resistant paper stock to withstand workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Parallel-twin, four-stroke

Displacement:

961 cc

Bore X Stroke:

88 mm x 79 mm (approximate, to be confirmed by manual specifics)

Valve Train:

SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder (pushrod actuated, typically)

Compression Ratio:

10.1:1 (typical, to be confirmed)

Horsepower:

Approx. 80-88 bhp (depending on specific variant and tune, manual will confirm)

Torque:

Approx. 66-72 lb-ft (depending on specific variant and tune, manual will confirm)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Petrol (95 RON recommended, manual will confirm)

Oil Type:

Semi-synthetic or fully synthetic motorcycle oil, typically SAE 10W-50 or 20W-50 (manual will specify exact API/JASO rating).

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3.5 - 4.0 litres (manual will specify exact capacity with filter change).

Cooling Type:

Air-cooled

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed constant mesh gearbox

Optional Gearbox:

N/A (standard 5-speed)

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate, cable-actuated

Final Drive:

Chain drive

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Refer to specific model variant specifications in manual (approx. 2180 mm)

Width:

Refer to specific model variant specifications in manual (approx. 790 mm)

Height:

Refer to specific model variant specifications in manual (approx. 1100 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 203 kg (Dry weight varies by variant, manual will provide precise figures).

Wet Weight:

Approx. 220 kg (Wet weight includes all fluids).

Fuel Tank Capacity:

17 litres (approximate, manual will confirm)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Motorcycle safety standards are typically performance-based rather than standardized crash ratings. Focus on rider control and braking effectiveness.

Active Safety Features:

High-performance braking systems (Brembo), often with ABS as standard or optional depending on variant and market. Stable chassis geometry for predictable handling.

Passive Safety Features:

Robust frame construction, quality suspension components for ride stability, and integrated lighting for visibility.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Primarily analogue instrumentation with some digital readouts for odometer, trip meter, and basic warning lights. Focus is on a pure riding experience, not complex infotainment.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is the primary electronic rider aid available on most modern versions.

Connectivity Options:

N/A (No Bluetooth, smartphone integration, or similar connectivity features are typically found on this style of motorcycle).

🔧 Maintenance

First Service:

Typically around 600 miles (1,000 km) for initial break-in service, including oil change and general inspection (manual will confirm exact mileage).

Subsequent Services:

Regular servicing at intervals of 3,000-6,000 miles (5,000-10,000 km) for oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections. Valve clearance checks typically every 6,000-12,000 miles (manual will provide detailed schedule).

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 10W-50 or 20W-50, JASO MA/MA2 certified semi-synthetic or fully synthetic motorcycle oil. Specific API rating (e.g., API SG or higher) will be detailed.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid (manual will specify exact type and DOT rating).

Coolant Specification:

If liquid-cooled variants exist, a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol-based antifreeze and distilled water. Manual will specify type and color.

Gearbox Oil Specification:

Specific gearbox oil or motorcycle-specific engine oil may be used for the gearbox. Manual will confirm.

Common Issues:

While generally robust, potential areas for attention might include clutch adjustment, minor electrical gremlins in early models, and ensuring correct torque settings on critical fasteners during maintenance. The manual will highlight any specific model year bulletins or known common wear points.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Norton is one of the most historic British motorcycle manufacturers, with a legacy dating back to 1898. The Commando nameplate itself is legendary, first introduced in 1967, known for its unitary construction and innovative (for its time) Isolastic engine mounting system.

Model Evolution:

The Commando 961 is a modern revival of the classic Commando. It retains the spirit and styling but features a completely new 961cc parallel-twin engine, modern fuel injection, and contemporary chassis components, updating the iconic design for the 21st century.

Production Status:

The Commando 961 has been in production in various forms since its modern reintroduction. Specific production years covered by the manual will be detailed within its pages but generally spans from the early 2010s onwards for the 961cc models.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While the Commando 961 may not have specific 'awards' in the traditional sense, it has received acclaim from motorcycle journalists and enthusiasts for its design, engine character, and faithful homage to the original Commando. Its recognition is more in its revival of a legend.