Norton Commando

The Norton Commando 961 is a re-engineered classic that brings the legacy of British motorcycling to India with a modern twist. It is powered by a 961cc air-oil-cooled parallel twin engine that produces 80 PS and 90 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The bike features manually adjustable Öhlins suspension, Brembo brakes, and a dual-channel ABS system for safety. Its weight of 230 kg ensures stability, while the seat height of 810 mm makes it accessible to a wide range of riders. The Commando 961 is available in Sport and Café Racer variants, both sharing the same core mechanicals but differing in styling. It lacks advanced electronics, focusing instead on a pure, uncluttered riding experience. The bike is built for enthusiasts who appreciate timeless design, solid engineering, and a connected feel on the road, making it a standout choice in the Indian premium motorcycle market.

The Norton Commando 961 is a modern interpretation of the legendary Commando series, designed to retain the soul of classic British motorcycles while incorporating today's reliability and performance standards. It features a 961cc air and oil-cooled, parallel twin engine producing 80 PS at 6500 rpm and 90 Nm at 5200 rpm, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The bike’s chassis, equipped with adjustable Öhlins suspension components and Brembo disc brakes with dual-channel ABS, ensures a confident yet engaging ride. With a seat height of 810 mm and weighing about 230 kg, the Commando offers a poised and stable ride but demands respect in urban traffic. Its styling is a homage to the café racer era, featuring a solo seat, analogue dials, and a halogen headlamp, celebrating purity over flashy electronics. Imported as a CBU, it holds a unique place in India’s premium motorcycle segment, designed for those valuing timeless design, British motorcycling heritage, and a visceral riding experience that stands out from modern mass-market models.

The Norton Commando 961 stands out as a true blend of classic British motorcycle heritage and modern engineering, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value character and craftsmanship. Its 961cc air-oil-cooled parallel twin engine delivers a healthy 80 PS and 90 Nm of torque, ensuring brisk performance on Indian roads. The bike’s handling is stable and predictable, thanks to its 230 kg weight and quality Öhlins suspension, while Brembo brakes offer strong stopping power. The absence of advanced electronic aids keeps the riding experience pure and engaging, which is a big plus for purists. Both the Sport and Café Racer variants share the same mechanicals, letting buyers choose based on style. The Commando 961 is not for those seeking cutting-edge tech or lightweight agility, but for riders who appreciate timeless design, solid build quality, and a connected riding feel, it’s a rewarding machine that stands apart in the Indian premium motorcycle segment.

The Norton Commando 961 blends classic British motorcycling heritage with modern engineering in a compelling way. Its 961cc air-oil-cooled parallel twin engine delivers a smooth 80 PS and 90 Nm of torque, providing generous mid-range punch that makes riding both enjoyable and responsive. The manually adjustable Öhlins suspension and Brembo brakes contribute to confident handling despite the bike’s relatively heavy 230 kg weight. It has a raw, analog charm with no electronic rider aids, which enhances the engagement but demands skill and attention. The distinct café racer styling stands out on Indian roads, making it not just a bike but a statement of exclusivity and nostalgia. However, its limited practicality due to a solo seat and moderate mileage means it suits enthusiasts looking more for style, presence, and a unique ride feel rather than daily commuting. Overall, the Commando 961 is a refined, premium motorcycle that captures the essence of classic motorcycling with a modern heart, ideal for riders who value character over overt sportiness or tech gadgets.

The Norton Commando 961 Sport remains a premium neo-classic option in India, priced at around Rs 20.99 lakh ex-showroom, though it's currently available only on a pre-order basis through Kinetic's Motoroyale with a typical 60-day wait, imported via CBU route from limited stock of 19 units featuring all-black finishes and hand-painted British flags on the tank. Powered by a 961cc air-cooled parallel-twin engine, it delivers 80 PS at 6500rpm and 90Nm at 5200rpm through a 5-speed gearbox, paired with Ohlins suspension, dual-channel ABS, and tubeless radial tyres on a 1400mm wheelbase for agile handling and a seat height of 810mm. I find its retro styling in colours like Black with Gold or English White with Black truly captivating for enthusiasts seeking exclusivity over everyday practicality, but note that local assembly at Ahmednagar was planned to lower prices—yet as of now in 2026, no updates confirm volume production or launches, with TVS focusing Norton debuts on new Manx and Atlas ranges by mid-year, potentially sidelining this model amid rivals like Triumph Thruxton and BMW R nineT. Service network build-up lags, so ownership demands patience for reliability post-TVS revival.

The Norton Commando 961 continues to maintain its position as a distinctive offering in India's premium motorcycle segment, priced at Rs. 20,99,000 ex-Delhi. This air and oil-cooled parallel twin engine delivers a respectable 80 PS at 6500 rpm and 90 Nm of torque at 5200 rpm, providing genuine mid-range performance that feels engaging on Indian roads. I find the motorcycle's 230 kg weight and 1400 mm wheelbase contribute to surprisingly composed handling despite its heft, while the manually adjustable Öhlins suspension and Brembo braking system inspire confidence during spirited riding. The bike achieves approximately 25 km/l in city conditions and 30 km/l on highways, making it reasonably efficient for its class. Its fuel tank capacity of 17 liters ensures decent range between fill-ups. What sets this machine apart is its pure analog character—no electronic rider aids, just a raw connection between rider and machine that appeals to purists seeking authentic motorcycling. The café racer styling remains unmistakably striking on Indian streets, making it a genuine statement of exclusivity that stands apart from contemporary offerings.

I've been closely following the Norton Commando 961 Sport's journey in India, and as of early 2026, it's still listed at an estimated ex-Delhi price of Rs 20.99 lakh, though its official launch remains unrevealed amid TVS Motor Company's broader rollout plans for the brand. This classic 961cc air-oil-cooled parallel-twin pumps out 80 PS at 6500 rpm and 90 Nm at 5200 rpm, paired with a 5-speed gearbox, Öhlins suspension, and dual-channel ABS for sharp handling on our twisty roads, despite its 230kg heft and 810mm seat height. Available in six striking colours like Black with Gold and English White with Black, it promises around 25-30 kmpl mileage from its 17-litre tank, ideal for enthusiasts craving that raw British character without modern rider aids. However, with Norton prioritizing the all-new Manx V4 and Atlas ranges for a mid-2026 India debut via TVS's Hosur plant—leveraging the UK-India FTA—the Commando 961 Sport appears sidelined as a discontinued holdover, potentially paving the way for fresh 450cc singles instead, leaving premium buyers like us in anticipation of when, or if, this timeless cafe racer finally hits showrooms here.

The Norton Commando 961 Sport remains one of India's most exclusive premium motorcycles, priced at Rs. 20.99 Lakh. This British-heritage machine delivers a compelling blend of classic aesthetics and contemporary engineering that truly sets it apart in the Indian market. The 961cc air-oil-cooled parallel twin engine produces 80 PS and 90 Nm of torque, providing a refined and engaging riding experience rather than outright performance. I find the bike's handling characteristics particularly impressive, thanks to the fully adjustable Öhlins suspension and Brembo disc brakes, which inspire confidence on varied road conditions. The motorcycle achieves approximately 25-30 km/l mileage depending on riding conditions, making it reasonably efficient for a machine of this caliber. What strikes me most is the attention to detail in its craftsmanship, featuring polished aluminum engine covers and hand-finished components. The analog instrument console and absence of electronic rider aids preserve the pure, connected riding experience. Available in six striking colors including Black With Gold and Titanium Grey With Black, the Commando 961 Sport caters to discerning enthusiasts who value timeless design and solid build quality over cutting-edge technology. This motorcycle represents a statement of exclusivity on Indian roads.

Norton Motorcycles has announced a significant leadership change, with Robert Hentschel stepping down as CEO to become a non-executive director. Nevijo Mance will now oversee product design, engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain management, which includes the development of the Norton Commando. This change is part of Nortons ongoing evolution under TVS Motor. I believe this dual leadership will enhance the quality and innovation of the Commando.

The ex-showroom price of the Norton Commando 961 in India is around ₹20,99,000, making it one of the most expensive motorcycles in its segment. On-road pricing, including RTO registration, insurance, and other charges, can easily cross ₹24 lakh depending on the city. This places it in direct competition with other premium imports and high-end domestic offerings. The price reflects its British heritage, limited production, and the use of premium components like Öhlins suspension and Brembo brakes. For Indian buyers, this is a halo product that offers exclusivity and a unique ownership experience, but it also means higher running and maintenance costs compared to mainstream bikes. The Commando 961 is best suited for those who value brand legacy and are willing to pay a premium for a distinctive, handcrafted motorcycle that stands out in a sea of mass-produced machines.

In India, the Norton Commando 961 is positioned as a niche premium motorcycle with an ex-showroom price around ₹21 lakh in Delhi. On-road prices escalate with registration, insurance, and local taxes, pushing the figure closer to ₹23 lakh or more depending on the city. This pricing aligns with the bike’s premium British heritage and imported status as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), reflecting the substantial customs duties and import costs. While expensive compared to many Indian motorcycles, the Norton commands a luxury segment price that caters to discerning buyers seeking exclusivity and craftsmanship rather than mass-market appeal. The expected India-UK free trade agreement may reduce import tariffs in future, potentially making Norton models more accessible. For a motorcycle delivering bespoke styling, hand-crafted details, and a distinct riding experience, the price premium seems reasonable, but it is a significant investment reserved mostly for enthusiasts with a clear preference for rare and iconic machines.

The Norton Commando 961 offers a real-world mileage of around 10 kmpl in Indian conditions, which is typical for a high-displacement, performance-oriented motorcycle. This means frequent refuelling and higher running costs, especially if used for daily commuting or long rides. For buyers concerned about fuel efficiency and running costs, this bike is best suited for weekend rides or as a collector’s item rather than a practical daily commuter. The fuel consumption is a trade-off for the power and character it delivers, so those prioritising mileage should consider smaller displacement bikes.

The Norton Commando 961 offers an approximate mileage of around 10 km/l in Indian riding conditions. While not fuel-efficient compared to mainstream bikes, this is typical for a large-capacity café racer focused more on performance and character rather than economy. Buyers concerned about running costs should consider that fuel consumption and maintenance will be higher, but the Commando’s niche appeal and limited usage typically balance this out. It is best suited for weekend rides and leisurely outings rather than daily commuting.