1974 Norton 850 Commando Roadster
VIN: 315089
A strong argument can be made for Norton's 850 Commando models of 1974-1975 as being the best of the classic British makes for reliable long distance cruising. While the earlier 650cc twins produced by Triumph and BSA, along with the 750s made by Norton and Royal Enfield, made rpms more quickly and tended to be sportier by nature, the larger bore 850 motor that Norton introduced in its final two years of production resulted in a more reliable motorcycle that boasted a broader mid range which, along with a top speed of 115mph, made for more pleasant and effortless cruising. It was an 850 Commando that Peter Egan chose for his epic two up ride with wife Barbara from Wisconsin to Montana, which resulted in the article published in Cycle World (“Dateline Missoula”) that launched his long and distinguished career as a motorcycle journalist. There may be more luxurious mounts to use for a four hundred mile ride when the missus sends you out for a loaf of bread, but if you insist on the adventure of riding a British classic then a Norton 850 Commando is the way to go.
The example shown here is a meticulously restored and fully operational 1974 Roadster complete in its original Fireflake (“Pacific”) Blue hues with silver pinstripes, and with an upgraded Boyer electronic ignition. It was purchased by the current owner in 2006 with only 9,485 original miles showing on the speedometer, and was carefully maintained and sparingly ridden less than 1,350 miles over the next 17 years before being pickled and put into storage in 2023. (All maintenance and repair documents furnished with sale.)
THIS MOTORCYCLE TO BE COLLECTED FROM HELENA, MONTANA.
The Motorcycle has been consigned to the Classic Motorcycle Online Auction hosted by the Classic Car Auction Group. The auction is Saturday, May 9, 2026, with online bidding only. To consign your motorcycle and/or to register to bid on this and other bikes in the auction go to http://www.classiccarauction.us.
