Oddball Norton Commandos
(Page 6 of 6)
January/February 2008
By Robert Smith
Jim Bush, S model: “The R was the initial step at ‘consumerizing’ the Commando,” Jim says. “The S took it all the way with the naked front, high-level exhaust pipes and peashooter mufflers.” Jim’s S retains the stock 19-tooth countershaft sprocket and direct-drive rear hub — early Commandos have no driveline shock absorber. “Great for quick starts,” Jim says, “but tough on chains and sprockets. “There’s an incredible feeling of instant power and performance, and it’s different from anything else you’ll see,” Jim says. “It’s a Sixties hooligan in a sequined suit!”
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Dave Guthrie, SS model: “I always wanted a high-pipe Norton,” Dave says, who now owns two. The SS had just 4,300 miles when Dave bought it, and it’s still running stock pistons. One curiosity, though: it came fitted with a later Combat cylinder head. “It rides like a dream,” he says. “It’s very fast, but you’ve got the wide scrambler bars, so you’re out in the wind.” Dave also notes that the seat is an inch or more higher than the Fastback. Longer rear shocks? “I think it’s just the seat itself,” Dave says. He also owns a Roadster model, but finds the SS more direct feeling. “It’s so tight,” he adds.
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