Norton Commando: Covers MkI, MkII, MkIIA, MkIII, MkIV and MkV 1968 - 1978

by Peter Henshaw

Overview

There are lots of books about the Norton Commando; about its history, performance, lineage, and the minutiae of its specification. But none of them will tell you what to look for when buying one secondhand. That's what this book is about – it is a straightforward, practical guide to buying a used Commando. It doesn't list all the correct colour combinations for each year, or analyse the bike's design philosophy, or consider its background as part of a troubled industry – there are excellent books listed at the end of this one that do all of that – but it will help you avoid buying a dud. Point by point, it takes the reader through everything that needs looking at when buying a Commando, plus spares prices, which is the best model to buy for your needs, and a look at auctions, restorations and paperwork The last of the ‘classic' Nortons, the Commando remains a collector's item, and many have been saved, restored and ridden – this book tells the reader how to be part of its ongoing story.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781787116528
Publisher:	Veloce Publishing
Publication date:	02/25/2020
Series:	The Essential Buyer's Guide
Pages:	64
Product dimensions:	5.46(w) x 7.65(h) x 0.16(d)

About the Author

Peter Henshaw has had an enthusiasm for anything with wheels from an early age - from bicycles to 500hp tractors. He was the editor of Motorcycle Sport & Leisure for five years before going freelance, and now contributes to a whole range of transport magazines, including MSL, TAG, A to B and Tractor, as well as The Telegraph. He's also written over 30 books, including 10 about bikes, and is an all-year-round motorcyclist who does not own a car.

Table of Contents

Introduction - the purpose of this book 3

1 Is it the bike for you? - marriage guidance 6

2 Cost considerations - affordable, or a money pit? 8

3 Living with a Commando - will you get along together? 9

4 Relative values - which model for you? 12

5 Before you view - be well informed 19

6 Inspection equipment - these items will really help 21

7 Fifteen minute evaluation - walk away or stay? 22

8 Key points - where to look for problems 24

9 Serious evaluation - 30 minutes for years of enjoyment 25

10 Auctions - sold! Another way to buy your dream 43

11 Paperwork - correct documentation is essential! 45

12 What's it worth to you? - let your head rule your heart! 48

13 Do really want to restore? - it'll take longer and cost more than you think 49

14 Paint problems - a bad complexion, including dimples, pimples and bubbles 51

15 Problems due to Jack of use - just like their owners, Commandos need exercise! 53

16 The community - key people, organisations and companies in the Commando world 55

17 Vital statistics - essential data at your fingertips 58

Index 64