Norton is poised for an official return to the Australian market, with all ADR approvals now completed.
The range comprises the Commando 961 in three model variants: the Sport, Café Racer and SF naked, with pricing (excluding on-road costs) as follows:
Commando 961 Sport $29,990
Commando 961 Café Racer $33,990
The Commandos can also be ordered with a number of factory fit optional extras.
With the first shipment of the hand-built motorcycles currently en-route from the UK, NF Importers, the Australasian distributor, has appointed the following Norton dealers:
NSW: Fraser Motorcycles City – Sydney
Vic: Fraser Motorcycles Melbourne
Qld: Rocker Motorcycles – Brisbane (new Redcliffe location)
SA: Italian Motorcycles – Adelaide
NZ: Cyclespot Group – Auckland
“With the ADR formalities behind us, it’s a very exciting time as we now look forward to one of the world’s oldest motorcycle marques – which was founded in 1898 -- re-entering the Australasian markets after an absence of more than 35 years.” said Warren Lee, the CEO of NF Importers. “I’m sure many would understand that the ADR process can be lengthy and we certainly appreciate the understanding and patience of the many very interested customers waiting to purchase.”
Deliveries of the Commando range were expected to commence in early 2014.
The air-cooled, fuel injected 961cc parallel twin powering all three machines has been jointly designed by Norton and F1 engine builder MCT. It has push-rod valve actuation, a dry sump, balance shaft and a 10.1:1 compression ratio. Power is 79hp (80.2ps/59kW) at 7500rpm, and 90Nm of torque at 5200rpm.
Ohlins suspension and radial brakes are welcome fare, and the frame is a steel tubular design with an oil tank -- so a dry sump engine. Kerb weight is 205kg, while the wheelbase is 1420mm.
NF Importers has also homologated the limited-edition SE model for Australia, but according to the company they won't be available in the short term.