Tim’s 1960s-era Commando motorcycle underwent a meticulous restoration and modernization process, blending traditional techniques with innovative solutions to revive its former glory. Together, he has comprehensively addressed the fight engine’s limitations and thoroughly enhanced every aspect of the bicycle’s performance. As he sat astride the bike, it was evident that Tim held a deep affection for this machine, pouring countless hours and likely substantial financial resources into realizing his dream.
Unfamiliar with the storied history of the Norton Commando’s Featherbed engine? Let me enlighten you: a narrative replete with setbacks, revivals, and ultimately, the production line’s silence.
In 1972, Norton revitalized the iconic Commando model by introducing the ‘High-Speed’ engine configuration, dubbed the “Fight” model, designed to deliver exceptional performance capabilities. Built around the Commando’s 745cc air-cooled parallel twin, the reworked engine boasted a thoughtful array of tweaks designed to deliver an even more exhilarating ride. The engine featured a revised head design, enhanced compression, a pair of Amal 932 concentric carburetors, a high-performance camshaft with increased lift and duration, and enlarged intake valves to optimize airflow. The cumulative effects of these alterations resulted in a substantial 5-horsepower boost for the Commando, translating to an impressive total gain of 65 horsepower. The Commando 750, further modified to capitalize on its enhanced motor performance, featured a reduced front sprocket that noticeably boosted acceleration.
While the initial concept of the Fight Engine Commandos seems promising, issues arose swiftly as owners started reporting problems shortly after taking delivery from dealerships.
Norton’s declaration of the Fight motor’s efficiency was substantiated by its performance, drawing enthusiastic responses from new homeowners eager to capitalize on its benefits.
Unfortunately, a redesign of the gear system resulted in a significant reduction of the Commando’s top speed, now capped at a mere 108 miles per hour – a crushing disappointment for many enthusiasts. At that accelerated rate, the engine was already straining to reach an astonishing 7,000 rpm – well beyond its optimal performance threshold. Because the brand-new gearing allowed riders to easily over-rev in every gear, this was particularly significant during an era when rev limiters were not yet a consideration. Continuously pushing the engine beyond its functional limits naturally led to a series of failures. When a piston’s crown would suddenly and catastrophically part ways with its skirt, the consequences were nothing short of dire. The problems didn’t cease to exist despite our best efforts.
The intricate design of the fight engine’s cam chain mechanism proved notoriously challenging to adjust, prompting many homeowners to abandon the maintenance task entirely. The auto-advance system’s inherent noise and susceptibility to breakdown led to excessive wear on the primary bearing, with some units failing as early as 4,000 miles on the odometer.
To their credit, Norton successfully resolved the fight’s issues. The engineers installed a cutting-edge ‘Superblend’ spherical, self-aligning roller bearing for the engine, paired with unslotted pistons that ensured precise movement. Additionally, they implemented an automated advance mechanism and reconfigured the gear ratios to prevent excessive revving and promote smoother performance. Despite being out of pocket for some time, the team’s beloved Commando had taken a significant blow to its reputation. With tails between their legs, Norton decisively discontinued production of the Fight engine on its manufacturing lines.
Despite Commando Fight’s troubled legacy, remarkably precise illustrations now command substantial prices – a phenomenon aptly illustrated by Tim’s bicycle.
So, how did Tim manage to settle his Norton Commando dispute? To begin with, his motor underwent a comprehensive rebuild at Colorado Norton Works, where it was serviced by experts, and was subsequently paired with black chrome Viking Exhaust mufflers. With all engine deficiencies addressed, Colorado Norton Works meticulously restored the engine’s exterior, reproducing the original cowl in a sleek black to harmonize with Tim’s iconic black and gold motif.
The Norton’s body has been comprehensively refreshed by West Coast Racing. The vehicle has been finished in a modern black powder coating and equipped with entirely new suspension components. At the apex of the final straight, a fascinating discovery awaits: a collection of sleek, inverted Suzuki GSX-R forks. The classic Works Efficiency shock absorbers come in sleek black finishes, showcasing a timeless design. The stopping power has been significantly enhanced by the installation of Brembo brakes featuring high-performance anchors and ventilated discs at the front end. To eliminate undesirable front-end wobbling, a steering damper provides precise protection for all components.
Originally built as a roadster, Tim has adopted an aggressive racing-inspired approach with his Norton Commando. The aggressive setup features Renthal clip-on handlebars and Colorado Norton Works’ high-gloss polished rear units. The gas tank features as a unique Commando specification, while the svelte seat boasts a customized touch, reupholstered in rich, recycled brown leather. The open triangle-shaped fuselage houses a bomb bay containing a fashionably designed oil tank, while the electrical systems are neatly housed in a compact compartment situated below the saddle.
According to his selected colour palette, Tim has incorporated subtle accents of gold into the Norton’s design. While brass is often associated with the chopper scene, Brash has skillfully applied it in this instance. The gleaming brass accents on this bike catch the eye: each entrance and rear fender is crafted from high-quality brass, complemented by the Euro Elements levers, stylish taillight, and gleaming polished kickstand. The customised black and gold hub, paired with the distinctive black rim and matching spoke design, creates a unique visual statement. The sleek GPS speedometer, nestled within a gleaming gold surround, harmonizes perfectly with the stylish entrance fender brackets.
Following the initial 1,000-mile break-in period, Tim entrusted Austin’s Revival Cycles to showcase his cherished motorcycle. Priced at $30,000, this is an investment that requires serious consideration and financial planning, rather than a casual impulse buy made on a whim. Despite its substantial ticket price, this meticulously customized Norton Commando 750 seized attention at first glance.
Despite adversity, making the most of what’s handed to you is a crucial part of persevering.
