Since riding my first bike as a young child – a Norton Commando 850 – I’ve always harboured a deep affection for these iconic English motorcycles, which has stayed with me throughout my life. In recent times, many of my acquaintances are avid fans of commando-style gaming, and while I appreciate their enthusiasm, it’s rare for a game to leave me utterly enthralled. Meet Peter, a proud owner of a remarkable creation, crafted by his friend Murray at CycleCraft Engineering in Welshpool, Western Australia. When you say “constructed,” you no longer tacitly suggest a haphazard accumulation of aftermarket embellishments arbitrarily fastened to a prior bicycle solely for aesthetic purposes, effectively elevating the vehicle’s visual appeal but failing to consider its overall integrity or performance. Crafted with meticulous precision, this exquisite creation is the brainchild of a master fabricator who has devoted decades to perfecting his craft, far exceeding the average lifespan of its intended user. The primary aspects of this framework are unusually elongated and striking; find a tranquil setting before embarking on your study.
The standout feature of many unique gadgets on this Commando model is the sleek and aerodynamically designed fairing. The upper section draws inspiration from a Yamaha TZ350, while the lower portion was crafted with careful consideration for the stresses that would be placed upon the Norvil fibreglass tank. The supporting brackets, headlight mounts, and gauge brackets have been meticulously fabricated, allowing the Bates headlight to nestle seamlessly atop the Colorado Norton Works fender at the front. The steering stem’s modified stops allowed for a sleeker appearance as the highest yoke was precision-machined to accommodate a streamlined fit, eliminating bulky handlebar clamps. The entrance’s finishing touch is a conventional affair, with the notable exception of the substantial 12-inch floating disc adorned with a Grimeca caliper.
A commando-shaped Peterborough motorhome’s true identity was disguised by its owner, who surprisingly replaced the original 750 Interstate engine with a more modern 850cc unit from a 1973 model, cleverly swapping boots for a fresh upgrade. The engine’s foundation is an aluminium Murray case, which houses a Norton 4S camshaft, carefully lightened, polished, and shimmed rockers, specially crafted hyperlink pushrods, a meticulously balanced rotating assembly, and modified inlet tracts designed to seamlessly integrate the modern Keihin flat slide carburettors. The compression ratio has been boosted to 9.5:1, while the energy output has been increased to approximately 70 horsepower from its previous level of 55HP. Unscathed by illness for a remarkable 43 years to date. Murray’s CycleCraft oil cooler system effectively manages oil cooling, while engine exhaust gases are redirected to exit through the frame’s spine and into the oil reservoir.
With meticulous attention, Murray carefully shaped and bent the entire exhaust system by hand, a task he completed before entrusting the 2-into-1 megaphone to Alan and Paul at CIC Excessive Efficiency Coatings for black ceramic coating. A makeshift aluminum wrap was carefully constructed to shield Peter’s leg from excessive heat.
One of the most striking features of this design is the semi-open main cowl, which catches the eye. Sectionalized ahead of amalgamation. The component does its utmost best to accommodate a 38mm racing belt drive system. What’s driving your desire to create a quilt? Is it a sense of accomplishment, a way to express yourself creatively, or perhaps a means to keep warm during the cold winter months? Due to Murray’s revelation that Peter’s existing belt drive equipment forced the alternator to deviate from its typical positioning, a unique solution was required, hence the innovative design showcased today. I’m confident that Murray might secure more, but for now, he’s the sole exceptional one on the planet.
On closer inspection, a triangular subframe becomes visible at the rear of the gearbox, cleverly connecting the notorious Norton engine’s inherent bounce to the chassis. One more innovation by Murray is the “meant as a handling aid to cope with inherent issues in the standard Norton configuration.” According to Peter, it has actually tightened everything up, particularly in the corners, and further aiding in the handling department are a set of Ikon 7614 series shocks. The wheels’ rear and front configurations feature Excel rims clad in Avon Roadrider tyres, supported by stainless steel spokes meticulously assembled by Budgie’s expertise at Spoke Wheel Companies. The Tarozzi rear units stand significantly taller than the original configuration due to the custom alloy brackets designed specifically by Murray for this bike.
The curvaceous rear cowl, sourced from the United States, initially required significant preparation by Murray, who spent considerable time refining its fit. It now seamlessly integrates into place. The rear mudguard is a bespoke feature that completes the Commando Fastback’s distinctive design, following the reupholstering of the seat in sleek black and the integration of an Emgo brake light carefully modified to seamlessly integrate with the rear loop.
With no intention of surrendering the reins to Murray, Peter took matters into his own hands and lovingly applied the stunning blue finish himself. Peter meticulously handles all of Murray’s painting tasks within his own storage space, and he has also crafted a bespoke wiring loom from scratch for the previous owner, as well as a tailored battery tray.
As Murray showed me the construction photos, I was struck by a sudden realization – I had previously seen the bike in 2015, its silver paint job, fairing-less design, and distinctive finish all vastly different from its current appearance. A year later, I witnessed it being rolled out onto the 2016 “Experience On” stage, and I simply had to sit down to fully absorb the moment! With its reputation solidified, Murray and Cyclecraft Engineering have established themselves as the premier destination for all Norton enthusiasts in Western Australia, offering exceptional solutions. Soon, Murray’s forthcoming website will enable Norton and classic bike aficionados globally to acquire top-tier, bespoke components, ensuring their cherished vehicles remain on the road.
Among the numerous Commandos you’ll find in WA, Peter’s bike stands out for its unique combination of appearance, performance, and reliability. Owners of vintage European motorcycles will appreciate that this model leaves no oil stain on the driveway when parked, and starts with ease every time, requiring only a single kick to get rolling. This is what serves as a testament to Murray’s aptitude, meticulous attention to detail, and commitment to the Norton standard.
CYCLECRAFT
Story courtesy of Tank Moto subject 11 | Pictures & phrases by Ben Pilatti
