Description
This motorcycle is Lot 37 to be auctioned by Bonhams at the Timed-Online January Sale, please see the Bonhams website for full details. The timed online auction runs between January 17th through January 27th, with lots closing from midday January 27th 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 22nd January 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, by appointment only at Bonhams Milton Keynes.
Lot 37
1974 Norton 829cc John Player Commando
Registration no. CCA 214M
Frame no. 318048
Engine no. 318048
The Commando's vibration-beating Isolastic frame enabled Norton Villiers successfully to prolong the life of their ageing parallel twin. Launched in 1967, the Commando was an instant hit with the motorcycling public, being voted 'Machine of the Year' for five consecutive years. It might have been a little down in top speed compared to rivals such as BSA-Triumph's 750 triples and Honda's 750 four, but the Commando more than made up for this minor deficiency with superior mid-range torque and steadier handling. Reflecting the Norton racing team's sponsorship by the John Player tobacco company, a new Commando model the 'John Player Norton' or 'JPN' for short was announced for the 1974 season. Boasting a streamlined half-fairing and matching tank/ seat unit in John Player livery, the café racer-styled JPN came with a choice of engines: the standard 829cc motor or a short-stroke 749cc unit intended for production racing. A top-of-the-range, limited edition model produced for only a couple of seasons (1, 000 were envisaged but only around 200 made), it is now one of the most sought-after members of the Commando family.
Purchased by the current vendor from Bonhams Winter December Sale in 2020 (Lot 213), it was offered directly from the National Motorcycle Museum who had subsequently purchased it in November 2003, this original JPN Commando is offered with a Certificate of Manufacture; an expired MoT (2004); and a V5C document. Since acquisition by the vendor, they've started the Norton and dry stored it since 2020 however it will need the usual safety checks and recommissioning before returning to the road. It should be noted that the original manufactures plaque records the frame number as 318048 and a supply date of 10/ 74. However, there are two factory frame number stamped into the steering head 000128 as recorded to the V5C and 850 F109246.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
