Description
This motorcycle is Lot 365 - To be auctioned by Bonhams at The Spring Stafford Sale (The International Classic MotorCycle Show) on 26th & 27th April, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 101 - 147 are to be sold from 14:00 on Saturday 26th April 2025.
Lots 201 - 410 are to be sold from 11:00 on Sunday 27th April 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 26th & 27th April 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Stafford County Showground (The International Classic MotorCycle Show).
Lot 365
1974 Norton 828cc Commando Roadster 850 Mark III Electric Start
Registration no. unregistered
Frame no. 325872
Engine no. 325872
Only 10 delivery miles
Single owner from new
Unused and unregistered
Kept inside the owner's house in a heated environment
Norton's owners, AMC, were acquired by Manganese Bronze Holdings in 1966, and the new motorcycle division became Norton Villiers under chairman Dennis Poore. The Norton Commando 750 was announced in 1967 and became available in 1968. With an engine derived from the Atlas, it featured a new type of frame dubbed 'Isolastic', which effectively insulated the rider from vibration by means of rubber-mounting the engine, gearbox, and rear wheel. The model proved to be a hit with the public, who bought it in good numbers. The Commando was voted Motor Cycle News 'Machine of the year' for five years running from 1968 to 1972. With the increase in power of the Commando, problems with main bearings had occurred, and led to the development of the 'Superblend' main bearings adopted from 1972 onward. Much retro-fitting, and warranty work did not help company finances, and from this period on, Norton suffered a range of financial difficulties. After the end of 1973 the 750 was discontinued in favour of the new 850 variant which had emerged earlier in the year, running alongside the 750. Progressing through several versions, eventually the 850 incorporated an electric start on the Mark III models released in late 1974 / early 1975.
An avid motorcyclist, the owner spotted an article in Motor Cycle News in 1977, which explained that some new Commando machines were returning to the factory from the USA, still in their crates, which had been sitting untouched at the Berliner Corporation. Why this should be is unknown. Berliner Corporation were the main importer of Nortons in the USA. Norton, keen to replenish their finances, had machines returned from USA and other countries at various times, in order to help with this.
The owner contacted Norton at Shenstone, and arranged to purchase this Mark III direct from the factory, where he collected it in person. The bike had been uncrated by Norton, assembled, and given a PDI. Transported to the vendor's home, the Commando was drained of hydraulic fluid and petrol, before being placed on display at his home in climate-controlled conditions, where it has remained ever since. Should a new owner wish to use the machine, it will require fresh fluids, basic safety checks, and commissioning/ re-commissioning prior to use.
Documentation comprises the original book pack containing owner's handbook, a V55/ 3 form to apply for registration, service booklet, and sundry papers. Also present is the original tool kit. An amazing opportunity to acquire a Norton Commando Roadster Mk III in totally original and as-new condition, in one of the most beautiful colour schemes ever used by Norton. Offered with key.
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.
