26 July. Sunday 2026
Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer - 2026 Specifications and Reviews
The 2026 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer is a retro-styled middleweight that appeals to riders seeking classic British character with modern reliability. Powered by a 961cc air-cooled parallel-twin engine producing 76.8 horsepower, it excels in delivering smooth low-to-mid-range torque ideal for relaxed road riding and urban commuting. Its timeless cafe racer aesthetic and responsive handling make it best known for blending vintage charm with contemporary performance.
General information | |
| Color Options | Matrix Black, Manx Platinium |
| Category | Classic |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Starting | Electric |
| Emission Details | Euro 3 compliant with electronic fuel injection and multiple 3 way catalytic converter |
| Clutch | Wet multi-plate hydraulic lifter |
| Final Drive | Chain (final drive) |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling System | Air |
| Ignition | Crank-fired, electronic fuel injection |
| Induction | Injection |
| Valves Per Cylinder | 2 |
| Bore x Stroke | 88.0 x 79.0 mm (3.5 x 3.1 inches) |
| Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 |
| Max Torque | 81.0 Nm (8.3 kgf-m or 59.7 ft.lbs) @ 6300 RPM |
| Engine Details | Norton air-oil-cooled pushrod parallel twin with dry sump lubrication |
| Engine Type | Twin, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 961.0 ccm (58.64 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.00 litres (3.96 US gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1400 mm (55.1 inches) |
| Seat Height | 810 mm (31.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Wet Weight | 230.0 kg (507.1 pounds) |
Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer dimensions and frame | |
| Wheels | Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 |
| Rear Brakes | Single disc. Full Brembo system, 2 piston “Gold Line†calliper |
| Brake Disc Diameter | 220 mm (8.7 inches) |
| Front Brakes | Double disc. Full Brembo system, twin semi-floating hi carbon stainless steel discs, Brembo 4 piston “Gold Line†axial callipers |
| Rear Tyre | 180/55-17 |
| Front Tyre | 120/70-17 |
| Rear Wheel Travel | 110 mm (4.3 inches) |
| Rear Suspension | Ohlins reservoir-style twin shocks - Adjustable ride height, reload, compression and rebound |
| Front Wheel Travel | 115 mm (4.5 inches) |
| Front Suspension | 43mm Ohlins USD - Adjustable preload, compression and rebound damping. |
| Trail | 99 mm (3.9 inches) |
| Frame | Frame is hand TIG and MIG welded at Norton HQ |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Update specs | Report missing specs or required updates. |
| Lighting | Polished stainless-steel single headlamp |
| Electrical | 300 watt hi-output charging system. |
| Instruments | Analogue speedo and tachometer. Multi-function display including mileage, trip, battery voltage and time. |
| Oil capacity | 3.30 litres (3.49 US quarts) |
| Reserve fuel capacity | 4.00 litres (1.06 US gallons) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 24.5° |
| Exhaust system | Multiple 3 way catalytic converter |
| Driveline | 525 “O†ring chain |
| Lubrication system | Dry sump |
| Output | 76.8 HP (56.1 kW)) @ 7250 RPM |
| Year of manufacture | 2025 |
| Motorcycle name | Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
76.8 hp
Peak Power
4.6s
0-60 mph
Best For
Track55%
City55%
Cornering80%
Daily Riding50%
Touring40%
Passenger25%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Best suited to an experienced rider who appreciates classic mechanical character over outright modern performance. |
| Purpose | Built for spirited weekend rides and cafe racer style cornering rather than commuting or long-distance touring. |
| Rider Fit | The low, forward-leaning cafe racer riding position and firm suspension demand a reasonably fit rider comfortable with wrist and wrist load on longer stints. |
| Character | A charismatic, old-school parallel twin with premium Ohlins and Brembo hardware that rewards a rider who values feel and heritage over raw numbers. |
| Not Ideal For | Not a good fit for new riders, pillion-focused riders, or anyone wanting long-haul touring comfort or off-road capability. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
Rider Reviews
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