Naked Motorcycles

2009Norton Commando 961 SS

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The 2009 Norton Commando 961 SS is a retro-styled naked bike that appeals to riders seeking classic British character with modern reliability. Powered by a 961cc air-cooled twin producing 80 horsepower and 88 Nm of torque, it excels as a versatile middleweight for both commuting and spirited road riding. Known for its distinctive styling and accessible performance, it suits experienced riders who appreciate authentic engineering over cutting-edge technology.

Capacity: 961.0 ccm
Engine: Parallel Twin
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 188.2 kg
Seat height: 813 mm
Power: 80.0 HP (58.8 kW) @ 6500 RPM

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What’s new for the 2009 Norton Commando 961 SS

vs the 2008

Spec	2008	2009
Torque	65.0 Nm (6.6 kgf-m or 47.9 ft.lbs)	88.1 Nm (9.0 kgf-m or 65.0 ft.lbs)
Front brakes	Single disc	Single disc. Bremo
Rear brakes	Single disc	Single disc. Bremo

Other years 2008 2009

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering80%

City riding55%

Daily riding50%

Touring40%

Two-up35%

Track45%

Best for: Built for spirited backroad riding and café-racer style naked bike thrills, blending retro Norton heritage with premium Ohlins suspension and Brembo brakes.
Built for: Charismatic and analog in feel, rewarding riders who value tactile engagement, distinctive engine character, and boutique British engineering over raw speed.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking long-distance touring comfort, passenger-friendly ergonomics, or any off-road capability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 813mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2009 Norton Commando 961 SS, with a relaxed knee angle of around 125 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 961.0 ccm
Power: 80.0 HP (58.8 kW) @ 6500 RPM
Torque: 88.1 Nm (9.0 kgf-m)
Engine type: Parallel Twin
Power/weight ratio: 0.4251 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 88.0 x 79.0 mm
Compression: 10.1:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Ignition: Crank fired electronic
Valves per cylinder: 2
Lubrication system: Dry sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Cush drive clutch

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1435 mm
Seat height: 813 mm
Dry weight: 188.2 kg
Fuel capacity: 17.00 litres
Oil capacity: 3.30 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: 4130 chromoly steel
Front suspension: 43mm Ohlins RSU - Adjustable preload, compression, and rebound damping.
Rear suspension: Ohlins reservoir-style twin shocks - Adjstable ride height, preload, compression, and rebound damping.
Front wheel travel: 140 mm
Rear wheel travel: 102 mm
Rake (fork angle): 24.5°
Trail: 102 mm