Naked Motorcycles
2008Norton Commando 961 SS
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The 2008 Norton Commando 961 SS is a retro-styled naked bike that appeals to riders seeking classic British character with modern reliability. Its air-cooled 961cc twin engine delivers approachable performance and distinctive torque, making it ideal for enthusiasts who value authentic motorcycling heritage and commanding street presence 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
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- 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?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 961.0 ccm
- Power
- 80.0 HP (58.8 kW) @ 6500 RPM
- Torque
- 65.0 Nm (6.6 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
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Front brakes diameter
- 320 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes diameter
- 220 mm
- Front tyre
- 120/70-X17
- Rear tyre
- 180/55-X17
Other
- Color options
- Black
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 2008 | 2009 |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 961 cc | 961 cc |
| Dry weight | 188 kg | 188 kg |
| Seat height | 813 mm | 813 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 17 L | 17 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Norton Commando 961 SS?
The 2008 Norton Commando 961 SS has a Capacity of 961.0 ccm (58.64 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Norton Commando 961 SS have?
The 2008 Norton Commando 961 SS has a Power of 80.0 HP (58.8 kW) @ 6500 RPM.
How many gears does the Norton Commando 961 SS have?
The 2008 Norton Commando 961 SS has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Norton Commando 961 SS?
The 2008 Norton Commando 961 SS has a Torque of 65.0 Nm (6.6 kgf-m or 47.9 ft.lbs).
How much does the Norton Commando 961 SS weigh?
The 2008 Norton Commando 961 SS has a Dry weight of 188.2 kg (414.9 pounds).
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