Naked Motorcycles

2012Norton Commando 961SE

39 fields on record

The 2012 Norton Commando 961 SE is a modern classic twin designed for riders seeking authentic retro styling with contemporary performance. Its 961cc air-cooled parallel twin engine, developed with F1 engineers, delivers 80 horsepower and characterful mid-range torque. Best known for reviving the legendary Commando nameplate with a hand-assembled machine that balances vintage charm with reliable modern engineering.

Capacity: 961.0 ccm
Engine: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 188.0 kg
Seat height: 813 mm
Power: 80.0 HP (58.8 kW) @ 6500 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike ＋ Add to garage All model years

What’s new for the 2012 Norton Commando 961SE

vs the 2011

Spec	2011	2012
Front brakes	Double disc. Full Brembo system, twin semi-floating hi carbon stainless steel discs, Brembo 4 piston Gold Line axial callipers	Double disc. Full Brembo system, twin semi-floating hi carbon stainless steel discs, Brembo 4 piston “Gold Line” axial callipers
Rear brakes	Single disc. Full Brembo system, 2 piston Gold Line calliper	Single disc. Full Brembo system, 2 piston “Gold Line” calliper

Other years 2010 2011 2012

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering78%

City riding55%

Daily riding50%

Touring45%

Two-up35%

Track45%

Best for: Built for spirited weekend rides and boutique retro-roadster enjoyment rather than outright performance or long-distance hauling.
Built for: A premium, hand-built homage to the original Commando, blending vintage aesthetics with Ohlins suspension, Brembo brakes, and modern EFI for a visceral analogue riding experience.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders seeking 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 us

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 2012 Norton Commando 961SE, 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 →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 961.0 ccm
Power: 80.0 HP (58.8 kW) @ 6500 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 3 CO2 g/km
Torque: 90.0 Nm (9.2 kgf-m) @ 5200 RPM
Engine type: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.4255 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 88.0 x 79.0 mm
Compression: 10.1:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
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: Wet multi-plate hydraulic lifter

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1420 mm
Seat height: 813 mm
Dry weight: 188.0 kg
Wet weight: 203.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 17.00 litres
Oil capacity: 3.30 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Steel tubular with integral oil tank
Front suspension: 43mm Ohlins RWU
Rear suspension: Ohlins reservoir-style twin shocks
Front wheel travel: 115 mm
Rear wheel travel: 110 mm
Rake (fork angle): 24.5°
Trail: 99 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc. Full Brembo system, twin semi-floating hi carbon stainless steel discs, Brembo 4 piston “Gold Line” axial callipers
Front brakes diameter: 320 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Full Brembo system, 2 piston “Gold Line” calliper
Rear brakes diameter: 220 mm
Front tyre: 120/70-17
Rear tyre: 180/55-17