Naked Motorcycles
2017Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II
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The 2017 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II is a retro-styled middleweight that appeals to riders seeking classic British character with modern reliability. Built around air-cooled parallel-twin engine technology and traditional steel frame construction, it excels as a weekend commuter and spirited road bike for those who value heritage and handling over raw performance.
- 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 (58.4 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, blending classic British twin heritage with premium Ohlins and Brembo componentry for genuine cornering ability.
- Built for
- A soulful, mechanical-feeling machine that rewards deliberate, engaged riding with tactile feedback rather than outright modern refinement or electronic sophistication.
- Not ideal for
- Not for riders seeking long-distance touring comfort, pillion-friendly ergonomics, or 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 (58.4 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
- Digital
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Lubrication system
- Dry sump
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
- Clutch
- Wet multi-plate
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1420 mm
- Seat height
- 813 mm
- Dry weight
- 188.0 kg
- Wet weight
- 203.5 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 17.00 litres
- Oil capacity
- 3.30 litres
- Reserve fuel capacity
- 4.00 litres
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Steel tubular with integral oil tank
- Front suspension
- 43mm Ohlins USD - Adjustable preload, compression and rebound damping.
- Rear suspension
- Ohlins reservoir-style twin shocks - Adjustable ride height, reload, compression and rebound
- Front wheel travel
- 115 mm
- Rear wheel travel
- 110 mm
- Rake (fork angle)
- 24.5°
- Trail
- 90 mm
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Double disc. Brembo, twin semi-floating hi carbon stainless steel discs, Brembo 4 piston “Gold Line” axial callipers
- Front brakes diameter
- 320 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc. Brembo, 2 piston calliper
- Rear brakes diameter
- 220 mm
- Front tyre
- 120/70-17
- Rear tyre
- 180/55-17
Other
- Color options
- Black, Grey, White, Red, Green, Light blue
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 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 961 cc | 961 cc | 961 cc | 961 cc |
| Dry weight | 188 kg | 188 kg | 188 kg | 188 kg |
| Seat height | 813 mm | 813 mm | 813 mm | 810 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 17 L | 17 L | 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 Cafe Racer Mk II?
The 2017 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II has a Capacity of 961.0 ccm (58.64 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II have?
The 2017 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II has a Power of 80.0 HP (58.4 kW) @ 6500 RPM.
How many gears does the Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II have?
The 2017 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II?
The 2017 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II has a Torque of 90.0 Nm (9.2 kgf-m or 66.4 ft.lbs) @ 5200 RPM.
How much does the Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II weigh?
The 2017 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II has a Dry weight of 188.0 kg (414.5 pounds).
Shop this bike
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The 2017 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II motorcycle is a stunning and powerful machine that beautifully blends classic style with modern performance. The design and craftsmanship of the bike are top-notch, with its sleek lines, retro-inspired round headlight, and premium leather seat. The 961cc parallel-twin engine delivers strong and smooth power, making it a joy to ride on both city streets and winding roads. The handling is precise and responsive, making it a pleasure to lean into corners and maneuver through traffic. Overall, the Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II is a true standout in the cafe racer category, offering a unique and thrilling riding experience.
If you're in the market for a stylish and high-performance cafe racer motorcycle, the 2017 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II is definitely worth considering. With its classic design, powerful 961cc engine, and fantastic handling, this bike offers a truly exhilarating ride. The attention to detail and quality of craftsmanship make it a standout in its class. If you're looking for a motorcycle that turns heads and delivers an impressive performance, the Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer Mk II is an excellent choice.
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