Naked Motorcycles

2014Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer

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The 2014 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer is a modern retro machine built for riders seeking classic styling with contemporary reliability. Its air-cooled 961cc parallel twin engine delivers 80 horsepower with an authentic vintage character, making it ideal for spirited riding and weekend cruising. Known for blending timeless cafe racer aesthetics with modern fuel injection and digital ignition, it appeals to enthusiasts who value heritage and performance in equal measure.

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) @ 7700 RPM

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Other years 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2023 2024 2025 2026

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering80%

City riding55%

Daily riding50%

Touring40%

Two-up25%

Track55%

Best for: Built for spirited weekend rides and cafe racer style cornering rather than commuting or long-distance touring.
Built for: 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.

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 2014 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer, 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 (58.4 kW) @ 7700 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 3 CO2 g/km
Torque: 80.0 Nm (8.2 kgf-m) @ 6000 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 hydraulic lifter

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. 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

Other

Color options: Black, Manx Silver, Piper Red

Specs last verified against published sources: October 2026.

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	2010	2013	2014	2017	2023	2026
Capacity	961 cc	961 cc	961 cc	961 cc	961 cc	961 cc
Dry weight	188 kg	188 kg	188 kg	188 kg	188 kg	188 kg
Seat height	813 mm	813 mm	813 mm	813 mm	810 mm	810 mm
Fuel capacity	17 L	17 L	17 L	17 L	15 L	15 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB

The 2014 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer is a stunning and powerful motorcycle that offers a classic design with modern performance. This bike features a 961cc parallel-twin engine that delivers strong and smooth acceleration, making it a joy to ride on the open road. The Cafe Racer's sleek and retro styling is further enhanced by its top-notch components, including Ohlins suspension and Brembo brakes, which provide excellent handling and stopping power. Overall, the 2014 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer is a timeless and thrilling motorcycle that combines vintage aesthetics with cutting-edge performance.

As an owner of the 2014 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer, I can confidently say that this bike is a true head-turner and a joy to ride. Its powerful engine and top-of-the-line components make for a thrilling experience on both city streets and highways. The attention to detail in the design and engineering of the Cafe Racer is truly impressive, and its classic yet modern appeal makes it a standout in the world of motorcycles. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the motorcycle scene, the 2014 Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer is a bike that is sure to impress.

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