Naked Motorcycles
2023Norton Commando 961 Cafe
37 fields on record
The 2023 Norton Commando 961 Cafe is a retro-styled middleweight that appeals to riders seeking classic British character with modern reliability. Powered by a 961cc air-cooled twin producing 77 horsepower, it excels at delivering approachable performance and nostalgia in a manageable package. Best known for blending vintage aesthetics with contemporary engineering, it suits enthusiasts who value style and heritage equally.
- Capacity
- 961.0 ccm
- Engine
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Wet weight
- 230.0 kg
- Seat height
- 810 mm
- Power
- 76.8 HP (56.1 kW) @ 7250 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for spirited café-racer style rides, twisty backroads, and looking good doing it rather than long-distance touring or track domination.
- Built for
- A traditional British twin with premium Ohlins and Brembo componentry, offering old-school soul wrapped in modern chassis performance.
- Not ideal for
- Not the right choice for riders wanting plush touring comfort, pillion-friendly ergonomics, or any serious 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
- 76.8 HP (56.1 kW) @ 7250 RPM
- Torque
- 81.0 Nm (8.3 kgf-m) @ 6300 RPM
- Engine type
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.3339 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 88.0 x 79.0 mm
- Compression
- 10.1:1
- Cooling system
- Oil & 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
- 1400 mm
- Seat height
- 810 mm
- Wet weight
- 230.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 15.00 litres
- Dry weight
- Not on record - add it
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Steel tubular with integral oil tank.
- Front suspension
- 43mm Ohlins upside-down forks - adjustable preload, compression and rebound damping
- Rear suspension
- Twin-sided steel swing arm.43mm Öhlins upside-down forks – adjustable for preload, compression and rebound damping
- Front wheel travel
- 115 mm
- Rear wheel travel
- 100 mm
- Rake (fork angle)
- 24.5°
- Trail
- 99 mm
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Double disc. Brembo system, twin semi-floating hi carbon stainless steel discs, Brembo 4 piston callipers. ABS.
- Front brakes diameter
- 320 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc. Brembo system, 2 piston, ABS.
- ABS
- Yes
- Front tyre
- 120/70-ZR17
- Rear tyre
- 180/55-ZR17
Other
- Color options
- Black, Platinum
- Comments
- Also called Norton Commando 961 Cafe Racer.
Specs last verified against published sources: .
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 | 2023 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 961 cc | 961 cc |
| Seat height | 810 mm | 810 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 15 L | 15 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?
The 2023 Norton Commando 961 Cafe has a Capacity of 961.0 ccm (58.64 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Norton Commando 961 Cafe have?
The 2023 Norton Commando 961 Cafe has a Power of 76.8 HP (56.1 kW) @ 7250 RPM.
How many gears does the Norton Commando 961 Cafe have?
The 2023 Norton Commando 961 Cafe has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Norton Commando 961 Cafe?
The 2023 Norton Commando 961 Cafe has a Torque of 81.0 Nm (8.3 kgf-m or 59.7 ft.lbs) @ 6300 RPM.
How much does the Norton Commando 961 Cafe weigh?
The 2023 Norton Commando 961 Cafe has a Wet weight of 230.0 kg (507.1 pounds).
Shop this bike
Affiliate linksWe may earn a commission from qualifying eBay or Amazon purchases made through these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Similar bikes
Same category, weighted similarity
2023 Norton Commando 961 Sport
961 cc · 188 kg · 810 mm
2024 Norton Commando 961 Sport
961 cc · 188 kg · 810 mm
2025 Kawasaki Z900RS SE
948 cc · 215 kg · 845 mm
2026 Kawasaki Z900RS SE
948 cc · 197 kg · 845 mm
2018 Yamaha XSR700
689 cc · 186 kg · 815 mm
2023 Triumph Speed Twin 900
900 cc · 216 kg · 765 mm
The 2023 Norton Commando 961 Cafe is a stunning and powerful motorcycle with a classic design that harkens back to the brand's heritage. With a 961cc engine and top-notch suspension and braking systems, this bike offers a smooth and exhilarating ride. The Cafe model features a sleek and stylish aesthetic, with a retro-inspired color scheme and premium leather seat. Whether you're cruising through the city streets or hitting the open road, the Norton Commando 961 Cafe commands attention and delivers an unforgettable riding experience.
Norton has truly outdone themselves with the 2023 Commando 961 Cafe, offering riders a perfect blend of performance, style, and nostalgia. The modern engineering and classic design make this motorcycle a standout choice for enthusiasts who appreciate both power and aesthetics. With its impressive features and iconic look, the 2023 Norton Commando 961 Cafe is a must-have for any rider looking for a timeless and thrilling motorcycle experience.
Please log in or register if you'd like to leave a comment.
Own one? Add it to My Garage and write an owner review with an Owner badge.