Naked Motorcycles
2012Norton Commando 961 Sport
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The 2012 Norton Commando 961 Sport is a modern classic motorcycle that appeals to riders seeking authentic British character with contemporary reliability. Its air-cooled 961cc parallel twin engine delivers 80 horsepower and smooth mid-range torque, making it ideal for both spirited riding and long-distance touring. Known for blending retro styling with modern engineering, the Commando suits enthusiasts who value heritage and individuality over cutting-edge 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 (58.8 kW) @ 6500 RPM
What’s new for the 2012 Norton Commando 961 Sport
vs the 2011| Spec | 2011 | 2012 |
|---|---|---|
| Rear suspension | Ohlins reservoir-style twin shocks - Adjustable ride height, preload, compression | Twin-sided steel swing arm. Ohlins reservoir-style twin shocks - Adjustable ride height, preload, compression |
| Front brakes | Double disc. Brembo system, twin semi-floating hi carbon stainless steel discs, Brembo 4 piston Gold Line axial callipers | Double disc. Brembo system, twin semi-floating hi carbon stainless steel discs, Brembo 4 piston “Gold Line” axial callipers |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. Brembo system, 2 piston Gold Line calliper | Single disc. Brembo system, 2 piston “Gold Line” calliper |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for spirited weekend rides and twisty backroads where its premium Ohlins and Brembo hardware can be enjoyed rather than for track days or long-distance touring.
- Built for
- A boutique, hand-built British roadster that blends retro Commando styling with genuinely modern suspension and braking components for an engaging analog riding feel.
- Not ideal for
- Not a good fit for off-road use, novice riders, or anyone seeking a light, nimble commuter or a dedicated long-haul touring bike.
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
- 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
- 10.0:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Fuel system
- Injection
- Starting
- Electric
- Ignition
- Crank fired
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
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
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Steel tubular with integral oil tank. Swing arm: Twin-sided steel construction.
- Front suspension
- 43mm Ohlins RWU - Adjustable preload, compression damping..
- Rear suspension
- Twin-sided steel swing arm. Ohlins reservoir-style twin shocks - Adjustable ride height, preload, compression
- 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 “Gold Line” axial callipers
- Front brakes diameter
- 320 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc. 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/gold, Red/gold, yellow/black, silver/red/back
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 | 2010 | 2012 | 2013 | 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
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Norton Commando 961 Sport?
The 2012 Norton Commando 961 Sport has a Capacity of 961.0 ccm (58.64 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Norton Commando 961 Sport have?
The 2012 Norton Commando 961 Sport has a Power of 80.0 HP (58.8 kW) @ 6500 RPM.
How many gears does the Norton Commando 961 Sport have?
The 2012 Norton Commando 961 Sport has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Norton Commando 961 Sport?
The 2012 Norton Commando 961 Sport 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 Sport weigh?
The 2012 Norton Commando 961 Sport has a Dry weight of 188.0 kg (414.5 pounds).
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